Autism Therapists in Pearl River, NY

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 Sara Darian, PsyD, Psychologist
Sara Darian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pearl River, NY 10965
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 Ed Joseph, MBA, MPS-ABA, BCBA, LBA
Ed Joseph
MBA, MPS-ABA, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Pearl River, NY 10965
I am bi-lingual in English and Haitian Creole. As dual clinical licensed and behavior analyst (BCBA)-(LBA) with expertise in human behaviors and ACT Process-based Therapist for Selfing-Mastery. We help young adults (age 12-25) and adults (Save A Veteran Safe) liberate suffering-being (stress, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, sexual trauma, depression and behavioral disorders) to overcome their barriers and challenges; and habilitate or supported toward values-based, functionally social-emotional, behavioral skills for generative quality of life and well-being. Wi, nou pale Kréyol Ayitien. Merci!
I am bi-lingual in English and Haitian Creole. As dual clinical licensed and behavior analyst (BCBA)-(LBA) with expertise in human behaviors and ACT Process-based Therapist for Selfing-Mastery. We help young adults (age 12-25) and adults (Save A Veteran Safe) liberate suffering-being (stress, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, sexual trauma, depression and behavioral disorders) to overcome their barriers and challenges; and habilitate or supported toward values-based, functionally social-emotional, behavioral skills for generative quality of life and well-being. Wi, nou pale Kréyol Ayitien. Merci!
(845) 237-3845 View (845) 237-3845
Photo of Michael J Swanwick - Hudson Valley Counseling LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hudson Valley Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pearl River, NY 10965
Hudson Valley Counseling offers individual, group and family therapy. Our therapeutic approach recognizes the quality of the therapeutic relationship as an essential element in the therapy process.We look to collaborate with clients to identify core challenges in their life and assist them in developing treatment goals and objectives which ultimately empower them to take charge of the design and direction of their life.
Hudson Valley Counseling offers individual, group and family therapy. Our therapeutic approach recognizes the quality of the therapeutic relationship as an essential element in the therapy process.We look to collaborate with clients to identify core challenges in their life and assist them in developing treatment goals and objectives which ultimately empower them to take charge of the design and direction of their life.
(917) 994-9213 View (917) 994-9213
Photo of B Ramirez - Ramirez-Davis Group Practice , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ramirez-Davis Group Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearl River, NY 10965
Brenda Ramirez specializes in treating mood disorders such as PTSD, anxiety and depression. Integrating trauma-focus techniques, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and psychodynamic treatment models to provide comprehensive care when addressing life and trauma-related stressors. Many years assisting others in creating a space where they can see themselves and enter into an understanding of oneself through deeper connection with their mind and body. It is through this process that each person becomes more fully aware and in touch with their truest self.
Brenda Ramirez specializes in treating mood disorders such as PTSD, anxiety and depression. Integrating trauma-focus techniques, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and psychodynamic treatment models to provide comprehensive care when addressing life and trauma-related stressors. Many years assisting others in creating a space where they can see themselves and enter into an understanding of oneself through deeper connection with their mind and body. It is through this process that each person becomes more fully aware and in touch with their truest self.
(845) 581-2721 View (845) 581-2721
Photo of Laura O'Brien, MS, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Pearl River, NY 10965
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 Fen-Ju Tai, MS,  LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fen-Ju Tai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Pearl River, NY 10965
FenJu Tai is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York who has been practicing since 1989. Ms. Tai earned her B.A. degree in Social Work from National Taiwan University, her MSW from Columbia University School of Social Work, and her Certification in Family Therapy from Family Institute of Westchester where she studied with Ms. Betty Carter. In her practice, Ms. Tai utilizes an integrative model that is tailored to the individual client’s unique needs. Beyond the general mental health concerns in all life stages, Ms.
FenJu Tai is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York who has been practicing since 1989. Ms. Tai earned her B.A. degree in Social Work from National Taiwan University, her MSW from Columbia University School of Social Work, and her Certification in Family Therapy from Family Institute of Westchester where she studied with Ms. Betty Carter. In her practice, Ms. Tai utilizes an integrative model that is tailored to the individual client’s unique needs. Beyond the general mental health concerns in all life stages, Ms.
(914) 228-9386 View (914) 228-9386
Photo of Dr. Catherine O'Sullivan, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Catherine O'Sullivan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearl River, NY 10965
Welcome! I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who are experiencing emotional challenges and behavioral difficulties. I also work with parents at any stage of parenthood, including pregnancy and postpartum periods, to help parents and children work through difficult feelings and challenging situations. I enjoy taking a positive and compassionate approach to helping all of my clients. I use humor, compassion and empathy in order to build connection with my clients and support them in working towards their goals.
Welcome! I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who are experiencing emotional challenges and behavioral difficulties. I also work with parents at any stage of parenthood, including pregnancy and postpartum periods, to help parents and children work through difficult feelings and challenging situations. I enjoy taking a positive and compassionate approach to helping all of my clients. I use humor, compassion and empathy in order to build connection with my clients and support them in working towards their goals.
(551) 250-1017 x2 View (551) 250-1017 x2

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa A DeDomenico, PhD, BCBA, LBA, Psychologist
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.
(914) 703-4878 View (914) 703-4878
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 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 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 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
Nanuet, NY 10954
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 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 Jeffrey Selman, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist
Jeffrey Selman
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tarrytown, NY 10591  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, and academic needs related to giftedness and twice exceptionality (2e).
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, mood disorders, and academic needs related to giftedness and twice exceptionality (2e).
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
(917) 722-6952 View (917) 722-6952
Photo of Dr. Laura Cyran, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Laura Cyran
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
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.
(914) 786-6634 View (914) 786-6634
Photo of Nilofer C Naqvi, PhD, Psychologist
Nilofer C Naqvi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ardsley, NY 10502
Nilofer Naqvi provides support in the areas of parenting stress, coping with trauma, and relationship issues. She is trained in narrative therapy and attachment theory both of which she infuses in therapy. She is fluent in French and Spanish and can provide therapy in both these languages. In addition to providing therapy, Nilofer Naqvi is able to offer adults and children detailed diagnostic assessments for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and neurodivergent issues including Autism.
Nilofer Naqvi provides support in the areas of parenting stress, coping with trauma, and relationship issues. She is trained in narrative therapy and attachment theory both of which she infuses in therapy. She is fluent in French and Spanish and can provide therapy in both these languages. In addition to providing therapy, Nilofer Naqvi is able to offer adults and children detailed diagnostic assessments for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and neurodivergent issues including Autism.
(646) 768-0653 View (646) 768-0653
Photo of Samantha Sedlik Buell, PhD, NCSP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Samantha Sedlik Buell
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nyack, NY 10960
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 Gregory Francis Coffey, PhD, Psychologist
Gregory Francis Coffey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Spring Valley, NY 10977
My ideal client is trying to understand not only the root causes that created a less than optimal life functioning emotionally, socially, occupationally, academically, or intrafamilially, but the actual cognitive behavioral steps to remedy the problem. I believe most problems we encounter in our everyday lives can be improved upon and transformed into a life we have chosen.
My ideal client is trying to understand not only the root causes that created a less than optimal life functioning emotionally, socially, occupationally, academically, or intrafamilially, but the actual cognitive behavioral steps to remedy the problem. I believe most problems we encounter in our everyday lives can be improved upon and transformed into a life we have chosen.
(631) 910-6032 View (631) 910-6032

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.