Autism Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Rebecca McKee - The 13th Child Autism & Behavioral Coaching, Inc, MSEd, BCBA
The 13th Child Autism & Behavioral Coaching, Inc
MSEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11226
The 13th Child Autism & Behavioral Coaching, Inc. is a consulting company focused on those living with Autism Spectrum Disorder & other socio-behavioral uniqueness. Direct teaching is available in a 1-1 setting within the home or school, as well as incidental teaching in the natural environment of classrooms and households. We focus on children, teens and adults that struggle academically, behaviorally and socially.
The 13th Child Autism & Behavioral Coaching, Inc. is a consulting company focused on those living with Autism Spectrum Disorder & other socio-behavioral uniqueness. Direct teaching is available in a 1-1 setting within the home or school, as well as incidental teaching in the natural environment of classrooms and households. We focus on children, teens and adults that struggle academically, behaviorally and socially.
(718) 316-8057 View (718) 316-8057
Photo of Kate Lawlor, PsyD, Psychologist
Kate Lawlor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
My training background combines clinical psychology with children, adolescents, and adults, with highly specialized training and research in neuropsychology. I specialize in neuropsychological assessment, which includes diagnosing neurological and psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety and depression. My assessments provide a detailed look at brain functioning, assessing different skills, such as memory, attention, executive functioning, language, academics, and emotions, and how they interplay to create unique learning profiles for each individual.
My training background combines clinical psychology with children, adolescents, and adults, with highly specialized training and research in neuropsychology. I specialize in neuropsychological assessment, which includes diagnosing neurological and psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, learning disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety and depression. My assessments provide a detailed look at brain functioning, assessing different skills, such as memory, attention, executive functioning, language, academics, and emotions, and how they interplay to create unique learning profiles for each individual.
(929) 239-4370 View (929) 239-4370
Photo of Dawn D Dugan - All Spectrums Therapy, PhD, Psychologist
All Spectrums Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11232
I bring flexibility, compassion, and optimism to my work as a clinical psychologist. With specialized training in Body Focused Repetitive Disorders (trichotillomania/hair pulling & skin picking), Autism, and different anxiety conditions, I will help you feel understood and supported as we collaborate to come up with an action plan to move forward. My goal is help you reduce suffering and feelings of isolation and anxiety, and actualize a full and meaningful life. Recognizing that treatment is not a one-size-fits-all experience, our work together will be tailored to address your unique struggles and goals.
I bring flexibility, compassion, and optimism to my work as a clinical psychologist. With specialized training in Body Focused Repetitive Disorders (trichotillomania/hair pulling & skin picking), Autism, and different anxiety conditions, I will help you feel understood and supported as we collaborate to come up with an action plan to move forward. My goal is help you reduce suffering and feelings of isolation and anxiety, and actualize a full and meaningful life. Recognizing that treatment is not a one-size-fits-all experience, our work together will be tailored to address your unique struggles and goals.
(929) 203-9717 View (929) 203-9717
Photo of Kai Kangas-Dick, PhD, Psychologist
Kai Kangas-Dick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11232
Across the span of child and adolescent development, every individual has a unique personal story and strengths that shine through, even in the face of challenge. I work with individuals from preschool through college and beyond, but my expertise is in early childhood and elementary-age development. With specialized experience and training in working with neurodiverse learners, including those with ADHD and autism, as well as gender-diverse individuals, I integrate evidence-based approaches to empower individuals and families with information, tools, and strategies to facilitate positive adjustment and wellbeing.
Across the span of child and adolescent development, every individual has a unique personal story and strengths that shine through, even in the face of challenge. I work with individuals from preschool through college and beyond, but my expertise is in early childhood and elementary-age development. With specialized experience and training in working with neurodiverse learners, including those with ADHD and autism, as well as gender-diverse individuals, I integrate evidence-based approaches to empower individuals and families with information, tools, and strategies to facilitate positive adjustment and wellbeing.
(646) 480-7346 View (646) 480-7346
Photo of Carli Koch, PhD, MSEd, Psychologist
Carli Koch
Psychologist, PhD, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I support children, adolescents, and adults with trauma, anxiety, stress, Autism, and ADHD.
Are you struggling to balance work and your personal goals? Do you repeat patterns in your relationships but can't figure out why? Are you a parent trying to manage all of your roles? I believe that therapy should be collaborative and focused on improving the quality of your life. It should be a place where you can honestly share your stress and find the resources within yourself to cope. Sometimes, we are able to quickly move past negative events in our lives and, other times, we need more skills. I have advanced clinical training in EMDR therapy to help people get past those stuck points and make deep internal changes.
I support children, adolescents, and adults with trauma, anxiety, stress, Autism, and ADHD.
Are you struggling to balance work and your personal goals? Do you repeat patterns in your relationships but can't figure out why? Are you a parent trying to manage all of your roles? I believe that therapy should be collaborative and focused on improving the quality of your life. It should be a place where you can honestly share your stress and find the resources within yourself to cope. Sometimes, we are able to quickly move past negative events in our lives and, other times, we need more skills. I have advanced clinical training in EMDR therapy to help people get past those stuck points and make deep internal changes.
(347) 727-1707 View (347) 727-1707
Photo of Nicole Gorden, MS, BCBA, LBA
Nicole Gorden
MS, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11213
Hi! My name is Nikki and I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) in NYC. I've worked with children with Autism and other special needs for over 13 years. I am enthusiastic, reliable, creative, and passionate about children and their growth. I would love to meet all your wonderful loved ones.
Hi! My name is Nikki and I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) in NYC. I've worked with children with Autism and other special needs for over 13 years. I am enthusiastic, reliable, creative, and passionate about children and their growth. I would love to meet all your wonderful loved ones.
(848) 999-5796 View (848) 999-5796
Photo of Dina Larina, MA, LMHC, RPT, Counselor
Dina Larina
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I have helped multiple children and teens with Autism/ADHD address their unique challenges.
I help children and teens struggling with anxiety and anger, feeling overwhelmed, feeling like they don't fit in and are misunderstood, to feel more confident and connected. Maybe your teen is withdrawn or your child stopped responding to you. Maybe things are stuck and you don't know what to do. Common issues such as academic struggles, peer relationships, family conflict, transitions and changes can cause rifts and tensions. Parents want their children to thrive and be resilient. I have helped children and teens gain emotional resilience and to develop healthier habits an coping mechanisms.
I have helped multiple children and teens with Autism/ADHD address their unique challenges.
I help children and teens struggling with anxiety and anger, feeling overwhelmed, feeling like they don't fit in and are misunderstood, to feel more confident and connected. Maybe your teen is withdrawn or your child stopped responding to you. Maybe things are stuck and you don't know what to do. Common issues such as academic struggles, peer relationships, family conflict, transitions and changes can cause rifts and tensions. Parents want their children to thrive and be resilient. I have helped children and teens gain emotional resilience and to develop healthier habits an coping mechanisms.
(718) 569-7552 View (718) 569-7552
Photo of Anna Prendella, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Prendella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211
I’m an LMSW providing both individual and family therapy, including couples therapy; I specialize in work with survivors of abuse and sexual violence, queer and trans people, people with neurodivergences and intellectual and developmental disabilities, and people with nontraditional family systems, including adoptive families. I am gender-affirming and Autism-affirming. My approach is psychodynamic, informed by trauma theory, disability justice, and anti-oppressive theory. I have particular experience in the areas of intergenerational trauma, caretaking relationships, and abuse recovery and prevention.
I’m an LMSW providing both individual and family therapy, including couples therapy; I specialize in work with survivors of abuse and sexual violence, queer and trans people, people with neurodivergences and intellectual and developmental disabilities, and people with nontraditional family systems, including adoptive families. I am gender-affirming and Autism-affirming. My approach is psychodynamic, informed by trauma theory, disability justice, and anti-oppressive theory. I have particular experience in the areas of intergenerational trauma, caretaking relationships, and abuse recovery and prevention.
(347) 454-7338 View (347) 454-7338
Photo of Keeley Teemsma, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keeley Teemsma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Are you someone who has recently discovered you're on the Autism Spectrum later in life? Perhaps you've always felt a bit different but didn't have a name for it until now? You're not alone, & this journey of self-discovery can be both enlightening and challenging. I embrace a neurodiversity-affirming approach, recognizing & celebrating the diverse ways our brains work. If you’re a neurotypical parent struggling to accept your child’s diagnosis, stressed by IEP meetings, coping w/ seeing your child treated unfairly, or looking for insight into your child’s sensory challenges, I’m here for you too. (Note: I do not work with minors.)
Are you someone who has recently discovered you're on the Autism Spectrum later in life? Perhaps you've always felt a bit different but didn't have a name for it until now? You're not alone, & this journey of self-discovery can be both enlightening and challenging. I embrace a neurodiversity-affirming approach, recognizing & celebrating the diverse ways our brains work. If you’re a neurotypical parent struggling to accept your child’s diagnosis, stressed by IEP meetings, coping w/ seeing your child treated unfairly, or looking for insight into your child’s sensory challenges, I’m here for you too. (Note: I do not work with minors.)
(516) 246-2274 View (516) 246-2274
Photo of Julia Jacobson, LCSW, MSEd, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Jacobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSEd, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I have over 15 years of experience working with children and families. I have treated children with a variety of issues, including: attention and hyperactivity disorders, autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorders, and other behavioral difficulties. I work with children who have experienced trauma, have attachment difficulties, family disruptions, or adjustment issues. I have experience running social skills groups and am trained in Child-Parent Relationship Therapy. I am a member of the Association for Play Therapy and am a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor.
I have over 15 years of experience working with children and families. I have treated children with a variety of issues, including: attention and hyperactivity disorders, autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorders, and other behavioral difficulties. I work with children who have experienced trauma, have attachment difficulties, family disruptions, or adjustment issues. I have experience running social skills groups and am trained in Child-Parent Relationship Therapy. I am a member of the Association for Play Therapy and am a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor.
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Photo of Emma Downing, MS, LCAT, BC-DMT
Emma Downing
MS, LCAT, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Waitlist for new clients
My practice largely serves folks in the LGBTQIA+ community to address their unique needs, but all are welcome. A major focus of my work is with Complex Trauma - supporting folks who have been through subtle or not-so-subtle physical, emotional, and sexual traumas or neglect. Emphasis is placed on how one’s childhood environment can shape adulthood patterns of behavior and relationships. We can work to uncover where these patterns came from, if they are serving you now, and how to shift them if they are not. I also work with folks on the Autism Spectrum, with a focus on the challenges facing those who were diagnosed after childhood.
My practice largely serves folks in the LGBTQIA+ community to address their unique needs, but all are welcome. A major focus of my work is with Complex Trauma - supporting folks who have been through subtle or not-so-subtle physical, emotional, and sexual traumas or neglect. Emphasis is placed on how one’s childhood environment can shape adulthood patterns of behavior and relationships. We can work to uncover where these patterns came from, if they are serving you now, and how to shift them if they are not. I also work with folks on the Autism Spectrum, with a focus on the challenges facing those who were diagnosed after childhood.
(518) 302-2961 View (518) 302-2961
Photo of Kyle Austin, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Kyle Austin
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
Navigating life’s challenges in an increasingly chaotic world can feel overwhelming, scary, and even numbing; as a licensed counselor I believe in the power of therapy to facilitate healing, growth, safety, serenity, and self-actualization in the face of life's many demands. I am a passionate advocate for social equity, justice, and accessibility to services for all, and while I work with people of all walks and persuasions, I specialize in therapy with those struggling with ADHD, challenges related to being on the autism spectrum, depression, anxiety, trauma, and members of the LGBTQ+ community,
Navigating life’s challenges in an increasingly chaotic world can feel overwhelming, scary, and even numbing; as a licensed counselor I believe in the power of therapy to facilitate healing, growth, safety, serenity, and self-actualization in the face of life's many demands. I am a passionate advocate for social equity, justice, and accessibility to services for all, and while I work with people of all walks and persuasions, I specialize in therapy with those struggling with ADHD, challenges related to being on the autism spectrum, depression, anxiety, trauma, and members of the LGBTQ+ community,
(347) 697-4327 View (347) 697-4327
Photo of Chelsea Irwin, LCSW, CPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Irwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
Perhaps you’ve been feeling isolated, frustrated, or like something needs fixing, but you are unsure where to begin? Current crises, past traumas, fear of failure, and difficulty in relationships can make everyday life overwhelming. If you are suffering silently, therapy with a trusted professional can be a great next step. I have several years experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, trauma-related disorders/PTSD, and personality disorders. I work with adults, teenagers, couples, and families.
Perhaps you’ve been feeling isolated, frustrated, or like something needs fixing, but you are unsure where to begin? Current crises, past traumas, fear of failure, and difficulty in relationships can make everyday life overwhelming. If you are suffering silently, therapy with a trusted professional can be a great next step. I have several years experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, trauma-related disorders/PTSD, and personality disorders. I work with adults, teenagers, couples, and families.
(646) 553-6399 View (646) 553-6399
Photo of Samantha Strauss, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Samantha Strauss
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11221  (Online Only)
Have you ever felt like you're tirelessly trying to keep pace in a world that doesn't quite align with your rhythm? Do you find yourself grappling with negative self-talk, guilt and ‘should-haves’? Why do things seem effortless for others but not for you? Do you often feel that your needs aren't met? You want to feel good about life and find meaningful connections but you struggle to do so. If this resonates with you, know that you are not alone in these feelings. In a world that often misunderstands, there's a place where your experiences are fully appreciated. If you have anxiety, Autism or ADHD then this is a safe space for you.
Have you ever felt like you're tirelessly trying to keep pace in a world that doesn't quite align with your rhythm? Do you find yourself grappling with negative self-talk, guilt and ‘should-haves’? Why do things seem effortless for others but not for you? Do you often feel that your needs aren't met? You want to feel good about life and find meaningful connections but you struggle to do so. If this resonates with you, know that you are not alone in these feelings. In a world that often misunderstands, there's a place where your experiences are fully appreciated. If you have anxiety, Autism or ADHD then this is a safe space for you.
(917) 397-6303 View (917) 397-6303
Photo of Bret Boatwright, PsyD, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Bret Boatwright
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD, LLP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11221  (Online Only)
This journey focuses on enhancing your strengths—creativity, empathy, authenticity—& embracing your ADHD or Autism, your neurodivergence, as a vibrant, unique lens to thrive on your own terms.
Living as an ADHD or Autistic adult can be frustrating and overwhelming. You might feel out of step with the world or misunderstood. Why don’t people just say what they mean? Why can’t people respect your process just because it’s different? Why can’t you feel more at peace with your body, mind, and senses? Our minds are colorful and complex, yet we struggle in a world not tailored to our unique patterns. Adapting and masking our true selves to fit in can be exhausting. The constant need to adapt, the feeling of being misunderstood, and the search for a space where you can be your true self is a path you need not walk alone.
This journey focuses on enhancing your strengths—creativity, empathy, authenticity—& embracing your ADHD or Autism, your neurodivergence, as a vibrant, unique lens to thrive on your own terms.
Living as an ADHD or Autistic adult can be frustrating and overwhelming. You might feel out of step with the world or misunderstood. Why don’t people just say what they mean? Why can’t people respect your process just because it’s different? Why can’t you feel more at peace with your body, mind, and senses? Our minds are colorful and complex, yet we struggle in a world not tailored to our unique patterns. Adapting and masking our true selves to fit in can be exhausting. The constant need to adapt, the feeling of being misunderstood, and the search for a space where you can be your true self is a path you need not walk alone.
(929) 224-4497 View (929) 224-4497
Photo of Zonya Mitchell Neuropsychologist, Psychologist
Zonya Mitchell Neuropsychologist
Psychologist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11203
Areas of expertise include Autism, ADHD, Alzheimer's Disorder, Dementia, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia, Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, and many other neurological issues.
When conducting neuropsychological testing, my mission is to provide a warm and caring environment and to see the complete person so that you leave feeling like you have been heard. As a trained neuropsychologist I understand neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as attention and learning difficulties and how they affect abilities. Psychological/neuropsychological evaluations include assessment of all brain functioning, academic performance, language, and social/emotional development. My aim is to help determine how you or your child are functioning now and how to best help you move forward.
Areas of expertise include Autism, ADHD, Alzheimer's Disorder, Dementia, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia, Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, and many other neurological issues.
When conducting neuropsychological testing, my mission is to provide a warm and caring environment and to see the complete person so that you leave feeling like you have been heard. As a trained neuropsychologist I understand neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as attention and learning difficulties and how they affect abilities. Psychological/neuropsychological evaluations include assessment of all brain functioning, academic performance, language, and social/emotional development. My aim is to help determine how you or your child are functioning now and how to best help you move forward.
(646) 652-8156 View (646) 652-8156
Photo of Rebecca Sachs, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Rebecca Sachs
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Waitlist for new clients
I bring warmth, sensitivity & a strong sense of humor as a clinical psychologist. With expertise in treating Autism OCD & Anxiety I have developed a specialized niche in working with individuals with these often co-occurring challenges. Using Cognitive Behavior Therapy, including Exposure and Response Prevention, and Mindfulness strategies I will help you develop an action plan to move forward reducing feelings of isolation and having a meaningful successful life. Often sought out to treat extreme symptoms I approach all patients with a goal-oriented style that teaches you and your family skills & techniques to help live the life you want.
I bring warmth, sensitivity & a strong sense of humor as a clinical psychologist. With expertise in treating Autism OCD & Anxiety I have developed a specialized niche in working with individuals with these often co-occurring challenges. Using Cognitive Behavior Therapy, including Exposure and Response Prevention, and Mindfulness strategies I will help you develop an action plan to move forward reducing feelings of isolation and having a meaningful successful life. Often sought out to treat extreme symptoms I approach all patients with a goal-oriented style that teaches you and your family skills & techniques to help live the life you want.
(347) 763-8658 View (347) 763-8658
Photo of Dr. Abe Zubarev, DHSc, DPS, BCD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Abe Zubarev
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DHSc, DPS, BCD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I work with male clients, primarily gay male clients and those seeking to discuss men's issues, self-esteem, and/or autism.
I work with male clients, primarily gay male clients and those seeking to discuss men's issues, self-esteem, and/or autism.
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Photo of Megan Harkins, MA, MHC-LP
Megan Harkins
MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11226
My experience extends to working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults dealing with anxiety, autism, ADHD, sibling conflicts, low self-esteem, and poor social skills.
Taking the initial step to open up and initiate therapy can be quite difficult. If you’re here, you’ve already accomplished one of the toughest parts of your journey. Together, we can embark on a path to acquire valuable skills that will enrich your daily life. I approach each individual from where they currently are, offering a warm and accepting environment to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. My goal is to help my clients strengthen their sense of self, ultimately reducing their suffering while increasing their joy and fulfillment.
My experience extends to working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults dealing with anxiety, autism, ADHD, sibling conflicts, low self-esteem, and poor social skills.
Taking the initial step to open up and initiate therapy can be quite difficult. If you’re here, you’ve already accomplished one of the toughest parts of your journey. Together, we can embark on a path to acquire valuable skills that will enrich your daily life. I approach each individual from where they currently are, offering a warm and accepting environment to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. My goal is to help my clients strengthen their sense of self, ultimately reducing their suffering while increasing their joy and fulfillment.
(347) 835-4716 View (347) 835-4716
Photo of Gabrielle Shelby Austein, LCSW, SIFI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabrielle Shelby Austein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11235
Psychotherapy available for Individuals, Couples, Co-parenting, Families, also Neurodivergent Autism, ADHD, OCD &BPD.
I believe therapy should be long term and built on the strong relationship between therapist and client. My approach is solution focused with forward orientation. I try to encourage clients to share at their pace & they will be met exactly where they are at. Anything shared is viewed as a gift & a privilege to hear. I practice eclectic psychotherapy using a wide range of tools, training, and skills with my life experience to support clients in being able to achieve the desired change, acceptance, or processing they may be seeking. I want you to feel safe enough to finally tell someone: what happened to you. You are no longer alone.
Psychotherapy available for Individuals, Couples, Co-parenting, Families, also Neurodivergent Autism, ADHD, OCD &BPD.
I believe therapy should be long term and built on the strong relationship between therapist and client. My approach is solution focused with forward orientation. I try to encourage clients to share at their pace & they will be met exactly where they are at. Anything shared is viewed as a gift & a privilege to hear. I practice eclectic psychotherapy using a wide range of tools, training, and skills with my life experience to support clients in being able to achieve the desired change, acceptance, or processing they may be seeking. I want you to feel safe enough to finally tell someone: what happened to you. You are no longer alone.
(929) 407-3235 View (929) 407-3235
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.