Therapists in East Orange, NJ
![Photo of Riana Kelly, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69913481-41ce-41ff-8906-77a074a21efc/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience in treating Anxiety disorders, Autism, ADHD, Depression/Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD.
I foster a warm, supportive, therapeutic environment for my clients. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of any clinical work. I will work with you to understand the connection between your thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a safe environment. I work with a wide range of clients including adults, couples, adolescents, children and families.
I have experience in treating Anxiety disorders, Autism, ADHD, Depression/Mood Disorders, Trauma and PTSD.
I foster a warm, supportive, therapeutic environment for my clients. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of any clinical work. I will work with you to understand the connection between your thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a safe environment. I work with a wide range of clients including adults, couples, adolescents, children and families.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Steven Charles Hertler, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cde412a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT is what I study, practice, research and teach. Psychodiagnostics, my practice based Northern New Jersey with additional sites in Morristown and Montclair, exclusively evaluates and explains, diagnoses and describes. Assessments assemble upwards of twenty standardized, computerized, and objective tests into customized batteries designed to answer referral questions, discriminate among disorders and provide descriptions of persons and problems. In addition to differentially diagnosing mental health disorders, Psychodiagnostics provides independent child study team evaluations, data-driven rule-outs for ADHD and Autism, competency, guardianship and similar legal evaluations, and also assessments relevant to accommodations for the PSAT/SAT/GRE/LSAT.
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT is what I study, practice, research and teach. Psychodiagnostics, my practice based Northern New Jersey with additional sites in Morristown and Montclair, exclusively evaluates and explains, diagnoses and describes. Assessments assemble upwards of twenty standardized, computerized, and objective tests into customized batteries designed to answer referral questions, discriminate among disorders and provide descriptions of persons and problems. In addition to differentially diagnosing mental health disorders, Psychodiagnostics provides independent child study team evaluations, data-driven rule-outs for ADHD and Autism, competency, guardianship and similar legal evaluations, and also assessments relevant to accommodations for the PSAT/SAT/GRE/LSAT.
![Photo of Mi Cao, LPC, LMHC, LPCC, ACS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b6567765-b188-4af8-a370-b7ed3edcce82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! We provide psychotherapy to clients from NJ, MA, CT, and NY. Our clients come from diverse background with a wide range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, anger management, parenting problems, career challenges, self-esteem/confidence issues, intellectual/developmental disabilities, Asperger/autism spectrum disorder, attention deficient, Trauma/PTSD, oppositional behaviors, and immigration/acculturation/adjustment issues. Our Goal is to create a safe, open, and non-judgmental environmental for our clients to be heard, supported, and motivated. Our multi-cultural therapists speaks many different languages.
Welcome! We provide psychotherapy to clients from NJ, MA, CT, and NY. Our clients come from diverse background with a wide range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, anger management, parenting problems, career challenges, self-esteem/confidence issues, intellectual/developmental disabilities, Asperger/autism spectrum disorder, attention deficient, Trauma/PTSD, oppositional behaviors, and immigration/acculturation/adjustment issues. Our Goal is to create a safe, open, and non-judgmental environmental for our clients to be heard, supported, and motivated. Our multi-cultural therapists speaks many different languages.
![Photo of Tyisha Gaskin - Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3574a29-4417-467f-9845-0d001d975e2e/1/320x400.png)
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
![Photo of Nina Garland - Footprints to Feel Better, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d886205-9192-4985-b877-6f78c0f6150e/2/320x400.png)
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
![Photo of Marie Geron - Marie Geron PhD Millburn Short Hills Psychological, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c021191-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Marie Geron PhD Millburn Short Hills Psychological
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
Welcome to a warm, professional, caring discreet practice. Psychological evaluation, diagnosis, treatment for children, adolescents, adults, couples, families. Our psychological therapy and life coaching, with confidential, secure concierge-like attention to all patients. Each person's therapeutic goals are tailored to concerns surrounding lifestyle-personal growth, parenting, relationship, infidelity, infertility, marital, school IEP academic/social issues, death/loss, post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, court/legal/medical,pre/post divorce, identity issues, phobias ,fears, and anger management using psychological therapy.
Welcome to a warm, professional, caring discreet practice. Psychological evaluation, diagnosis, treatment for children, adolescents, adults, couples, families. Our psychological therapy and life coaching, with confidential, secure concierge-like attention to all patients. Each person's therapeutic goals are tailored to concerns surrounding lifestyle-personal growth, parenting, relationship, infidelity, infertility, marital, school IEP academic/social issues, death/loss, post traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, court/legal/medical,pre/post divorce, identity issues, phobias ,fears, and anger management using psychological therapy.
![Photo of Edward Callaghan - Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffe2e86c-9653-4c6d-b52f-5f485d23eef8/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Fernando Vázquez: Psychotherapy And Immigration Evaluations, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19798fa1-69b8-4c97-8ce6-6a1f7de2a931/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fernando Vázquez: Psychotherapy And Immigration Evaluations
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07105
I am a dedicated and experienced licensed psychotherapist offering in-person and telehealth services to adolescents and adults at my office in the Ironbound in Newark, NJ. I am fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Galego and provide a culturally-sensitive and inclusive therapeutic environment tailored to meet the unique needs of my diverse clients. I have a strong background as a high school teacher in Newark Public Schools and have developed a deep understanding and connection with adolescents and teenagers, fostering trust and open communication.
I am a dedicated and experienced licensed psychotherapist offering in-person and telehealth services to adolescents and adults at my office in the Ironbound in Newark, NJ. I am fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Galego and provide a culturally-sensitive and inclusive therapeutic environment tailored to meet the unique needs of my diverse clients. I have a strong background as a high school teacher in Newark Public Schools and have developed a deep understanding and connection with adolescents and teenagers, fostering trust and open communication.
![Photo of Flordaliza Rodriguez, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00c5cb4e-1d1d-4ba2-aa1c-5977cc6a4569/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you are struggling with anxiety, depression, facing a major life crisis, or feeling overwhelmed by problems? Navigating through tough times is the key to living a healthy and fulfilling life. I will help you identify and understand the issues, help create and implement a plan, and assist in reaching your goals. This will be accomplished by fostering a safe and trusting therapeutic alliance with you to help create healing and positive changes.
Are you are struggling with anxiety, depression, facing a major life crisis, or feeling overwhelmed by problems? Navigating through tough times is the key to living a healthy and fulfilling life. I will help you identify and understand the issues, help create and implement a plan, and assist in reaching your goals. This will be accomplished by fostering a safe and trusting therapeutic alliance with you to help create healing and positive changes.
![Photo of Caroline Mgbafor Egekwu - Happy Family Counseling Services, LLC, PhD, DPO, CCBT, MSc, MPA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/521358c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Happy Family Counseling Services, LLC
PhD, DPO, CCBT, MSc, MPA
Verified Verified
Maplewood, NJ 07040
We are professionals who focus on alcoholism, weight loss , crisis , domestic violence and psychological assessments reports and evaluations . We also help our clients / couples to develop a matured , happier relationship with themselves as individuals, and as a couple . We also specialize in crisis management in the work place . We treat substance abuse ,alcohol addictions, and other types of addictions .We work with teenagers and young adults to develop coping skills in high school and universities ." We offer a free visual consultation for adolescents, teenagers, adults , women , men . couples and veterans".
We are professionals who focus on alcoholism, weight loss , crisis , domestic violence and psychological assessments reports and evaluations . We also help our clients / couples to develop a matured , happier relationship with themselves as individuals, and as a couple . We also specialize in crisis management in the work place . We treat substance abuse ,alcohol addictions, and other types of addictions .We work with teenagers and young adults to develop coping skills in high school and universities ." We offer a free visual consultation for adolescents, teenagers, adults , women , men . couples and veterans".
![Photo of Miguel A Matos, MS, ACS, MFT, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c7cb23a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Miguel A Matos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, ACS, MFT, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Elizabeth, NJ 07201
Mental Health therapy helps people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives.” Through the use of various psychotherapy methods and collaborative treatment measures, my patients develop life-changing habits to help them cope with any of life’s various obstacles. My therapy sessions are designed to dissect personal issues and provide patients with effective tools to help them see the glass half full instead of half empty. We offer Individual Psychotherapy, Family and Couple Therapy. La Terapias pueden ser conducidas en Espanol.
Mental Health therapy helps people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives.” Through the use of various psychotherapy methods and collaborative treatment measures, my patients develop life-changing habits to help them cope with any of life’s various obstacles. My therapy sessions are designed to dissect personal issues and provide patients with effective tools to help them see the glass half full instead of half empty. We offer Individual Psychotherapy, Family and Couple Therapy. La Terapias pueden ser conducidas en Espanol.
![Photo of John T. Miele - Miele Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/491e5613-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The best thing to do if you want an appointment is to keep calling us and leaving messages. We will get back to you. If not, call the NJCC at 973-577-6482 for immediate availability of services on a sliding scale if I cannot take you. We have skilled, experienced psychologists. The most important thing is that the patient be comfortable and be helped to talk as much as possible-and that we identify the problem and solve it.
The best thing to do if you want an appointment is to keep calling us and leaving messages. We will get back to you. If not, call the NJCC at 973-577-6482 for immediate availability of services on a sliding scale if I cannot take you. We have skilled, experienced psychologists. The most important thing is that the patient be comfortable and be helped to talk as much as possible-and that we identify the problem and solve it.
![Photo of John S. LoConte, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54bf7249-86df-4d73-8bb2-dbb6d95c78c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychologist, father, husband, poet, scientist, actor, and lover of the truth of how difficult it can be to navigate adulthood from 18-80. I strongly believe that too few clients know what makes a therapist effective enough to make a meaningful difference.I value humble, poignant, and open interpersonal connections with clients, above all else.I am a directive therapist who understands both sides of the couch and gives 100% to each individual.I am a trained scholar in behavioral heath, and I have specialties in depression, anxiety, OCD and child loss.I meld cognitive behavioral psychology with the rich tenets of Zen-Buddhism.
I am a psychologist, father, husband, poet, scientist, actor, and lover of the truth of how difficult it can be to navigate adulthood from 18-80. I strongly believe that too few clients know what makes a therapist effective enough to make a meaningful difference.I value humble, poignant, and open interpersonal connections with clients, above all else.I am a directive therapist who understands both sides of the couch and gives 100% to each individual.I am a trained scholar in behavioral heath, and I have specialties in depression, anxiety, OCD and child loss.I meld cognitive behavioral psychology with the rich tenets of Zen-Buddhism.
![Photo of Renee Marter, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee269552-2418-46ab-bbbf-61d4132a5777/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renee Marter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, NJ 07003 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Renee` Marter and I am a Licensed Social Worker in supervision for my License in Clinical Social Work. I received my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Rutgers University in Camden and my graduate degree in Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University in New Brunswick in the Addiction Counselor Training (ACT) Certificate program. I am proud to have my TF-CBT Certification through the successful completion of the National Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Therapist Certification Program. This is a wonderful therapeutic intervention for youth ages 3 to 18, who have experienced trauma.
Hello! My name is Renee` Marter and I am a Licensed Social Worker in supervision for my License in Clinical Social Work. I received my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Rutgers University in Camden and my graduate degree in Social Work (MSW) from Rutgers University in New Brunswick in the Addiction Counselor Training (ACT) Certificate program. I am proud to have my TF-CBT Certification through the successful completion of the National Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Therapist Certification Program. This is a wonderful therapeutic intervention for youth ages 3 to 18, who have experienced trauma.
![Photo of Michael Guglielmino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bc6be60-2ed5-4aa3-bae6-3ef0ceae92e4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Guglielmino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
I believe all people deserve to feel their best and realize their true potential. The individuals, couples, and families that come to me for therapy are often down and out, riddled with anxiety and conflict, and looking for a new lease on life. Using my years of experience and training and a variety of specialized skills and techniques, I help each of my clients find the strength within to overcome their personal challenges. I partner with my clients to discover what gets in the way of their happiness and inner peace and to rediscover the lives they want to live and to live them vibrantly!
I believe all people deserve to feel their best and realize their true potential. The individuals, couples, and families that come to me for therapy are often down and out, riddled with anxiety and conflict, and looking for a new lease on life. Using my years of experience and training and a variety of specialized skills and techniques, I help each of my clients find the strength within to overcome their personal challenges. I partner with my clients to discover what gets in the way of their happiness and inner peace and to rediscover the lives they want to live and to live them vibrantly!
![Photo of Robert Brett Fechner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e79aa16-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether therapy is something you feel you need, something you want, or something your parents are making you do, understanding your deeper self is never a bad choice. But it can be a challenging one. I honor any person willing or wanting to embark on that adventure, and focus on helping my clients to identify, understand, and explore the aspects of their lives and their selves that feel stuck, painful, or not quite where they want them to be. I firmly believe that depth of understanding, emotional awareness, and rejuvenated coping skills are the foundations of progress, confidence, and success.
Whether therapy is something you feel you need, something you want, or something your parents are making you do, understanding your deeper self is never a bad choice. But it can be a challenging one. I honor any person willing or wanting to embark on that adventure, and focus on helping my clients to identify, understand, and explore the aspects of their lives and their selves that feel stuck, painful, or not quite where they want them to be. I firmly believe that depth of understanding, emotional awareness, and rejuvenated coping skills are the foundations of progress, confidence, and success.
![Photo of Schaune D Gamble, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5afdfe4-b888-4d23-8e42-53b260ddb5b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that personal change takes courage and is a transformative process. In my practice I utilize an eclectic approach which is individualized to each person. I utilize long term and short term platforms depending on a persons needs and preferences.
I believe that personal change takes courage and is a transformative process. In my practice I utilize an eclectic approach which is individualized to each person. I utilize long term and short term platforms depending on a persons needs and preferences.
![Photo of Roderick Alan Murphy - Murphy Counseling & Consulting LLC, MHS-C, LCADC, LPC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4887d3c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Murphy Counseling & Consulting LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MHS-C, LCADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, NJ 07003 (Online Only)
Over 30 years experience in the Human Services field: Marriage/Couples counseling, Separation Mediation, Multi-talent in Behavioral Health, Mental health Disorders, Substance abuse & Addiction disorders, and Co-occurring & Dual diagnosis disorders populations. Dedicated as a professional to ensure that the health and well being of the consumers are met and that each consumer receive the proper individualized treatment course of action with professional and ethical implementation. I also provide Tele-Therapy/Health sessions. I am also a Veteran of the Armed Forces "Army"..... And open to my brother & sister Veterans to server.
Over 30 years experience in the Human Services field: Marriage/Couples counseling, Separation Mediation, Multi-talent in Behavioral Health, Mental health Disorders, Substance abuse & Addiction disorders, and Co-occurring & Dual diagnosis disorders populations. Dedicated as a professional to ensure that the health and well being of the consumers are met and that each consumer receive the proper individualized treatment course of action with professional and ethical implementation. I also provide Tele-Therapy/Health sessions. I am also a Veteran of the Armed Forces "Army"..... And open to my brother & sister Veterans to server.
![Photo of Client Care - Council for Relationships, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/484976f7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Since 1932, Council for Relationships has provided therapy and psychiatry services to those in Pennslyvania and New Jersey. Our Staff Clinicians offer individual, relationship (sometimes called "couples"), family, and sex therapy online and in person. We make the best therapy services accessible to everyone. Our 80+ Staff Therapists & Psychiatrists specialize in over 45 specialties and provide comprehensive mental health care and medicine management. We see clients of all ages, backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexualities. We believe that thriving relationships foster flourishing communities. Let us help you thrive.
Since 1932, Council for Relationships has provided therapy and psychiatry services to those in Pennslyvania and New Jersey. Our Staff Clinicians offer individual, relationship (sometimes called "couples"), family, and sex therapy online and in person. We make the best therapy services accessible to everyone. Our 80+ Staff Therapists & Psychiatrists specialize in over 45 specialties and provide comprehensive mental health care and medicine management. We see clients of all ages, backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexualities. We believe that thriving relationships foster flourishing communities. Let us help you thrive.
![Photo of Deanne M Ackley - Domestic Appeal & Neural ~Synergistic ~ Network ®, LCSW, LISW, CSW, EEG, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a8d0905-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Domestic Appeal & Neural ~Synergistic ~ Network ®
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW, CSW, EEG, IFS
Verified Verified
Newark, NJ 07106
My "ideal client" knows to provide loved ones the very best, he or she must also be at an individual best. Short-changing the "self" depletes the ability to offer abundance to others. Whereas prospering in heart, health, mind, and body lead to connections of premium value. My clients look beyond the ordinary, knowing possibilities are endless and will be found with concerted effort and bravery. Keeping life fresh, free and filled with potential, elevates us all. When my clients depart they have renewed joy and gratitude because they are awakened to the gifts that were once just beyond their reach but now part their life scripts.
My "ideal client" knows to provide loved ones the very best, he or she must also be at an individual best. Short-changing the "self" depletes the ability to offer abundance to others. Whereas prospering in heart, health, mind, and body lead to connections of premium value. My clients look beyond the ordinary, knowing possibilities are endless and will be found with concerted effort and bravery. Keeping life fresh, free and filled with potential, elevates us all. When my clients depart they have renewed joy and gratitude because they are awakened to the gifts that were once just beyond their reach but now part their life scripts.
See more therapy options for East Orange
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.