Autism Therapists in Bergenfield, NJ
![Photo of Andrea E Gonzalez - AG Behavioral Services, MA, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47b9a1cc-4813-4bb3-b90a-f6ceb082a822/1/320x400.jpeg)
We have multiple resources for children with autism and a desire to change autism for kids today and into the future.
Hi! I am Andrea E. Gonzalez, MA, BCBA. I am the owner and BCBA of AG Behavioral Services LLC. I started my practice in 2016 in Ridgefield, NJ. We work with children and adolescents who have autism. AG Behavioral Services is maximizing the potential of children with autism today and transforming the nature of autism for future generations.
We have multiple resources for children with autism and a desire to change autism for kids today and into the future.
Hi! I am Andrea E. Gonzalez, MA, BCBA. I am the owner and BCBA of AG Behavioral Services LLC. I started my practice in 2016 in Ridgefield, NJ. We work with children and adolescents who have autism. AG Behavioral Services is maximizing the potential of children with autism today and transforming the nature of autism for future generations.
![Photo of Lisa D'Acierno And Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe1e7a6a-4295-4a4e-8a83-0170ab092450/1/320x400.png)
Lisa D'Acierno And Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bergenfield, NJ 07621
We are a private practice made up of psychotherapists who work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Lisa D'Acierno and her staff work to provide a safe nurturing, non-judgmental atmosphere focusing on the individual client's needs. She has been practicing for over 25 years. Our staff is experienced on children and adolescents with PTSD, ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum, Depression,Teen Issues, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Family Struggles, and Trauma. We are a wonderful team of compassionate and caring professionals who share the same passion for helping others. We offer in-person and teletherapy sessions.
We are a private practice made up of psychotherapists who work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Lisa D'Acierno and her staff work to provide a safe nurturing, non-judgmental atmosphere focusing on the individual client's needs. She has been practicing for over 25 years. Our staff is experienced on children and adolescents with PTSD, ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum, Depression,Teen Issues, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Family Struggles, and Trauma. We are a wonderful team of compassionate and caring professionals who share the same passion for helping others. We offer in-person and teletherapy sessions.
![Photo of Dr. Chelece Atavia Brown, DSW, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/987e5905-86e0-4f85-bf4f-bf081b17ac56/2/320x400.png)
Hello! My name is Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown, a Pre-Licensed Social Worker (LSW) for New Jersey and a certified facilitator in Teen Mental Health First Aid by the National Council of Well-Being. I have experience in providing therapeutic services for children, teens, adults, couples, and groups. I assist high-achieving Black women and men with navigating life stressors. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between faith and mental health to increase an individual's quality of life.
Hello! My name is Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown, a Pre-Licensed Social Worker (LSW) for New Jersey and a certified facilitator in Teen Mental Health First Aid by the National Council of Well-Being. I have experience in providing therapeutic services for children, teens, adults, couples, and groups. I assist high-achieving Black women and men with navigating life stressors. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between faith and mental health to increase an individual's quality of life.
![Photo of Ailene Espiritu, MA, MEd, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca668f39-bd10-477a-b194-1b69dad82c7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Ailene Espiritu, LAC, therapist at Mackie & Pammie, LLC. Life is full of daily stressors and challenges that can bring us feelings of anxiety and worry, which can be overwhelming. This can make it difficult for us to manage our emotions and cope with the day to day stresses. In times like these we need a helping hand.
Hi, my name is Ailene Espiritu, LAC, therapist at Mackie & Pammie, LLC. Life is full of daily stressors and challenges that can bring us feelings of anxiety and worry, which can be overwhelming. This can make it difficult for us to manage our emotions and cope with the day to day stresses. In times like these we need a helping hand.
![Photo of Jonathan Rosenbloom, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff6b63d6-2ff2-4bc8-af02-0220b1bcb410/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical therapist with experience dealing with difficult life transitions, trauma, anxiety, and depression. These issues never exist in a vacuum, and almost always become entangled with each other, becoming overwhelming at times.
I am a licensed clinical therapist with experience dealing with difficult life transitions, trauma, anxiety, and depression. These issues never exist in a vacuum, and almost always become entangled with each other, becoming overwhelming at times.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Yedida And Phil Bomzer, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3b780bf-2c13-4aaf-a829-d05eab5b004c/1/320x400.jpeg)
We specialize in working with clients with anxiety, ADHD, and high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Do you or your child experience overwhelming and uncomfortable emotions such as anxiety, depression, or anger? Do you feel unequipped to handle the everyday stresses of life? Is your child struggling with schoolwork, attention, or social skills? Do you want to be more productive, eat more healthfully, and work towards accomplishing your life's goals? If you answered "Yes" to any of these questions, we may be able to help.
We specialize in working with clients with anxiety, ADHD, and high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Do you or your child experience overwhelming and uncomfortable emotions such as anxiety, depression, or anger? Do you feel unequipped to handle the everyday stresses of life? Is your child struggling with schoolwork, attention, or social skills? Do you want to be more productive, eat more healthfully, and work towards accomplishing your life's goals? If you answered "Yes" to any of these questions, we may be able to help.
![Photo of Rikki Halberstam - Therapy Associates ABA Services](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca5d21b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapeutic approach that has been shown to improve socially significant behaviors in all areas of development for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Therapy Associates ABA Services provides high quality Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) services to children of all ages. Services are supervised and programmed by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Our ABA practitioners create environments that help children with ASD develop new behaviors and learn new skills. Most Insurance Plans cover ABA Services in New Jersey. Therapy Associates currently provides services through most insurance plans including Horizon BCBS, Empire BCBS, United, Oxford, and Aetna.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapeutic approach that has been shown to improve socially significant behaviors in all areas of development for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Therapy Associates ABA Services provides high quality Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) services to children of all ages. Services are supervised and programmed by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Our ABA practitioners create environments that help children with ASD develop new behaviors and learn new skills. Most Insurance Plans cover ABA Services in New Jersey. Therapy Associates currently provides services through most insurance plans including Horizon BCBS, Empire BCBS, United, Oxford, and Aetna.
![Photo of Ashley Del Guercio (Inspire Wellness), PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1692199d-957c-405e-ba0d-cda8d7b9261b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Del Guercio (Inspire Wellness)
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Dr. Del Guercio specializes in working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder across the lifespan. Her clinical experiences includes both assessment and therapeutic treatment to children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Del Guercio has had the opportunity to provide therapeutic services to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and a variety of co-morbid diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Dr. Del Guercio uses an individualized approach to therapy and pulls from a variety of modalities that best suits the individual. She is part of the group practice called Inspire Wellness.
Dr. Del Guercio specializes in working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder across the lifespan. Her clinical experiences includes both assessment and therapeutic treatment to children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Del Guercio has had the opportunity to provide therapeutic services to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and a variety of co-morbid diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Dr. Del Guercio uses an individualized approach to therapy and pulls from a variety of modalities that best suits the individual. She is part of the group practice called Inspire Wellness.
![Photo of Julie L Wien, LCSW, LMSW, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/548a460e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julie L Wien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oradell, NJ 07649
Some of the conditions I treat include anxiety, depression, infertility, women's health, parenting, DV, divorce, ADHD, eating disorders, adolescents, bullying work/school, parenting training, autism, pregnancy loss, and chronic medical conditions.
Are you feeling unfulfilled and struggling to express your emotions and needs? Anxiety and depression can hold you back from living a happy life. But with my interactive, compassionate, and non-judgmental counseling style, I can help you discover and utilize the resources you already possess. My priority is to provide a safe environment where you can feel comfortable. Together, we can work towards the courage to take risks and lead a more liberating life because you are not defined by a diagnosis or demographic. I individualize my approach to each client to help you achieve personal growth and acceptance.
Some of the conditions I treat include anxiety, depression, infertility, women's health, parenting, DV, divorce, ADHD, eating disorders, adolescents, bullying work/school, parenting training, autism, pregnancy loss, and chronic medical conditions.
Are you feeling unfulfilled and struggling to express your emotions and needs? Anxiety and depression can hold you back from living a happy life. But with my interactive, compassionate, and non-judgmental counseling style, I can help you discover and utilize the resources you already possess. My priority is to provide a safe environment where you can feel comfortable. Together, we can work towards the courage to take risks and lead a more liberating life because you are not defined by a diagnosis or demographic. I individualize my approach to each client to help you achieve personal growth and acceptance.
![Photo of Rebecca Yun - Rebecca Yun, Ph.D. LLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e76ecd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also have specific training in diagnosing autism spectrum disorders.
I am a licensed psychologist, specializing in the treatment and diagnostic evaluation of individuals aged 2 and older. As a mother to a child with a developmental delay, I can truly appreciate first-hand the many joys and challenges that each family may experience when raising a child with special needs. Through positive framing and honest discussion, I strive to work closely with each person and/or their families to strengthen areas of concern. As needed, I've also consulted with schools to develop comprehension plans to better ensure a child's academic and socio-emotional success.
I also have specific training in diagnosing autism spectrum disorders.
I am a licensed psychologist, specializing in the treatment and diagnostic evaluation of individuals aged 2 and older. As a mother to a child with a developmental delay, I can truly appreciate first-hand the many joys and challenges that each family may experience when raising a child with special needs. Through positive framing and honest discussion, I strive to work closely with each person and/or their families to strengthen areas of concern. As needed, I've also consulted with schools to develop comprehension plans to better ensure a child's academic and socio-emotional success.
![Photo of Edward H Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4e9c5a6-df78-4e18-ac24-d5d6769bbe0a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also work with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
I also work with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
![Photo of Joseph Bioletti, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2b3f773-82f8-424a-b3e7-02647d70affb/2/320x400.jpeg)
While studying at Fairleigh Dickinson University, he participated in the on-campus program, COMPASS, providing therapy and support to individuals ages 18-25 diagnosed with Autism.
Joe is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) working at a group practice called Inspire Wellness LLC. Joe has experience providing individual/family/group therapy to clients ages of 6 and 58, specializing in working individually with teens and young adults. He has experience with a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief/loss, chronic COVID-19 symptoms, and life transitions. Joe utilizes an integrative approach drawing from multiple modalities of therapy such as CBT, Person-Centered, Existentialism and more.
While studying at Fairleigh Dickinson University, he participated in the on-campus program, COMPASS, providing therapy and support to individuals ages 18-25 diagnosed with Autism.
Joe is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) working at a group practice called Inspire Wellness LLC. Joe has experience providing individual/family/group therapy to clients ages of 6 and 58, specializing in working individually with teens and young adults. He has experience with a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, identity issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, grief/loss, chronic COVID-19 symptoms, and life transitions. Joe utilizes an integrative approach drawing from multiple modalities of therapy such as CBT, Person-Centered, Existentialism and more.
![Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5e68352-a12d-45ee-8fb5-35674892cb32/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
![Photo of Tom Gambino, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cd4da4f-30da-4002-9ac6-ff94cde9454d/4/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed psychologist, I am well-versed in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in treating anxiety, depression, oppositional behaviors, and in improving social and conversational skills. I also provide consultation with parent(s)/guardian(s) in improving their child’s behavior at home. My experiences also include working with students that have been diagnosed with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Tourette Syndrome, Tic Disorders, Trichotillomania, and other concerns.
As a licensed psychologist, I am well-versed in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in treating anxiety, depression, oppositional behaviors, and in improving social and conversational skills. I also provide consultation with parent(s)/guardian(s) in improving their child’s behavior at home. My experiences also include working with students that have been diagnosed with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Tourette Syndrome, Tic Disorders, Trichotillomania, and other concerns.
![Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74f364d7-f7ca-4f40-ab07-fec565b9e7b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
![Photo of Steven Myers, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c3a36a1-1b22-4e0c-878d-fba7af9fbdbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
In my practice I work with adults coping with depression, anxiety, parenting issues, relationship struggles, substance abuse and other problems of adjustment. My work with children and adolescents include: learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression, and family conflict. I believe that a collaborative alliance based on mutual respect and understanding is the cornerstone of therapeutic change. I encourage client's to take an active role in the therapeutic process, while I aspire to remain as transparent as possible in this collaborative partnership.
In my practice I work with adults coping with depression, anxiety, parenting issues, relationship struggles, substance abuse and other problems of adjustment. My work with children and adolescents include: learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression, and family conflict. I believe that a collaborative alliance based on mutual respect and understanding is the cornerstone of therapeutic change. I encourage client's to take an active role in the therapeutic process, while I aspire to remain as transparent as possible in this collaborative partnership.
![Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26e8642b-d2cf-4ce9-b8df-b2965019afdd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
![Photo of Rachel Frank, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da641557-93ea-4d77-84f4-1e6c1f6a6485/1/320x400.jpeg)
How can I be the best therapist for you? I'm passionate about supporting you towards your goals be it anxiety and depression, social phobia's, relationship issues or managing ADHD and/or autism. Common goals with my clients are building self confidence, accessing resources, focusing on healthy coping strategies, processing emotions and working through trauma and increasing self-care. I work with kids through adults and focus on meeting your personal goals. You are in the driver's seat and my job is to help you reach your destination.
How can I be the best therapist for you? I'm passionate about supporting you towards your goals be it anxiety and depression, social phobia's, relationship issues or managing ADHD and/or autism. Common goals with my clients are building self confidence, accessing resources, focusing on healthy coping strategies, processing emotions and working through trauma and increasing self-care. I work with kids through adults and focus on meeting your personal goals. You are in the driver's seat and my job is to help you reach your destination.
![Photo of Renata Martins, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d240a07-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to therapy services, I also provide psychological testing for children and adults - including intellectual, educational, ADHD, Autism, learning disability, international pre-adoption evaluations, and memory assessments.
Hi! I am Dr. Renata Martins, a clinical psychologist licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 20 years of experience! I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for adults and couples (Gottman Method) with ADHD, Autism, anxiety, relationship issues, in addition to other concerns. I have specialized training in neurodivergent populations and concerns, couples, and anxiety. I currently have telehealth sessions available during the morning/afternoon during the week - text or email me to set up a time for us to talk!
In addition to therapy services, I also provide psychological testing for children and adults - including intellectual, educational, ADHD, Autism, learning disability, international pre-adoption evaluations, and memory assessments.
Hi! I am Dr. Renata Martins, a clinical psychologist licensed in New Jersey and New York with over 20 years of experience! I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for adults and couples (Gottman Method) with ADHD, Autism, anxiety, relationship issues, in addition to other concerns. I have specialized training in neurodivergent populations and concerns, couples, and anxiety. I currently have telehealth sessions available during the morning/afternoon during the week - text or email me to set up a time for us to talk!
![Photo of Shanalein Cruz, MS, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e9a5d9b-5ab2-442b-b54c-fa81b2ba1b89/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shanalein Cruz
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Shanlein Cruz is an Clincial Mental Health Counselor in the state of New Jersey. I had work over seventeen years with children and over nine years working with children who have been under the umbrella of abuse, LGBTQ youth and mental disabilities. Her areas of expertise is sexual abuse and emotional abuse. Other areas of her work experiences are working with children who has autism, anxiety, ADHD and LGBTQ youth.
Shanlein Cruz is an Clincial Mental Health Counselor in the state of New Jersey. I had work over seventeen years with children and over nine years working with children who have been under the umbrella of abuse, LGBTQ youth and mental disabilities. Her areas of expertise is sexual abuse and emotional abuse. Other areas of her work experiences are working with children who has autism, anxiety, ADHD and LGBTQ youth.
See more therapy options for Bergenfield
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Bergenfield
- Alpine
- Closter
- Cresskill
- Englewood
- Englewood Cliffs
- Hackensack
- Oradell
- Paramus
- Rochelle Park
- Saddle Brook
- Teaneck
- Tenafly
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.