Autism Therapists in Hamilton, NJ
![Photo of Cledicianne Dorvil, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed0d0a1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with children and adolescents displaying various cognitive, learning, and behavioral difficulties including: Autism, learning disability, memory problems, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Trauma, Conduct Disorder, Anger problems, and other childhood psychopathologies as well as neurodevelopmental disorders.
I am a multilingual (Haitian Creole, French, English ) psychologist licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania (PSYPACT). I have provided direct service in multiple settings including working as a clinical psychologist, school psychologist, behavior modification specialist, and crisis counselor. I also conduct cognitive, personality, neuropsychological, and risk assessments of children and adolescents. My work also extends to adults with trauma histories, severe mental illness, and legal issues. My approach to therapy is tailored to an individual's presenting needs.
I work with children and adolescents displaying various cognitive, learning, and behavioral difficulties including: Autism, learning disability, memory problems, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Trauma, Conduct Disorder, Anger problems, and other childhood psychopathologies as well as neurodevelopmental disorders.
I am a multilingual (Haitian Creole, French, English ) psychologist licensed in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania (PSYPACT). I have provided direct service in multiple settings including working as a clinical psychologist, school psychologist, behavior modification specialist, and crisis counselor. I also conduct cognitive, personality, neuropsychological, and risk assessments of children and adolescents. My work also extends to adults with trauma histories, severe mental illness, and legal issues. My approach to therapy is tailored to an individual's presenting needs.
![Photo of Karen M Sheridan, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc02637-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology. I specialize in therapy for children, pre-school through adolescence, and their families. I also work with a broad spectrum of adults and couples. I combine therapeutic play, mind-body and brain-based therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help children better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Through therapy, children can then learn to make better choices, have healthier relationships, and feel positive about themselves. My work with children includes trauma, grief, adjustment to parent separation/divorce, difficulties with mood, problem behaviors, social challenges, ADD/ADHD; Asperger's Disorder, and Autism.
I am a Licensed Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology. I specialize in therapy for children, pre-school through adolescence, and their families. I also work with a broad spectrum of adults and couples. I combine therapeutic play, mind-body and brain-based therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help children better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Through therapy, children can then learn to make better choices, have healthier relationships, and feel positive about themselves. My work with children includes trauma, grief, adjustment to parent separation/divorce, difficulties with mood, problem behaviors, social challenges, ADD/ADHD; Asperger's Disorder, and Autism.
![Photo of Yeimny Gaines, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05d64ac4-158d-42c3-82d1-43abf1a2be96/1/320x400.png)
Do you feel like life is racing ahead, leaving you struggling to catch your breath? Recognizing the need for support can sometimes be a challenging task. As a licensed social worker, I bring over twenty years of expertise. My proficiency covers a wide range of areas, including autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, domestic violence, life transitions, trauma, social skills enhancement, stress management, communication improvement, relationship dynamics, and behavioral difficulties. My methods are rooted in compassion, cultural mindfulness, problem solving, and a dedication to nurturing positive outcomes.
Do you feel like life is racing ahead, leaving you struggling to catch your breath? Recognizing the need for support can sometimes be a challenging task. As a licensed social worker, I bring over twenty years of expertise. My proficiency covers a wide range of areas, including autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, domestic violence, life transitions, trauma, social skills enhancement, stress management, communication improvement, relationship dynamics, and behavioral difficulties. My methods are rooted in compassion, cultural mindfulness, problem solving, and a dedication to nurturing positive outcomes.
![Photo of Olivia Hamilton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3842b59c-832e-4c71-a7ee-f02c2f71df95/2/320x400.jpeg)
You gotta find a therapist you click with. Come as you are to our sessions- messy bun, hoodie, pets in the background. Be comfy, be you. Whether you're trying to decide if therapy is right for you or if you've tried it in the past- this is your thing and I want you to get what you need out of it. Maybe you're just wanting to try a few sessions or maybe you're looking for ongoing support. You are not alone and I'm here to help you work through things. I have lived experience and I'm professional but down to earth. I'm upbeat and I take a solution-focused approach to treating problems.
You gotta find a therapist you click with. Come as you are to our sessions- messy bun, hoodie, pets in the background. Be comfy, be you. Whether you're trying to decide if therapy is right for you or if you've tried it in the past- this is your thing and I want you to get what you need out of it. Maybe you're just wanting to try a few sessions or maybe you're looking for ongoing support. You are not alone and I'm here to help you work through things. I have lived experience and I'm professional but down to earth. I'm upbeat and I take a solution-focused approach to treating problems.
![Photo of Kim Finnie, MSW, CSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d8cd49c-b994-48cf-8d80-9414cdbf0a52/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Finnie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08619
Some of human suffering is about the way we experience the events of our lives rather than the things themselves. Therapy offers an opportunity to bring awareness to our experiences and change our relationship to them rather than try to change the events themselves. Through this approach, we gain a sense of control in our lives and positively experience and influence its direction. If we believe that we have power within us to achieve health and happiness, then the events in our lives that cause us pain and suffering can be seen as an opportunity to learn about ourselves and experience personal growth.
Some of human suffering is about the way we experience the events of our lives rather than the things themselves. Therapy offers an opportunity to bring awareness to our experiences and change our relationship to them rather than try to change the events themselves. Through this approach, we gain a sense of control in our lives and positively experience and influence its direction. If we believe that we have power within us to achieve health and happiness, then the events in our lives that cause us pain and suffering can be seen as an opportunity to learn about ourselves and experience personal growth.
![Photo of Tiffany Papp - Guide to Grow Therapy, LLC , MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0316aac-88da-4c12-a87d-a9ba14915942/2/320x400.jpeg)
Guide to Grow Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08619
Hello! My name is Tiffany Papp, co-owner and clinician of Guide To Grow Therapy, LLC. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you through your journey of growth. With a person-centered and compassionate approach, I can support you as you express your feelings and begin to learn coping skills on your journey towards self-improvement. My clients experience a range of challenges from anxiety, parenting, school issues, and living with disabilities, among many others. My primary focus is with parents, young adults, and adults going through life transitions. I am excited to meet you and work together towards reaching your goals.
Hello! My name is Tiffany Papp, co-owner and clinician of Guide To Grow Therapy, LLC. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you through your journey of growth. With a person-centered and compassionate approach, I can support you as you express your feelings and begin to learn coping skills on your journey towards self-improvement. My clients experience a range of challenges from anxiety, parenting, school issues, and living with disabilities, among many others. My primary focus is with parents, young adults, and adults going through life transitions. I am excited to meet you and work together towards reaching your goals.
![Photo of Dr. Chelece Atavia Brown, DSW, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6940ffc0-90d1-40de-824b-c3a7629bc650/2/320x400.png)
Hello! My name is Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown, a Pre-Licensed Social Worker (LSW) for New Jersey and a certified facilitator in Teen Mental Health First Aid by the National Council of Well-Being. I have experience in providing therapeutic services for children, teens, adults, couples, and groups. I assist high-achieving Black women and men with navigating life stressors. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between faith and mental health to increase an individual's quality of life.
Hello! My name is Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown, a Pre-Licensed Social Worker (LSW) for New Jersey and a certified facilitator in Teen Mental Health First Aid by the National Council of Well-Being. I have experience in providing therapeutic services for children, teens, adults, couples, and groups. I assist high-achieving Black women and men with navigating life stressors. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between faith and mental health to increase an individual's quality of life.
![Photo of Beth Fier, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438e21cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Fier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hamilton, NJ 08619
Hi there! Welcome to my practice, SEED Services: Partners for Counseling & Wellness. We use evidence based approaches, including Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Gottman Method for couples counseling. Our therapists will tailor treatment to your specific concerns, and we specialize in working with issues related to self-criticism, shame, and the patterns of avoidance that are often associated with trauma, anxiety, depression, and problem perfectionism. We also particularly enjoy helping couples build, renew or restore their relationship with one another.
Hi there! Welcome to my practice, SEED Services: Partners for Counseling & Wellness. We use evidence based approaches, including Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Gottman Method for couples counseling. Our therapists will tailor treatment to your specific concerns, and we specialize in working with issues related to self-criticism, shame, and the patterns of avoidance that are often associated with trauma, anxiety, depression, and problem perfectionism. We also particularly enjoy helping couples build, renew or restore their relationship with one another.
![Photo of Alaine Robertson-Ali, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f566bb05-77a5-4bf0-90f9-97536d1a0b80/2/320x400.png)
I have 23 years of training and experience working with adults who struggle with low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and anger. I'm also very experienced with clients working on transitions such as going to college, new job, marriage, starting a family, a divorce, or coping with a past or recent trauma. I've worked for many years in drug treatment too. I think clients are looking for a way to gain insight and awareness of how challenges effect their thinking, and want to learn new skills to improve how they feel and function in the world.
I have 23 years of training and experience working with adults who struggle with low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and anger. I'm also very experienced with clients working on transitions such as going to college, new job, marriage, starting a family, a divorce, or coping with a past or recent trauma. I've worked for many years in drug treatment too. I think clients are looking for a way to gain insight and awareness of how challenges effect their thinking, and want to learn new skills to improve how they feel and function in the world.
![Photo of Dr. Chelece Atavia Brown, DSW, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b80b1005-671b-4750-833b-6558496b5485/2/320x400.png)
Hello! My name is Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown, a Pre-Licensed Social Worker (LSW) for New Jersey and a certified facilitator in Teen Mental Health First Aid by the National Council of Well-Being. I have experience in providing therapeutic services for children, teens, adults, couples, and groups. I assist high-achieving Black women and men with navigating life stressors. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between faith and mental health to increase an individual's quality of life.
Hello! My name is Dr. Chelece-Atavia Brown, a Pre-Licensed Social Worker (LSW) for New Jersey and a certified facilitator in Teen Mental Health First Aid by the National Council of Well-Being. I have experience in providing therapeutic services for children, teens, adults, couples, and groups. I assist high-achieving Black women and men with navigating life stressors. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between faith and mental health to increase an individual's quality of life.
![Photo of Rebecca Thompson, MS, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebe50662-efef-4843-be15-68df6c7e18b6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I aim to create a safe and comforting environment for my clients so that you can work through difficult emotional issues at your own pace while also exploring yourself and determining the best path for your life. We will work together in a non-judgmental space to explore coping skills, how to manage emotional difficulties, and create a positive environment in which you can achieve your therapeutic goals. My main objective is to help you find the life skills that work best for you and create a satisfying life that is uniquely your own.
I aim to create a safe and comforting environment for my clients so that you can work through difficult emotional issues at your own pace while also exploring yourself and determining the best path for your life. We will work together in a non-judgmental space to explore coping skills, how to manage emotional difficulties, and create a positive environment in which you can achieve your therapeutic goals. My main objective is to help you find the life skills that work best for you and create a satisfying life that is uniquely your own.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Tricia L. Casey Psy.d, PsyD, MS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460c6726-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lisa Kestler, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87c033ab-410d-47d3-aad3-eb525257ee60/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Danielle Marie Sullivan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfb06273-001e-4839-b3c3-1a05260bd4a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lauren Callahan, LSW, CTRS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9928bd32-05eb-478f-9454-50824bcae440/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Callahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, CTRS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lawrence Township, NJ 08648
My experiences have led me to work with children, teens, and adults with a wide range of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, OCD, grief and loss, autism, disability, and various life transitions.
I am an eating disorder and body image therapist committed to supporting clients heal their relationships with food and their bodies. My approach is rooted in Health at Every Size (HAES), anti-diet, and food and weight neutrality. I offer a compassionate, collaborative approach to help clients discover their self-worth and inherent ability to heal.
My experiences have led me to work with children, teens, and adults with a wide range of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, OCD, grief and loss, autism, disability, and various life transitions.
I am an eating disorder and body image therapist committed to supporting clients heal their relationships with food and their bodies. My approach is rooted in Health at Every Size (HAES), anti-diet, and food and weight neutrality. I offer a compassionate, collaborative approach to help clients discover their self-worth and inherent ability to heal.
![Photo of David Krauss, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5377e3da-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
David Krauss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
Waitlist for new clients
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.
![Photo of Ellen Herr-Israel, MA, MBA, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9178af6c-9ad4-44b2-85d0-106d33d235bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide evaluation, diagnosis and treatment/educational recommendations for developmental disorders or delays including intellectual disability, specific learning disability, autism, and Fragile X syndrome.
Intergenerational family dysfunction is not inevitable. I work with adults and children to untangle relational and behavioral patterns that are often foundational to the presenting problem. I take an integrative, strength-based approach and help the client identify perceptions and attributions that may be interfering with optimal self development and fulfilling relationships. This therapeutic approach is helpful in changing dysfunctional relational dynamics to those that promote growth and well-being.
I provide evaluation, diagnosis and treatment/educational recommendations for developmental disorders or delays including intellectual disability, specific learning disability, autism, and Fragile X syndrome.
Intergenerational family dysfunction is not inevitable. I work with adults and children to untangle relational and behavioral patterns that are often foundational to the presenting problem. I take an integrative, strength-based approach and help the client identify perceptions and attributions that may be interfering with optimal self development and fulfilling relationships. This therapeutic approach is helpful in changing dysfunctional relational dynamics to those that promote growth and well-being.
![Photo of Marcus DeMott, MSW, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42fc9d48-7ba2-4edb-90c5-5bc6186a57a1/4/320x400.jpeg)
Experienced with LGBTQIA, trauma survivors, individuals with developmental, physical and/or learning disabilities, including Autism Spectrum and ADHD, as well as other mental health issues.
Way to go! Just by being here and looking on this site, you are talking the first steps to being your whole self. You should feel proud today for this! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of therapy experience, I work with clients to find ways through the struggles they are experiencing to reach a place of solace where they feel able to manage the pressures of life. I use evidence-based approaches to help clients create lasting changes, and not just “Band-Aid” solutions.
Experienced with LGBTQIA, trauma survivors, individuals with developmental, physical and/or learning disabilities, including Autism Spectrum and ADHD, as well as other mental health issues.
Way to go! Just by being here and looking on this site, you are talking the first steps to being your whole self. You should feel proud today for this! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of therapy experience, I work with clients to find ways through the struggles they are experiencing to reach a place of solace where they feel able to manage the pressures of life. I use evidence-based approaches to help clients create lasting changes, and not just “Band-Aid” solutions.
![Photo of Andrea Solomon, MA, LPCS, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b95909f-2b77-498d-8d19-02b7f12b14d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jonathan H. Mack, PsyD , ABN, FACPN, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfd3a362-1941-499e-ab8a-bf9e717e6c67/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our practice specializes in neuropsychological and psychological assessment for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, traumatic brain injury and medical legal and forensic assessment, including child custody, fitness for duty and psychological and neuropsychological damages evaluations. We also specialize in treatment of PTSD, anxiety, dissociative disorders and traumatic brain injury. As well as testing we do psychotherapy, biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, cognitive rehabilitation, and medical referral as appropriate and as needed.
Our practice specializes in neuropsychological and psychological assessment for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, traumatic brain injury and medical legal and forensic assessment, including child custody, fitness for duty and psychological and neuropsychological damages evaluations. We also specialize in treatment of PTSD, anxiety, dissociative disorders and traumatic brain injury. As well as testing we do psychotherapy, biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, cognitive rehabilitation, and medical referral as appropriate and as needed.
See more therapy options for Hamilton
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Hamilton
- Bordentown
- Burlington
- East Windsor
- Ewing
- Lawrenceville
- Monmouth Junction
- Pennington
- Plainsboro
- Princeton
- Princeton Junction
- Skillman
- Trenton
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.