Therapists in Glenwood, NC
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![Photo of Deanne M Ackley - Domestic Appeal & Neural ~Synergistic ~ Network ®, LCSW, LISW, CSW, EEG, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a8d0905-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Domestic Appeal & Neural ~Synergistic ~ Network ®
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW, CSW, EEG, IFS
Verified Verified
Marion, NC 28752
My "ideal client" knows to provide loved ones the very best, he or she must also be at an individual best. Short-changing the "self" depletes the ability to offer abundance to others. Whereas prospering in heart, health, mind, and body lead to connections of premium value. My clients look beyond the ordinary, knowing possibilities are endless and will be found with concerted effort and bravery. Keeping life fresh, free and filled with potential, elevates us all. When my clients depart they have renewed joy and gratitude because they are awakened to the gifts that were once just beyond their reach but now part their life scripts.
My "ideal client" knows to provide loved ones the very best, he or she must also be at an individual best. Short-changing the "self" depletes the ability to offer abundance to others. Whereas prospering in heart, health, mind, and body lead to connections of premium value. My clients look beyond the ordinary, knowing possibilities are endless and will be found with concerted effort and bravery. Keeping life fresh, free and filled with potential, elevates us all. When my clients depart they have renewed joy and gratitude because they are awakened to the gifts that were once just beyond their reach but now part their life scripts.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Jake Philip Wilensky, LCMHC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/466d63b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am effective working with adults who experience many different kinds of emotional health conditions. I work with people who are having relationship difficulties, issues with codependency, trouble navigating traumatic events, and looking for overall personal growth. I also have experience and enjoy working with people who are on the autism spectrum.
I am effective working with adults who experience many different kinds of emotional health conditions. I work with people who are having relationship difficulties, issues with codependency, trouble navigating traumatic events, and looking for overall personal growth. I also have experience and enjoy working with people who are on the autism spectrum.
![Photo of Josh Jensen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ac15f4b-f2f0-4351-847f-b611a416c660/3/320x400.jpeg)
Josh is thoughtful in his approach to serving individuals and families through various struggles and transitions. He strives to create a warm, collaborative and non-judgmental environment where therapy can work towards clear solutions, deeper truths and a fuller acceptance of strengths and struggles. He has been in private practice since 2009 and has expertise in working with anxiety, depression, Autism, ADHD grief, OCD, dream interpretation and the integration of spiritual concerns with the work of therapy. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, Josh is excited about working with all aspects of the family system and throughout major
Josh is thoughtful in his approach to serving individuals and families through various struggles and transitions. He strives to create a warm, collaborative and non-judgmental environment where therapy can work towards clear solutions, deeper truths and a fuller acceptance of strengths and struggles. He has been in private practice since 2009 and has expertise in working with anxiety, depression, Autism, ADHD grief, OCD, dream interpretation and the integration of spiritual concerns with the work of therapy. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, Josh is excited about working with all aspects of the family system and throughout major
![Photo of Kimberly A. (Vogel) Whalen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e04e2a6-4ed0-4cae-8513-8caf1308fb98/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly A. (Vogel) Whalen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
I have worked with a variety of populations and culturally diverse ethnic groups managing attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, high functioning Autism, codependency, grief, marital/family conflict, infidelity, parenting issues, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, women/men’s issues, and day-to-day stressors.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Clinical Psychology and graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My therapy approach is taken from an attachment theory and perspective. I believe humans are wired to feel connected, and that we all greatly benefit from healthy relationships. Without this connectedness, we may experience loneliness or isolation. I provide a safe, accepting space for individuals, couples, and families using a positive Existential Therapy Model to support self-awareness, meaningful relationships, and values of life.
I have worked with a variety of populations and culturally diverse ethnic groups managing attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, high functioning Autism, codependency, grief, marital/family conflict, infidelity, parenting issues, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, women/men’s issues, and day-to-day stressors.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Clinical Psychology and graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My therapy approach is taken from an attachment theory and perspective. I believe humans are wired to feel connected, and that we all greatly benefit from healthy relationships. Without this connectedness, we may experience loneliness or isolation. I provide a safe, accepting space for individuals, couples, and families using a positive Existential Therapy Model to support self-awareness, meaningful relationships, and values of life.
![Photo of Yazmeen A Garcia, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fab026a-31d0-468b-804f-c67072bc24eb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Yazmeen A Garcia
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
![Photo of Elizabeth Whitesides, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c3d5f8c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Whitesides
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28805
Ready to take the first step towards creating the life you want? It takes courage and awareness. Make the changes within yourself to improve life's journey. I am here to help you realize your inherent strength, wisdom, and access to your own inner healer... all the while providing encouragement and support along the way. Licensed as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Addictions Specialist, I have 15 years of experience working with women, men, and couples, of all ages and backgrounds. I believe in your ability to create transformation for yourself through commitment and our work together.
Ready to take the first step towards creating the life you want? It takes courage and awareness. Make the changes within yourself to improve life's journey. I am here to help you realize your inherent strength, wisdom, and access to your own inner healer... all the while providing encouragement and support along the way. Licensed as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Addictions Specialist, I have 15 years of experience working with women, men, and couples, of all ages and backgrounds. I believe in your ability to create transformation for yourself through commitment and our work together.
![Photo of Kelsey Staub, LCMHC, CH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10be87b8-24f7-4b02-96de-1ce8ef2eb1cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Staub
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CH
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803 (Online Only)
As a licensed therapist and hypnotherapist, I have a wide range of experience with varying ages that include depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, self-worth/esteem, negative habits, relationship/family issues, ADHD, sexuality, and intellectual/developmental differences. I provide a welcoming space for processing what arises in therapy, manage and regulate challenging feelings in a healthily, develop effective coping skills, re program thought/behavior patterns, heal unresolved emotions, and create a plan for life improvement. Unconditional positive regard, warmth, and acceptance are key elements to our therapeutic work
As a licensed therapist and hypnotherapist, I have a wide range of experience with varying ages that include depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, self-worth/esteem, negative habits, relationship/family issues, ADHD, sexuality, and intellectual/developmental differences. I provide a welcoming space for processing what arises in therapy, manage and regulate challenging feelings in a healthily, develop effective coping skills, re program thought/behavior patterns, heal unresolved emotions, and create a plan for life improvement. Unconditional positive regard, warmth, and acceptance are key elements to our therapeutic work
![Photo of Amy O'Bryan, LCMHC, MEd, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5702edf4-207d-4406-9c52-2133d3c755e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy O'Bryan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
My personal philosophy and approach to counseling begins and ends with compassion and a willingness to enter into my clients’ experiences alongside them. I became active in this field because I have an authentic, listening heart that desires to see people live as whole, healthy, individuals. My interests include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, peer and family relationships. With a master’s degree in education and experience working in schools, I also provide academic, social, and emotional support. Treatment plans are created based on the individuals' needs and combine evidenced based practices with personal wellness.
My personal philosophy and approach to counseling begins and ends with compassion and a willingness to enter into my clients’ experiences alongside them. I became active in this field because I have an authentic, listening heart that desires to see people live as whole, healthy, individuals. My interests include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, peer and family relationships. With a master’s degree in education and experience working in schools, I also provide academic, social, and emotional support. Treatment plans are created based on the individuals' needs and combine evidenced based practices with personal wellness.
![Photo of Loredana Pampinella - P & G Clinical Services, PhD, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9d7ec1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
P & G Clinical Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226 (Online Only)
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
![Photo of Clare Battle, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21beff4f-4b81-4899-aecc-356ef21ad60d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Clare Battle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are naturally curious about themselves and the world and who enjoy self reflection, personal growth and development. Do you feel like fear is holding you back from what you want out of life? Being able to open up about these vulnerabilities is challenging and involves deep exploration into the psyche. My intention is to create a safe, accepting container so you are able to explore all parts of yourself, welcome them and integrate them into your life.
I work with individuals who are naturally curious about themselves and the world and who enjoy self reflection, personal growth and development. Do you feel like fear is holding you back from what you want out of life? Being able to open up about these vulnerabilities is challenging and involves deep exploration into the psyche. My intention is to create a safe, accepting container so you are able to explore all parts of yourself, welcome them and integrate them into your life.
![Photo of Avery Horne, MSW, LCSW-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33ba25e4-dde1-4b7d-ba0e-d00a32fac611/1/320x400.jpeg)
Avery Horne
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801 (Online Only)
I believe that everyone can become the version of themselves they want to be. But this "becoming" is a journey with many twists and turns. Life can be beautiful and wonderful, and at other times it can feel like one gut punch after another. We all need someone to lean on in order to keep going sometimes! My philosophy is informed by my own lived experience. I'm queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent, and certainly no stranger to anxiety and depression. Through my own therapy, I learned that no one was coming to "save" me – I had to show up for myself. Learning to integrate my experiences has colored my world for the better.
I believe that everyone can become the version of themselves they want to be. But this "becoming" is a journey with many twists and turns. Life can be beautiful and wonderful, and at other times it can feel like one gut punch after another. We all need someone to lean on in order to keep going sometimes! My philosophy is informed by my own lived experience. I'm queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent, and certainly no stranger to anxiety and depression. Through my own therapy, I learned that no one was coming to "save" me – I had to show up for myself. Learning to integrate my experiences has colored my world for the better.
![Photo of Dan O'Sullivan, MA, LCMHCA, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/100dd002-3978-43c0-9a27-d8c1ca04915d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dan O'Sullivan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
It’s not easy being a kid. You’re learning and growing—and the world isn’t always patient if you need to do so a little differently, or when “big feelings” get in the way. Not that being a teen or adult is easier. You might struggle under the weight of seemingly impossible expectations and stresses. Or you find yourself experiencing hurt in your relationships. Maybe you wish your child could handle their emotions better and really start to blossom. Or maybe, as a teen or adult, you want to find peace with yourself and healthy connection with others.
It’s not easy being a kid. You’re learning and growing—and the world isn’t always patient if you need to do so a little differently, or when “big feelings” get in the way. Not that being a teen or adult is easier. You might struggle under the weight of seemingly impossible expectations and stresses. Or you find yourself experiencing hurt in your relationships. Maybe you wish your child could handle their emotions better and really start to blossom. Or maybe, as a teen or adult, you want to find peace with yourself and healthy connection with others.
![Photo of Chuck Elliott, MS, LCMHC, LCAS-A, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7840a785-0867-4a19-843d-895da1ce3802/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chuck Elliott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I believe as humans we must support each other on our life journey. I enjoy helping clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their thought patterns and emotions, relationships, and navigate and make sense of their world. I believe that clarifying what is important to each individual, their needs, and their goals, helps provide direction and purpose in life. I often help clients explore how past experiences, family dynamics, addiction, and personality affect how we relate and function in this world. I offer individual, couples, and family sessions.
I believe as humans we must support each other on our life journey. I enjoy helping clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their thought patterns and emotions, relationships, and navigate and make sense of their world. I believe that clarifying what is important to each individual, their needs, and their goals, helps provide direction and purpose in life. I often help clients explore how past experiences, family dynamics, addiction, and personality affect how we relate and function in this world. I offer individual, couples, and family sessions.
![Photo of Matthew Snyder - Full Circle Community Wellness, MS, MA, PsyD, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ba69ced-259b-4314-86a9-aab7cba0ec44/2/320x400.jpeg)
Full Circle Community Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, PsyD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.
![Photo of Cater Davis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16b57893-45c4-43fb-b0a1-7070f4161661/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a clinician I am passionate about working with individuals around their personal goals and identity development, assisting couples in more effective ways to communicate and deepen intimacy, coaching parents who are struggling to show up in a way that feels good and effective with their children, or families who are struggling to navigate the challenges of their unique lifestyle.
As a clinician I am passionate about working with individuals around their personal goals and identity development, assisting couples in more effective ways to communicate and deepen intimacy, coaching parents who are struggling to show up in a way that feels good and effective with their children, or families who are struggling to navigate the challenges of their unique lifestyle.
![Photo of Tracy Brooks, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4ea88b3-ded3-4187-abda-15523ebd9a19/1/320x400.jpeg)
Neurodivergence, trauma, and anxiety tend to go hand-in-hand. As a neurodivergent person with 7 years in the field, I offer unconditional support on your journey to unpack and process your own traits, trauma, and emotional struggles, set and uphold boundaries around your needs, manage your nervous system, understand how your brain and body are working, identify your parts and work with them, build self-worth and self-efficacy, and have more confidence in walking the path YOU want, rather than one expected of you by others. LGBTQIA+ allied. Parenting/grief/direct care-friendly. Meeka, Canine Queen of Therapy, often walks with us.
Neurodivergence, trauma, and anxiety tend to go hand-in-hand. As a neurodivergent person with 7 years in the field, I offer unconditional support on your journey to unpack and process your own traits, trauma, and emotional struggles, set and uphold boundaries around your needs, manage your nervous system, understand how your brain and body are working, identify your parts and work with them, build self-worth and self-efficacy, and have more confidence in walking the path YOU want, rather than one expected of you by others. LGBTQIA+ allied. Parenting/grief/direct care-friendly. Meeka, Canine Queen of Therapy, often walks with us.
![Photo of Callie Beam - Charlotte Therapy Center, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b17fc87c-f69d-4cb3-96a1-cfead236ff6c/1/320x400.png)
At Charlotte Therapy Center, we aim to produce service outcomes that result in a developed sense of wholeness for individuals and families while also offering professional level programs for corporate settings. While there may be a variety of clinical aspects that align with industry standards, we strive to elevate our services by incorporating a focus on meaningful pursuits and discovering a sense of purpose. Our therapists utilize a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy to guide you through the counseling process.
At Charlotte Therapy Center, we aim to produce service outcomes that result in a developed sense of wholeness for individuals and families while also offering professional level programs for corporate settings. While there may be a variety of clinical aspects that align with industry standards, we strive to elevate our services by incorporating a focus on meaningful pursuits and discovering a sense of purpose. Our therapists utilize a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy to guide you through the counseling process.
![Photo of Boyce L Smith, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6218910a-19b5-426b-a50a-447657c7389f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
![Photo of Lynn Crothers, MA, LCMHCA, LMHCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dc085a1-4c9a-4ce3-a6fc-12e3f66b5baf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn Crothers
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Tryon, NC 28782
Welcome; I'm glad you're here. I am a psychoanalytically oriented therapist who supports adults navigating several areas of focus, including: chronic pain and chronic illness, women's issues, dissociative conditions, depression and grief, complex trauma, relationship challenges, searches for meaning, and family of origin concerns. Trained in depth psychology, I am an ideal fit for anyone who is engaged in the process of self-understanding, curious about life, and seeking to be known. I believe the potential for deep healing, connection, and revitalization exists within this work.
Welcome; I'm glad you're here. I am a psychoanalytically oriented therapist who supports adults navigating several areas of focus, including: chronic pain and chronic illness, women's issues, dissociative conditions, depression and grief, complex trauma, relationship challenges, searches for meaning, and family of origin concerns. Trained in depth psychology, I am an ideal fit for anyone who is engaged in the process of self-understanding, curious about life, and seeking to be known. I believe the potential for deep healing, connection, and revitalization exists within this work.
![Photo of Chantal D Hayes - Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness, MA, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06d9b438-b33c-43d2-81a4-c17a0e55794f/1/320x400.png)
Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness
MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Our work is dedicated to helping ALL people develop healthy, satisfying, productive, and meaningful lives. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin therapy, we have found that those who have sought help and take responsibility for their emotional heath and relationships have achieved remarkable results. People come to us for a variety of reasons: they may be in transition, experiencing work stress, grieving a loss, struggling with religious or family ideals which no longer suit them, a new parent experiencing anxiety. Some have begun to feel daily life is stagnant, seeking more direction and purpose in their lives.
Our work is dedicated to helping ALL people develop healthy, satisfying, productive, and meaningful lives. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin therapy, we have found that those who have sought help and take responsibility for their emotional heath and relationships have achieved remarkable results. People come to us for a variety of reasons: they may be in transition, experiencing work stress, grieving a loss, struggling with religious or family ideals which no longer suit them, a new parent experiencing anxiety. Some have begun to feel daily life is stagnant, seeking more direction and purpose in their lives.
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.