Autism Therapists in Durham, NC

Photo of Bennett Wood, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bennett Wood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I'm a therapist because I value complexity. We each have our own vision for a life that feels vibrant, authentic, and fulfilling. As your therapist, it's my job to walk with you through the process of learning about yourself, growing, and getting more of what you want out of life. I work primarily with queer and trans people age 16 and older but offer therapy services to clients of all backgrounds. I also offer autism and ADHD assessments for adolescents and adults.
I'm a therapist because I value complexity. We each have our own vision for a life that feels vibrant, authentic, and fulfilling. As your therapist, it's my job to walk with you through the process of learning about yourself, growing, and getting more of what you want out of life. I work primarily with queer and trans people age 16 and older but offer therapy services to clients of all backgrounds. I also offer autism and ADHD assessments for adolescents and adults.
(984) 217-4931 View (984) 217-4931
Photo of Lindsey Ohler, PsyD
Lindsey Ohler
PsyD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
My therapeutic work spans a variety of issues: autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, relationship issues, self-harm, self-esteem, eating disorders, mood disorders, major life transitions, and workplace struggles.
My treatment style incorporates both client-centered and empirically-validated approaches in order to best serve each client's unique needs. I collaborate with clients to develop solution-focused goals that strengthen their interpersonal, behavioral, and emotional functioning.
My therapeutic work spans a variety of issues: autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, relationship issues, self-harm, self-esteem, eating disorders, mood disorders, major life transitions, and workplace struggles.
My treatment style incorporates both client-centered and empirically-validated approaches in order to best serve each client's unique needs. I collaborate with clients to develop solution-focused goals that strengthen their interpersonal, behavioral, and emotional functioning.
(919) 572-0000 View (919) 572-0000
Photo of Suzana Pratt, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzana Pratt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
I specialize in supporting children and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, social and emotional challenges, anger, and physical aggression.
Children, adolescents, and parents experience unique joys and challenges. When children are feeling big emotions, it can sometimes look like anxiety, depression, physical aggression, and defiance. Adolescents are navigating their identities and social relationships. Parents are trying to balance their own needs with those of their families. Therapy is a place to access emotional support and skill building. I provide play therapy to support children, and utilize a more directive style to support adolescents, adults and parents. I provide a safe space that empowers clients to utilize their unique strengths, and I am LGBTQ+ affirming.
I specialize in supporting children and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, social and emotional challenges, anger, and physical aggression.
Children, adolescents, and parents experience unique joys and challenges. When children are feeling big emotions, it can sometimes look like anxiety, depression, physical aggression, and defiance. Adolescents are navigating their identities and social relationships. Parents are trying to balance their own needs with those of their families. Therapy is a place to access emotional support and skill building. I provide play therapy to support children, and utilize a more directive style to support adolescents, adults and parents. I provide a safe space that empowers clients to utilize their unique strengths, and I am LGBTQ+ affirming.
(919) 887-8979 View (919) 887-8979
Photo of Leon Monroe, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leon Monroe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS, CCATP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
I have over 20 years experience with these populations: Autism, Aspergers, ADHD and the Twice Exceptional.
"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you might miss it" --Ferris Bueller. If you are looking for strategies to both slow down and move forward, you will find benefit in our sessions. I am a former software programmer and have helped many from the tech industry navigate mental health issues related to their work. Many of the people I work with are seeking relief from social anxiety, management of depressive symptoms and a better work/life balance. Each phase of life presents heightened developmental tasks, need sensitivities, crises, and opportunities for new learning. The Path Begins Here.
I have over 20 years experience with these populations: Autism, Aspergers, ADHD and the Twice Exceptional.
"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you might miss it" --Ferris Bueller. If you are looking for strategies to both slow down and move forward, you will find benefit in our sessions. I am a former software programmer and have helped many from the tech industry navigate mental health issues related to their work. Many of the people I work with are seeking relief from social anxiety, management of depressive symptoms and a better work/life balance. Each phase of life presents heightened developmental tasks, need sensitivities, crises, and opportunities for new learning. The Path Begins Here.
(919) 636-3704 View (919) 636-3704
Photo of Hazel Shepherd, CPNP, PMHS
Hazel Shepherd
CPNP, PMHS
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I have a special interest in children with Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
I am a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric medication management for patients 4-21 years of age. I understand that a person is more than the sum of medical conditions. Medication can help but is not a cure. I encourage patients to actively participate in their care by learning about their condition and utilizing other management strategies, such as therapy, meditation, and a healthy lifestyle. I work in partnership with patients and families to develop a treatment plan to successfully meet their goals. I am allied with the LGBTQ+ community.
I have a special interest in children with Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
I am a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. I provide psychiatric medication management for patients 4-21 years of age. I understand that a person is more than the sum of medical conditions. Medication can help but is not a cure. I encourage patients to actively participate in their care by learning about their condition and utilizing other management strategies, such as therapy, meditation, and a healthy lifestyle. I work in partnership with patients and families to develop a treatment plan to successfully meet their goals. I am allied with the LGBTQ+ community.
(919) 724-4560 View (919) 724-4560
Photo of Chelsi Allayne McDougal, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsi Allayne McDougal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
Chelsi is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate. She has over 15 years of experience working within the field of mental health, substance use, I/DD and Autism. She has worked in various settings including school setting, specialized recreation, in home direct care, day program, community based and outpatient therapy. Chelsi has worked with populations including children, teens and adults. She prioritizes person centered care involving the goals of the individual and utilizing interventions to promote growth. She understands the importance of self-determination. Chelsi utilizes an unique, compassionate and collaborative approach
Chelsi is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate. She has over 15 years of experience working within the field of mental health, substance use, I/DD and Autism. She has worked in various settings including school setting, specialized recreation, in home direct care, day program, community based and outpatient therapy. Chelsi has worked with populations including children, teens and adults. She prioritizes person centered care involving the goals of the individual and utilizing interventions to promote growth. She understands the importance of self-determination. Chelsi utilizes an unique, compassionate and collaborative approach
(919) 626-4745 View (919) 626-4745
Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Rae Flowers - Flowers Solution-Focused Therapy, PhD, Psychologist
Flowers Solution-Focused Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703
I am a licensed psychologist providing services across the lifespan, although my training has provided me with a strong understanding of child and adolescent development, school based difficulties, and learning differences. A large amount of my training has been at the Duke Center for Autism & Brain Development. I completed my doctorate in School Psychology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and my internship at the CIDD. My master’s degree was completed in Counseling & Guidance at New York University. I specialize in treating children and teens with neurodevelopmental disabilities, including ADHD and autism.
I am a licensed psychologist providing services across the lifespan, although my training has provided me with a strong understanding of child and adolescent development, school based difficulties, and learning differences. A large amount of my training has been at the Duke Center for Autism & Brain Development. I completed my doctorate in School Psychology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and my internship at the CIDD. My master’s degree was completed in Counseling & Guidance at New York University. I specialize in treating children and teens with neurodevelopmental disabilities, including ADHD and autism.
(919) 759-5311 View (919) 759-5311
Photo of Casey Okoniewski, PhD, Psychologist
Casey Okoniewski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
I specialize in complex differential diagnostics in neurodevelopmental disorders, supporting individuals and their families seeking to gain information when previous diagnostics may not have felt comprehensive or accurate, particularly in nuanced profiles of autism as seen in those who may be referred to as high functioning or identified female at birth.
I specialize in complex differential diagnostics in neurodevelopmental disorders, supporting individuals and their families seeking to gain information when previous diagnostics may not have felt comprehensive or accurate, particularly in nuanced profiles of autism as seen in those who may be referred to as high functioning or identified female at birth.
(919) 893-0193 View (919) 893-0193
Photo of Dr. Aurelie Welterlin - The NC Center for Autistic Women and Girls , PsyD, Psychologist
The NC Center for Autistic Women and Girls
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
Dr. Welterlin and her team of colleagues are pleased to provide outstanding, neurodiverse-affirming care with specialization in autistic women, girls and gender diverse individuals (but we also work with boys and men!). Our work is driven by a deep respect for inclusion and neurodiversity. We treat our clients as equal partners and equal citizens. We do not deny services or a diagnosis due to reasons such as having: neurotypical traits that aren’t “traditionally” autistic, a strong desire to socialize, been told by another professional or most in your life that you could do not have autism.
Dr. Welterlin and her team of colleagues are pleased to provide outstanding, neurodiverse-affirming care with specialization in autistic women, girls and gender diverse individuals (but we also work with boys and men!). Our work is driven by a deep respect for inclusion and neurodiversity. We treat our clients as equal partners and equal citizens. We do not deny services or a diagnosis due to reasons such as having: neurotypical traits that aren’t “traditionally” autistic, a strong desire to socialize, been told by another professional or most in your life that you could do not have autism.
(919) 289-8354 View (919) 289-8354
Photo of Courtney Pestovich, MS, LCHMCA, CRC
Courtney Pestovich
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCHMCA, CRC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
Hello and welcome to my profile! I'm thrilled to share my journey and expertise with you. My professional passion is centered around providing comprehensive support for individuals who are neurodiverse, especially those with autism and ADHD, along with co-occurring conditions. This includes clients who are questioning if they are neurodiverse or have been recently diagnosed. Additionally, I am deeply committed to assisting individuals who have navigated trauma or are dealing with complex PTSD. My practice spans across preteens, teens, and adults and I believe in providing a tailored approach at every stage of life.
Hello and welcome to my profile! I'm thrilled to share my journey and expertise with you. My professional passion is centered around providing comprehensive support for individuals who are neurodiverse, especially those with autism and ADHD, along with co-occurring conditions. This includes clients who are questioning if they are neurodiverse or have been recently diagnosed. Additionally, I am deeply committed to assisting individuals who have navigated trauma or are dealing with complex PTSD. My practice spans across preteens, teens, and adults and I believe in providing a tailored approach at every stage of life.
(919) 729-5123 View (919) 729-5123
Photo of Frank Paul Green - Charis Wellness Counseling Center (Foundation), DMin, MA, LMFT
Charis Wellness Counseling Center (Foundation)
DMin, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Durham, NC 27701
These include: DIR Floortime treatment for families dealing with Autism, other developmental issues, and Children and adults suffering Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Charis Foundation has two counseling therapeutic opportunities: 1.) Charis Counseling Wellness Center, a out patient service, is dedicated to providing non-judgmental treatment for Adults, Adolescents, Children, individuals, couples, and families. We are committed to non-biased assessment and treatment our clients, with respect to their cultural, ethnic, sexual, and religious difference, in an effort to gain insight, promote wellness and encourage healing and growth. 2.) Serenity Grace Farm is dedicated to equine therapy, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, and other horse riding activities. This works towards enhancing and improving physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills. Trail rides, party opportunities, special events for focus groups such as service groups, churches, civic organizations, and special needs are also part of the repertoire of therapeutic experiences available.
These include: DIR Floortime treatment for families dealing with Autism, other developmental issues, and Children and adults suffering Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Charis Foundation has two counseling therapeutic opportunities: 1.) Charis Counseling Wellness Center, a out patient service, is dedicated to providing non-judgmental treatment for Adults, Adolescents, Children, individuals, couples, and families. We are committed to non-biased assessment and treatment our clients, with respect to their cultural, ethnic, sexual, and religious difference, in an effort to gain insight, promote wellness and encourage healing and growth. 2.) Serenity Grace Farm is dedicated to equine therapy, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, and other horse riding activities. This works towards enhancing and improving physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills. Trail rides, party opportunities, special events for focus groups such as service groups, churches, civic organizations, and special needs are also part of the repertoire of therapeutic experiences available.
(919) 587-8121 View (919) 587-8121
Photo of Carmen Bolivar, LCSW, Counselor
Carmen Bolivar
Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Carmen Bolivar, and I am a licensed mental health counselor. I am bilingual and originally from Venezuela. I enjoy working with autistic adults because I have experience working with anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I also identify as a kink-informed kink-aware therapist who also focuses on LGBTQ+ individuals. My current focus is the overlap between these populations and autism, often working with autistic individuals who are unidentified until later in life.
Hi! My name is Carmen Bolivar, and I am a licensed mental health counselor. I am bilingual and originally from Venezuela. I enjoy working with autistic adults because I have experience working with anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I also identify as a kink-informed kink-aware therapist who also focuses on LGBTQ+ individuals. My current focus is the overlap between these populations and autism, often working with autistic individuals who are unidentified until later in life.
(919) 301-9331 View (919) 301-9331
Photo of Dana S Breedlove, PhD, LP, HSPP, Psychologist
Dana S Breedlove
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
If you or your child has ADHD or autism, I specialize in helping those with uniquely wired brains understand and embrace their differences, and use their strengths to function better.
Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed by life? Is your child disinterested or struggling in school? Do you feel misunderstood or struggle to to fit in? As a therapist with many years of experience as a school psychologist and special education teacher, I bring a unique perspective to problem solving. Personally navigating life with ADHD adds an additional layer of insight, compassion, and creativity! I can help you better understand your or your child’s challenges and needs, and find ways to address them. I would be honored to walk with you as you tackle the rough spots in your life and move more confidently towards your goals.
If you or your child has ADHD or autism, I specialize in helping those with uniquely wired brains understand and embrace their differences, and use their strengths to function better.
Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed by life? Is your child disinterested or struggling in school? Do you feel misunderstood or struggle to to fit in? As a therapist with many years of experience as a school psychologist and special education teacher, I bring a unique perspective to problem solving. Personally navigating life with ADHD adds an additional layer of insight, compassion, and creativity! I can help you better understand your or your child’s challenges and needs, and find ways to address them. I would be honored to walk with you as you tackle the rough spots in your life and move more confidently towards your goals.
(984) 300-3567 View (984) 300-3567
Photo of Yolanda Ducey, LCMHC, BCBA, LPA , LBA
Yolanda Ducey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, BCBA, LPA , LBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701
I specialize in autism and ADHD, and I am a neurodiversity affirming therapist.
Welcome to a space where your unique story is celebrated, and your journey to self-discovery is honored. I'm Dr. Yolanda Ducey, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed psychological associate dedicated to helping individuals like you dance to the rhythm of their own aspirations and embrace the freedom of their authentic selves. I believe in the power of individuality and the courage it takes to forge your own path. Inspired by the words of Monika Ajay Kaul, I encourage my clients not to fear failure but to see it as a stepping stone toward growth and evolution.
I specialize in autism and ADHD, and I am a neurodiversity affirming therapist.
Welcome to a space where your unique story is celebrated, and your journey to self-discovery is honored. I'm Dr. Yolanda Ducey, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed psychological associate dedicated to helping individuals like you dance to the rhythm of their own aspirations and embrace the freedom of their authentic selves. I believe in the power of individuality and the courage it takes to forge your own path. Inspired by the words of Monika Ajay Kaul, I encourage my clients not to fear failure but to see it as a stepping stone toward growth and evolution.
(984) 867-2156 View (984) 867-2156
Photo of Corey Michael Ellis, MA, BS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Corey Michael Ellis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27703
I am focused in clinically informed therapy for ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational conflict, and marriage.
Life can be challenging at times, can't it? There are many things that can cause instability, sadness, or a number of other problems. But, there are also numerous sources of stability, joy, and health within our reach. Sometimes, the situations we find ourselves in make it difficult to see any hope, happiness, or a way out. I would love to join you in your current moment and walk alongside you. We can work together to find stability and rediscover the joy of life that may have been lost or feels out of reach. It doesn't have to remain in the past or be a dream in the future; let's work together to experience it in the present.
I am focused in clinically informed therapy for ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational conflict, and marriage.
Life can be challenging at times, can't it? There are many things that can cause instability, sadness, or a number of other problems. But, there are also numerous sources of stability, joy, and health within our reach. Sometimes, the situations we find ourselves in make it difficult to see any hope, happiness, or a way out. I would love to join you in your current moment and walk alongside you. We can work together to find stability and rediscover the joy of life that may have been lost or feels out of reach. It doesn't have to remain in the past or be a dream in the future; let's work together to experience it in the present.
(984) 314-3903 View (984) 314-3903
Photo of Isabella Kim, Occupational Therapist
Isabella Kim
Occupational Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27717
I love working with children with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing difficulties. I strive to find ways to engage my clients in purposeful play and navigate ways to strengthen their mind-body connection for improved self regulation.
I love working with children with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing difficulties. I strive to find ways to engage my clients in purposeful play and navigate ways to strengthen their mind-body connection for improved self regulation.
(984) 266-3552 View (984) 266-3552
Photo of Kyera Kay McCrimmon, MEd, LCMHCA, Counselor
Kyera Kay McCrimmon
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703
My ideal clients range from 5 to 16 years old and may grapple with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, and various emotional concerns. They seek to improve social skills, manage emotions, and develop effective coping strategies, aiming for academic and social success while building self-awareness and confidence. Parental involvement is paramount in our therapy. We focus on parent training to bolster the child's progress. Together, we establish a nurturing, consistent environment where children can conquer challenges and realize their potential.
My ideal clients range from 5 to 16 years old and may grapple with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, and various emotional concerns. They seek to improve social skills, manage emotions, and develop effective coping strategies, aiming for academic and social success while building self-awareness and confidence. Parental involvement is paramount in our therapy. We focus on parent training to bolster the child's progress. Together, we establish a nurturing, consistent environment where children can conquer challenges and realize their potential.
(919) 307-6997 View (919) 307-6997
Photo of Marycaroline Gibson, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marycaroline Gibson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
Accepting telehealth clients! Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming. The hardest step is just showing up, and you have already accomplished that! Everyone has different needs and goals - and there is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy. As such, the techniques that I use differ from client to client. We can work collaboratively to address your individual needs and goals! Some of my focus areas include Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intergenerational Trauma, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, Family Trauma, Career Counseling and Stress Management.
Accepting telehealth clients! Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming. The hardest step is just showing up, and you have already accomplished that! Everyone has different needs and goals - and there is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy. As such, the techniques that I use differ from client to client. We can work collaboratively to address your individual needs and goals! Some of my focus areas include Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intergenerational Trauma, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, Family Trauma, Career Counseling and Stress Management.
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Photo of Dr. Andrea Kulish-Avery, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Andrea Kulish-Avery
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703
I am a clinical child psychologist, and I specialize in working with young children Birth - Age 6. I have expertise in early childhood development and in the early identification of neurodevelopmental and behavioral health concerns. I offer Comprehensive Developmental & Psychological Testing as well as Autism Testing for young children. I work closely with families to identify the "why" or "most likely explanation" for their child's current behaviors and support them in deciding on the best next steps to support their child and family. I am passionate about supporting families in providing a strong start for their young children.
I am a clinical child psychologist, and I specialize in working with young children Birth - Age 6. I have expertise in early childhood development and in the early identification of neurodevelopmental and behavioral health concerns. I offer Comprehensive Developmental & Psychological Testing as well as Autism Testing for young children. I work closely with families to identify the "why" or "most likely explanation" for their child's current behaviors and support them in deciding on the best next steps to support their child and family. I am passionate about supporting families in providing a strong start for their young children.
(984) 249-3954 View (984) 249-3954
Photo of Virginia Annette Pope - Pope Behavioral Health and Wellness, PLLC, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pope Behavioral Health and Wellness, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Are you or your child struggling to manage stress in the home or school setting? I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, specializing in working with youth and adults. I have experience working with youth dealing with issues, such as anxiety, depression, autism, defiant behaviors, adjustment, school issues, and family conflict since 2007. I work with children and families to identify goals for personal success and work collaboratively to assist them in reaching those goals. I welcome clients of all ages, and I also enjoy working with adults struggling with anxiety and depression to assist them in making personal growth.
Are you or your child struggling to manage stress in the home or school setting? I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, specializing in working with youth and adults. I have experience working with youth dealing with issues, such as anxiety, depression, autism, defiant behaviors, adjustment, school issues, and family conflict since 2007. I work with children and families to identify goals for personal success and work collaboratively to assist them in reaching those goals. I welcome clients of all ages, and I also enjoy working with adults struggling with anxiety and depression to assist them in making personal growth.
(919) 999-7457 View (919) 999-7457
Autism Therapists

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?

Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?

Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.