Autism Therapists in East Windsor, NJ

Photo of Nina Finkler, MEd, LDTC, BCBA
Nina Finkler
MEd, LDTC, BCBA
Verified Verified
East Windsor, NJ 08512
For over 20 years I have provided quality ABA services to children/adult with Autism, their families and the professionals who work with them. I have extensive experience in the educational , social and behavioral needs of this population and design therapy to meet these needs.
For over 20 years I have provided quality ABA services to children/adult with Autism, their families and the professionals who work with them. I have extensive experience in the educational , social and behavioral needs of this population and design therapy to meet these needs.
(609) 301-6450 View (609) 301-6450
Marie Kifun Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCN, QEEGD
Verified Verified
East Windsor, NJ 08520
I work with adults, couples, children and adolescents combining a variety of approaches including talk therapy and neurotherapy. I emphasize the value of our relationship, building trust by listening and understanding your needs. Treatment is geared to removing barriers that prevent you from having a meaningful life, developing the skills to support your journey towards healing and free you from negative emotions such as guilt, shame, fear, anxiety and anger. Through a process of self- exploration, problem solving, skills development, you can learn to overcome obstacles, clarify your values and reach your goals..
I work with adults, couples, children and adolescents combining a variety of approaches including talk therapy and neurotherapy. I emphasize the value of our relationship, building trust by listening and understanding your needs. Treatment is geared to removing barriers that prevent you from having a meaningful life, developing the skills to support your journey towards healing and free you from negative emotions such as guilt, shame, fear, anxiety and anger. Through a process of self- exploration, problem solving, skills development, you can learn to overcome obstacles, clarify your values and reach your goals..
(609) 385-9703 View (609) 385-9703
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
East Windsor, NJ 08520
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.
(848) 347-3072 View (848) 347-3072
Photo of Dana Meadows, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Meadows
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Windsor, NJ 08520  (Online Only)
The prospect of starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but prioritizing your mental health is important and necessary to create balance and to maintain emotional stability. I am here to provide support to those who struggle with anxiety, stress, depression or who need help navigating difficult life transitions and changes. I use a strengths based perspective, and I believe that therapy should be a collaborative effort. We will work together to identify goals and to help find the most effective strategies to bring peace and stability to your life.
The prospect of starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but prioritizing your mental health is important and necessary to create balance and to maintain emotional stability. I am here to provide support to those who struggle with anxiety, stress, depression or who need help navigating difficult life transitions and changes. I use a strengths based perspective, and I believe that therapy should be a collaborative effort. We will work together to identify goals and to help find the most effective strategies to bring peace and stability to your life.
(609) 536-9464 View (609) 536-9464

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Anton Shcherbakov, PsyD, BCBA, Psychologist
Dr. Anton Shcherbakov
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, autism, OCD, and related conditions.
NOW Accepting New Patients - Are you tired of feeling anxious, stressed, or stuck in your life? If so, I'm here to help. I LOVE working with people that are ready to make a change! You see, effective therapy takes work. The type of therapy that I do, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is very active, collaborative, and educational. During our sessions, we'll practice new skills ("tools") to help you reduce anxiety, improve mood, and feel more in control of your life. The advantage of this approach is that many people experience notable improvements in just 3-4 months. This is many times faster than traditional "talk" therapy.
I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, autism, OCD, and related conditions.
NOW Accepting New Patients - Are you tired of feeling anxious, stressed, or stuck in your life? If so, I'm here to help. I LOVE working with people that are ready to make a change! You see, effective therapy takes work. The type of therapy that I do, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is very active, collaborative, and educational. During our sessions, we'll practice new skills ("tools") to help you reduce anxiety, improve mood, and feel more in control of your life. The advantage of this approach is that many people experience notable improvements in just 3-4 months. This is many times faster than traditional "talk" therapy.
(856) 544-2461 View (856) 544-2461
Photo of Tricia L. Casey Psy.d, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Tricia L. Casey Psy.d
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
My clinical experience includes work in hospital, clinical, school, and private practice settings, including Staff Psychologist and Autism Team leader at Children's Specialized Hospital in New Jersey, DBT therapist at Bellevue Hospital Center, Parent/Infant psychotherapy at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and in public schools in New Jersey as a School Psychologist.
Look for the strength. In you. In your child. I can help. I am a Clinical and School Psychologist with extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of issues, including: ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, complex learning difficulties, social-emotional & behavioral difficulties, mood and anxiety disorders, and medical/neurological conditions. My strength-based approach to therapy and evaluations combines comprehensive assessment with evidenced-based interventions, and actionable recommendations. I offer individual and group therapy for children and adolescents, and individual therapy for adults.
My clinical experience includes work in hospital, clinical, school, and private practice settings, including Staff Psychologist and Autism Team leader at Children's Specialized Hospital in New Jersey, DBT therapist at Bellevue Hospital Center, Parent/Infant psychotherapy at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and in public schools in New Jersey as a School Psychologist.
Look for the strength. In you. In your child. I can help. I am a Clinical and School Psychologist with extensive experience evaluating, diagnosing, and working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of issues, including: ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, complex learning difficulties, social-emotional & behavioral difficulties, mood and anxiety disorders, and medical/neurological conditions. My strength-based approach to therapy and evaluations combines comprehensive assessment with evidenced-based interventions, and actionable recommendations. I offer individual and group therapy for children and adolescents, and individual therapy for adults.
(609) 528-2519 View (609) 528-2519
Photo of Danielle Marie Sullivan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Marie Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
I work with children and young adults with Autism, school-aged children and their families to support navigating times of stress, conflict, anger, anxiety and grief.
We all experience hardship. I believe that counseling is a powerful tool to help us navigate our daily journey and grow. In the midst of adversity, we can cultivate strength and reach goals that may seem impossible. I partner with clients to identify their needs and strategies to reach their goals. My role is to help identify and cultivate these strengths through focusing on skills such as communication, emotional regulation, coping, feeling identification and self-advocacy. I believe that each individual has personal strengths and each family system has strengths and resources to meet their needs and reach their goals.
I work with children and young adults with Autism, school-aged children and their families to support navigating times of stress, conflict, anger, anxiety and grief.
We all experience hardship. I believe that counseling is a powerful tool to help us navigate our daily journey and grow. In the midst of adversity, we can cultivate strength and reach goals that may seem impossible. I partner with clients to identify their needs and strategies to reach their goals. My role is to help identify and cultivate these strengths through focusing on skills such as communication, emotional regulation, coping, feeling identification and self-advocacy. I believe that each individual has personal strengths and each family system has strengths and resources to meet their needs and reach their goals.
(609) 360-4127 View (609) 360-4127
Ross E Brutman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
My practice is dedicated to anxiety disorders with emphasis on OCD and OCD Related disorders. As such, approximately 85-90% of the clients that I am currently treating have this diagnosis. I have treated a significant amount of individuals and families who have been afflicted with the aforementioned challenges. This includes in an office setting, out in the community, and in the homes of the client. I'm up-to-date on the latest treatments. I treat clients on the Autism Spectrum, in all capacities (anxiety related and otherwise.) I also provide clinical supervision to other therapists on how to effectively treat their own clients.
My practice is dedicated to anxiety disorders with emphasis on OCD and OCD Related disorders. As such, approximately 85-90% of the clients that I am currently treating have this diagnosis. I have treated a significant amount of individuals and families who have been afflicted with the aforementioned challenges. This includes in an office setting, out in the community, and in the homes of the client. I'm up-to-date on the latest treatments. I treat clients on the Autism Spectrum, in all capacities (anxiety related and otherwise.) I also provide clinical supervision to other therapists on how to effectively treat their own clients.
(646) 859-5231 View (646) 859-5231
Photo of Amy Lyn Clarkson, MT-BC, CP, PAT, LCAT, Art Therapist
Amy Lyn Clarkson
Art Therapist, MT-BC, CP, PAT, LCAT
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
As a music therapist and psychodramatist, I support and foster my clients' innate spontaneity and creativity, which are powerful resources for growth, change, and healing. In my 20 years of clinical work, I have extensive experience helping children, teens, and adults who are coping with difficult family situations, children and teens who have experienced trauma, and children and teens with autism spectrum disorder or other neurodevelopmental disabilities. My practice also includes work with adults who are seeking to develop new alternatives for living, wanting to break free from old, unhealthy patterns that are no longer helpful.
As a music therapist and psychodramatist, I support and foster my clients' innate spontaneity and creativity, which are powerful resources for growth, change, and healing. In my 20 years of clinical work, I have extensive experience helping children, teens, and adults who are coping with difficult family situations, children and teens who have experienced trauma, and children and teens with autism spectrum disorder or other neurodevelopmental disabilities. My practice also includes work with adults who are seeking to develop new alternatives for living, wanting to break free from old, unhealthy patterns that are no longer helpful.
(908) 386-4630 View (908) 386-4630
Photo of Lisa Kestler, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Kestler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I provide compassionate and inclusive care to individuals and families who may be struggling with mood or anxiety, social difficulties, or problems at home or school. I specialize in ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Pathological Demand Avoidance, and Neurodiversity. I offer comprehensive care across the lifespan for a wide range of psychological, social, emotional, and behavioral concerns. I am warm, direct, authentic, and passionate about my work. I am constantly inspired by my clients, young and old. I am deeply committed to recognizing and uplifting the unique strengths and diverse perspectives of each client I work with.
I provide compassionate and inclusive care to individuals and families who may be struggling with mood or anxiety, social difficulties, or problems at home or school. I specialize in ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Pathological Demand Avoidance, and Neurodiversity. I offer comprehensive care across the lifespan for a wide range of psychological, social, emotional, and behavioral concerns. I am warm, direct, authentic, and passionate about my work. I am constantly inspired by my clients, young and old. I am deeply committed to recognizing and uplifting the unique strengths and diverse perspectives of each client I work with.
(732) 734-8841 View (732) 734-8841
Photo of Kerrianne Galvin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerrianne Galvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My main focus is to partner with you to help you achieve your goals. I obtained my master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, where I completed an Area of Emphasis in children, youth, and families. Since then, I have worked with clients of all ages facing challenges with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, family issues, and self-harm. You can read my full bio at https://onesteptherapycenter.com/meet-our-therapists.
My main focus is to partner with you to help you achieve your goals. I obtained my master’s degree in Social Work from Rutgers University, where I completed an Area of Emphasis in children, youth, and families. Since then, I have worked with clients of all ages facing challenges with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, family issues, and self-harm. You can read my full bio at https://onesteptherapycenter.com/meet-our-therapists.
(848) 256-0191 View (848) 256-0191
Photo of Emily S Lowenfels, MSW, LSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily S Lowenfels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
My focus in graduate school focused on Autism and ADHD, however, I am not limited to this population.
My ideal client is person who has been experiencing some difficulties understanding and or manipulating through their environment. Perhaps this client needs a group to work overcome shyness and learn to speak up for themselves or perhaps this client misreads social situations. My ideal clients range from 3-35. I service struggling parents/families and teens/young adults/adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and self-care. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I will be offering teletherapy sessions as an option to any individuals who are having a difficult time adjusting to this ever evolving health crisis.
My focus in graduate school focused on Autism and ADHD, however, I am not limited to this population.
My ideal client is person who has been experiencing some difficulties understanding and or manipulating through their environment. Perhaps this client needs a group to work overcome shyness and learn to speak up for themselves or perhaps this client misreads social situations. My ideal clients range from 3-35. I service struggling parents/families and teens/young adults/adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and self-care. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I will be offering teletherapy sessions as an option to any individuals who are having a difficult time adjusting to this ever evolving health crisis.
(973) 287-4706 View (973) 287-4706
Photo of Dr. Rakhee Krishna, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Rakhee Krishna
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Brunswick, NJ 08816  (Online Only)
I also work with developmental disorders like LD, ADHD, Autism and chronic mental health conditions such as Bipolar disorder , Psychosis or painful physical conditions that might seem like a hurdle to progress in life.
If you think that your quality of life is marred by anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting challenges, grief and pain from personnel or material losses or chronic physical conditions or if you see yourself getting into a pattern of making self- sabotaging choices in your life , give yourself the chance to experience life differently. Allow me to guide you make a break through. At Guiding Elements, I work with children, teens, adults, couples and families who are facing behavioral & emotional regulation issues, stress while navigating difficult relationships or life's challenges in general.
I also work with developmental disorders like LD, ADHD, Autism and chronic mental health conditions such as Bipolar disorder , Psychosis or painful physical conditions that might seem like a hurdle to progress in life.
If you think that your quality of life is marred by anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting challenges, grief and pain from personnel or material losses or chronic physical conditions or if you see yourself getting into a pattern of making self- sabotaging choices in your life , give yourself the chance to experience life differently. Allow me to guide you make a break through. At Guiding Elements, I work with children, teens, adults, couples and families who are facing behavioral & emotional regulation issues, stress while navigating difficult relationships or life's challenges in general.
(732) 629-9809 View (732) 629-9809
Photo of David Krauss, PhD, Psychologist
David Krauss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
I have over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents and their families, as well as individual adults, in independent practice, school and hospital settings. While I work with patients presenting with a wide range of issues and concerns I specialize in working with neurologically or developmentally 'atypical' children and adolescents - ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum, etc. I often work with those neurodevelopmentally atypical children, adolescent and young adults who don't easily fit into these kinds of standard diagnostic categories. I look for and develop strengths, resiliencies and resources.
I have over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents and their families, as well as individual adults, in independent practice, school and hospital settings. While I work with patients presenting with a wide range of issues and concerns I specialize in working with neurologically or developmentally 'atypical' children and adolescents - ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum, etc. I often work with those neurodevelopmentally atypical children, adolescent and young adults who don't easily fit into these kinds of standard diagnostic categories. I look for and develop strengths, resiliencies and resources.
(609) 552-0730 View (609) 552-0730
Photo of Marisa Lutz, LAMFT, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Lutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LAMFT, LSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
My ideal client is grappling with a multitude of challenges and seeking support in their therapeutic journey. This client's primary concerns revolve around the quest to discover their authentic self and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. A devoted parent they are navigating the complexities of raising a child diagnosed with autism, adding an extra layer of responsibility and emotional weight to their daily life. Central to the client's therapeutic goals is the desire to unearth the positive aspects of their life. They're eager to shift their focus from challenges to blessings, fostering resilience and a sense of gratitude.
My ideal client is grappling with a multitude of challenges and seeking support in their therapeutic journey. This client's primary concerns revolve around the quest to discover their authentic self and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. A devoted parent they are navigating the complexities of raising a child diagnosed with autism, adding an extra layer of responsibility and emotional weight to their daily life. Central to the client's therapeutic goals is the desire to unearth the positive aspects of their life. They're eager to shift their focus from challenges to blessings, fostering resilience and a sense of gratitude.
(609) 905-5552 View (609) 905-5552
Photo of Jeffrey Selman, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Jeffrey Selman
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, and academic needs related to giftedness and twice exceptionality (2e).
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, and academic needs related to giftedness and twice exceptionality (2e).
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
(561) 423-1654 View (561) 423-1654
Photo of Mark Cooperberg, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Cooperberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Case Western Reserve University in 2003 after completing my pre-doctoral internship at UMDNJ-RWJ. I am the Director of Psychological Services at Princeton Speech-Language & Learning Center and a Clinical Instructor at Rutgers-RWJ Medical School. My primary work is with children, adolescents, and their families. I also treat adults. I have expertise in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Psychoeducational and Psychological Assessments, and I am a qualified Cogmed coach (computerized working memory training). I work with individuals who have AD/HD, Autism, disruptive behavior, social difficulties, and Mood and Anxiety Disorders
I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Case Western Reserve University in 2003 after completing my pre-doctoral internship at UMDNJ-RWJ. I am the Director of Psychological Services at Princeton Speech-Language & Learning Center and a Clinical Instructor at Rutgers-RWJ Medical School. My primary work is with children, adolescents, and their families. I also treat adults. I have expertise in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Psychoeducational and Psychological Assessments, and I am a qualified Cogmed coach (computerized working memory training). I work with individuals who have AD/HD, Autism, disruptive behavior, social difficulties, and Mood and Anxiety Disorders
(609) 454-6184 View (609) 454-6184
Photo of Dr. Lauren Gerardi Phd, PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Dr. Lauren Gerardi Phd
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Manalapan, NJ 07726
I am the owner and director of The Women's Psychotherapy Center. I specialize in women's issues such as postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, trauma/PTSD, and parenting issues. I also focus on depression, anxiety, Autism spectrum disorders, and chronic pain as well as other mind-body disorders. I believe in building an empathic, trusting relationship between therapist and client, and my work focuses primarily on fostering growth through increased self-awareness. Although I direct the Women's Center, I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and genders.
I am the owner and director of The Women's Psychotherapy Center. I specialize in women's issues such as postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, trauma/PTSD, and parenting issues. I also focus on depression, anxiety, Autism spectrum disorders, and chronic pain as well as other mind-body disorders. I believe in building an empathic, trusting relationship between therapist and client, and my work focuses primarily on fostering growth through increased self-awareness. Although I direct the Women's Center, I enjoy working with individuals of all ages and genders.
(848) 253-6893 View (848) 253-6893
Photo of Lindsay Gonzalez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
My specialties include but are not limited to: including Anxiety, Depression, School Issues, Oppositional Behaviors, Anger Management, ADHD, Trauma (PTSD), grief/loss, Autism spectrum, gender/sexual identity and substance use.
Hi, my name is Lindsay Gonzalez, and I have worked with children, adolescents and families for the past 14 years. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Jersey, and also supervise aspiring Master Social Workers through their process to become licensed. I am an alumni of Monmouth University, where I graduated with my Bachelors and Masters in Social Work. I consider myself a very creative person and enjoy the challenge of looking for ways to use a client’s interests to engage them in therapy. I will provide your family or child with an empathic and non-judgmental space, as we work together in reaching your goals.
My specialties include but are not limited to: including Anxiety, Depression, School Issues, Oppositional Behaviors, Anger Management, ADHD, Trauma (PTSD), grief/loss, Autism spectrum, gender/sexual identity and substance use.
Hi, my name is Lindsay Gonzalez, and I have worked with children, adolescents and families for the past 14 years. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New Jersey, and also supervise aspiring Master Social Workers through their process to become licensed. I am an alumni of Monmouth University, where I graduated with my Bachelors and Masters in Social Work. I consider myself a very creative person and enjoy the challenge of looking for ways to use a client’s interests to engage them in therapy. I will provide your family or child with an empathic and non-judgmental space, as we work together in reaching your goals.
(732) 385-3551 View (732) 385-3551
Photo of Andrea Solomon, MA, LPCS, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Solomon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08542
This includes children with Autism, ADHD/ADD, young adults, and elderly individuals who have been diagnosed with chronic Mental Illness.
Having spent 18 years in the Mental Health field and 8 years in Private Practice, I have gained the confidence to empower individuals, offer guidance, and be a supportive part of your journey towards conquering life's challenges.
This includes children with Autism, ADHD/ADD, young adults, and elderly individuals who have been diagnosed with chronic Mental Illness.
Having spent 18 years in the Mental Health field and 8 years in Private Practice, I have gained the confidence to empower individuals, offer guidance, and be a supportive part of your journey towards conquering life's challenges.
(862) 465-9969 View (862) 465-9969

See more therapy options for East Windsor

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.