Photo of Edward H Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist
Edward H Callaghan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
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.
(908) 388-9286 View (908) 388-9286
Photo of Elizabeth R Matthews, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth R Matthews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016  (Online Only)
With a foundation in Adlerian therapy and a blend of cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and play therapy techniques, I specialize in the treatment of autism, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, bipolar/mood disorders, attachment issues, relationship problems, and family conflict.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey. My ideal client would be seeking support and guidance in navigating various life challenges and mental health concerns. This client desires a safe and supportive environment where they can openly discuss their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. Their goals may include understanding and managing their emotions, healing from past trauma, improving relationships, increasing self-esteem and self-awareness, and enhancing overall well-being.
With a foundation in Adlerian therapy and a blend of cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, and play therapy techniques, I specialize in the treatment of autism, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, bipolar/mood disorders, attachment issues, relationship problems, and family conflict.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in New Jersey. My ideal client would be seeking support and guidance in navigating various life challenges and mental health concerns. This client desires a safe and supportive environment where they can openly discuss their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of judgment. Their goals may include understanding and managing their emotions, healing from past trauma, improving relationships, increasing self-esteem and self-awareness, and enhancing overall well-being.
(908) 948-8187 View (908) 948-8187
Photo of Nancy Arvizzigno, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Arvizzigno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Waitlist for new clients
I facilitate groups that focus on people going through a divorce, support for parents who have a child with Autism and a new group for single women.
I believe that healthy people participate in counseling to become healthier. Sometimes we need some support and assistance along the way to heal from our childhood, let go and move on from some challenges that we have faced or deal with some current difficult issues or losses. I would like to be the person who guides you through this growth process that counseling will provide. It is wonderful to have someone listen just to you and to reflect and understand how you are feeling. I will celebrate with you as you grow and meet your goals. Call today for a free phone consultation.
I facilitate groups that focus on people going through a divorce, support for parents who have a child with Autism and a new group for single women.
I believe that healthy people participate in counseling to become healthier. Sometimes we need some support and assistance along the way to heal from our childhood, let go and move on from some challenges that we have faced or deal with some current difficult issues or losses. I would like to be the person who guides you through this growth process that counseling will provide. It is wonderful to have someone listen just to you and to reflect and understand how you are feeling. I will celebrate with you as you grow and meet your goals. Call today for a free phone consultation.
(908) 344-3789 View (908) 344-3789
Photo of Jennifer Stradling - Jennifer Stradling (adolescent/teen specialist), MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Stradling (adolescent/teen specialist)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
I would identify my ideal client as an adolescent who is experiencing mental health issues and/or interpersonal difficulties. This could include an individual experiencing PTSD-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and other mental health-related issues. This could also include an individual experiencing life stressors/transitions, difficulties in developing healthy and sustainable relationships, complex grief, and lack of self-esteem and role identification. The goals of an ideal client would include improving mental health-related symptoms through the application of coping skills, communication skills, and self-esteem.
I would identify my ideal client as an adolescent who is experiencing mental health issues and/or interpersonal difficulties. This could include an individual experiencing PTSD-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and other mental health-related issues. This could also include an individual experiencing life stressors/transitions, difficulties in developing healthy and sustainable relationships, complex grief, and lack of self-esteem and role identification. The goals of an ideal client would include improving mental health-related symptoms through the application of coping skills, communication skills, and self-esteem.
(908) 680-0321 View (908) 680-0321
Photo of Edward Callaghan - Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ, Psychologist
Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
The Integrative Therapy Institute of New Jersey (ITI-NJ) is a group practice in clinical and counseling psychology that provides psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families. ITI-NJ operates at a number of locations throughout the state of NJ and the great majority of our therapists are in-network with all major insurance plans.
The Integrative Therapy Institute of New Jersey (ITI-NJ) is a group practice in clinical and counseling psychology that provides psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, and families. ITI-NJ operates at a number of locations throughout the state of NJ and the great majority of our therapists are in-network with all major insurance plans.
(908) 460-7179 View (908) 460-7179
Photo of Marybeth Herits, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marybeth Herits
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016  (Online Only)
It's a courageous step to seek help. A path to change your life for the better is here. I use both short term and longer-term therapy to treat individual adults, teens and preteens. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression and interpersonal difficulties, utilizing different modalities. Primarily, I offer an insight-oriented approach, along with CBT and DBT. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, I also offer life coaching. My greatest desire is to help you find a path to the confidence and calm within.
It's a courageous step to seek help. A path to change your life for the better is here. I use both short term and longer-term therapy to treat individual adults, teens and preteens. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, depression and interpersonal difficulties, utilizing different modalities. Primarily, I offer an insight-oriented approach, along with CBT and DBT. In addition to traditional psychotherapy, I also offer life coaching. My greatest desire is to help you find a path to the confidence and calm within.
(908) 344-3626 View (908) 344-3626
Photo of Corrianne Conti, MA, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Corrianne Conti
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Welcome! I'm Corrianne, a compassionate and experienced Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) based in New Jersey. My journey includes impactful roles such as traumatic brain injury specialist, school counselor, and a certification in Reiki Level 1, providing a unique blend of therapeutic expertise. In my diverse background, I've supported individuals of all ages, from K-12 students dealing with various challenges to adults facing severe and persistent mental health conditions. My passion lies in aiding those with high-risk tendencies (SI/SIB), disabilities, and trauma, fostering positive relationships and providing crisis management.
Welcome! I'm Corrianne, a compassionate and experienced Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) based in New Jersey. My journey includes impactful roles such as traumatic brain injury specialist, school counselor, and a certification in Reiki Level 1, providing a unique blend of therapeutic expertise. In my diverse background, I've supported individuals of all ages, from K-12 students dealing with various challenges to adults facing severe and persistent mental health conditions. My passion lies in aiding those with high-risk tendencies (SI/SIB), disabilities, and trauma, fostering positive relationships and providing crisis management.
(908) 533-7675 View (908) 533-7675
Photo of Michelle Haar, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Haar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Life is full of change, both expected and unexpected. Things like marriage, parenting, work, school, divorce, illness, and death can feel overwhelming. Sometimes a major event can leave one feeling lost. Other times just coping with the day to day is a challenge. My clients often express that they are feeling scattered, anxious, angry, and sad. I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families at different stages of their life-cycles. I specialize in helping them cope with their feelings, as they move through these periods of transition, so they can learn how to be resilient.
Life is full of change, both expected and unexpected. Things like marriage, parenting, work, school, divorce, illness, and death can feel overwhelming. Sometimes a major event can leave one feeling lost. Other times just coping with the day to day is a challenge. My clients often express that they are feeling scattered, anxious, angry, and sad. I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families at different stages of their life-cycles. I specialize in helping them cope with their feelings, as they move through these periods of transition, so they can learn how to be resilient.
(973) 671-8131 View (973) 671-8131
Photo of Emile Berk, PhD, Psychologist
Emile Berk
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Therapy is different for everyone. I believe that our early relationships and experiences deeply shape how we see ourselves and respond to feelings. I use a flexible model of therapy that draws from Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, neuropsychology, feminist/multicultural, and attachment theories. An emphasis is placed on appreciating the current emotional coping system before attempting to change it. I see my role as helping you develop a relationship with the parts of yourself that you may avoid, reject, or fear. My role is not to fix you (-you're not broken), and it is not to solve your problems.
Therapy is different for everyone. I believe that our early relationships and experiences deeply shape how we see ourselves and respond to feelings. I use a flexible model of therapy that draws from Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, neuropsychology, feminist/multicultural, and attachment theories. An emphasis is placed on appreciating the current emotional coping system before attempting to change it. I see my role as helping you develop a relationship with the parts of yourself that you may avoid, reject, or fear. My role is not to fix you (-you're not broken), and it is not to solve your problems.
(201) 636-1992 View (201) 636-1992
Photo of Kellyn Lopez - Healing HeARTS Center, LLC, MA, ATR-BC, LPAT, Art Therapist
Healing HeARTS Center, LLC
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Do you have a hard time finding the right words to express your thoughts and feelings? Is anxiety, fear, trauma or stressors of every day consuming your life? Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed with the challenges and don't know where to go?
Do you have a hard time finding the right words to express your thoughts and feelings? Is anxiety, fear, trauma or stressors of every day consuming your life? Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed with the challenges and don't know where to go?
(908) 365-0358 View (908) 365-0358
Photo of Meghan Quinlan-Ilich, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meghan Quinlan-Ilich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals, couples and families on issues related to addiction, infidelity and trust, self esteem, depression, anxiety, life changes, divorce, identifying goals, grief and loss as well as caregiver stress and elder adult issues and transitions. I have also worked with clients that are struggling with their identity, motivation and setting goals. I have experience with exposure response therapy to assist those with OCD. I also use trauma informed care to work with those who have experienced traumatic events from abuse to loss.
I have experience working with individuals, couples and families on issues related to addiction, infidelity and trust, self esteem, depression, anxiety, life changes, divorce, identifying goals, grief and loss as well as caregiver stress and elder adult issues and transitions. I have also worked with clients that are struggling with their identity, motivation and setting goals. I have experience with exposure response therapy to assist those with OCD. I also use trauma informed care to work with those who have experienced traumatic events from abuse to loss.
(908) 224-4187 View (908) 224-4187
Photo of Catalina C Colon, MA, LAMFT, CTP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Catalina C Colon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT, CTP
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Are you struggling with anxiety or deep overwhelming thoughts and feelings? Ever wondered why certain family members are disconnected emotionally or physically? How about curiosity of your own sensitivities to words or actions? Maybe you would like for that pressure to be lifted off your shoulders and make sense of it all. That would be such a relief, wouldn't it? Let's work together to develop coping skills, identify deep experiences, acknowledge your unmet needs, and face challenges together.
Are you struggling with anxiety or deep overwhelming thoughts and feelings? Ever wondered why certain family members are disconnected emotionally or physically? How about curiosity of your own sensitivities to words or actions? Maybe you would like for that pressure to be lifted off your shoulders and make sense of it all. That would be such a relief, wouldn't it? Let's work together to develop coping skills, identify deep experiences, acknowledge your unmet needs, and face challenges together.
(908) 495-6966 View (908) 495-6966
Photo of Kara E King, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara E King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in the field. I have worked in hospital settings such as inpatient psych, outpatient mental health, juvenile drug programs and in the public school system on a child study team. My areas of expertise include working with children, adolescents, and adults, ages 7 and up, and their families on a variety of issues. Some of these issues include but are not limited to anxiety, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, learning disabilities, behavioral issues, school issues, family conflicts and relationship issues, as well as many other life stressors that can affect us.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in the field. I have worked in hospital settings such as inpatient psych, outpatient mental health, juvenile drug programs and in the public school system on a child study team. My areas of expertise include working with children, adolescents, and adults, ages 7 and up, and their families on a variety of issues. Some of these issues include but are not limited to anxiety, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, learning disabilities, behavioral issues, school issues, family conflicts and relationship issues, as well as many other life stressors that can affect us.
(908) 460-7013 View (908) 460-7013
Photo of Therapy With Gi -, MA, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Therapy With Gi -
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
Authenticity, honesty, empathy and creativity is what I have based my practice on. Life can be TOUGH, and it can feel difficult to get out of that loop, or I like to say, crawl out of the mud, it takes time but it's very possible and I hope to help provide you with the tools you will need to do so. I'm eclectic in my practice, using therapeutic evidenced based modalities, such as CBT (cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical behavior therapy) Art therapy/creative therapy, person centered therapy, family therapy etc. with a specialty in eating disorders/body image issues and self-esteem .
Authenticity, honesty, empathy and creativity is what I have based my practice on. Life can be TOUGH, and it can feel difficult to get out of that loop, or I like to say, crawl out of the mud, it takes time but it's very possible and I hope to help provide you with the tools you will need to do so. I'm eclectic in my practice, using therapeutic evidenced based modalities, such as CBT (cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical behavior therapy) Art therapy/creative therapy, person centered therapy, family therapy etc. with a specialty in eating disorders/body image issues and self-esteem .
(973) 784-8676 View (973) 784-8676
Photo of Robyn DeRespinis - Inner Clarity, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner Clarity, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Inner Clarity, LLC is a group private practice comprised of professionals with varying areas of specialization. Our main goal is to provide a warm, inviting, and relaxing environment for our clients to engage in individual, family, couples, and/or group therapy with a professional who is skilled in meeting their clinical needs. We are an out-of-network provider and would be happy to verify benefits prior to starting services. Our office is able to bill out of network directly, so patients are only responsible for coinsurance at the time of service after deductible is met, and any balance outside of what insurance covers.
Inner Clarity, LLC is a group private practice comprised of professionals with varying areas of specialization. Our main goal is to provide a warm, inviting, and relaxing environment for our clients to engage in individual, family, couples, and/or group therapy with a professional who is skilled in meeting their clinical needs. We are an out-of-network provider and would be happy to verify benefits prior to starting services. Our office is able to bill out of network directly, so patients are only responsible for coinsurance at the time of service after deductible is met, and any balance outside of what insurance covers.
(848) 777-4276 View (848) 777-4276

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michael H Goldman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael H Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Goldman specializes in the treatment of Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder across the span of early childhood to adulthood.
Mr. Goldman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, families and groups. He holds a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University and a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island. Mr. Goldman also holds a certificate in school social work for the state of New Jersey. ​ Mr. Goldman spent 7 years working with children and adolescents in an emotionally disturbed private school program. He gained experience with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, school avoidance, learning disabilities and the special education process.
Goldman specializes in the treatment of Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder across the span of early childhood to adulthood.
Mr. Goldman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents, adults, families and groups. He holds a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University and a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Rhode Island. Mr. Goldman also holds a certificate in school social work for the state of New Jersey. ​ Mr. Goldman spent 7 years working with children and adolescents in an emotionally disturbed private school program. He gained experience with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, school avoidance, learning disabilities and the special education process.
(908) 738-9983 View (908) 738-9983
Photo of Lila Redmount, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lila Redmount
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am also pasionate about working with individuals and families in the autism community.
Sometimes life throws us challenges that seem insurmountable. A loved child diagnosed with autism, a spouse who seems out of sync with us, problems with school or work, worries about the future... I have more than 20 years' experience working with children, teens and adults, and helping them improve the quality of their lives. My approach is rooted on psychodynamic psychotherapy, and I provide a warm and caring environment that promotes growth and emotional fulfillment. The goal is to help my clients live a more authentic life, improved honesty, empathy, and playfulness.
I am also pasionate about working with individuals and families in the autism community.
Sometimes life throws us challenges that seem insurmountable. A loved child diagnosed with autism, a spouse who seems out of sync with us, problems with school or work, worries about the future... I have more than 20 years' experience working with children, teens and adults, and helping them improve the quality of their lives. My approach is rooted on psychodynamic psychotherapy, and I provide a warm and caring environment that promotes growth and emotional fulfillment. The goal is to help my clients live a more authentic life, improved honesty, empathy, and playfulness.
(908) 428-9620 View (908) 428-9620
Photo of Peter Keenan Linden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter Keenan Linden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clark, NJ 07066
As someone who is neurodivergent, you struggle to connect with others. The constant feeling of being misunderstood often ignites frustration or anger, especially when advocating for your needs. Classmates, coworkers, romantic partners, and even friends have been shaming, rather than supportive. Because of this constant rejection, you have become accustomed to hiding what you are feeling, sensing, experiencing, and thinking. Over time, hiding becomes an instinctual way of trying to remain safe. This results in a pattern of self-doubt, anger, and exhaustion as you try to fit into a world that doesn’t understand your unique needs.
As someone who is neurodivergent, you struggle to connect with others. The constant feeling of being misunderstood often ignites frustration or anger, especially when advocating for your needs. Classmates, coworkers, romantic partners, and even friends have been shaming, rather than supportive. Because of this constant rejection, you have become accustomed to hiding what you are feeling, sensing, experiencing, and thinking. Over time, hiding becomes an instinctual way of trying to remain safe. This results in a pattern of self-doubt, anger, and exhaustion as you try to fit into a world that doesn’t understand your unique needs.
(201) 762-1245 View (201) 762-1245
Photo of Maria Sikoutris Di Iorio, MA, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Sikoutris Di Iorio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mountainside, NJ 07092
We specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy and treat couples and individuals. Marriage therapy focuses on the conflicts and disagreements between two people. All families experience some type of disagreement. Some families function in unhealthy patterns and therefore conflict exists. Families are affected when one member of the family is chronically ill, suffers from substance abuse, divorce and separation, single parenting, financial issues, etc, as well as a lack of communicating effectively. Family therapy may be the only setting where you will have the opportunity to hear how other family members are feeling.
We specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy and treat couples and individuals. Marriage therapy focuses on the conflicts and disagreements between two people. All families experience some type of disagreement. Some families function in unhealthy patterns and therefore conflict exists. Families are affected when one member of the family is chronically ill, suffers from substance abuse, divorce and separation, single parenting, financial issues, etc, as well as a lack of communicating effectively. Family therapy may be the only setting where you will have the opportunity to hear how other family members are feeling.
(908) 977-6225 View (908) 977-6225
Photo of Ronald G Silikovitz, PhD, Psychologist
Ronald G Silikovitz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roselle, NJ 07203  (Online Only)
I, Ron Silikovitz, Ph.D., am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have offices in West Orange and Elizabeth, New Jersey. My specialty areas include: Forensic psychology (parent coordination, therapeutic visitation, custody/parenting time evaluation, relocation evaluation, risk assessment, personal injury, assessment and treatment of sexual offenders and victims, competency, termination of parental rights and adoption, and expert witness testimony), individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, and family therapy.
I, Ron Silikovitz, Ph.D., am a licensed clinical psychologist. I have offices in West Orange and Elizabeth, New Jersey. My specialty areas include: Forensic psychology (parent coordination, therapeutic visitation, custody/parenting time evaluation, relocation evaluation, risk assessment, personal injury, assessment and treatment of sexual offenders and victims, competency, termination of parental rights and adoption, and expert witness testimony), individual psychotherapy, couples therapy, and family therapy.
(862) 245-1967 View (862) 245-1967

See more therapy options for Cranford

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.