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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Caroline Mills, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Caroline Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, NC 28037  (Online Only)
My name is Ashley Mills and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist providing mental health therapy to individuals, couples, adults, and families. I have been in private practice for over 13 years. I focus working with people with anxiety disorders, depression, difficulty coping with changes, and relationship issues. I often work with people who have traumatic experiences, people with grief and loss issues, and people who are on the spectrum of Autism. I am very open minded, nonjudgmental, non-biased, and have a great deal of empathy. I have wanted to be a therapist most of my life and absolutely love what I do.
My name is Ashley Mills and I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist providing mental health therapy to individuals, couples, adults, and families. I have been in private practice for over 13 years. I focus working with people with anxiety disorders, depression, difficulty coping with changes, and relationship issues. I often work with people who have traumatic experiences, people with grief and loss issues, and people who are on the spectrum of Autism. I am very open minded, nonjudgmental, non-biased, and have a great deal of empathy. I have wanted to be a therapist most of my life and absolutely love what I do.
(704) 389-3683 View (704) 389-3683
Photo of Josh Tallent, MA, EdS, LCMHC, Counselor
Josh Tallent
Counselor, MA, EdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
I ascribe to several theories such as Person Centered Counseling, CBT, and Existential Theory. My areas of expertise include working with children, adolescents, and their families as well as young adults focusing on a wide array of issues including grief, depression, anxiety, anger, stress, ADHD in both children and adults with both males and females, Autism, adjustment issues, and trauma. I utilize varied techniques to reach out to each client individually in a unique way.
I ascribe to several theories such as Person Centered Counseling, CBT, and Existential Theory. My areas of expertise include working with children, adolescents, and their families as well as young adults focusing on a wide array of issues including grief, depression, anxiety, anger, stress, ADHD in both children and adults with both males and females, Autism, adjustment issues, and trauma. I utilize varied techniques to reach out to each client individually in a unique way.
(980) 284-2159 View (980) 284-2159
Photo of Joyce Smith, LCSW, MSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyce Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
We are each designed uniquely. Deep down, at the core of our being, we all have a longing for wholeness. The way we experience this basic desire in our day-to-day lives may differ. Maybe it’s a sense of belonging when we experience significance with someone or are accepted. Maybe it is a hollow feeling of disconnection or loneliness, or perhaps it is a compulsion to ease pain in an unhealthy way. Whatever the case, the desire for wholeness is basic to our design and the human experience.
We are each designed uniquely. Deep down, at the core of our being, we all have a longing for wholeness. The way we experience this basic desire in our day-to-day lives may differ. Maybe it’s a sense of belonging when we experience significance with someone or are accepted. Maybe it is a hollow feeling of disconnection or loneliness, or perhaps it is a compulsion to ease pain in an unhealthy way. Whatever the case, the desire for wholeness is basic to our design and the human experience.
(704) 368-3804 View (704) 368-3804
Photo of Stacey Chapman, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Stacey Chapman
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Living with anxiety, OCD, and/or ADHD can be overwhelming, affecting various aspects of your life. Having both personal and professional experience, I understand the unique complexities and struggles that often accompany these conditions. Choosing therapy is an act of self-care and bravery, and I commend you for taking this step towards positive change. Together, we can cultivate your inner strengths, enhance your self-awareness, and empower you to overcome challenges associated with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and other mental health disorders. I am honored to have the opportunity to support you on your path towards mental wellness.
Living with anxiety, OCD, and/or ADHD can be overwhelming, affecting various aspects of your life. Having both personal and professional experience, I understand the unique complexities and struggles that often accompany these conditions. Choosing therapy is an act of self-care and bravery, and I commend you for taking this step towards positive change. Together, we can cultivate your inner strengths, enhance your self-awareness, and empower you to overcome challenges associated with anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and other mental health disorders. I am honored to have the opportunity to support you on your path towards mental wellness.
(828) 547-3396 View (828) 547-3396
Photo of Bobby Fisher, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bobby Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Are you feeling lost? Struggling to make changes in your life? Do you need encouragement and help? In 2014 I began Solid Foundations Counseling Center to bring hope and change to the lives of individuals, families and communities. I believe in treating people with dignity and respect regardless of background or struggle. You matter. I provide individual, couple, family and group counseling to children and adults. Areas I specialize in include mood disorders, ADHD, parenting skills, defiant behaviors, domestic violence, trauma, physical and sexual abuse and relationships.
Are you feeling lost? Struggling to make changes in your life? Do you need encouragement and help? In 2014 I began Solid Foundations Counseling Center to bring hope and change to the lives of individuals, families and communities. I believe in treating people with dignity and respect regardless of background or struggle. You matter. I provide individual, couple, family and group counseling to children and adults. Areas I specialize in include mood disorders, ADHD, parenting skills, defiant behaviors, domestic violence, trauma, physical and sexual abuse and relationships.
(704) 271-1109 View (704) 271-1109

Online Therapists

Photo of Kristin K Hodgson - Kristin K Hodgson, PhD, PLLC, Psychologist
Kristin K Hodgson, PhD, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
In my 15 years of experience with TEACCH, the UNC Autism Program, I conducted evaluations, trained professionals, and provided direct services to autistic individuals and families.
Parenting a child who learns, interacts, and develops differently than their peers can be a joy and a challenge. You may have wondered if your child has Autism, ADHD, or another developmental difference, or if your child is twice exceptional (2e). I specialize in comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for children (infants/toddlers through school-age) to identify their unique diagnostic profile and to provide answers and guidance to their parents. I also provide treatment, including direct child therapy and caregiver coaching, to address areas of need and build on the many strengths of neurodivergent thinkers.
In my 15 years of experience with TEACCH, the UNC Autism Program, I conducted evaluations, trained professionals, and provided direct services to autistic individuals and families.
Parenting a child who learns, interacts, and develops differently than their peers can be a joy and a challenge. You may have wondered if your child has Autism, ADHD, or another developmental difference, or if your child is twice exceptional (2e). I specialize in comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for children (infants/toddlers through school-age) to identify their unique diagnostic profile and to provide answers and guidance to their parents. I also provide treatment, including direct child therapy and caregiver coaching, to address areas of need and build on the many strengths of neurodivergent thinkers.
(704) 459-5725 View (704) 459-5725
Photo of Deedee Russell, PhD, Psychologist
Deedee Russell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
I conduct thorough and in-depth psycho-educational evaluations to assess for learning disabilities, dyslexia, developmental disabilities, ADHD/ADD, anxiety disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(Now scheduling IQ testing for MRSA-see all info on my site under Services & FAQ-some weekend spots left.) I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience working in the school setting and private practice. I provide psycho-educational evaluations, and individualized evaluations and treatment for children, adolescents, adults and families. I value the client's experience and use a variety of evidenced based treatments (ACT, CBT, mindfulness) to help clients reach their goals. I believe in using a comprehensive and holistic approach to help clients make healthy changes to reach a healthier and more balanced life.
I conduct thorough and in-depth psycho-educational evaluations to assess for learning disabilities, dyslexia, developmental disabilities, ADHD/ADD, anxiety disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(Now scheduling IQ testing for MRSA-see all info on my site under Services & FAQ-some weekend spots left.) I am a clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience working in the school setting and private practice. I provide psycho-educational evaluations, and individualized evaluations and treatment for children, adolescents, adults and families. I value the client's experience and use a variety of evidenced based treatments (ACT, CBT, mindfulness) to help clients reach their goals. I believe in using a comprehensive and holistic approach to help clients make healthy changes to reach a healthier and more balanced life.
(704) 931-5515 View (704) 931-5515
Photo of Geoffrey B. Brookshire, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Geoffrey B. Brookshire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28791
Active Counseling for Kids and Teens, ages 8–18. Geoffrey specializes in working with youth who exhibit symptoms consistent with high functioning Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression. He provides dynamic brain-based movement strategies as well as creative music and art interventions to boost confidence and enhance social-emotional skills. Geoffrey’s use of movement and creative activities enables his clients to explore parts of their brain that cannot be easily accessed. During active counseling, the brain generates powerful neurological signals that help young people process complex emotional and sensory information.
Active Counseling for Kids and Teens, ages 8–18. Geoffrey specializes in working with youth who exhibit symptoms consistent with high functioning Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression. He provides dynamic brain-based movement strategies as well as creative music and art interventions to boost confidence and enhance social-emotional skills. Geoffrey’s use of movement and creative activities enables his clients to explore parts of their brain that cannot be easily accessed. During active counseling, the brain generates powerful neurological signals that help young people process complex emotional and sensory information.
(828) 475-8513 x551 View (828) 475-8513 x551
Photo of Jonathan E. Thull, MA, NCC, LCMHCS
Jonathan E. Thull
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27105  (Online Only)
I experienced grief and was diagnosed with ADHD as well as a learning disability and told I might be on the Autism spectrum.
I was diagnosed with ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and various other labels. None of those labels mattered though, because when I found someone who cared and listened everything changed. We all have the ability to overcome the challenges in our lives and gain personal strength through the therapy process.
I experienced grief and was diagnosed with ADHD as well as a learning disability and told I might be on the Autism spectrum.
I was diagnosed with ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and various other labels. None of those labels mattered though, because when I found someone who cared and listened everything changed. We all have the ability to overcome the challenges in our lives and gain personal strength through the therapy process.
(336) 864-6634 View (336) 864-6634
Photo of Ciera Hopkins, MSW, LCSWA, Counselor
Ciera Hopkins
Counselor, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Indian Trail, NC 28079
My passion is helping those dealing with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Stress Management, Depression as well as other life stressors.
I can truly say that I have never met a person that has not gone through difficulties in life, and I probably never will! People experience many life changing events daily and find it hard to cope when they feel they are going through it alone! Having a strong support system to help you navigate through tough times is always a good thing to have, and I would love to be apart of that system to give that support and extra push you need.
My passion is helping those dealing with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Stress Management, Depression as well as other life stressors.
I can truly say that I have never met a person that has not gone through difficulties in life, and I probably never will! People experience many life changing events daily and find it hard to cope when they feel they are going through it alone! Having a strong support system to help you navigate through tough times is always a good thing to have, and I would love to be apart of that system to give that support and extra push you need.
(704) 610-8109 View (704) 610-8109
Photo of Matt Snyder, MS, MA, LCMHCS, PsyD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matt Snyder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LCMHCS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hendersonville, NC 28792  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience working with dual diagnosis, addictions, autism spectrum, and personality disorders, as well as psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, schizo-affective disorder, and substance-induced psychosis.
People often think psychotherapy is only for crises. However research shows that therapy is one of the best investments you can make for life satisfaction and growth. In addition to therapy are other modalities that support healing and growth. Some of these holistic wellness tools include exercise, mindfulness, tai chi and yoga. I have a rich background in the application of mindfulness to promote healing and growth, and have experience integrating tools such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, CBT, Hypnosis and EMDR. I also find authenticity and humor essential for healing and use both liberally.
I have extensive experience working with dual diagnosis, addictions, autism spectrum, and personality disorders, as well as psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia, schizo-affective disorder, and substance-induced psychosis.
People often think psychotherapy is only for crises. However research shows that therapy is one of the best investments you can make for life satisfaction and growth. In addition to therapy are other modalities that support healing and growth. Some of these holistic wellness tools include exercise, mindfulness, tai chi and yoga. I have a rich background in the application of mindfulness to promote healing and growth, and have experience integrating tools such as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, CBT, Hypnosis and EMDR. I also find authenticity and humor essential for healing and use both liberally.
(828) 332-5927 View (828) 332-5927
Photo of Sarah Gates, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Sarah Gates
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
I am a licensed psychological associate who provides counseling and psychological evaluation services to children and adolescents individually and within the context of the family. I have extensive experience in the areas of learning disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, oppositional defiant behaviors, aggression, developmental disabilities, and giftedness. Furthermore, I have a special interest in the assessment and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I am a licensed psychological associate who provides counseling and psychological evaluation services to children and adolescents individually and within the context of the family. I have extensive experience in the areas of learning disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, oppositional defiant behaviors, aggression, developmental disabilities, and giftedness. Furthermore, I have a special interest in the assessment and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(336) 505-9963 x108 View (336) 505-9963 x108
Photo of Taylor L Killian, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Taylor L Killian
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
I have almost 2 years of counseling experience, and historically, I have worked with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, autism, ADHD, and behavioral issues. I primarily work with clients under the age of 25. I will utilize an individualized approach for each person. We all approach our lives in different ways, so I will tailor my approach to your individual needs. This will include approaches taken from various therapeutic approaches such as, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused, person-centered, amongst others.
I have almost 2 years of counseling experience, and historically, I have worked with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, autism, ADHD, and behavioral issues. I primarily work with clients under the age of 25. I will utilize an individualized approach for each person. We all approach our lives in different ways, so I will tailor my approach to your individual needs. This will include approaches taken from various therapeutic approaches such as, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused, person-centered, amongst others.
(704) 389-5030 View (704) 389-5030
Photo of Jennifer Davidson, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
I am passionate about working with children and their families to collaborate together to make a strong impact to promote healing and improve family functioning. I work with children of all ages, as well as support parents, who may experience difficult situations or experiences in their lives such as adoption, ADHD, anxiety, Autism, emotional and behavioral issues, school disruption, and trauma. I specialize in using play therapy to help children learn to self-regulate, improve executive functioning, increase self-esteem, deal with trauma, increase social skills, and develop positive relationships.
I am passionate about working with children and their families to collaborate together to make a strong impact to promote healing and improve family functioning. I work with children of all ages, as well as support parents, who may experience difficult situations or experiences in their lives such as adoption, ADHD, anxiety, Autism, emotional and behavioral issues, school disruption, and trauma. I specialize in using play therapy to help children learn to self-regulate, improve executive functioning, increase self-esteem, deal with trauma, increase social skills, and develop positive relationships.
(704) 286-8475 x103 View (704) 286-8475 x103
Photo of Heather A Chizmadia, MS
Heather A Chizmadia
MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I offer individualized sessions for clients who struggle with planning, prioritization, task initiation, time management, organization, and work completion. I help clients to become independent, accountable and confident achievers. I work with clients with autism, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD. As an educational consultant, executive functioning coach, and health and wellness coach, I truly enjoy working with individuals at various levels to help them learn and develop in their surroundings.
I offer individualized sessions for clients who struggle with planning, prioritization, task initiation, time management, organization, and work completion. I help clients to become independent, accountable and confident achievers. I work with clients with autism, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD. As an educational consultant, executive functioning coach, and health and wellness coach, I truly enjoy working with individuals at various levels to help them learn and develop in their surroundings.
(704) 459-1342 View (704) 459-1342
Photo of Josh Jensen, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Josh Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
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
(704) 209-7503 View (704) 209-7503
Photo of Hilary Flint, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Hilary Flint
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Currently scheduling Autism/ADHD assessments only! Waitlist for ongoing therapy. I am a neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed, EMDR and ERP trained therapist. I work with clients to heal from past experiences, live authentically, and feel more connected to themselves. I meet each client exactly where they are, using resilience-based and social justice informed approaches. I offer personalized therapy to meet your individual needs and work toward your goals. I prioritize providing you with a safe and affirming space for healing and exploration. I offer online therapy to individuals residing anywhere in North Carolina.
Currently scheduling Autism/ADHD assessments only! Waitlist for ongoing therapy. I am a neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed, EMDR and ERP trained therapist. I work with clients to heal from past experiences, live authentically, and feel more connected to themselves. I meet each client exactly where they are, using resilience-based and social justice informed approaches. I offer personalized therapy to meet your individual needs and work toward your goals. I prioritize providing you with a safe and affirming space for healing and exploration. I offer online therapy to individuals residing anywhere in North Carolina.
(984) 214-4648 View (984) 214-4648
Photo of Erik Alex Goldfield - Erik Goldfield, Individual & Family Therapist, LCMHC, NCC
Erik Goldfield, Individual & Family Therapist
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults dealing with a range of issues from depression and anxiety, to autism and behavioral disorders.
My mission is to make therapy fun and interactive. Therapy can be a daunting prospect for many people, and I aim to make it as productive and painless as possible. I don't necessarily have an ideal client, just an ideal match. If the client feels connected and hopeful, change and progress can occur. I utilize several modalities, each one catered to the specific client, while at the same time incorporating family work to better support the individual. I myself am ADHD and can relate to children and adults who struggle academically and socially, incorporating a holistic approach to the therapeutic relationship.
I work with children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults dealing with a range of issues from depression and anxiety, to autism and behavioral disorders.
My mission is to make therapy fun and interactive. Therapy can be a daunting prospect for many people, and I aim to make it as productive and painless as possible. I don't necessarily have an ideal client, just an ideal match. If the client feels connected and hopeful, change and progress can occur. I utilize several modalities, each one catered to the specific client, while at the same time incorporating family work to better support the individual. I myself am ADHD and can relate to children and adults who struggle academically and socially, incorporating a holistic approach to the therapeutic relationship.
(980) 255-5632 View (980) 255-5632
Photo of Gabrielle A. Rosenthal-Ayres, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabrielle A. Rosenthal-Ayres
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
I have personal and professional experience with anxiety, depression, autism/Asperger's disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, and work/stress related concerns.
Are depression, anxiety, stress, or constant worrying becoming a way of life? Your emotions are up and down, memory is not what it used to be, or maybe you are angry more often than usual. Or perhaps you are a family member of someone with these struggles and are needing direction, support, and another point of view. Whether you are dealing with a life change, dealing with a diagnosis, wanting to make a change, or just get some support it's time to call and see how therapy can help. Being engaged in therapy with a therapist you are comfortable with and trust can make all the difference in meeting or not meeting your goals.
I have personal and professional experience with anxiety, depression, autism/Asperger's disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, and work/stress related concerns.
Are depression, anxiety, stress, or constant worrying becoming a way of life? Your emotions are up and down, memory is not what it used to be, or maybe you are angry more often than usual. Or perhaps you are a family member of someone with these struggles and are needing direction, support, and another point of view. Whether you are dealing with a life change, dealing with a diagnosis, wanting to make a change, or just get some support it's time to call and see how therapy can help. Being engaged in therapy with a therapist you are comfortable with and trust can make all the difference in meeting or not meeting your goals.
(704) 869-2114 View (704) 869-2114
Brandi Knight-Harris
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Mocksville, NC 27028  (Online Only)
I have worked with children and adults with ADHD, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Autism, and so much more.
It is my belief that there is no "ideal" client, I value each and every individual who seeks my assistance on their journey to healing and growth. I have a lot of experience that aids me in working with all ages, all socioeconomic groups, a wide variety of cultures, all genders, and sexual orientations. I enjoy working with children and families but also love the adult population as well. The only criteria needed to be an "ideal" client is to be ready and willing to work on improving your life!
I have worked with children and adults with ADHD, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Autism, and so much more.
It is my belief that there is no "ideal" client, I value each and every individual who seeks my assistance on their journey to healing and growth. I have a lot of experience that aids me in working with all ages, all socioeconomic groups, a wide variety of cultures, all genders, and sexual orientations. I enjoy working with children and families but also love the adult population as well. The only criteria needed to be an "ideal" client is to be ready and willing to work on improving your life!
(336) 568-8551 View (336) 568-8551
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.