Autism Therapists in Short Hills, NJ
![Photo of Robin Gershon Halpern, MA, EdM, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de060e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robin Gershon Halpern
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdM, LPC
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078
My clients say that I am caring, warm, easy to talk to, solution focused and skilled. My goal for you is to feel better, heal, make positive changes and have a successful happy life. During my 25 years of experience I have worked with children, teens, schools, individuals, couples, families and groups with struggles from life circumstances, anxiety and depression. My expertise is with helping the special needs family navigate the complicated array of needs, including school issues and integrate the emotions and counseling needs of the child/teen and family as a whole. I work with many families where there is a child or adult with Autism and ADHD. Where ADHD is present, in addition to counseling, I provide coaching and organizational strategies.
My clients say that I am caring, warm, easy to talk to, solution focused and skilled. My goal for you is to feel better, heal, make positive changes and have a successful happy life. During my 25 years of experience I have worked with children, teens, schools, individuals, couples, families and groups with struggles from life circumstances, anxiety and depression. My expertise is with helping the special needs family navigate the complicated array of needs, including school issues and integrate the emotions and counseling needs of the child/teen and family as a whole. I work with many families where there is a child or adult with Autism and ADHD. Where ADHD is present, in addition to counseling, I provide coaching and organizational strategies.
![Photo of Braden Josephson, PhD, BCBA-D, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42744ee3-84e1-4d96-b856-d0871dd4872c/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are looking to improve your relationships, to deepen your emotional connections, to make a job transition, or to help a family member struggling with autism or addiction, reach out and we can work together to reach your goals.
I am a licensed psychologist in New York, Connecticut & New Jersey with over 22 years of clinical experience providing assessment and therapy. Are you reassessing your life or considering a job transition? Are you struggling to communicate with your partner? Are you committed to working on yourself or your relationship with your partner but are unsure how to start? I can help you. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples and family members move toward optimal functioning and well-being.
If you are looking to improve your relationships, to deepen your emotional connections, to make a job transition, or to help a family member struggling with autism or addiction, reach out and we can work together to reach your goals.
I am a licensed psychologist in New York, Connecticut & New Jersey with over 22 years of clinical experience providing assessment and therapy. Are you reassessing your life or considering a job transition? Are you struggling to communicate with your partner? Are you committed to working on yourself or your relationship with your partner but are unsure how to start? I can help you. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples and family members move toward optimal functioning and well-being.
![Photo of Will Mills, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c5039f6-21b3-4934-b368-7c069f87b5a7/7/320x400.png)
Will Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078 (Online Only)
Will has over 10 years of experience providing mental health treatment to New Jerseyans. Having worked in all levels of care — from inpatient to residential programs/group homes to outpatient settings — Will is able to support an array of clients from all walks of life. As Lead Therapist and Owner of Will Inspire You Counseling, he is immensely passionate about supporting people of all ages. Will specializes in supporting individuals living with ADHD, Anxiety and other related disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as Eating Disorders and disordered eating. Within his repertoire is a particular focus on LGBTQ+ health.
Will has over 10 years of experience providing mental health treatment to New Jerseyans. Having worked in all levels of care — from inpatient to residential programs/group homes to outpatient settings — Will is able to support an array of clients from all walks of life. As Lead Therapist and Owner of Will Inspire You Counseling, he is immensely passionate about supporting people of all ages. Will specializes in supporting individuals living with ADHD, Anxiety and other related disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as Eating Disorders and disordered eating. Within his repertoire is a particular focus on LGBTQ+ health.
![Photo of Megan A Brown, PhD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45af4ff2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan A Brown
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Waitlist for new clients
I have expertise in play therapy, cognitive-behavior therapy, behavior therapy, treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders including PRT and DIR-Floortime, and I provide parent support and family therapy.
As a child therapist and mother of three, I empathize with the wide range of feelings, questions, and transitions parents experience daily. In my practice, I help parents with their toddlers, preschoolers, school age children, and teenagers who may be struggling with questions about development, appropriate behavior, social skills, academics, anxiety, depression, ASD, and a wide array of complex issues. Together, we work collaboratively toward a deeper understanding of the issues and begin to solve them. Human connection is the most important factor in improving behavior, mood, and overall development! In the spirit of collaboration, we will work together to make lasting positive changes.
I have expertise in play therapy, cognitive-behavior therapy, behavior therapy, treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders including PRT and DIR-Floortime, and I provide parent support and family therapy.
As a child therapist and mother of three, I empathize with the wide range of feelings, questions, and transitions parents experience daily. In my practice, I help parents with their toddlers, preschoolers, school age children, and teenagers who may be struggling with questions about development, appropriate behavior, social skills, academics, anxiety, depression, ASD, and a wide array of complex issues. Together, we work collaboratively toward a deeper understanding of the issues and begin to solve them. Human connection is the most important factor in improving behavior, mood, and overall development! In the spirit of collaboration, we will work together to make lasting positive changes.
![Photo of Christine Peters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ca38573-06be-4a7c-a812-3c0513a70f94/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
![Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f13fd5db-5722-4879-a240-8d3c174852d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
![Photo of Joshua Shifrin, PhD, ABSNP, NCSP, ADHD-SP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c774c9a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Joshua Shifrin
Psychologist, PhD, ABSNP, NCSP, ADHD-SP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I am a school neuropsychologist and specialize working with children, adolescents and adults that are struggling with school related difficulties. My areas of specialty include assessing for learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, high functioning autism, social-emotional disorders, as well as ADHD therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Diplomate of the American Board of School Neuropsychology, a Nationally Certified School Psychologist, as well as an ADHD - Certified Clinical Services Provider. Please feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation.
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I am a school neuropsychologist and specialize working with children, adolescents and adults that are struggling with school related difficulties. My areas of specialty include assessing for learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, high functioning autism, social-emotional disorders, as well as ADHD therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Diplomate of the American Board of School Neuropsychology, a Nationally Certified School Psychologist, as well as an ADHD - Certified Clinical Services Provider. Please feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation.
![Photo of Dr. Courtney Lynch, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59545fc3-c2c8-49fb-aadc-4102f257a16f/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Courtney Lynch is a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Lynch has extensive knowledge and training in assessing and treating exceptional individuals of all ages presenting with cognitive, behavioral, and social-emotional challenges. She has worked in outpatient, private, academic, community, and residential settings, and is a culturally sensitive, affirming ally to all patients under her care. Dr. Lynch has provided therapeutic and evaluative services for individuals presenting with a wide range of issues, including learning disorders, executive functioning deficits, developmental
Dr. Courtney Lynch is a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience. Dr. Lynch has extensive knowledge and training in assessing and treating exceptional individuals of all ages presenting with cognitive, behavioral, and social-emotional challenges. She has worked in outpatient, private, academic, community, and residential settings, and is a culturally sensitive, affirming ally to all patients under her care. Dr. Lynch has provided therapeutic and evaluative services for individuals presenting with a wide range of issues, including learning disorders, executive functioning deficits, developmental
![Photo of Hana Dolan Haar, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26ce4789-78ea-4688-baa8-cb465f7a9816/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing feelings of constant worry and fear, can't shake the feeling that you aren't good enough, or like you should be doing more? Are you worried about your career or finances? Disappointed you aren't in the place you thought you would be at this age? Are you tired of comparing yourself to others on social media, using negative self-talk and procrastinating on your goals? Anxiety is your body's natural response to stress. It is a feeling of fear that can manifest differently from person to person. When left untreated, symptoms of anxiety can impair your daily functioning, career and relationships.
Are you experiencing feelings of constant worry and fear, can't shake the feeling that you aren't good enough, or like you should be doing more? Are you worried about your career or finances? Disappointed you aren't in the place you thought you would be at this age? Are you tired of comparing yourself to others on social media, using negative self-talk and procrastinating on your goals? Anxiety is your body's natural response to stress. It is a feeling of fear that can manifest differently from person to person. When left untreated, symptoms of anxiety can impair your daily functioning, career and relationships.
![Photo of Lauren Ritz, LPC, ACS, DRCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8285a501-69d2-41e3-93bf-37d6cf988dd1/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Lauren is committed to helping individuals acquire skills and strategies for coping with difficult life stressors. Lauren has extensive experience working with individuals dually diagnosed with mental illness and an intellectual/developmental disability. She assists parents navigating the world of special education and provides parent coaching to manage or modify behaviors of concern. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist, she works with individuals with varying experienced traumas utilizing a trauma informed lens in the therapeutic relationship.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Lauren is committed to helping individuals acquire skills and strategies for coping with difficult life stressors. Lauren has extensive experience working with individuals dually diagnosed with mental illness and an intellectual/developmental disability. She assists parents navigating the world of special education and provides parent coaching to manage or modify behaviors of concern. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist, she works with individuals with varying experienced traumas utilizing a trauma informed lens in the therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Abigail Marshall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20b2df95-7dc1-4170-a707-28b411de060d/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a trauma informed therapist, I am interested in the interconnectedness of the mind and body and use my training and experience to guide individuals through the process of identifying and strengthening the power within to achieve balance, joy, and a sense of greater purpose. I work using a holistic approach incorporating multiple aspects of the human experience, including nutrition, physical wellness and social or familial support. I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and have completed Level One through The IFS Institute.
As a trauma informed therapist, I am interested in the interconnectedness of the mind and body and use my training and experience to guide individuals through the process of identifying and strengthening the power within to achieve balance, joy, and a sense of greater purpose. I work using a holistic approach incorporating multiple aspects of the human experience, including nutrition, physical wellness and social or familial support. I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and have completed Level One through The IFS Institute.
![Photo of Barbara Lauer-Listhaus, Psy, D, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fde70b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Over the past thirty years, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults with diverse mental health issues including depression, anxiety, Post-concussive syndrome, ADHD, learning disabilities, ASD, addiction, grief, and trauma. Recognizing that individuals experience stress in many aspects of their life and struggle with life's transitions, I work with children and adolescents transitioning through the stages of development and with adults facing marital, parenting, custody and relationship issues. I conduct psychological and neuropsychological testing to evaluate for mental health, academic, and neurological issues.
Over the past thirty years, I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults with diverse mental health issues including depression, anxiety, Post-concussive syndrome, ADHD, learning disabilities, ASD, addiction, grief, and trauma. Recognizing that individuals experience stress in many aspects of their life and struggle with life's transitions, I work with children and adolescents transitioning through the stages of development and with adults facing marital, parenting, custody and relationship issues. I conduct psychological and neuropsychological testing to evaluate for mental health, academic, and neurological issues.
![Photo of Parin Kamdar, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3edba7db-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My interventions are drawn from cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), psychodynamic, and family systems approaches. I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, ADHD and related learning disabilities, developmental disorders, personality disorders, and family conflict. I also have extensive experience working with eating disorders through intensive internship and fellowship placements at The Renfrew Center of Philadelphia and Florida. I am well versed in the administration and interpretation of comprehensive psychological assessments. I work with clients across the lifespan helping to optimize inherent strengths to better cope with the demands of their academic, social, professional, and family contexts.
My interventions are drawn from cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), psychodynamic, and family systems approaches. I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, ADHD and related learning disabilities, developmental disorders, personality disorders, and family conflict. I also have extensive experience working with eating disorders through intensive internship and fellowship placements at The Renfrew Center of Philadelphia and Florida. I am well versed in the administration and interpretation of comprehensive psychological assessments. I work with clients across the lifespan helping to optimize inherent strengths to better cope with the demands of their academic, social, professional, and family contexts.
![Photo of Ilana Mazur, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e00bc9d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide a safe, supportive and non- judgmental environment in which to help you deal with the challenges or difficulties you are experiencing in your life. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, parenting issues, relationship issues or a health/medical condition, we will work together to find ways to help you better deal with your situation, find healthier ways of coping and experience a more manageable and fulfilling life.
I provide a safe, supportive and non- judgmental environment in which to help you deal with the challenges or difficulties you are experiencing in your life. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, parenting issues, relationship issues or a health/medical condition, we will work together to find ways to help you better deal with your situation, find healthier ways of coping and experience a more manageable and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Robert Brett Fechner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e79aa16-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether therapy is something you feel you need, something you want, or something your parents are making you do, understanding your deeper self is never a bad choice. But it can be a challenging one. I honor any person willing or wanting to embark on that adventure, and focus on helping my clients to identify, understand, and explore the aspects of their lives and their selves that feel stuck, painful, or not quite where they want them to be. I firmly believe that depth of understanding, emotional awareness, and rejuvenated coping skills are the foundations of progress, confidence, and success.
Whether therapy is something you feel you need, something you want, or something your parents are making you do, understanding your deeper self is never a bad choice. But it can be a challenging one. I honor any person willing or wanting to embark on that adventure, and focus on helping my clients to identify, understand, and explore the aspects of their lives and their selves that feel stuck, painful, or not quite where they want them to be. I firmly believe that depth of understanding, emotional awareness, and rejuvenated coping skills are the foundations of progress, confidence, and success.
![Photo of Roderick Alan Murphy - Murphy Counseling & Consulting LLC, MHS-C, LCADC, LPC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4887d3c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Murphy Counseling & Consulting LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MHS-C, LCADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Short Hills, NJ 07078 (Online Only)
Over 30 years experience in the Human Services field: Marriage/Couples counseling, Separation Mediation, Multi-talent in Behavioral Health, Mental health Disorders, Substance abuse & Addiction disorders, and Co-occurring & Dual diagnosis disorders populations. Dedicated as a professional to ensure that the health and well being of the consumers are met and that each consumer receive the proper individualized treatment course of action with professional and ethical implementation. I also provide Tele-Therapy/Health sessions. I am also a Veteran of the Armed Forces "Army"..... And open to my brother & sister Veterans to server.
Over 30 years experience in the Human Services field: Marriage/Couples counseling, Separation Mediation, Multi-talent in Behavioral Health, Mental health Disorders, Substance abuse & Addiction disorders, and Co-occurring & Dual diagnosis disorders populations. Dedicated as a professional to ensure that the health and well being of the consumers are met and that each consumer receive the proper individualized treatment course of action with professional and ethical implementation. I also provide Tele-Therapy/Health sessions. I am also a Veteran of the Armed Forces "Army"..... And open to my brother & sister Veterans to server.
![Photo of Katowitz Jeff, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9246d68-c2e1-4670-a437-a4675ab0c198/3/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal clients are those who are experiencing difficulties with blended family issues, adolescent development, trauma, grief and loss, separation and divorce. My role as a therapist is to facilitate a process of healing by partnering with each client. I believe it is essential to listen carefully to an individual, couple or family and develop a partnership that combines my training and experience as a practitioner with each persons unique capacity for healing and growth. Most importantly, the objective of intervention and caring is promoting the family's ability to support the passions and interests that exist in each individual.
My ideal clients are those who are experiencing difficulties with blended family issues, adolescent development, trauma, grief and loss, separation and divorce. My role as a therapist is to facilitate a process of healing by partnering with each client. I believe it is essential to listen carefully to an individual, couple or family and develop a partnership that combines my training and experience as a practitioner with each persons unique capacity for healing and growth. Most importantly, the objective of intervention and caring is promoting the family's ability to support the passions and interests that exist in each individual.
![Photo of Kathleen Silver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6861654-a426-41ea-bd80-f3acf98aa88b/3/320x400.jpeg)
One thing we are all guaranteed to experience in life is CHANGE! Our families, friends, finances, intimate relationships, our health and careers can be counted on to consistently serve up both welcome, sought-after changes, and at other times bewildering, overwhelming new issues. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients clarify those changes in their lives that have become most challenging. I seek to create the kind of warm, trusting, engaged relationship that enables my clients to explore and develop the personal insights, coping skills, and self-awareness to allow them to cope with existing and future life changes.
One thing we are all guaranteed to experience in life is CHANGE! Our families, friends, finances, intimate relationships, our health and careers can be counted on to consistently serve up both welcome, sought-after changes, and at other times bewildering, overwhelming new issues. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients clarify those changes in their lives that have become most challenging. I seek to create the kind of warm, trusting, engaged relationship that enables my clients to explore and develop the personal insights, coping skills, and self-awareness to allow them to cope with existing and future life changes.
![Photo of Perry J Bell, Psy D, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/532b6e4f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My focus is on the treatment of children, adolescents and families. Children often present with behavior and learning challenges, anxiety, depression, stress and technology obsessions. Parents play a significant role in developing goals and strategies. I also focus on the adolescent years and work frequently with school stress, social challenges, anxiety, depression, technology inundations and athletic performance. Overarching is the culture and dynamic of the families in which children and adolescents live. The goal is to feel better about our self, interact better with those in our life and develop skills to manage.
My focus is on the treatment of children, adolescents and families. Children often present with behavior and learning challenges, anxiety, depression, stress and technology obsessions. Parents play a significant role in developing goals and strategies. I also focus on the adolescent years and work frequently with school stress, social challenges, anxiety, depression, technology inundations and athletic performance. Overarching is the culture and dynamic of the families in which children and adolescents live. The goal is to feel better about our self, interact better with those in our life and develop skills to manage.
![Photo of Zasah S. Khademi, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37e02cc3-4491-4dd2-8d95-50ad1dacaec6/2/320x400.png)
Zasah S. Khademi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Short Hills, NJ 07078
Life can be challenging in the best of times. In these especially tumultuous times everything is harder, and it can become overwhelming to cope. You are here because you want to change…or maybe you just need a little help and support through tough times. Using an integrative, holistic approach I will provide you with the empathy and tools you need to feel and do better. You are in charge, you set the destination and the goals you want to achieve, and we try to get there together. I provide compassionate therapeutic support for children and adolescents, adults, couples, parents and families.
Life can be challenging in the best of times. In these especially tumultuous times everything is harder, and it can become overwhelming to cope. You are here because you want to change…or maybe you just need a little help and support through tough times. Using an integrative, holistic approach I will provide you with the empathy and tools you need to feel and do better. You are in charge, you set the destination and the goals you want to achieve, and we try to get there together. I provide compassionate therapeutic support for children and adolescents, adults, couples, parents and families.
See more therapy options for Short Hills
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Short Hills
- Chatham
- Florham Park
- Livingston
- Madison
- Maplewood
- Millburn
- Mountainside
- New Providence
- South Orange
- Springfield
- Summit
- Union
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.