Autism Therapists in Melville, NY

Photo of Akili Carter, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Akili Carter
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747  (Online Only)
I have been in the field since 2002 working with many people. I have experience with depression, self-esteem challenges, behavioral issues, issues within the relationship and family bond, and bipolar disorder. These are a only handful of the client's I have worked with. I have experience with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger's ; however, I've worked with all types of Intellectually Capable individuals. I've also done a lot of work with parents both in the home and on the residential level. And I love working with couples. I have collaborated with veterans on many occasions and love working with them.
I have been in the field since 2002 working with many people. I have experience with depression, self-esteem challenges, behavioral issues, issues within the relationship and family bond, and bipolar disorder. These are a only handful of the client's I have worked with. I have experience with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger's ; however, I've worked with all types of Intellectually Capable individuals. I've also done a lot of work with parents both in the home and on the residential level. And I love working with couples. I have collaborated with veterans on many occasions and love working with them.
(631) 202-0976 View (631) 202-0976
Photo of Lauren Rothman - Visiting Counselors of NY - Neurodiversity Program, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Visiting Counselors of NY - Neurodiversity Program
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
VCNY Neurodiversity Program offers in-home and telehealth counseling for adults (21+) with Neurodevelopmental disorders: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Developmental Disability Disorders, ADHD, Epilepsy, seizure disorders, learning disabilities, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Our Licensed Clinical Social Workers use person-first approaches and evidence-based interventions to address co-occurring mental health symptoms like depression, anxiety, mood impairments, trauma, and life stressors such as grief, loss, job, and relationship issues. Quality care tailored to your needs.
VCNY Neurodiversity Program offers in-home and telehealth counseling for adults (21+) with Neurodevelopmental disorders: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Developmental Disability Disorders, ADHD, Epilepsy, seizure disorders, learning disabilities, and Traumatic Brain Injury. Our Licensed Clinical Social Workers use person-first approaches and evidence-based interventions to address co-occurring mental health symptoms like depression, anxiety, mood impairments, trauma, and life stressors such as grief, loss, job, and relationship issues. Quality care tailored to your needs.
(631) 919-4987 x2 View (631) 919-4987 x2
Photo of Samantha L. Maietta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha L. Maietta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747
Samantha L. Maietta, LCSW is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in treatment of complex and/or co-occurring mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, which include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and other behavioral, emotional, and social difficulties across the lifespan. She received her Master's degree from New York University's Silver School of Social Work. Samantha's clinical training has entailed providing evidence-based treatment at Einstein College of Medicine and Lenox Hill Hospital.
Samantha L. Maietta, LCSW is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in treatment of complex and/or co-occurring mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, which include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and other behavioral, emotional, and social difficulties across the lifespan. She received her Master's degree from New York University's Silver School of Social Work. Samantha's clinical training has entailed providing evidence-based treatment at Einstein College of Medicine and Lenox Hill Hospital.
(631) 302-7969 View (631) 302-7969
Photo of Jamie Silverman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
I have additional training working with clients diagnosed with Autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker who has worked in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults with an array of needs. This has provided me the opportunity to hone my craft gaining experience with individuals from all walks of life. Regardless of setting, each individual is unique. I strive to create a safe space for my clients to feel free to be themselves. Asking for help can sometimes feel overwhelming. My approach is warm and non-judgmental. My down-to-earth nature is often what clients are drawn to. I would love the opportunity to assist you on your journey of growth and healing.
I have additional training working with clients diagnosed with Autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker who has worked in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults with an array of needs. This has provided me the opportunity to hone my craft gaining experience with individuals from all walks of life. Regardless of setting, each individual is unique. I strive to create a safe space for my clients to feel free to be themselves. Asking for help can sometimes feel overwhelming. My approach is warm and non-judgmental. My down-to-earth nature is often what clients are drawn to. I would love the opportunity to assist you on your journey of growth and healing.
(631) 791-6524 View (631) 791-6524
Photo of Joanna Katsigeorgis, PhD,  PsyD, Psychologist
Joanna Katsigeorgis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Dr. Joanna Katsigeorgis is a New York State Licensed Psychologist and New York State certified school psychologist with over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Katsigeorgis has a wealth of experience providing therapeutic services to individuals across the lifespan. She has extensive expertise in handling disorders that originate in childhood, such as Intellectual Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Dr. Joanna Katsigeorgis is a New York State Licensed Psychologist and New York State certified school psychologist with over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Katsigeorgis has a wealth of experience providing therapeutic services to individuals across the lifespan. She has extensive expertise in handling disorders that originate in childhood, such as Intellectual Disabilities, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(631) 253-7273 View (631) 253-7273
Photo of Vasu Chikkatur Murthy - Tri State Counseling and MediatIon, LCSWR, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tri State Counseling and MediatIon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Anger Management, ADHD, Autism, Childhood disorders, Crisis Intervention, CISD, Substance abuse, truancy in children.
Trained in CBT, prefer to use a rational living approach with behavior modification and assist the client. Use DBT, CBT, Behavioral approach in Psychotherapy to achieve practical results, measurable and beneficial to the client. Short term treatment focus on result oriented approach with focus on cognitive or insight or behavioral modification is my style. Specialist in children, work with families and a fair mix of all age groups. I accept major health insurances & accept private pay. ANGER MANAGEMENT, AUTISM, ADHD, MOOD DISORDERS, ANXIETY SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ALCOHOL DOMESTIC RELATIONS/VIOLENCE ISSUES AND FORENSIC EVALUATIONS HANDLED AS WELL.
Anger Management, ADHD, Autism, Childhood disorders, Crisis Intervention, CISD, Substance abuse, truancy in children.
Trained in CBT, prefer to use a rational living approach with behavior modification and assist the client. Use DBT, CBT, Behavioral approach in Psychotherapy to achieve practical results, measurable and beneficial to the client. Short term treatment focus on result oriented approach with focus on cognitive or insight or behavioral modification is my style. Specialist in children, work with families and a fair mix of all age groups. I accept major health insurances & accept private pay. ANGER MANAGEMENT, AUTISM, ADHD, MOOD DISORDERS, ANXIETY SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ALCOHOL DOMESTIC RELATIONS/VIOLENCE ISSUES AND FORENSIC EVALUATIONS HANDLED AS WELL.
(718) 415-6266 View (718) 415-6266
Photo of Marc A Blank, MS, EdM, LMHC, Counselor
Marc A Blank
Counselor, MS, EdM, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747  (Online Only)
I utilize Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Informed treatments. I work with children, adolescents and adults with many challenges including ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship challenges, family conflict, trauma, insomnia, and life and career challenges. I am an excellent listener, very empathetic, easy to talk to, and nonjudgmental. I create a relaxed, supportive environment where you can feel comfortable sharing and grow through guided self-exploration and varying perspectives.
I utilize Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Informed treatments. I work with children, adolescents and adults with many challenges including ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship challenges, family conflict, trauma, insomnia, and life and career challenges. I am an excellent listener, very empathetic, easy to talk to, and nonjudgmental. I create a relaxed, supportive environment where you can feel comfortable sharing and grow through guided self-exploration and varying perspectives.
(631) 769-2275 View (631) 769-2275
Photo of Melissa Rosenblatt, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA, Psychologist
Melissa Rosenblatt
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747
I have a strong background in working with children with behavioral and emotional challenges, Autism, ADHD, social skills challenges, and developmental disabilities.
Welcome. You've taken the first step by seeking therapy for your child, and this is often the most difficult. I am a Licensed Psychologist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D) and specialize in working with young children through adolescents. I work with children struggling with emotional or behavioral challenges, as well as Autism Spectrum Disorders and ADHD. In addition to working directly with your child, I find that treatment is most effective when the parent(s) are involved and we work collaboratively. I also work with families on parenting and developing plans to support concerns at home.
I have a strong background in working with children with behavioral and emotional challenges, Autism, ADHD, social skills challenges, and developmental disabilities.
Welcome. You've taken the first step by seeking therapy for your child, and this is often the most difficult. I am a Licensed Psychologist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D) and specialize in working with young children through adolescents. I work with children struggling with emotional or behavioral challenges, as well as Autism Spectrum Disorders and ADHD. In addition to working directly with your child, I find that treatment is most effective when the parent(s) are involved and we work collaboratively. I also work with families on parenting and developing plans to support concerns at home.
(917) 382-8759 View (917) 382-8759
Photo of Michael Marzo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Marzo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747
I work closely with individuals, couples, and families who are looking to improve the quality of their personal lives and relationships. Often, feelings of anxiety, sadness, or hopelessness can either result from or lead to difficulties in the quality of our interpersonal relationships. My therapeutic approach is a strength-based and solution-focused model of support that is geared toward identifying strategies to help people better manage their own personal emotions, while simultaneously strengthening their bonds with partners and other loved ones.
I work closely with individuals, couples, and families who are looking to improve the quality of their personal lives and relationships. Often, feelings of anxiety, sadness, or hopelessness can either result from or lead to difficulties in the quality of our interpersonal relationships. My therapeutic approach is a strength-based and solution-focused model of support that is geared toward identifying strategies to help people better manage their own personal emotions, while simultaneously strengthening their bonds with partners and other loved ones.
(631) 459-4529 View (631) 459-4529
Photo of Kayla Kalousdian, LMHC, Counselor
Kayla Kalousdian
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747
Kayla believes individuals who are seeking therapy are capable of making changes they are searching for and utilizes different therapeutic modalities such as CBT, person centered, and solution focused. Kayla establishes an empathetic, non-judgement, and supportive environment for clients to feel comfortable. Kayla finds it important that each client is able to accomplish their goals as well as continuing to build upon themselves. Kayla has an extensive background working with individuals who have developmental disabilities, individuals with substance abuse and mental health as well as sex offenders.
Kayla believes individuals who are seeking therapy are capable of making changes they are searching for and utilizes different therapeutic modalities such as CBT, person centered, and solution focused. Kayla establishes an empathetic, non-judgement, and supportive environment for clients to feel comfortable. Kayla finds it important that each client is able to accomplish their goals as well as continuing to build upon themselves. Kayla has an extensive background working with individuals who have developmental disabilities, individuals with substance abuse and mental health as well as sex offenders.
(646) 692-0242 View (646) 692-0242
Photo of Jeremy C Melnick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeremy C Melnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Waitlist for new clients
Life is stressful enough, finding a supportive therapist shouldn’t be!  I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, behavioral and learning difficulties, self-esteem, body image, coping skills, social skills as well as issues with day to day transitions. I have worked in a range of settings including preschool, middle school, high school, summer camps, inpatient psychiatric settings, and outpatient clinics. I currently work as a school social worker during the day as well as a camp administrator over the summer.
Life is stressful enough, finding a supportive therapist shouldn’t be!  I specialize in working with children, adolescents and young adults who are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, behavioral and learning difficulties, self-esteem, body image, coping skills, social skills as well as issues with day to day transitions. I have worked in a range of settings including preschool, middle school, high school, summer camps, inpatient psychiatric settings, and outpatient clinics. I currently work as a school social worker during the day as well as a camp administrator over the summer.
(516) 271-1153 View (516) 271-1153
Photo of Laurel Hoffman, MSW,  LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurel Hoffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Laurel B. Hoffman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) at LifeStance Health, dedicated to supporting individuals through a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Serving the New York area, Laurel provides compassionate care to clients grappling with issues such as anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Her practice is grounded in a commitment to helping patients navigate stressors related to family, work, and health, aiming to enhance their overall wellbeing and resilience. Laurel specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and couples/marital counseling.
Laurel B. Hoffman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) at LifeStance Health, dedicated to supporting individuals through a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Serving the New York area, Laurel provides compassionate care to clients grappling with issues such as anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Her practice is grounded in a commitment to helping patients navigate stressors related to family, work, and health, aiming to enhance their overall wellbeing and resilience. Laurel specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and couples/marital counseling.
(855) 688-1397 View (855) 688-1397
Gail I Mandra Stallone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
*****Long Island Press voted "Best on Long Island for Psychotherapist". ***** My practice offers a broad spectrum of services which includes providing in-office/home, long/short term: individual (children, adolescents, adults), marital, and family psychotherapy. I Collaborate with psychiatrists (medication), attorneys (divorce/estate plannng) and neurologists (ADHD), to ensure the client receives proper care . A treatment plan is formulated for symptom management and stress reduction. Additionally, a detailed Psychosocial history and Mental Health Assessment is completed, together resulting in a working diagnosis. The client may then remain in treatment with me or will be referred to the appropriate setting to fit their individual needs.
*****Long Island Press voted "Best on Long Island for Psychotherapist". ***** My practice offers a broad spectrum of services which includes providing in-office/home, long/short term: individual (children, adolescents, adults), marital, and family psychotherapy. I Collaborate with psychiatrists (medication), attorneys (divorce/estate plannng) and neurologists (ADHD), to ensure the client receives proper care . A treatment plan is formulated for symptom management and stress reduction. Additionally, a detailed Psychosocial history and Mental Health Assessment is completed, together resulting in a working diagnosis. The client may then remain in treatment with me or will be referred to the appropriate setting to fit their individual needs.
(631) 706-4494 View (631) 706-4494
Photo of Staci Leavitt Davidson - Staci Leavitt Mind & Body Inc, RD, LCSW, PsyD, Coaches, Staff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Staci Leavitt Mind & Body Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RD, LCSW, PsyD, Coaches, Staff
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747
We are a mental health, therapy, eating disorder and nutrition center. We handle all therapy & nutrition needs with the upmost amount of love, care and compassion. Having a mixed staff of Psychotherapists, Registered Dietitians & Coaches, we are able to treat a whole person, not just mind or body. Each patient is is viewed as an individual, allowing us to focus on THEIR personal needs/wishes. Our goal is to meet the patient where they are at and together help them understand their struggles and bring them to a happier & healthier place mentally & physically. Our passion is to provide the most safe/comfortable environment
We are a mental health, therapy, eating disorder and nutrition center. We handle all therapy & nutrition needs with the upmost amount of love, care and compassion. Having a mixed staff of Psychotherapists, Registered Dietitians & Coaches, we are able to treat a whole person, not just mind or body. Each patient is is viewed as an individual, allowing us to focus on THEIR personal needs/wishes. Our goal is to meet the patient where they are at and together help them understand their struggles and bring them to a happier & healthier place mentally & physically. Our passion is to provide the most safe/comfortable environment
(516) 433-1456 View (516) 433-1456
Photo of Bettina Yanez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bettina Yanez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
At times life can be challanging & reaching out for support & assistance is necessary. Counseling is a way to have a non-judgemental professional help you manage your particular stresses & learn ways to cope. Whether its addressing past struggles or managing current ones appropriate treatment can help. You can improve relationships, overall health, focus & live happier! Bettina has several years of experience providing counseling.She is a mother, friend, & a real person who has the professional education & experience to assist you. Daytime, evenings appts provided via tele-therapy (online/video counseling) for individuals or couples
At times life can be challanging & reaching out for support & assistance is necessary. Counseling is a way to have a non-judgemental professional help you manage your particular stresses & learn ways to cope. Whether its addressing past struggles or managing current ones appropriate treatment can help. You can improve relationships, overall health, focus & live happier! Bettina has several years of experience providing counseling.She is a mother, friend, & a real person who has the professional education & experience to assist you. Daytime, evenings appts provided via tele-therapy (online/video counseling) for individuals or couples
(631) 818-2053 View (631) 818-2053
Photo of Russell Chertok - Visiting Counselors of New York, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Visiting Counselors of New York
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
At Visiting Counselors of NY, we empower older adults through in-home and telehealth counseling. Our licensed clinical social workers provide compassionate care tailored to individual needs. With evidence-based techniques, we support mental well-being, fostering connections and helping seniors navigate life's transitions. We prioritize accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring quality care for all.
At Visiting Counselors of NY, we empower older adults through in-home and telehealth counseling. Our licensed clinical social workers provide compassionate care tailored to individual needs. With evidence-based techniques, we support mental well-being, fostering connections and helping seniors navigate life's transitions. We prioritize accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring quality care for all.
(516) 210-2390 x1 View (516) 210-2390 x1
Photo of Jonathan Ruffus, PsyD, Psychologist
Jonathan Ruffus
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Talking to someone about a problem can be a difficult thing to do, especially when that someone is new. Thus, my goal as a clinician is to foster a relationship that will allow you to be comfortable, develop clear objectives, and ultimately address root problems that are causing negative life experiences. Since past and/or current behavior can serve as major drivers for our feelings, my theoretical approach emphasizes cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systems theory techniques depending on the presenting problem.
Talking to someone about a problem can be a difficult thing to do, especially when that someone is new. Thus, my goal as a clinician is to foster a relationship that will allow you to be comfortable, develop clear objectives, and ultimately address root problems that are causing negative life experiences. Since past and/or current behavior can serve as major drivers for our feelings, my theoretical approach emphasizes cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systems theory techniques depending on the presenting problem.
(631) 856-2503 View (631) 856-2503
Photo of Jessica Weller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Weller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747
I am a Licensed Therapist who specializes in helping adults and older teens navigate life transitions, work on anxiety and depression, improve self esteem, and change old patterns. I help people visualize a life they want for themselves, and work with them to create a path towards it.
I am a Licensed Therapist who specializes in helping adults and older teens navigate life transitions, work on anxiety and depression, improve self esteem, and change old patterns. I help people visualize a life they want for themselves, and work with them to create a path towards it.
(631) 314-7351 View (631) 314-7351
Photo of Dennis Feuerstein, LCSW-R, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dennis Feuerstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, NY 11747
As a licensed and board certified clinician, I find that all aspects of experiences impact my clients as they do myself. My background in psychology and social work give me a unique perspective. I have worked as an educator in the public schools, provided services at a tier 3 hospital and continue to work in the non-profit sector. Each experience enhances my expertise in addressing serious issues that may be presented. Couples counseling, anger management, drug and substance abuse are some of the main areas that are addressed. We look for the underlying causes primarily Depression, Anxiety and mental health concerns.
As a licensed and board certified clinician, I find that all aspects of experiences impact my clients as they do myself. My background in psychology and social work give me a unique perspective. I have worked as an educator in the public schools, provided services at a tier 3 hospital and continue to work in the non-profit sector. Each experience enhances my expertise in addressing serious issues that may be presented. Couples counseling, anger management, drug and substance abuse are some of the main areas that are addressed. We look for the underlying causes primarily Depression, Anxiety and mental health concerns.
(631) 458-1372 View (631) 458-1372
Photo of Martine Rosenberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martine Rosenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747  (Online Only)
You may be thinking, “I just don’t feel like myself.” but don’t know where to start to feel better. Did you imagine your life would be at a different place by now? Sometimes as great as family and friends are, they may not truly understand and an outside unbiased perspective is helpful. I know that it can be hard to reach out for help, let alone find a therapist who is right for you. I provide my clients with a warm, supportive, non-judgmental space to help empower you and give you the coping skills needed to live the life you deserve.
You may be thinking, “I just don’t feel like myself.” but don’t know where to start to feel better. Did you imagine your life would be at a different place by now? Sometimes as great as family and friends are, they may not truly understand and an outside unbiased perspective is helpful. I know that it can be hard to reach out for help, let alone find a therapist who is right for you. I provide my clients with a warm, supportive, non-judgmental space to help empower you and give you the coping skills needed to live the life you deserve.
(516) 346-5823 View (516) 346-5823
1
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.