Autism Therapists in Dobbs Ferry, NY
![Photo of Dr. Laura Cyran, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec94dd3c-4b8f-4ccb-93a6-51cda7c72f66/1/320x400.jpeg)
Planning, organization, and time management can be especially difficult for someone with ADHD or autism.
If you struggle with frequent "what if" thoughts, intrusive thoughts, or feeling like you are always trying to manage or control your anxiety, I want you to know that relief is possible. I specialize in working with teens and adults with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, perfectionism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic attacks, procrastination, and high-pressure academic or occupational environments. My guess is that if you struggle with these, you have been working very hard to feel better. I would love to work with you to develop new, evidence-backed strategies to respond to your anxiety and find relief.
Planning, organization, and time management can be especially difficult for someone with ADHD or autism.
If you struggle with frequent "what if" thoughts, intrusive thoughts, or feeling like you are always trying to manage or control your anxiety, I want you to know that relief is possible. I specialize in working with teens and adults with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, perfectionism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic attacks, procrastination, and high-pressure academic or occupational environments. My guess is that if you struggle with these, you have been working very hard to feel better. I would love to work with you to develop new, evidence-backed strategies to respond to your anxiety and find relief.
![Photo of Krista Nelson, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b2e7d07-c02a-49d1-ab73-f2bb78037d37/2/320x400.jpeg)
Change is hard. If it was easy to make the changes you want in your life, I believe you would have made them already. My approach to psychotherapy centers on non-judgmental acceptance, validation, and exploration. I work to help you increase your self-understanding, confidence, self-compassion, and ability to enact change in your own life. The work is also focused on alleviating anxiety, depression, irritability, low self-image, and relationship challenges. I draw upon a range of therapeutic approaches to tailor our work together so that each encounter is based on your needs and preferences.
Change is hard. If it was easy to make the changes you want in your life, I believe you would have made them already. My approach to psychotherapy centers on non-judgmental acceptance, validation, and exploration. I work to help you increase your self-understanding, confidence, self-compassion, and ability to enact change in your own life. The work is also focused on alleviating anxiety, depression, irritability, low self-image, and relationship challenges. I draw upon a range of therapeutic approaches to tailor our work together so that each encounter is based on your needs and preferences.
![Photo of Emily Lantz, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c6dfc50-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deciding to begin therapy can be a turning point in your life. I work with children, adolescents and adults using supportive and insight-oriented psychotherapy for issues related to adjustment and stress (e.g. anxiety, depression) as well as specializing in conditions that affect the brain (e.g. learning disorders, ADHD, brain injury, memory problems). As a clinical psychologist and a neuropsychologist, I have specialized dual training in brain behavior relationships and take a psychodynamic approach when working with clients therapeutically. I also integrate cognitive behavioral techniques to help my clients meet their treatment goals.
Deciding to begin therapy can be a turning point in your life. I work with children, adolescents and adults using supportive and insight-oriented psychotherapy for issues related to adjustment and stress (e.g. anxiety, depression) as well as specializing in conditions that affect the brain (e.g. learning disorders, ADHD, brain injury, memory problems). As a clinical psychologist and a neuropsychologist, I have specialized dual training in brain behavior relationships and take a psychodynamic approach when working with clients therapeutically. I also integrate cognitive behavioral techniques to help my clients meet their treatment goals.
![Photo of Mindy Levine, LCSW, BCD, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a485070-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
It is often difficult to find ways to resolve our problems without feeling defeated, depleted, frustrated, sad, alone and angry. My goal in developing the therapeutic relationship, is to create a space where you can feel safe expressing whatever thoughts and feelings you may have regarding your current concerns and worries. Life is full of challenges, emotional, physical, familial, financial, etc. Therapy can help you to find paths to alleviating problems, while enabling you to become more self-confident, self-evolved with greater satisfaction about your life.
It is often difficult to find ways to resolve our problems without feeling defeated, depleted, frustrated, sad, alone and angry. My goal in developing the therapeutic relationship, is to create a space where you can feel safe expressing whatever thoughts and feelings you may have regarding your current concerns and worries. Life is full of challenges, emotional, physical, familial, financial, etc. Therapy can help you to find paths to alleviating problems, while enabling you to become more self-confident, self-evolved with greater satisfaction about your life.
![Photo of Laurie Gruenberger, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d52c2e2b-f3a8-4018-a938-0b8245471a5c/3/320x400.jpeg)
The decision to begin therapy for yourself or your child can be difficult and often follows attempts to manage challenging life circumstances independently. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a supportive, nonjudgmental, and compassionate setting. I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience in Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Family Psychotherapy, Parent Consultation, Couples Therapy, and Special Education and 504 Plan Consultation.
The decision to begin therapy for yourself or your child can be difficult and often follows attempts to manage challenging life circumstances independently. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a supportive, nonjudgmental, and compassionate setting. I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience in Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Family Psychotherapy, Parent Consultation, Couples Therapy, and Special Education and 504 Plan Consultation.
![Photo of Jeanette Sawyer Cohen, PhD, MS, MPhil, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e341ea5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeanette Sawyer Cohen
Psychologist, PhD, MS, MPhil
Verified Verified
Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Parenting is hard work! I can help. I am a Columbia University trained Clinical Psychologist specializing in maternal and child mental health and development. Women and/or their partners often seek support during pregnancy or the postpartum period for anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficulty adjusting. Parents with children of any age seeking their own psychotherapy often find is helpful to speak with someone who understands child development and issues related to parenting. Psychotherapy is individualized and may include aspects of psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches.
Parenting is hard work! I can help. I am a Columbia University trained Clinical Psychologist specializing in maternal and child mental health and development. Women and/or their partners often seek support during pregnancy or the postpartum period for anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficulty adjusting. Parents with children of any age seeking their own psychotherapy often find is helpful to speak with someone who understands child development and issues related to parenting. Psychotherapy is individualized and may include aspects of psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based approaches.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Joanna Nappi, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7501ac92-c2c9-4ac8-9874-962660bdaf2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
By searching for a therapist, you have already taken the first step towards creating the life you want. I view everyday as a fresh start and an opportunity to become whoever you want to be. As a therapist, I work with children, adolescents, and adults on a wide range of issues/topics, such as, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, gender and sexuality, life transitions, relational difficulties, and emotional regulation. I am especially interested in LGBTQIA+ issues, emerging adulthood, Autism / ASD, women's issues, incorporating art/movement/creativity, parent training, and fostering the mind-body connection.
By searching for a therapist, you have already taken the first step towards creating the life you want. I view everyday as a fresh start and an opportunity to become whoever you want to be. As a therapist, I work with children, adolescents, and adults on a wide range of issues/topics, such as, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, gender and sexuality, life transitions, relational difficulties, and emotional regulation. I am especially interested in LGBTQIA+ issues, emerging adulthood, Autism / ASD, women's issues, incorporating art/movement/creativity, parent training, and fostering the mind-body connection.
![Photo of Laura Gauer Bermudez, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d5198b0-f42e-4c4c-84c1-fc746e32b5fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Gauer Bermudez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
In my practice, I primarily serve adolescents (10-19) and young adults (20s-30s) with presenting issues including but not limited to anxiety, relationship conflict, low self-esteem, trauma, transitions to college, career stress/uncertainty, and grief/loss. Additionally, as a family member to children and adults on the Autism spectrum, I work with ASD clients, parents, partners, and other loved ones to help them better understand this form of neurodiversity.
In my practice, I primarily serve adolescents (10-19) and young adults (20s-30s) with presenting issues including but not limited to anxiety, relationship conflict, low self-esteem, trauma, transitions to college, career stress/uncertainty, and grief/loss. Additionally, as a family member to children and adults on the Autism spectrum, I work with ASD clients, parents, partners, and other loved ones to help them better understand this form of neurodiversity.
![Photo of Jill Brickman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5e7b2e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Are you or your child struggling in school? Is reading, writing, math, or inattention leading to academic or emotional problems? Do you suspect Autism or Asperger's Disorder? I offer complete psychological assessments tailored to your individual needs and questions.
Are you or your child struggling in school? Is reading, writing, math, or inattention leading to academic or emotional problems? Do you suspect Autism or Asperger's Disorder? I offer complete psychological assessments tailored to your individual needs and questions.
![Photo of Lisa A DeDomenico, PhD, BCBA, LBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/548889e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa A DeDomenico
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvington, NY 10533
Waitlist for new clients
I treat children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation issues, OCD, ADHD, autism & other behavioral difficulties that interfere with participating in life activities.
As a licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist & licensed behavioral analyst, I treat children, teens and young adults presenting with a wide range of emotional difficulties. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients to help gain a deeper understanding of themselves and make effective changes in their lives. In my practice I utilize techniques that help facilitate a change in mindset. I have completed training at Mindful Schools and The Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy among others and I incorporate mindfulness into sessions on an individual basis for interested families.
I treat children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation issues, OCD, ADHD, autism & other behavioral difficulties that interfere with participating in life activities.
As a licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist & licensed behavioral analyst, I treat children, teens and young adults presenting with a wide range of emotional difficulties. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients to help gain a deeper understanding of themselves and make effective changes in their lives. In my practice I utilize techniques that help facilitate a change in mindset. I have completed training at Mindful Schools and The Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy among others and I incorporate mindfulness into sessions on an individual basis for interested families.
![Photo of Karina G. Campos, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41c7e2dd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Campos specializes in treating various clinical issues, such as anxiety disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, social problems, organization and executive functioning difficulties.
Dr. Campos is a licensed CT and NY state clinical psychologist. Dr. Campos works with children, adolescents and young adults. She also works with individuals and couples having difficulties related to pregnancy, and prenatal and neonatal health and parenting. Common issues parents experience include transitioning to new parenthood, sleep difficulties, postpartum depression, and relationship stress. Dr. Campos completed her undergraduate psychology degree at UCLA and her masters and doctoral degrees at Pepperdine University. Dr. Campos completed her APA approved doctoral internship at NYU Child Study Center and Bellevue Hospital. She has extensive training in several evidence-based treatments, including ABA, PCIT, DBT, PEERS, TF-CBT.
Campos specializes in treating various clinical issues, such as anxiety disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, social problems, organization and executive functioning difficulties.
Dr. Campos is a licensed CT and NY state clinical psychologist. Dr. Campos works with children, adolescents and young adults. She also works with individuals and couples having difficulties related to pregnancy, and prenatal and neonatal health and parenting. Common issues parents experience include transitioning to new parenthood, sleep difficulties, postpartum depression, and relationship stress. Dr. Campos completed her undergraduate psychology degree at UCLA and her masters and doctoral degrees at Pepperdine University. Dr. Campos completed her APA approved doctoral internship at NYU Child Study Center and Bellevue Hospital. She has extensive training in several evidence-based treatments, including ABA, PCIT, DBT, PEERS, TF-CBT.
![Photo of Yedidya Levy - Alloy Psychotherapy (Low Cost Specialized Care), PsyD, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f241c7d-7e71-4ae6-878a-637471e21f3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alloy Psychotherapy (Low Cost Specialized Care)
PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Rochelle, NY 10804
Our therapists specialize in depression, anxiety, OCD, relationships, autism, life transitions, grief, and more. Some of our clinicians accept insurance, and others can be seen for as low as $100 per session. Therapists at Alloy Psychotherapy are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Our clinicians prioritize curiosity, honesty, and effective treatment modalities. Let us know what you are looking for so we can connect you with the best-fitting therapist. My name is Dr. Didi Levy, and I founded Alloy Psychotherapy. Feel free to reach out for a free consultation.
Our therapists specialize in depression, anxiety, OCD, relationships, autism, life transitions, grief, and more. Some of our clinicians accept insurance, and others can be seen for as low as $100 per session. Therapists at Alloy Psychotherapy are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Our clinicians prioritize curiosity, honesty, and effective treatment modalities. Let us know what you are looking for so we can connect you with the best-fitting therapist. My name is Dr. Didi Levy, and I founded Alloy Psychotherapy. Feel free to reach out for a free consultation.
In general, I offer neuropsychological evaluations, autism evaluations (including the ADOS-2, when appropriate), and other psychological assessments.
I provide evaluations for a diverse range of clients. Reasons people seek me out include (but are not limited to): diagnostic clarification, better understanding of themselves or their children, guidance in educational/vocational/therapeutic treatment planning. I help clients answer questions such as: Are these behaviors/patterns a clinical problem? Is there a diagnosis that is appropriate for me? What does that mean? Where do I go from here?
In general, I offer neuropsychological evaluations, autism evaluations (including the ADOS-2, when appropriate), and other psychological assessments.
I provide evaluations for a diverse range of clients. Reasons people seek me out include (but are not limited to): diagnostic clarification, better understanding of themselves or their children, guidance in educational/vocational/therapeutic treatment planning. I help clients answer questions such as: Are these behaviors/patterns a clinical problem? Is there a diagnosis that is appropriate for me? What does that mean? Where do I go from here?
![Photo of Kane Tung - Van Reipen Counseling and Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ebffcb4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Van Reipen Counseling and Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hartsdale, NY 10530 (Online Only)
As a single father of a non-verbal Autistic child and previous staff Psychologist for premier centers for Autism, Hospitals, Neuropsychology clinics, Hospices & Nursing Homes, I constantly train intensely in the field of Autism as if my child's life depends on it, because it does.
I strive to be the therapist I'd want for myself—actively engaged and genuinely invested in your journey. I customize action plans that work for you and help you understand your genuine self: like a Scientific/Psychological Horoscope Reading. Whether new to therapy or experienced, clients often find me to be their secret weapon in navigating life's challenges. I specialize in DBT, ACT, CBT, and Gottman Couples Therapy, as well as extensive work with Autism/ADHD, Grief and End-of-Life issues, integrating these approaches to help you Survive. Live. Upgrade/Evolve. Not necessarily in that order.
As a single father of a non-verbal Autistic child and previous staff Psychologist for premier centers for Autism, Hospitals, Neuropsychology clinics, Hospices & Nursing Homes, I constantly train intensely in the field of Autism as if my child's life depends on it, because it does.
I strive to be the therapist I'd want for myself—actively engaged and genuinely invested in your journey. I customize action plans that work for you and help you understand your genuine self: like a Scientific/Psychological Horoscope Reading. Whether new to therapy or experienced, clients often find me to be their secret weapon in navigating life's challenges. I specialize in DBT, ACT, CBT, and Gottman Couples Therapy, as well as extensive work with Autism/ADHD, Grief and End-of-Life issues, integrating these approaches to help you Survive. Live. Upgrade/Evolve. Not necessarily in that order.
![Photo of Ava Dorfman, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a34a33a0-14e0-4933-862c-d1b7c93691d2/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation of children with diverse learning, developmental and medical challenges. The evaluation is used to characterize a child's cognitive strengths and weaknesses, academic skills, and social-emotional functioning in order to diagnose or rule out certain conditions (e.g., dyslexia) and identify an appropriate educational and/or treatment plan. I have extensive experience and expertise in working with children, adolescents and young adults with learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, concussion and seizures/epilepsy.
I provide comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation of children with diverse learning, developmental and medical challenges. The evaluation is used to characterize a child's cognitive strengths and weaknesses, academic skills, and social-emotional functioning in order to diagnose or rule out certain conditions (e.g., dyslexia) and identify an appropriate educational and/or treatment plan. I have extensive experience and expertise in working with children, adolescents and young adults with learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, concussion and seizures/epilepsy.
![Photo of Rebecca King, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d397fd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Within my general child practice are specialities in infancy/early childhood, autism spectrum disorders and psychoeducational testing.
I come to practice with an integrated, flexible approach to treatment that considers how personal experience and family history, as well as constitutional profile, inform behavior, decisions, relationships as well as beliefs about oneself, others, the world and the future. I take a strength-based, collaborative approach to enhance an individual's sense of worth, vitality and efficacy and build healthy, gratifying relationships. My approach is integrative, exploring the psychological factors that contribute to distress while offering practical, logical strategies to restore balance, meaning and strength in a gentle, non-threatening environment.
Within my general child practice are specialities in infancy/early childhood, autism spectrum disorders and psychoeducational testing.
I come to practice with an integrated, flexible approach to treatment that considers how personal experience and family history, as well as constitutional profile, inform behavior, decisions, relationships as well as beliefs about oneself, others, the world and the future. I take a strength-based, collaborative approach to enhance an individual's sense of worth, vitality and efficacy and build healthy, gratifying relationships. My approach is integrative, exploring the psychological factors that contribute to distress while offering practical, logical strategies to restore balance, meaning and strength in a gentle, non-threatening environment.
![Photo of Lauren Pepa, PhD , BCBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52f06c9e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical psychologist and board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) specializing in the assessment and treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions (ADHD, intellectual disability, learning disorders). I have worked professionally with people with developmental disabilities for almost 15 years and am very dedicated to this special group! I also have extensive experience using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat individuals with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, and other concerns.
I am a clinical psychologist and board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) specializing in the assessment and treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions (ADHD, intellectual disability, learning disorders). I have worked professionally with people with developmental disabilities for almost 15 years and am very dedicated to this special group! I also have extensive experience using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat individuals with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, and other concerns.
![Photo of --> Gail - Innovative Spectrum Services, PhD, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb13eb9a-ece7-4b53-91ac-d200f3887012/4/320x400.jpeg)
We use a neurodiverse lens to understand autism and to support children, young adults, couples, and families. Together, we carefully assess the important concerns that you identify. Relying on a strength-based approach, we individualize help, building independence, while reducing emotional reactivity. We have advanced skills in RUBI Parent Training, AsperCoach training (AANE), Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Stanford Neurodiversity Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Autism (CBT), Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Autism, as well as UCLA’s PEERS social skills, and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
We use a neurodiverse lens to understand autism and to support children, young adults, couples, and families. Together, we carefully assess the important concerns that you identify. Relying on a strength-based approach, we individualize help, building independence, while reducing emotional reactivity. We have advanced skills in RUBI Parent Training, AsperCoach training (AANE), Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Stanford Neurodiversity Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Autism (CBT), Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Autism, as well as UCLA’s PEERS social skills, and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
![Photo of Dr. Jaime Fleckner Black, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb3f3c4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work in private practice and see individuals with many different needs, but my main area of expertise lies in treating teens and adults with autism (previously known as Asperger Syndrome (AS). Many of my autistic clients share characteristics with my "neurotypical" clients. Who hasn't fumbled when speaking to a potential friend or date? Have you ever been told that you misinterpreted something someone said? For individuals with autism, this happens all the time, and most "neurotypicals" can empathize with that.
I work in private practice and see individuals with many different needs, but my main area of expertise lies in treating teens and adults with autism (previously known as Asperger Syndrome (AS). Many of my autistic clients share characteristics with my "neurotypical" clients. Who hasn't fumbled when speaking to a potential friend or date? Have you ever been told that you misinterpreted something someone said? For individuals with autism, this happens all the time, and most "neurotypicals" can empathize with that.
![Photo of Megan Harkins, MA, MHC-LP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb774f2-0696-41de-9341-40537cce0b1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Dobbs Ferry
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Dobbs Ferry
- Ardsley
- Bronxville
- Eastchester
- Hartsdale
- Irvington
- Mount Vernon
- Nyack
- Scarsdale
- Tarrytown
- Tuckahoe
- White Plains
- Yonkers
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.