Autism Therapists in Ocean, NJ

Photo of Dan Zebrowski, LPC, CSC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dan Zebrowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ocean, NJ 07712
Treatment of: Anxiety, depression, oppositional behavior, anger, social & communication issues, grief/loss, trauma, self harm, self worth development, healthy identify formation, impulse control, client's with Autism S/D, Mood disorders, executive functioning concerns, interpersonal/relationship issues, performance issues, foster and adoption issues.
I bring a positive, goal oriented mindset to assisting clients of all ages. Developing a strong counseling relationship, accurately assessing challenges and individualizing treatment plans leads to the desired change and growth of my clients. Witnessing this gives me great career satisfaction. My approach is humanistic and incorporates CBT, positive psychology, as well as other evidence based treatments. For over a decade, my experience in various treatment settings has allowed me to witness first hand which approaches are most effective for positive change. I offer a free phone consultation for those who are interested in counseling. OON Preauthorization info provided.
Treatment of: Anxiety, depression, oppositional behavior, anger, social & communication issues, grief/loss, trauma, self harm, self worth development, healthy identify formation, impulse control, client's with Autism S/D, Mood disorders, executive functioning concerns, interpersonal/relationship issues, performance issues, foster and adoption issues.
I bring a positive, goal oriented mindset to assisting clients of all ages. Developing a strong counseling relationship, accurately assessing challenges and individualizing treatment plans leads to the desired change and growth of my clients. Witnessing this gives me great career satisfaction. My approach is humanistic and incorporates CBT, positive psychology, as well as other evidence based treatments. For over a decade, my experience in various treatment settings has allowed me to witness first hand which approaches are most effective for positive change. I offer a free phone consultation for those who are interested in counseling. OON Preauthorization info provided.
(732) 979-2706 View (732) 979-2706
Photo of Sean Mangan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sean Mangan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ocean, NJ 07712  (Online Only)
I work with clients diagnosed with ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Depression, Personality Disorders as well as other mood disorders.
Are you and your partner struggling to have the relationship you have always wanted? Or maybe you are trying to get back to a better time and reconnect. Is your family arguing, disconnected and are you feeling like it's groundhogs day? Or maybe your child/teen is going through some difficult times and you don't know what to do, but you do know that you need to help them. If you are seeking connection, happiness, and peace in your life because you don't want to continue to live this way I can help. You can have meaningful relationships and joy. Your child can feel better. Life can be different.
I work with clients diagnosed with ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Depression, Personality Disorders as well as other mood disorders.
Are you and your partner struggling to have the relationship you have always wanted? Or maybe you are trying to get back to a better time and reconnect. Is your family arguing, disconnected and are you feeling like it's groundhogs day? Or maybe your child/teen is going through some difficult times and you don't know what to do, but you do know that you need to help them. If you are seeking connection, happiness, and peace in your life because you don't want to continue to live this way I can help. You can have meaningful relationships and joy. Your child can feel better. Life can be different.
(908) 402-0988 View (908) 402-0988
Photo of Evan Guetz - Envisioned Nature, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Envisioned Nature
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Ocean, NJ 07712  (Online Only)
Envisioned Nature is a "Pathway to Healing". I offer virtual therapy. I am committed to providing the gold standard of the highest quality mental health service. I live down the shore, and see people all over New Jersey. I assist in the self-healing process that we all have inside us. I generally work with stress, traumatic stress, and how it impairs our sense of self and other, our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I have been working in the behavioral health and addiction provisions industry since 2012. I am in network with most major insurances. I also accept private pay, and assist with any out of network claims.
Envisioned Nature is a "Pathway to Healing". I offer virtual therapy. I am committed to providing the gold standard of the highest quality mental health service. I live down the shore, and see people all over New Jersey. I assist in the self-healing process that we all have inside us. I generally work with stress, traumatic stress, and how it impairs our sense of self and other, our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. I have been working in the behavioral health and addiction provisions industry since 2012. I am in network with most major insurances. I also accept private pay, and assist with any out of network claims.
(848) 361-3136 View (848) 361-3136
Photo of Ray Costa, LPC, LCADC, LMHC, NCC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ray Costa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, LMHC, NCC, LLC
Verified Verified
Ocean, NJ 07712
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the direction of your life? Is your job not emotionally or financially satisfying? Do you find yourself having difficult, short-lived relationships, or worse - none at all? Is depression and/or anxiety wearing you down? It is my experience that our difficulties and problems are primarily determined by reactions to how we think and feel. I can help you understand how your thoughts and feelings prevent you from getting what you want, and then help you find ways of creating more success in the areas you desire to change. I offer a relaxed yet interactive environment in a comfortable, private office.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the direction of your life? Is your job not emotionally or financially satisfying? Do you find yourself having difficult, short-lived relationships, or worse - none at all? Is depression and/or anxiety wearing you down? It is my experience that our difficulties and problems are primarily determined by reactions to how we think and feel. I can help you understand how your thoughts and feelings prevent you from getting what you want, and then help you find ways of creating more success in the areas you desire to change. I offer a relaxed yet interactive environment in a comfortable, private office.
(908) 652-7014 View (908) 652-7014
Photo of Caterina Carlin, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caterina Carlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ocean, NJ 07712
Change, it is something we all have to face at some point in our lives. Change looks different to everyone; postpartum depression as our body changes from bringing a new life into this world, grief after we have lost a loved one that played a crucial role in our life, traumatic events that altered our life’s path, or anxiety that causes us to no longer enjoy the things we used to. Sometimes change is good, and other times it is not so good, but ultimately change is inevitable. Sometimes we need support and guidance to navigate change and therapy is a great place to learn how to navigate and overcome change.
Change, it is something we all have to face at some point in our lives. Change looks different to everyone; postpartum depression as our body changes from bringing a new life into this world, grief after we have lost a loved one that played a crucial role in our life, traumatic events that altered our life’s path, or anxiety that causes us to no longer enjoy the things we used to. Sometimes change is good, and other times it is not so good, but ultimately change is inevitable. Sometimes we need support and guidance to navigate change and therapy is a great place to learn how to navigate and overcome change.
(732) 627-2643 View (732) 627-2643
Photo of Modern Therapy - Modern Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Modern Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Ocean, NJ 07712  (Online Only)
We're a talk therapy practice that offers the expertise of clinically licensed professionals in a way that is tailored to your unique needs. Let's face it, finding a therapist to work with can be difficult. Our goal is to make the process of finding and working with a therapist as easy and convenient for you as possible. That's why we offer therapy exclusively online via a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform. We work with children, teens, college students, and adults to help make life the best it can be.
We're a talk therapy practice that offers the expertise of clinically licensed professionals in a way that is tailored to your unique needs. Let's face it, finding a therapist to work with can be difficult. Our goal is to make the process of finding and working with a therapist as easy and convenient for you as possible. That's why we offer therapy exclusively online via a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform. We work with children, teens, college students, and adults to help make life the best it can be.
(848) 208-7097 View (848) 208-7097

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sara Lewis, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Neptune, NJ 07753  (Online Only)
I specialize in fostering healthy relationships and communication, anxiety, depression, life transitions, chronic illness, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and LGBTQIA+.
I am a LCSW and certified School SW with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. The decision to ask for help takes courage and can be intimidating. My goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate and accepting environment for you to comfortably share your thoughts and feelings. I will consistently engage and encourage you to do your best as we work together to develop your treatment plan and identify the important issues that have brought you to therapy.
I specialize in fostering healthy relationships and communication, anxiety, depression, life transitions, chronic illness, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and LGBTQIA+.
I am a LCSW and certified School SW with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. The decision to ask for help takes courage and can be intimidating. My goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate and accepting environment for you to comfortably share your thoughts and feelings. I will consistently engage and encourage you to do your best as we work together to develop your treatment plan and identify the important issues that have brought you to therapy.
(732) 838-9014 View (732) 838-9014
Photo of Peter Quinton, MS, LAC, Counselor
Peter Quinton
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
My experience lies in helping clients (children, adolescents, adults) navigate mental health and wellness concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, social anxiety & fear, anger management issues, life transitions, family and relationship issues, parenting skills, academic & career motivation, oppositional behavior, etc. I utilize evidence-based treatment modalities (CBT & DBT) while incorporating a person-centered approach that borrows from existential and spiritual wellness philosophies. I specialize in working with clients from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ community, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
My experience lies in helping clients (children, adolescents, adults) navigate mental health and wellness concerns, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, social anxiety & fear, anger management issues, life transitions, family and relationship issues, parenting skills, academic & career motivation, oppositional behavior, etc. I utilize evidence-based treatment modalities (CBT & DBT) while incorporating a person-centered approach that borrows from existential and spiritual wellness philosophies. I specialize in working with clients from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ community, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(908) 246-1480 View (908) 246-1480
Photo of Chana Frumet Yaroslawitz, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chana Frumet Yaroslawitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Deal, NJ 07723
I have experience with typically developing children and children who have been diagnosed with autism and other challenges.
You wish your child would follow the bedtime or breakfast routine better. Your child seems unable to communicate, problem solve, reflect, or play with friends. Your child has difficulty with homework or following rules. Your child gets into trouble at school or with the kids on the block. You want your child to learn the art of communication, how to express their emotions in appropriate ways or to understand other people’s feelings. Your child needs help! You have tried everything you know including interventions. You feel frustrated and emotionally drained. You agonize about their behavior that is affecting the rest of the family.
I have experience with typically developing children and children who have been diagnosed with autism and other challenges.
You wish your child would follow the bedtime or breakfast routine better. Your child seems unable to communicate, problem solve, reflect, or play with friends. Your child has difficulty with homework or following rules. Your child gets into trouble at school or with the kids on the block. You want your child to learn the art of communication, how to express their emotions in appropriate ways or to understand other people’s feelings. Your child needs help! You have tried everything you know including interventions. You feel frustrated and emotionally drained. You agonize about their behavior that is affecting the rest of the family.
(732) 994-6869 View (732) 994-6869
Photo of Zisa Belfer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zisa Belfer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Hablo español. דוברת עברית. Je parles Français. Healing can be a difficult journey, and if you are looking to work on trauma/ PTSD, grief, OCD or addiction, I am here to help. I work with clients (including first responders) to tailor therapy that works for them, affirming lifestyle values and utilizing various modalities to assist in the healing process (ERP, CBT, DBT, strength based therapy). Your past helped shape you, but it does not have to determine who you are or will be in the future. This is a marathon, not a sprint- let's do it together. Also available, assessments (VA, bariatrics, Autism and ADHD and immigration).
Hablo español. דוברת עברית. Je parles Français. Healing can be a difficult journey, and if you are looking to work on trauma/ PTSD, grief, OCD or addiction, I am here to help. I work with clients (including first responders) to tailor therapy that works for them, affirming lifestyle values and utilizing various modalities to assist in the healing process (ERP, CBT, DBT, strength based therapy). Your past helped shape you, but it does not have to determine who you are or will be in the future. This is a marathon, not a sprint- let's do it together. Also available, assessments (VA, bariatrics, Autism and ADHD and immigration).
(732) 595-4276 View (732) 595-4276
Photo of Samantha Levinson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Levinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoboken, NJ 07030
One of the main components of therapy is to provide a safe environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. My office offers teletherapy play sessions with children and is also easily transformed into a space comfortable for adolescents, adults, and couples. For more than 15 years, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults with behavioral and emotional challenges. My professional experience consists of working in a variety of settings including: in-home therapy, outpatient, and group practice. My clinical areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, autism and trauma.
One of the main components of therapy is to provide a safe environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. My office offers teletherapy play sessions with children and is also easily transformed into a space comfortable for adolescents, adults, and couples. For more than 15 years, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults with behavioral and emotional challenges. My professional experience consists of working in a variety of settings including: in-home therapy, outpatient, and group practice. My clinical areas of specialty include: anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, autism and trauma.
(484) 214-2429 View (484) 214-2429
Photo of Pauline L. Bailo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pauline L. Bailo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eatontown, NJ 07724
I elicit hope when the world seems hopeless. My approach is to develop a therapeutic relationship where authenticity is encouraged in a compassionate, judgement free space. Majority of the children I work with simply want to just be kids, but there is a concern or barrier that needs to be addressed or removed first. Majority of the youth I work with are trying to figure out their purpose and how to focus on the future. The families I work with want to reduce stress and be cohesive. The couples I work with want to be unified and feel like they are together in their relationship. The adults want to be happy and content.
I elicit hope when the world seems hopeless. My approach is to develop a therapeutic relationship where authenticity is encouraged in a compassionate, judgement free space. Majority of the children I work with simply want to just be kids, but there is a concern or barrier that needs to be addressed or removed first. Majority of the youth I work with are trying to figure out their purpose and how to focus on the future. The families I work with want to reduce stress and be cohesive. The couples I work with want to be unified and feel like they are together in their relationship. The adults want to be happy and content.
(732) 605-4285 View (732) 605-4285
Photo of Brittany A Weber, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany A Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Neptune, NJ 07753
Life's journey can be challenging, even for the strongest among us. In today's often unforgiving world, we may find it daunting and cold, sometimes feeling like we're just trying to "get through" it. But together, we can simplify life by facing its challenges head-on. Every client I've had the privilege of working with has played a crucial role in my growth as a therapist, just as I have supported them in their own unique journeys. Each individual's experiences enrich our collective knowledge, offering opportunities for personalized solutions. Your openness and engagement in therapy empower us to craft the life you dream of.
Life's journey can be challenging, even for the strongest among us. In today's often unforgiving world, we may find it daunting and cold, sometimes feeling like we're just trying to "get through" it. But together, we can simplify life by facing its challenges head-on. Every client I've had the privilege of working with has played a crucial role in my growth as a therapist, just as I have supported them in their own unique journeys. Each individual's experiences enrich our collective knowledge, offering opportunities for personalized solutions. Your openness and engagement in therapy empower us to craft the life you dream of.
(732) 592-3710 View (732) 592-3710
Photo of Dr. Rachel Shafrir, PsyD, NCSP
Dr. Rachel Shafrir
PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deal, NJ 07723
Do you or your child, despite obvious intelligence, struggle with completing simple tasks? Or maybe you go from 0-100 in a matter of seconds and experience triggers from even the smallest things. I am here to help. As a psychologist specializing in comprehensive evaluations, I have extensive experience in assessing and understanding the unique needs of children, teens, and young adults with ADHD, giftedness/2e, learning differences & mood disorders. I also specialize in assisting teens and young adults in navigating the unique challenges faced and helping them develop coping strategies.
Do you or your child, despite obvious intelligence, struggle with completing simple tasks? Or maybe you go from 0-100 in a matter of seconds and experience triggers from even the smallest things. I am here to help. As a psychologist specializing in comprehensive evaluations, I have extensive experience in assessing and understanding the unique needs of children, teens, and young adults with ADHD, giftedness/2e, learning differences & mood disorders. I also specialize in assisting teens and young adults in navigating the unique challenges faced and helping them develop coping strategies.
(954) 787-6359 View (954) 787-6359
Photo of Tara L Moyle, MEd, LPC, MFA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara L Moyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MFA
Verified Verified
Asbury Park, NJ 07712  (Online Only)
Teens and young adults trying to find their way in the world are under great pressure these days. I specialize in the transition from the last few years of high school to whatever comes next, and post-college transitions. Those on a creative path may also resonate with my approach. I work with adults in life transitions, anyone struggling with relationships, uncertain of the rules for healthy versus unhealthy dynamics, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or existential issues. They may feel alienated or have uncertain goals. Thought patterns might seem circular, annoying, or just unhelpful.
Teens and young adults trying to find their way in the world are under great pressure these days. I specialize in the transition from the last few years of high school to whatever comes next, and post-college transitions. Those on a creative path may also resonate with my approach. I work with adults in life transitions, anyone struggling with relationships, uncertain of the rules for healthy versus unhealthy dynamics, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or existential issues. They may feel alienated or have uncertain goals. Thought patterns might seem circular, annoying, or just unhelpful.
(973) 798-9325 View (973) 798-9325
Photo of Stephanie Siciliano, MSW, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Siciliano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Loch Arbour, NJ 07711
Welcome to my page! I greet you with great respect and compassion. My name is Stephanie Siciliano; I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Yoga Teacher, and certified in Sand Play and EMDR. I provide counseling, trauma informed yoga, sand play, and EMDR to adults, children, and families. I have served the community for 15 years; specializing in trauma and its effect on the human spirit and well being. I graduated from Marymount Manhattan College in 2008 with a BA in Psychology and later received my MSW at Hunter College School of Social Work.
Welcome to my page! I greet you with great respect and compassion. My name is Stephanie Siciliano; I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Yoga Teacher, and certified in Sand Play and EMDR. I provide counseling, trauma informed yoga, sand play, and EMDR to adults, children, and families. I have served the community for 15 years; specializing in trauma and its effect on the human spirit and well being. I graduated from Marymount Manhattan College in 2008 with a BA in Psychology and later received my MSW at Hunter College School of Social Work.
(848) 217-3060 View (848) 217-3060
Photo of Brielle Senft, MA, LPC, CIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brielle Senft
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asbury Park, NJ 07712  (Online Only)
I am dedicated, passionate, and committed to guiding you on your transformative journey towards healing and holistic wellness. Healing is not about changing the past, but about changing your now and moving forward to live your most beautiful and fulfilled life. I believe that true healing encompasses the mind, body, and spirit/soul. Together we will address these interconnected aspects and work on overall growth and healing. We all have the ability to help and heal ourselves. Let me guide you to do so, while providing a down to earth, supportive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space.
I am dedicated, passionate, and committed to guiding you on your transformative journey towards healing and holistic wellness. Healing is not about changing the past, but about changing your now and moving forward to live your most beautiful and fulfilled life. I believe that true healing encompasses the mind, body, and spirit/soul. Together we will address these interconnected aspects and work on overall growth and healing. We all have the ability to help and heal ourselves. Let me guide you to do so, while providing a down to earth, supportive, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space.
(201) 497-4498 View (201) 497-4498
Photo of Dr. Yessenia Guglielmi, MA, LPC, ACS, DLitt, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Yessenia Guglielmi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, DLitt, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allenhurst, NJ 07711  (Online Only)
Identify personal challenges and achieve goals. Gain a stronger sense of self-awareness, rediscover your inner strengths and connect to restorative practices. I can guide you on your journey from pain/survival to thriving and enjoying a fulfilling life. Soy Latina, hablo Espanol. My expertise is grounded in over 25 years of experience with strong intuition and empathic listening. I work with individuals and couples. I offer online Tele-therapy counseling. I am a writer and enjoy working with creative and artistic personalities. Restore, Recover, Renew!
Identify personal challenges and achieve goals. Gain a stronger sense of self-awareness, rediscover your inner strengths and connect to restorative practices. I can guide you on your journey from pain/survival to thriving and enjoying a fulfilling life. Soy Latina, hablo Espanol. My expertise is grounded in over 25 years of experience with strong intuition and empathic listening. I work with individuals and couples. I offer online Tele-therapy counseling. I am a writer and enjoy working with creative and artistic personalities. Restore, Recover, Renew!
(201) 331-6352 View (201) 331-6352
Photo of Harvey D. Cottrell, MSW, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harvey D. Cottrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asbury Park, NJ 07712  (Online Only)
Psychotherapy is a profession whose mainspring is love. Nearly everyone who visits a therapist has a love disorder, and each has a story to tell of love lost or denied, love twisted or betrayed, love perverted or shackled to violence. I use holism to help the patient reconnect, remember and reimagine. Much of what causes us distress comes from a lack of integration with our biological, psychological, social, and spiritual selves. I am excited about partnering with you in your journey of finding wholeness.
Psychotherapy is a profession whose mainspring is love. Nearly everyone who visits a therapist has a love disorder, and each has a story to tell of love lost or denied, love twisted or betrayed, love perverted or shackled to violence. I use holism to help the patient reconnect, remember and reimagine. Much of what causes us distress comes from a lack of integration with our biological, psychological, social, and spiritual selves. I am excited about partnering with you in your journey of finding wholeness.
(732) 723-7311 View (732) 723-7311
Photo of Nicole Musto, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Musto
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tinton Falls, NJ 07753  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor it is not only my duty but also an honor to work with individuals as they navigate through life. My goal is to allow each client to express themselves freely and openly as they discuss their personal matters with me. Assisting clients to feel and process emotions and experiences in real time is extremely important.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor it is not only my duty but also an honor to work with individuals as they navigate through life. My goal is to allow each client to express themselves freely and openly as they discuss their personal matters with me. Assisting clients to feel and process emotions and experiences in real time is extremely important.
(732) 605-4209 View (732) 605-4209
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.