Photo of Leslie Bowllan, MS, LCMHC
Leslie Bowllan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 20 years of experience in various settings and working with people with a wide variety of needs, including, but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Trauma/PTSD, Relationship Issues, and Grief/Loss.
I believe how we treat our bodies affects our thoughts and how we think affects our bodies. Therefore, I integrate a holistic approach into the therapeutic process. I work with clients to address the root cause(s) of symptoms and to promote healing through the use of various techniques tailored to each individual’s needs. I use yoga, meditation, and mindfulness in conjunction with traditional talk therapies to recenter and rebalance the mind-body connection, to improve inter- and intra-personal relationships, and to create physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Please read more on my website: www.truenorth-counseling.com.
I have over 20 years of experience in various settings and working with people with a wide variety of needs, including, but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Trauma/PTSD, Relationship Issues, and Grief/Loss.
I believe how we treat our bodies affects our thoughts and how we think affects our bodies. Therefore, I integrate a holistic approach into the therapeutic process. I work with clients to address the root cause(s) of symptoms and to promote healing through the use of various techniques tailored to each individual’s needs. I use yoga, meditation, and mindfulness in conjunction with traditional talk therapies to recenter and rebalance the mind-body connection, to improve inter- and intra-personal relationships, and to create physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Please read more on my website: www.truenorth-counseling.com.
(704) 464-2232 View (704) 464-2232
Photo of Marie Leskauskas, LCMHC, MA, Counselor
Marie Leskauskas
Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I work with a range of mental and behavioral health issues including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, adjustment disorders, autism, and selective and progressive mutism.
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
I work with a range of mental and behavioral health issues including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, adjustment disorders, autism, and selective and progressive mutism.
Each person is a unique individual whose life and experience is different from anyone else, and deserves to be addressed with unconditional positive regard for themselves and their circumstances. This is why I place an emphasis on authenticity and the importance of understanding each person as a whole, focusing on healing through the integration of mental, physical, and spiritual health. As a therapist, I will involve strategies and techniques including CBT, sandtray and sandplay, motivational interviewing, addressing the mind and body connection, and the incorporation of ongoing psychoeducation.
(980) 575-5082 View (980) 575-5082
Photo of Whitt Daniel, LCMHCA, MA, Counselor
Whitt Daniel
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28070
I would feel honored to walk alongside you as you begin counseling. I am here to support you, brainstorm with you, laugh with you, and even challenge you at times. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and emerging adults, and their families, living with: ADHD, anxiety, autism, behavioral concerns, depression, learning differences, academic challenges, family concerns, and/or trauma. Additionally, I have a particular interest in working with clients who are seeking support for career development and/or the college preparation/application process.
I would feel honored to walk alongside you as you begin counseling. I am here to support you, brainstorm with you, laugh with you, and even challenge you at times. I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and emerging adults, and their families, living with: ADHD, anxiety, autism, behavioral concerns, depression, learning differences, academic challenges, family concerns, and/or trauma. Additionally, I have a particular interest in working with clients who are seeking support for career development and/or the college preparation/application process.
(980) 364-8401 View (980) 364-8401
Photo of Kelley Cock - Blossom Therapy, PLLC, LCMHCA, Counselor
Blossom Therapy, PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I have a special interest in neurodiversity and love helping children and adults diagnosed with ADHD and Autism learn more about themselves.
As a therapist with a passion for working with both children and adults, I believe that everyone, regardless of age, has the capacity for growth and change. My approach is grounded in empathy and understanding and is focused on helping my clients become the best version of themselves.
I have a special interest in neurodiversity and love helping children and adults diagnosed with ADHD and Autism learn more about themselves.
As a therapist with a passion for working with both children and adults, I believe that everyone, regardless of age, has the capacity for growth and change. My approach is grounded in empathy and understanding and is focused on helping my clients become the best version of themselves.
(704) 703-2938 View (704) 703-2938
Photo of Heather Corsello, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Corsello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28070
Are you someone that has struggled with anxiety or depression, ADHD/ attentional concerns, throughout your life? Or perhaps you are neurodivergent or on the Autism spectrum? I like to look at these characteristics and qualities as super powers and work with my clients to meet their full potential in their lives. This is done by encouraging my clients to develop coping skills, build resilience, and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion so that they can gain insight into patterns and behaviors, and make positive changes in their lives.
Are you someone that has struggled with anxiety or depression, ADHD/ attentional concerns, throughout your life? Or perhaps you are neurodivergent or on the Autism spectrum? I like to look at these characteristics and qualities as super powers and work with my clients to meet their full potential in their lives. This is done by encouraging my clients to develop coping skills, build resilience, and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion so that they can gain insight into patterns and behaviors, and make positive changes in their lives.
(980) 351-4296 View (980) 351-4296
Photo of Sachi Mehta, PsyD, LPA, HSP-PA, Psychological Associate
Sachi Mehta
Psychological Associate, PsyD, LPA, HSP-PA
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
I have been working with children and adults of all ages in individual therapy / family therapy and play therapy for over 24 years. My expertise is in the areas of working with anxiety, depression, psychosis, grief, suicide, complex trauma, relationship concerns, developmental concerns for all ages, PTSD, dementia, and diversity issues. I specialize in comprehensive neuropsychological and diagnostic assessment for Autism, ADHD, Personality, medical necessity, forensic, fitness for duty, educational, TBI, dementia, etc. I speak several languages and have won several awards for multicultural and diversity focused work.
I have been working with children and adults of all ages in individual therapy / family therapy and play therapy for over 24 years. My expertise is in the areas of working with anxiety, depression, psychosis, grief, suicide, complex trauma, relationship concerns, developmental concerns for all ages, PTSD, dementia, and diversity issues. I specialize in comprehensive neuropsychological and diagnostic assessment for Autism, ADHD, Personality, medical necessity, forensic, fitness for duty, educational, TBI, dementia, etc. I speak several languages and have won several awards for multicultural and diversity focused work.
(704) 271-1997 View (704) 271-1997
Photo of Donna Miller - Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng, MA, LCMHC, LMFTA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Strengthening Foundations Child & Family Cnslng
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
Facing life's challenges and transitions should not be done alone. When you encounter issues arising from lifecycle changes, relational turmoil or any other challenges that invoke a crisis or grief, it is important to have genuine and empathetic support to guide you without passing judgment. As a spouse of a retired veteran, I have over 20 years of experience adapting to the lifestyle challenges that the military community encounters. I have helped many families successfully cope with the military lifestyle, relational struggles and raise special children.
(910) 672-6766 View (910) 672-6766
Photo of Morgan Futrell, LCSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Futrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people across the lifespan, coping with transitions and navigating what life brings their way. Change, even change that is identified as positive, also comes with loss. I am motivated by the opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives and support them in navigating change, stress and identifying how they can FEEL better. I am dedicated to creating spaces where people can thrive, heal, and grow. My aspiration is to contribute to a supportive and dynamic environment where people of all ages feel empowered to embrace their journey and achieve their personal goals.
I specialize in working with people across the lifespan, coping with transitions and navigating what life brings their way. Change, even change that is identified as positive, also comes with loss. I am motivated by the opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives and support them in navigating change, stress and identifying how they can FEEL better. I am dedicated to creating spaces where people can thrive, heal, and grow. My aspiration is to contribute to a supportive and dynamic environment where people of all ages feel empowered to embrace their journey and achieve their personal goals.
(984) 224-7818 View (984) 224-7818
Photo of Kristyn Dunn, MEd, LCMHCA, Counselor
Kristyn Dunn
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
My passion is helping individuals of all ages to heal and grow. I offer a multidisciplinary approach to help clients overcome challenges and live their best lives. I utilize an acceptance-based counseling approach to help clients navigate difficult life situations and a variety of mental health issues. Counseling sessions can be in-person or online. I combine talk therapy with advanced neurotechnology techniques to help my clients improve their mental, emotional and cognitive health long-term. I don’t think of your brain as the problem, but rather the solution. Every brain is capable of change and improved self-regulation.
My passion is helping individuals of all ages to heal and grow. I offer a multidisciplinary approach to help clients overcome challenges and live their best lives. I utilize an acceptance-based counseling approach to help clients navigate difficult life situations and a variety of mental health issues. Counseling sessions can be in-person or online. I combine talk therapy with advanced neurotechnology techniques to help my clients improve their mental, emotional and cognitive health long-term. I don’t think of your brain as the problem, but rather the solution. Every brain is capable of change and improved self-regulation.
(980) 385-8258 View (980) 385-8258
Photo of Mia A. Johnson, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Mia A. Johnson
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I view counseling as an opportunity for self-exploration, growth, and healing. My top priority is to build a trusting relationship while creating a space where clients feel safe, respected and heard. I use an integrative approach, drawing predominately from Person-Centered modalities and techniques while utilizing Trauma Invested/Informed Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and Child Parent Relationship Training (CPRT). I truly believe that every client is unique, varying in strengths, struggles, and personalities. Therefore, I tailor each treatment plan to meet each client where they are, in the present moment.
I view counseling as an opportunity for self-exploration, growth, and healing. My top priority is to build a trusting relationship while creating a space where clients feel safe, respected and heard. I use an integrative approach, drawing predominately from Person-Centered modalities and techniques while utilizing Trauma Invested/Informed Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and Child Parent Relationship Training (CPRT). I truly believe that every client is unique, varying in strengths, struggles, and personalities. Therefore, I tailor each treatment plan to meet each client where they are, in the present moment.
(704) 686-8130 View (704) 686-8130
Photo of Katherine Waldron, LCMHC, CTP, MA, NCC
Katherine Waldron
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CTP, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I’m licensed in the states of NC & SC. I see clients in person & virtually in NC & offer telehealth services in for people in SC. I have experience working with ADHD, LGBTQIA+, and trauma. I’m an LGBTQIA+ allied therapist and provide trauma-informed therapy. I am a Certified Trauma Professional and as a trauma professional and childhood trauma survivor myself, my goal is to provide a unique, compassionate, and evidence-based approach when providing treatment. I enjoy helping individuals find ways to create and find safety within themselves. I thank you for stopping by and I hope to support you on your journey through this process.
I’m licensed in the states of NC & SC. I see clients in person & virtually in NC & offer telehealth services in for people in SC. I have experience working with ADHD, LGBTQIA+, and trauma. I’m an LGBTQIA+ allied therapist and provide trauma-informed therapy. I am a Certified Trauma Professional and as a trauma professional and childhood trauma survivor myself, my goal is to provide a unique, compassionate, and evidence-based approach when providing treatment. I enjoy helping individuals find ways to create and find safety within themselves. I thank you for stopping by and I hope to support you on your journey through this process.
(704) 327-0826 View (704) 327-0826
Photo of Melissa Bosworth Cummins, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Melissa Bosworth Cummins
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Do you feel misunderstood or lost in a world that pretends to have it all together? I believe our thoughts, behaviors & emotions affect our ability to live & embrace our best lives. Through voluntary acceptance of our past, present & future, we can build the skills & courage needed to successfully thrive! As a parent, daughter, former teacher, & corporate professional, I understand that often the most difficult step is acknowledging the need and taking the time to reach out for help. With the understanding that it is normal for our life journey to be messy & imperfect, we can grow stronger together, move forward & flourish.
Do you feel misunderstood or lost in a world that pretends to have it all together? I believe our thoughts, behaviors & emotions affect our ability to live & embrace our best lives. Through voluntary acceptance of our past, present & future, we can build the skills & courage needed to successfully thrive! As a parent, daughter, former teacher, & corporate professional, I understand that often the most difficult step is acknowledging the need and taking the time to reach out for help. With the understanding that it is normal for our life journey to be messy & imperfect, we can grow stronger together, move forward & flourish.
(704) 912-0733 View (704) 912-0733
Photo of Ashley Brown, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Ashley Brown
MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I can provide a safe space where clients can explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors freely. Regardless of cultural background or personal lifestyles, all are welcomed to explore themselves, their needs, their goals, and any concerns they may have, through a relaxed and nonjudgmental therapeutic experience. I aim to encourage, highlight, and empower those who seek clarity through difficult situations or when life appears most murky. Navigating through difficult thoughts or experiences alone may appear daunting at times. You are not alone and therapy can be that outlet to which you will be able to create your own path to healing.
I can provide a safe space where clients can explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors freely. Regardless of cultural background or personal lifestyles, all are welcomed to explore themselves, their needs, their goals, and any concerns they may have, through a relaxed and nonjudgmental therapeutic experience. I aim to encourage, highlight, and empower those who seek clarity through difficult situations or when life appears most murky. Navigating through difficult thoughts or experiences alone may appear daunting at times. You are not alone and therapy can be that outlet to which you will be able to create your own path to healing.
(980) 414-8803 View (980) 414-8803
Photo of Tyler Kramer, LCMHC, Counselor
Tyler Kramer
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Have you ever felt as though everything that you’ve planned for in your life is falling apart piece by piece? Sometimes when this is happening we feel as though we are alone. What if the answer is right in front of us and we just can’t find it? Sometimes it helps to have a second person, someone to walk the journey along side you, someone who won’t judge you but will walk with you side by side to help guide you to find that missing piece. I want to work with you where you are at and help you achieve the goals you want to achieve. Together as a team we will work step by step to achieve a happier and healthier life.
Have you ever felt as though everything that you’ve planned for in your life is falling apart piece by piece? Sometimes when this is happening we feel as though we are alone. What if the answer is right in front of us and we just can’t find it? Sometimes it helps to have a second person, someone to walk the journey along side you, someone who won’t judge you but will walk with you side by side to help guide you to find that missing piece. I want to work with you where you are at and help you achieve the goals you want to achieve. Together as a team we will work step by step to achieve a happier and healthier life.
(980) 220-4639 View (980) 220-4639
Photo of Sarah Ernst, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Sarah Ernst
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! A trusting relationship between you and your therapist is where healing begins. My goal is to create an environment where you feel safe and able to express yourself fully and authentically. My approach stems from a Person-Centered lens, but I also integrate a wide variety of techniques customized to your individual needs and goals. I hope to keep therapy interesting and meaningful for you, whether that means we 'walk and talk', incorporate expressive arts, or even cook together! I aspire to create a space where you & your family feel fully accepted for your unique identities and abilities.
Hi, I'm so glad you're here! A trusting relationship between you and your therapist is where healing begins. My goal is to create an environment where you feel safe and able to express yourself fully and authentically. My approach stems from a Person-Centered lens, but I also integrate a wide variety of techniques customized to your individual needs and goals. I hope to keep therapy interesting and meaningful for you, whether that means we 'walk and talk', incorporate expressive arts, or even cook together! I aspire to create a space where you & your family feel fully accepted for your unique identities and abilities.
(980) 998-1789 View (980) 998-1789
Photo of Amy Dombrosky, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Dombrosky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Are you frustrated because therapy just isn't working? Sometimes traditional talk therapy just isn't enough. EMDR is a unique form of therapy that targets the negative beliefs that are rooted in our past traumas and allows us to replace those thoughts with more adaptive beliefs. With EMDR therapy, you will quickly see movement to healthier thought process and feel less driven by your emotions. Together we will develop coping strategies and restore healthy patterns to assist in regulating your symptoms.
Are you frustrated because therapy just isn't working? Sometimes traditional talk therapy just isn't enough. EMDR is a unique form of therapy that targets the negative beliefs that are rooted in our past traumas and allows us to replace those thoughts with more adaptive beliefs. With EMDR therapy, you will quickly see movement to healthier thought process and feel less driven by your emotions. Together we will develop coping strategies and restore healthy patterns to assist in regulating your symptoms.
(704) 389-3339 View (704) 389-3339
Photo of Taylor Trull, MA, NCC, LCMHC-A
Taylor Trull
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I applaud you for recognizing you need help and taking that first step- that's an accomplishment on it's own! Life can be so hard. It is my goal to provide you a safe environment for us to journey down the path of change. I always want to make the therapeutic space a safe space for you to share, heal and grow. I have worked with a wide range of ages, demographics, backgrounds, etc. and seen amazing results. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ED, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and so much more! This is my life's passion; I am here for you!
I applaud you for recognizing you need help and taking that first step- that's an accomplishment on it's own! Life can be so hard. It is my goal to provide you a safe environment for us to journey down the path of change. I always want to make the therapeutic space a safe space for you to share, heal and grow. I have worked with a wide range of ages, demographics, backgrounds, etc. and seen amazing results. I have a lot of experience working with depression, anxiety, OCD, ED, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and so much more! This is my life's passion; I am here for you!
(984) 600-0978 View (984) 600-0978
Photo of Ronald Field - Prism Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Prism Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Prism Psychological Services offers an experienced and dedicated staff of mental health professionals with diverse backgrounds, interests, and skills. Ronald Field, Ph.D. and his staff provide psychotherapeutic services and psychological / neuropsychological assessment for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Immediate appointments available. ........................OVER 65 and on Medicare? Ask about NO-COST memory / cognitive testing. You will receive a free report with your results and recommendations to help preserve or improve your thinking skills.
Prism Psychological Services offers an experienced and dedicated staff of mental health professionals with diverse backgrounds, interests, and skills. Ronald Field, Ph.D. and his staff provide psychotherapeutic services and psychological / neuropsychological assessment for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Immediate appointments available. ........................OVER 65 and on Medicare? Ask about NO-COST memory / cognitive testing. You will receive a free report with your results and recommendations to help preserve or improve your thinking skills.
(910) 294-3170 View (910) 294-3170
Photo of Laurie Nappier, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Nappier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I believe therapy is a place to understand and be understood, to feel empowered, emotionally, spiritually and relationally. I have been in the field since 2007 working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with issues ranging from depression and anxiety to addiction and homelessness. I work with all ages, especially focusing on family groups seen individually and together. Every client creates a goal centered plan that includes a variety of interventions from sand and art therapy to trauma focused CBT. Therapy is a safe place to share your journey, learn from the past and move towards the future.
I believe therapy is a place to understand and be understood, to feel empowered, emotionally, spiritually and relationally. I have been in the field since 2007 working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with issues ranging from depression and anxiety to addiction and homelessness. I work with all ages, especially focusing on family groups seen individually and together. Every client creates a goal centered plan that includes a variety of interventions from sand and art therapy to trauma focused CBT. Therapy is a safe place to share your journey, learn from the past and move towards the future.
(704) 820-6929 View (704) 820-6929
Photo of James Durell Wells - Jim Wells / (CPTS) Counseling & Play Therapy Svc, MA, LCMHC, RPT, TFCBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jim Wells / (CPTS) Counseling & Play Therapy Svc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT, TFCBT
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Taking the initial step to call can be difficult. It's scary to reach out for support, especially if it hasn't been there in the past. Those feelings of doubt usually go away after making that call and beginning to tell your story. Counseling is a place of acceptance where you can learn to see your true value. You hold the keys to your happiness. You just need support to unlock that door. Doing it alone will keep you stuck. You can learn to trust again. Begin your healing and personal growth, call today for a free consultation.
Taking the initial step to call can be difficult. It's scary to reach out for support, especially if it hasn't been there in the past. Those feelings of doubt usually go away after making that call and beginning to tell your story. Counseling is a place of acceptance where you can learn to see your true value. You hold the keys to your happiness. You just need support to unlock that door. Doing it alone will keep you stuck. You can learn to trust again. Begin your healing and personal growth, call today for a free consultation.
(704) 469-5390 View (704) 469-5390
1

See more therapy options for Huntersville

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.