Autism Therapists in New City, NY

Photo of Dr. Shoshana Isenberg - Pathways Evaluations, PhD, Psychologist
Pathways Evaluations
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
I am Dr. Shoshana Isenberg, a clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience. Areas of specialty include autism, what was previously described as "Aspergers", and related disorders.This practice is focused on diagnostic evaluations for autism. If your child has "red flags" for autism, you may feel unsure of what steps to take next. I know this is a particularly stressful time for the family. One of my particular areas of interest is helping families to navigate this time, and to help parents access the resources and therapies needed to make progress. Testing includes ADOS, the gold-standard assessment tool for autism .
I am Dr. Shoshana Isenberg, a clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience. Areas of specialty include autism, what was previously described as "Aspergers", and related disorders.This practice is focused on diagnostic evaluations for autism. If your child has "red flags" for autism, you may feel unsure of what steps to take next. I know this is a particularly stressful time for the family. One of my particular areas of interest is helping families to navigate this time, and to help parents access the resources and therapies needed to make progress. Testing includes ADOS, the gold-standard assessment tool for autism .
(845) 697-1502 View (845) 697-1502
Photo of Christopher Kotecha - Abundant Life Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Abundant Life Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
Chris is certified in counseling Autism and Asperger's Syndrome from The International Association of Neuro-Diverse Christian Marriages and has received specialized training in Structural Family Therapy from the Minuchin Center.
Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10). What would abundant life look like for you? And are there any roadblocks you've encountered? For some it's loss, fear, sadness, regret, shame, disappointment or a toxic relationship. I don't presume to have all of the answers, but I am here to partner with you on your journey. Whether it's discovering what your goals are, or just the cherry on the top. Counseling can be an investment in yourself and your future. Chris is a Licensed therapist in New York and Connecticut.
Chris is certified in counseling Autism and Asperger's Syndrome from The International Association of Neuro-Diverse Christian Marriages and has received specialized training in Structural Family Therapy from the Minuchin Center.
Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10). What would abundant life look like for you? And are there any roadblocks you've encountered? For some it's loss, fear, sadness, regret, shame, disappointment or a toxic relationship. I don't presume to have all of the answers, but I am here to partner with you on your journey. Whether it's discovering what your goals are, or just the cherry on the top. Counseling can be an investment in yourself and your future. Chris is a Licensed therapist in New York and Connecticut.
(845) 442-4547 View (845) 442-4547
Photo of Jenny Flora Slomiany - Articulate Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Articulate Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
Collaborating with a Licensed Speech/Language Pathologist, I run groups that specialize in working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders to improve perspective taking and develop better interpersonal skills.
Does your child have learning, behavioral, or social difficulties at home or school?Children, adolescents, and families face daily stressors. As a licensed psychologist, I work with children and adolescents to cope with feelings of anxiety, depression, and anger. I assist clients in managing stress related to interpersonal issues, family conflict, academic difficulties, and low frustration tolerance. Additionally, I conduct psycho-educational evaluations to understand why your child may be experiencing difficulties, devise treatment plans, and document evidence for school/college based services.
Collaborating with a Licensed Speech/Language Pathologist, I run groups that specialize in working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders to improve perspective taking and develop better interpersonal skills.
Does your child have learning, behavioral, or social difficulties at home or school?Children, adolescents, and families face daily stressors. As a licensed psychologist, I work with children and adolescents to cope with feelings of anxiety, depression, and anger. I assist clients in managing stress related to interpersonal issues, family conflict, academic difficulties, and low frustration tolerance. Additionally, I conduct psycho-educational evaluations to understand why your child may be experiencing difficulties, devise treatment plans, and document evidence for school/college based services.
(917) 746-5562 View (917) 746-5562
Photo of Samantha Sedlik Buell, PhD, NCSP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Samantha Sedlik Buell
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New City, NY 10956
Do you or your child struggle academically, emotionally, or socially? Does your school not provide necessary testing or learning accommodations and support? Or does your gifted or 2E child not receive the enrichment needed to achieve his or her full potential? Neuropsychological evaluations help students obtain the learning recommendations, school and testing accommodations, or enrichment needed for academic, emotional, and social growth. Clients and families also often find the assessment process therapeutic in itself, as it leads to understanding of individual strengths and weaknesses and clear diagnosis of any disabilities.
Do you or your child struggle academically, emotionally, or socially? Does your school not provide necessary testing or learning accommodations and support? Or does your gifted or 2E child not receive the enrichment needed to achieve his or her full potential? Neuropsychological evaluations help students obtain the learning recommendations, school and testing accommodations, or enrichment needed for academic, emotional, and social growth. Clients and families also often find the assessment process therapeutic in itself, as it leads to understanding of individual strengths and weaknesses and clear diagnosis of any disabilities.
(845) 250-6446 View (845) 250-6446
Photo of Rebecca Weiss - Rebecca Weiss LCSW, LCSW, MSEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Weiss LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. As a psychotherapist, I am dedicated to helping my clients work through their troubles towards a positive solution, and ultimately a better quality of living. Whether you feel you need individual adult therapy, child therapy, or family therapy, I understand how difficult it can be for people to reach out and seek help. That is why I aim to create an inviting and relaxing psychotherapy environment where my clients can feel safe to open up and work towards self improvement.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. As a psychotherapist, I am dedicated to helping my clients work through their troubles towards a positive solution, and ultimately a better quality of living. Whether you feel you need individual adult therapy, child therapy, or family therapy, I understand how difficult it can be for people to reach out and seek help. That is why I aim to create an inviting and relaxing psychotherapy environment where my clients can feel safe to open up and work towards self improvement.
(845) 378-9452 View (845) 378-9452
Photo of Bridget Gunn, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Bridget Gunn
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New City, NY 10956  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a safe and supportive place to fully process your thoughts and feelings? Or hoping to learn specific tools to cope with stress? Beginning therapy is an admirable step. I am a New York City-based licensed therapist specializing in the treatment of trauma and anxiety. I’m an experienced provider of CBT, insight-oriented mindfulness-based counseling, and affirmative counseling for the LGBTQ+ community. I also use brainspotting therapy to help my clients process past trauma in an efficient and lasting way.
Are you looking for a safe and supportive place to fully process your thoughts and feelings? Or hoping to learn specific tools to cope with stress? Beginning therapy is an admirable step. I am a New York City-based licensed therapist specializing in the treatment of trauma and anxiety. I’m an experienced provider of CBT, insight-oriented mindfulness-based counseling, and affirmative counseling for the LGBTQ+ community. I also use brainspotting therapy to help my clients process past trauma in an efficient and lasting way.
(646) 437-8166 View (646) 437-8166
Photo of Laura O'Brien, MS, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
You may be feeling stuck, lost, anxious, confused, sad, or it’s just harder to cope. Uncertainties in the world or our community can often exacerbate our distress. While each of us has a natural capacity to heal, my role is to help you identify and remove the obstacles that stand in the way of your health, coping, growth and well-being. I strive to provide a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space to help with a range of concerns like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or addiction. I also specialize in relationship issues and issues related to career as I have a background in Employee Assistance and Management Consultation.
You may be feeling stuck, lost, anxious, confused, sad, or it’s just harder to cope. Uncertainties in the world or our community can often exacerbate our distress. While each of us has a natural capacity to heal, my role is to help you identify and remove the obstacles that stand in the way of your health, coping, growth and well-being. I strive to provide a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space to help with a range of concerns like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or addiction. I also specialize in relationship issues and issues related to career as I have a background in Employee Assistance and Management Consultation.
(845) 999-1216 View (845) 999-1216
Photo of Tony Han, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Tony Han
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychological and interpersonal challenges in life, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, life transition, relationship problems, and developmental disorders. I believe that psychotherapy is a process in which client and therapist collaborate in order to help client to improve self-understanding, overcome painful emotions, and discover new and widened perspectives about himself/herself, others, and life. I facilitate client's discovery and development of balanced and integrated personality so that he/she can transcend his/her psychological conflicts.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide range of psychological and interpersonal challenges in life, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, life transition, relationship problems, and developmental disorders. I believe that psychotherapy is a process in which client and therapist collaborate in order to help client to improve self-understanding, overcome painful emotions, and discover new and widened perspectives about himself/herself, others, and life. I facilitate client's discovery and development of balanced and integrated personality so that he/she can transcend his/her psychological conflicts.
(917) 983-2486 View (917) 983-2486
Photo of Kenneth Silvestri, EdD, CCH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kenneth Silvestri
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, CCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New City, NY 10956
I begin the collaboration with each person seeking my professional counsel by asking, "What is it you're not getting in your life that causes you pain?" Together, we explore the resources that will allow them to heal, change and grow. During the 30 years I have practiced psychotherapy, from a systemic or holistic perspective, I have assisted individuals, parents, couples, adolescents and caregivers to see and experience their lives differently.
I begin the collaboration with each person seeking my professional counsel by asking, "What is it you're not getting in your life that causes you pain?" Together, we explore the resources that will allow them to heal, change and grow. During the 30 years I have practiced psychotherapy, from a systemic or holistic perspective, I have assisted individuals, parents, couples, adolescents and caregivers to see and experience their lives differently.
(973) 928-8552 View (973) 928-8552
Photo of Christine Ziegler - Hudson Valley Center for Cognitive Therapy, PhD, Psychologist
Hudson Valley Center for Cognitive Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New City, NY 10956
I am the Director of the Hudson Valley Center for Cognitive Therapy (HVCCT). Our psychologists work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Two of our primary areas of specialization are mood and anxiety disorders, such as depression, panic, phobias, OCD, chronic worry,and social anxiety. Our therapists also have expertise in working with ADHD, academic and career issues, grief/loss, relationship/marital issues, parent training, and health psychology. We also offer psychoeducational evaluations. More detailed information regarding our services can be found at http://www.hvcct.com.
I am the Director of the Hudson Valley Center for Cognitive Therapy (HVCCT). Our psychologists work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Two of our primary areas of specialization are mood and anxiety disorders, such as depression, panic, phobias, OCD, chronic worry,and social anxiety. Our therapists also have expertise in working with ADHD, academic and career issues, grief/loss, relationship/marital issues, parent training, and health psychology. We also offer psychoeducational evaluations. More detailed information regarding our services can be found at http://www.hvcct.com.
(845) 353-3399 x12 View (845) 353-3399 x12
Photo of Gail Cirlin-Lazerus - Gail Cirlin-Lazerus, LCSW, PC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Cirlin-Lazerus, LCSW, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
I know this isn’t easy for you. Whether you are here because your child is struggling, you are struggling, or you need change, support, and direction … You don't have to struggle alone. This is the bravest thing you can do and I’m grateful you’re here. I can't change where you started, but I can help you gain the freedom to decide where you finish. ​ You can do this. We can do this together. ​My goal is to help everyone that comes into their session feel comfortable and safe. This is a friendly way to therapy for children, teens, and adults alike.
I know this isn’t easy for you. Whether you are here because your child is struggling, you are struggling, or you need change, support, and direction … You don't have to struggle alone. This is the bravest thing you can do and I’m grateful you’re here. I can't change where you started, but I can help you gain the freedom to decide where you finish. ​ You can do this. We can do this together. ​My goal is to help everyone that comes into their session feel comfortable and safe. This is a friendly way to therapy for children, teens, and adults alike.
(845) 390-2226 View (845) 390-2226
Photo of Donna Miesner - MAP Mental Health Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MAP Mental Health Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New City, NY 10956
My name is Donna Miesner a cofounder of MAP Mental Health Associates, a small private practice located in Suffern, NY. We have two clinicians, myself and Tania Almeida a LCSW. All board certified clinicians with over 30 years of combined experience working in different areas of the mental health field. As your first step towards making meaningful change through psychotherapy, We are committed to guiding you through personalized therapy sessions that cater to your individual needs and struggles. Together, we'll work towards finding peace, balance, and happiness in your life.
My name is Donna Miesner a cofounder of MAP Mental Health Associates, a small private practice located in Suffern, NY. We have two clinicians, myself and Tania Almeida a LCSW. All board certified clinicians with over 30 years of combined experience working in different areas of the mental health field. As your first step towards making meaningful change through psychotherapy, We are committed to guiding you through personalized therapy sessions that cater to your individual needs and struggles. Together, we'll work towards finding peace, balance, and happiness in your life.
(845) 470-3633 View (845) 470-3633

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Danielle Knopp - In Love We Learn , MSEd, BCBA
In Love We Learn
MSEd, BCBA
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Haverstraw, NY 10927
In Love We Learn provides support for individuals with sensorimotor differences ( autism and otherwise), their families, and their team of practitioners. Sensorimotor differences can impact so much. Life is complex, and can become even more so when considering someone living with and experiencing these differences. Families may struggle to find clinicians who can provide fulfilling guidance and support. My clients are looking for someone who can provide a unique perspective to their families' care. They are looking to build an intentional lifestyle around their loved one who is motor-impacted.
In Love We Learn provides support for individuals with sensorimotor differences ( autism and otherwise), their families, and their team of practitioners. Sensorimotor differences can impact so much. Life is complex, and can become even more so when considering someone living with and experiencing these differences. Families may struggle to find clinicians who can provide fulfilling guidance and support. My clients are looking for someone who can provide a unique perspective to their families' care. They are looking to build an intentional lifestyle around their loved one who is motor-impacted.
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Photo of Catherine M O'Sullivan - Trinity Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Trinity Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pearl River, NY 10965
Our team of professionals includes psychotherapists and neuropsychologists. Our team of therapists focus on providing cognitive behavior therapy, which is an approach that helps clients to identify unhealthy ways of thinking so that they can learn to change those patterns and develop healthier coping skills. We have clinicians that focus on supporting the emotional needs of children as well as those who work with adults. Our neuropsychological services assess for learning differences which may result from a range of challenges, including but not limited to ADHD, brain injuries, learning disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Our team of professionals includes psychotherapists and neuropsychologists. Our team of therapists focus on providing cognitive behavior therapy, which is an approach that helps clients to identify unhealthy ways of thinking so that they can learn to change those patterns and develop healthier coping skills. We have clinicians that focus on supporting the emotional needs of children as well as those who work with adults. Our neuropsychological services assess for learning differences which may result from a range of challenges, including but not limited to ADHD, brain injuries, learning disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(551) 250-1017 View (551) 250-1017
Photo of Joshua Shifrin, PhD, ABSNP, NCSP, ADHD-SP, Psychologist
Joshua Shifrin
Psychologist, PhD, ABSNP, NCSP, ADHD-SP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nyack, NY 10960
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I am a school neuropsychologist and specialize working with children, adolescents and adults that are struggling with school related difficulties. My areas of specialty include assessing for learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, high functioning autism, social-emotional disorders, as well as ADHD therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Diplomate of the American Board of School Neuropsychology, a Nationally Certified School Psychologist, as well as an ADHD - Certified Clinical Services Provider. Please feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation.
Thank you for taking the time to review my profile. I am a school neuropsychologist and specialize working with children, adolescents and adults that are struggling with school related difficulties. My areas of specialty include assessing for learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, high functioning autism, social-emotional disorders, as well as ADHD therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Diplomate of the American Board of School Neuropsychology, a Nationally Certified School Psychologist, as well as an ADHD - Certified Clinical Services Provider. Please feel free to contact me for a free phone consultation.
(862) 245-4714 View (862) 245-4714
Photo of Debra Lanoue Bennett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Lanoue Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nanuet, NY 10954  (Online Only)
My specialty areas of focus include autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, anger management, emotional regulation, behavioral challenges, parenting, crisis prevention and de-escalation, development of coping skills, issues around grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! My name is Debra and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families with various emotional and mental health needs. I have experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities in a residential and clinical setting, with children and their families in a school setting, and with children, adolescents, and adults in a therapeutic environment.
My specialty areas of focus include autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, anger management, emotional regulation, behavioral challenges, parenting, crisis prevention and de-escalation, development of coping skills, issues around grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! My name is Debra and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families with various emotional and mental health needs. I have experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities in a residential and clinical setting, with children and their families in a school setting, and with children, adolescents, and adults in a therapeutic environment.
(646) 718-4541 View (646) 718-4541
Photo of Kathy Keefe-Cooperman, PsyD, Psychologist
Kathy Keefe-Cooperman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Nyack, NY 10960
I conduct Autism Spectrum Disorder testing.
I help with mental health struggles and provide clear techniques to practice in daily life by meeting in person or using Telehealth. We are a team, and my work is to find the strategies that will work for you or your child to improve quality of life and daily functioning. My goal is to provide honest, accurate and caring treatment based on empirical science. I have extensive experience helping people who struggle with anxiety and/or depression. My expertise has been recognized by the prestigious Fulbright Specialist program and with my elected Fellow status with the American Psychological Association.
I conduct Autism Spectrum Disorder testing.
I help with mental health struggles and provide clear techniques to practice in daily life by meeting in person or using Telehealth. We are a team, and my work is to find the strategies that will work for you or your child to improve quality of life and daily functioning. My goal is to provide honest, accurate and caring treatment based on empirical science. I have extensive experience helping people who struggle with anxiety and/or depression. My expertise has been recognized by the prestigious Fulbright Specialist program and with my elected Fellow status with the American Psychological Association.
(845) 412-8179 View (845) 412-8179
Photo of Sara Darian, PsyD, Psychologist
Sara Darian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nyack, NY 10960
As a licensed psychologist & certified school psychologist, I specialize in the assessment & treatment of children, adolescents, and adults with learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders, & autism.
You or your child/teen have the power to make positive changes in order to live a happier, more fulfilling life. You may be thinking about improving relationships, coping more effectively with daily stress, or becoming more successful academically or in a career. Unfortunately, sometimes stress, anxiety, & depression make it difficult to make the changes you truly want. I aim to empower my clients so that they discover (or re-discover) the inner-strength needed to believe in themselves, learn new coping strategies, & achieve their goals.
As a licensed psychologist & certified school psychologist, I specialize in the assessment & treatment of children, adolescents, and adults with learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders, & autism.
You or your child/teen have the power to make positive changes in order to live a happier, more fulfilling life. You may be thinking about improving relationships, coping more effectively with daily stress, or becoming more successful academically or in a career. Unfortunately, sometimes stress, anxiety, & depression make it difficult to make the changes you truly want. I aim to empower my clients so that they discover (or re-discover) the inner-strength needed to believe in themselves, learn new coping strategies, & achieve their goals.
(845) 263-3645 View (845) 263-3645
Photo of Regina L Camillieri, LMFT, NBCCH, IBCLC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Regina L Camillieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, NBCCH, IBCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montrose, NY 10548  (Online Only)
I am a New York licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Hypnotherapist. I am also an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant. I have over 25 years of experience counseling people. I have experience with, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, autism, maternal mental health, substance abuse, divorce proceedings, couples abuse, and people in the LGBTQ+ community. With all the counseling I have done I became aware of the limitations of “talk therapy” when I worked with veterans. Hypnotherapy is another way of helping people with trauma. anxiety, depression, smoking, and eating disorders.
I am a New York licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Hypnotherapist. I am also an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant. I have over 25 years of experience counseling people. I have experience with, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, autism, maternal mental health, substance abuse, divorce proceedings, couples abuse, and people in the LGBTQ+ community. With all the counseling I have done I became aware of the limitations of “talk therapy” when I worked with veterans. Hypnotherapy is another way of helping people with trauma. anxiety, depression, smoking, and eating disorders.
(845) 681-2757 View (845) 681-2757
Photo of Benjamin R Okin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Benjamin R Okin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Croton On Hudson, NY 10520
Life can be challenging at any age, whether you're navigating the complexities of adolescence or facing the stresses of adulthood. If you or your adolescent are struggling with loneliness, depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, or other challenges, know that it’s okay to seek help. Adversity is a natural part of life, but addressing it can lead to greater well-being, success, and happiness.
Life can be challenging at any age, whether you're navigating the complexities of adolescence or facing the stresses of adulthood. If you or your adolescent are struggling with loneliness, depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, or other challenges, know that it’s okay to seek help. Adversity is a natural part of life, but addressing it can lead to greater well-being, success, and happiness.
(914) 800-7959 View (914) 800-7959
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.