Autism Therapists in Matthews, NC
![Photo of Chris Nealy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d2496cd-9fde-4ab5-b0e2-0cebae8b608a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Nealy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28104 (Online Only)
As a member of the neurodivergent community, I specialize in working with others who experience life with ADHD or Autism.
Do you find yourself setting goals that you rarely reach? Do you often feel that you've worked your hardest all day yet failed to complete the tasks in front of you? Living with executive functioning challenges can present invisible obstacles that others may minimize or dismiss as excuses. If you have ADHD and/or Autism, you are likely familiar with these situations, as well as the impact these repeated experiences can have on your emotional and mental well-being. As a person with ADHD, I assure you there are solutions!
As a member of the neurodivergent community, I specialize in working with others who experience life with ADHD or Autism.
Do you find yourself setting goals that you rarely reach? Do you often feel that you've worked your hardest all day yet failed to complete the tasks in front of you? Living with executive functioning challenges can present invisible obstacles that others may minimize or dismiss as excuses. If you have ADHD and/or Autism, you are likely familiar with these situations, as well as the impact these repeated experiences can have on your emotional and mental well-being. As a person with ADHD, I assure you there are solutions!
![Photo of Ciera Hopkins, MSW, LCSWA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25a99843-fef4-47dc-8277-fbca9979c209/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Erik Alex Goldfield - Erik Goldfield, Individual & Family Therapist, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd4d1f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Erik Goldfield, Individual & Family Therapist
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
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.
![Photo of Victoria Kennedy, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/476bd99d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have training and experience using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) when evaluating for autism spectrum disorders.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. I have worked for 18 years in private practice and school-based settings in Texas, New Hampshire, and North Carolina. My goal in therapy is to create a friendly, caring atmosphere, and I believe in empowering families by working with parents to manage difficult child behaviors. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy and other strategies to help children and their families with managing stress, anger, sadness, and worry.
I have training and experience using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) when evaluating for autism spectrum disorders.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. I have worked for 18 years in private practice and school-based settings in Texas, New Hampshire, and North Carolina. My goal in therapy is to create a friendly, caring atmosphere, and I believe in empowering families by working with parents to manage difficult child behaviors. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy and other strategies to help children and their families with managing stress, anger, sadness, and worry.
![Photo of Savannah Bryant, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/440a40cc-6a16-43f3-912e-7f236d603b61/2/320x400.png)
I am passionate about empowering others to live life with intentionality and genuinely love themselves in the process. I find meaning in my professional work when I can help equip families with the tools that they need to experience wholeness and unity as they navigate joys and hardship, together. My areas of speciality include working with young children (preschool and above) through young adults. My areas of interest include ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, trauma, loss, behavioral and adjustment challenges. In addition to my work with individuals, I also enjoy working with engaged and married couples.
I am passionate about empowering others to live life with intentionality and genuinely love themselves in the process. I find meaning in my professional work when I can help equip families with the tools that they need to experience wholeness and unity as they navigate joys and hardship, together. My areas of speciality include working with young children (preschool and above) through young adults. My areas of interest include ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, trauma, loss, behavioral and adjustment challenges. In addition to my work with individuals, I also enjoy working with engaged and married couples.
![Photo of Michael Clark-Borenstein - Bright View Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3b2758e-b630-4a92-938d-7e708785a330/1/320x400.png)
Bright View Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Our trained therapist can provide help with, but not limited to: ADHD, art therapy, athletes, anxiety, autism, depression, exposure therapy, grief, marriage and family, substance use, trauma, and women's health.
At Bright View Counseling we are breaking the traditional mold of talk therapy and counseling and bringing a new, brighter idea of what therapy could and should look like with our ‘Therapy With A Twist!’ approach. Our therapy approach is holistic, humanistic, and person-focused. We bring the power of the natural world into the therapeutic process. We take walks outside, participate in outdoor activities with clients, and integrate activities and games. We also get a helping paw from our office dog, Charlotte, who comes into sessions to provide a furry friend to hug, pet, and receive emotional support from.
Our trained therapist can provide help with, but not limited to: ADHD, art therapy, athletes, anxiety, autism, depression, exposure therapy, grief, marriage and family, substance use, trauma, and women's health.
At Bright View Counseling we are breaking the traditional mold of talk therapy and counseling and bringing a new, brighter idea of what therapy could and should look like with our ‘Therapy With A Twist!’ approach. Our therapy approach is holistic, humanistic, and person-focused. We bring the power of the natural world into the therapeutic process. We take walks outside, participate in outdoor activities with clients, and integrate activities and games. We also get a helping paw from our office dog, Charlotte, who comes into sessions to provide a furry friend to hug, pet, and receive emotional support from.
![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
Matthews, NC 28104
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 Stephanie Kemper, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fcee224-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My work is a calling and a purpose that focuses on helping individuals of all ages know that they are worthy of being loved and valued, live fulfilling lives, and heal from pain and hurt. Therapy is a place where your family can find support and encouragement to help your child or family develop optimally. Treatment is chosen based on your child's unique set of needs and is based on effective research based interventions.
My work is a calling and a purpose that focuses on helping individuals of all ages know that they are worthy of being loved and valued, live fulfilling lives, and heal from pain and hurt. Therapy is a place where your family can find support and encouragement to help your child or family develop optimally. Treatment is chosen based on your child's unique set of needs and is based on effective research based interventions.
![Photo of Brendan Bellavia, MAEd, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76c1838f-045e-4365-8c35-2757dcb3258d/4/320x400.jpeg)
You feel isolated, alone, and in a constant state of anxiety and dread. You know that masking your true self to fit in can only get you so far. It takes a lot of energy to mask and only leads to more emotional exhaustion. To cope with this burnout and exhaustion, maybe you binge your favorite show on Netflix, or listen to your favorite album on a loop just to reclaim any ounce of mental energy back. Maybe it is other things to numb out the pain, that we have all done, like drinking alcohol. It is that feeling of safety, connectivity, and belonging that we are all searching for, but it can so hard to find on our own.
You feel isolated, alone, and in a constant state of anxiety and dread. You know that masking your true self to fit in can only get you so far. It takes a lot of energy to mask and only leads to more emotional exhaustion. To cope with this burnout and exhaustion, maybe you binge your favorite show on Netflix, or listen to your favorite album on a loop just to reclaim any ounce of mental energy back. Maybe it is other things to numb out the pain, that we have all done, like drinking alcohol. It is that feeling of safety, connectivity, and belonging that we are all searching for, but it can so hard to find on our own.
![Photo of Kimberly Charlton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6757371b-7bd8-4c21-aa58-f5b9642b47f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked in multiple settings serving families, from Social Services as a caseworker, to residential services, to individual therapy. In the individual therapy setting, I enjoy working with children and adolescents ages 4-16 incorporating play therapy and age-appropriate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). My style of therapy is dynamic, hands-on, and person-centered. My goal is for children to actually look forward to coming to therapy and for parents to feel like they are an active part of their child’s growth outside of therapy. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma and parenting support.
I have worked in multiple settings serving families, from Social Services as a caseworker, to residential services, to individual therapy. In the individual therapy setting, I enjoy working with children and adolescents ages 4-16 incorporating play therapy and age-appropriate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). My style of therapy is dynamic, hands-on, and person-centered. My goal is for children to actually look forward to coming to therapy and for parents to feel like they are an active part of their child’s growth outside of therapy. I am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma and parenting support.
![Photo of Esther Nam, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb5a6212-b221-4e18-aaf9-5f9d371a32c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Esther Nam is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2010. She gained her clinical counseling experiences working in a hospital setting, various partial care, and intensive outpatient programs serving the adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations. Esther understands that each client is unique, and she has an intuitive ability to adapt her approaches/interventions to meet their individual needs. Esther truly believes that a customized approach is a valuable necessity in supporting their mental health and wellbeing.
Esther Nam is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2010. She gained her clinical counseling experiences working in a hospital setting, various partial care, and intensive outpatient programs serving the adolescent, adult, and geriatric populations. Esther understands that each client is unique, and she has an intuitive ability to adapt her approaches/interventions to meet their individual needs. Esther truly believes that a customized approach is a valuable necessity in supporting their mental health and wellbeing.
![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 Aditi Patel, LCMHC-A, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fae3f611-1fef-4742-bc4b-2e610723316f/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a professional counselor, YOU are my focus. I view counseling as a series of small stepping-stones, each representing success, when joined together, provide a path for change. Teamwork is the most important foundation in counseling. I am here to help guide you towards meeting goals and resolving challenges that life throws at you. As your therapist I aim to work with you to overcome any obstacles that you are facing in your life and embark with you on your journey. It is my hope that throughout our time together, you will create a path towards understanding and being able to resolve your own obstacles and challenges.
As a professional counselor, YOU are my focus. I view counseling as a series of small stepping-stones, each representing success, when joined together, provide a path for change. Teamwork is the most important foundation in counseling. I am here to help guide you towards meeting goals and resolving challenges that life throws at you. As your therapist I aim to work with you to overcome any obstacles that you are facing in your life and embark with you on your journey. It is my hope that throughout our time together, you will create a path towards understanding and being able to resolve your own obstacles and challenges.
![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 Sabriya K Mutize, NCC, LCMHC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb416c04-33f7-4a35-b165-aa8e112b0ede/4/320x400.png)
I believe in helping people move from being "stuck" to living life beyond limiting beliefs. I have the passion to serve as a motivating catalyst to help people reach their full potential. This work takes time, effort, and grace - I am willing to help walk through this journey to becoming your best self. Here, you will gain strength, and be empowered to keep moving ahead. You will learn how to maintain strong boundaries, manage anxiety, reduce stress, practice mindfulness, and become grounded.
I believe in helping people move from being "stuck" to living life beyond limiting beliefs. I have the passion to serve as a motivating catalyst to help people reach their full potential. This work takes time, effort, and grace - I am willing to help walk through this journey to becoming your best self. Here, you will gain strength, and be empowered to keep moving ahead. You will learn how to maintain strong boundaries, manage anxiety, reduce stress, practice mindfulness, and become grounded.
![Photo of John Hartline, LCSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee13d17d-1171-49b9-aac9-102b0970cd01/1/320x400.jpeg)
John Hartline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105 (Online Only)
Most of my life has been devoted to professional counseling. I bring passion and dedication to my clients. I work with both adults and adolescents. I experience my greatest joy as they achieve their goals and experience healing.I use an integrative approach to therapy inspired by a variety of evidence based practices, including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused therapy, and mindfulness. I've received advanced training in CBT, having successfully completed a cognitive behavioral therapy certificate course led by Dr. John Ludgate, who trained under Dr. Aron Beck, founder of cognitive therapy.
Most of my life has been devoted to professional counseling. I bring passion and dedication to my clients. I work with both adults and adolescents. I experience my greatest joy as they achieve their goals and experience healing.I use an integrative approach to therapy inspired by a variety of evidence based practices, including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused therapy, and mindfulness. I've received advanced training in CBT, having successfully completed a cognitive behavioral therapy certificate course led by Dr. John Ludgate, who trained under Dr. Aron Beck, founder of cognitive therapy.
![Photo of Louisa R Oswald, LCMHCA, MT-BC, DBT-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5734179-5c1b-4d9c-b9d9-05ad62f30c9b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Louisa R Oswald
Counselor, LCMHCA, MT-BC, DBT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105 (Online Only)
I have over 5 years of working in the field of mental health doing individual and group therapy. I am a counselor and board-certified music therapist who is dedicated to helping children, adolescents & adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, neurodivergent people, OCD, eating disorders, and identity issues. My ideal population is looking for tools and skills to work on their goals in a collaborative environment. I consider my ability to build connection and strong therapeutic rapport with my clients my best strength. I foster helping my clients grow a stronger sense of themselves and build their self-esteem.
I have over 5 years of working in the field of mental health doing individual and group therapy. I am a counselor and board-certified music therapist who is dedicated to helping children, adolescents & adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, neurodivergent people, OCD, eating disorders, and identity issues. My ideal population is looking for tools and skills to work on their goals in a collaborative environment. I consider my ability to build connection and strong therapeutic rapport with my clients my best strength. I foster helping my clients grow a stronger sense of themselves and build their self-esteem.
![Photo of Amy Kunz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf72672-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Einstein defined insanity as doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. If you are looking for things to change and are willing to work with me, things can get better. So many clients enter therapy with apprehension and a lack of hope for things to improve. I focus my practice on creating trust and getting my clients back on track as quickly and as comfortably as possible. Therapy begins with an end in mind and you and I would work together to make sure we are always making progress towards goals.
Einstein defined insanity as doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. If you are looking for things to change and are willing to work with me, things can get better. So many clients enter therapy with apprehension and a lack of hope for things to improve. I focus my practice on creating trust and getting my clients back on track as quickly and as comfortably as possible. Therapy begins with an end in mind and you and I would work together to make sure we are always making progress towards goals.
![Photo of Ashley Elsaesser, MSEd, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2123c1c8-df4c-4193-942f-be0ebd6ea123/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Elsaesser
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28104
It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. I am honored to be apart of each client's journey. I enjoy working with adolescents, and adults. With over 10 years of working in both the education and mental health field, I specialize in all issues as they relate to education. I also have a passion for working for women who are navigating difficult life transitions. My approach is warm, encouraging, with a touch of humor (which I believe to an important part of the therapeutic process). I believe in working with my clients to identify their inner strengths. I am looking forward to learning more about you and helping you grow.
It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. I am honored to be apart of each client's journey. I enjoy working with adolescents, and adults. With over 10 years of working in both the education and mental health field, I specialize in all issues as they relate to education. I also have a passion for working for women who are navigating difficult life transitions. My approach is warm, encouraging, with a touch of humor (which I believe to an important part of the therapeutic process). I believe in working with my clients to identify their inner strengths. I am looking forward to learning more about you and helping you grow.
![Photo of Somonia Lewis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dd95c16-f3fa-4009-854d-288cbc7c2a67/2/320x400.jpeg)
Somonia Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105 (Online Only)
As a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am committed to providing comprehensive and empathetic care to assist you with becoming the best version of yourself. I establish amazing therapeutic relationships with individuals, families, and groups.
As a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am committed to providing comprehensive and empathetic care to assist you with becoming the best version of yourself. I establish amazing therapeutic relationships with individuals, families, and groups.
See more therapy options for Matthews
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Matthews
- Belmont
- Charlotte
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- Cornelius
- Harrisburg
- Huntersville
- Kannapolis
- Mint Hill
- Monroe
- Pineville
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- Weddington
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.