Autism Therapists in Valhalla, NY
![Photo of Diana Korall Cohen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd082613-0f03-49cb-bd20-f27907c80a97/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diana Korall Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valhalla, NY 10595 (Online Only)
I am interested in assisting and supporting individuals with various needs and concerns. I particularly enjoy working with families with young children. I believed it is extremely important to have emotional and therapeutic support when faced with difficulties in your life. We will create and work towards your goals together. I want individuals to feel like our sessions are a safe place to talk freely. I also offer clinical supervision to clinicians who feel they may need both therapeutic and emotional support. I am trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Trauma Systems Therapy (TST) and various play therapy techniques.
I am interested in assisting and supporting individuals with various needs and concerns. I particularly enjoy working with families with young children. I believed it is extremely important to have emotional and therapeutic support when faced with difficulties in your life. We will create and work towards your goals together. I want individuals to feel like our sessions are a safe place to talk freely. I also offer clinical supervision to clinicians who feel they may need both therapeutic and emotional support. I am trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Trauma Systems Therapy (TST) and various play therapy techniques.
![Photo of Catherine Westcott, LMHC, MS ed, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d01528f-deca-4307-9117-58ed30f6f3c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with painful memories? Worry about the future? Find yourself overthinking? Are you looking for a secure, non-judgmental place where you can explore your emotions freely? I’m dedicated to supporting you on your journey to healing and personal growth. I can assist you in exploring issues that are difficult to handle alone, help you resolve childhood conflicts that show up in present difficulties, help you understand your protective behavior and quiet the overthinking. We can work on developing healthy coping strategies and learn to deal with stress by creating tools to face the future with resilience and peace of mind.
Do you struggle with painful memories? Worry about the future? Find yourself overthinking? Are you looking for a secure, non-judgmental place where you can explore your emotions freely? I’m dedicated to supporting you on your journey to healing and personal growth. I can assist you in exploring issues that are difficult to handle alone, help you resolve childhood conflicts that show up in present difficulties, help you understand your protective behavior and quiet the overthinking. We can work on developing healthy coping strategies and learn to deal with stress by creating tools to face the future with resilience and peace of mind.
![Photo of Theresa Revans-McMenimon, LMFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a3fc10c-ad54-4efd-a34a-2348414bb5af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa Revans-McMenimon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Valhalla, NY 10595
Through improving our ability to communicate, we strengthen the bonds in our relationships. First, we must engage in honest, self-reflection by examining and distinguishing our needs and wants. Once we have gained greater self-awareness, we can then focus on communicating with our partners, family members, and co-workers through respectful talking, listening, and reflection. It is through improved understanding that we create fertile ground for growth and development.
Through improving our ability to communicate, we strengthen the bonds in our relationships. First, we must engage in honest, self-reflection by examining and distinguishing our needs and wants. Once we have gained greater self-awareness, we can then focus on communicating with our partners, family members, and co-workers through respectful talking, listening, and reflection. It is through improved understanding that we create fertile ground for growth and development.
![Photo of Dawn Catucci - Mental Health Counseling for Emotional Well Being, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c3c19e2-cb6e-42d4-a379-4100e852800e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mental Health Counseling for Emotional Well Being
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Valhalla, NY 10595
We work with our clients to help them to have more caring and steady relationships, control over intense emotions, ability to tolerate difficult times and enhanced communication skills. We partner with you to help you to gain the skills and coping strategies needed to enjoy your life. Our therapists are highly skilled and are passionate about helping our clients to meet their goals.
We work with our clients to help them to have more caring and steady relationships, control over intense emotions, ability to tolerate difficult times and enhanced communication skills. We partner with you to help you to gain the skills and coping strategies needed to enjoy your life. Our therapists are highly skilled and are passionate about helping our clients to meet their goals.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Megan Harkins, MA, MHC-LP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb774f2-0696-41de-9341-40537cce0b1f/1/320x400.jpeg)
My experience extends to working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults dealing with anxiety, autism, ADHD, sibling conflicts, low self-esteem, and poor social skills.
Taking the initial step to open up and initiate therapy can be quite difficult. If you’re here, you’ve already accomplished one of the toughest parts of your journey. Together, we can embark on a path to acquire valuable skills that will enrich your daily life. I approach each individual from where they currently are, offering a warm and accepting environment to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. My goal is to help my clients strengthen their sense of self, ultimately reducing their suffering while increasing their joy and fulfillment.
My experience extends to working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults dealing with anxiety, autism, ADHD, sibling conflicts, low self-esteem, and poor social skills.
Taking the initial step to open up and initiate therapy can be quite difficult. If you’re here, you’ve already accomplished one of the toughest parts of your journey. Together, we can embark on a path to acquire valuable skills that will enrich your daily life. I approach each individual from where they currently are, offering a warm and accepting environment to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. My goal is to help my clients strengthen their sense of self, ultimately reducing their suffering while increasing their joy and fulfillment.
In general, I offer neuropsychological evaluations, autism evaluations (including the ADOS-2, when appropriate), and other psychological assessments.
I provide evaluations for a diverse range of clients. Reasons people seek me out include (but are not limited to): diagnostic clarification, better understanding of themselves or their children, guidance in educational/vocational/therapeutic treatment planning. I help clients answer questions such as: Are these behaviors/patterns a clinical problem? Is there a diagnosis that is appropriate for me? What does that mean? Where do I go from here?
In general, I offer neuropsychological evaluations, autism evaluations (including the ADOS-2, when appropriate), and other psychological assessments.
I provide evaluations for a diverse range of clients. Reasons people seek me out include (but are not limited to): diagnostic clarification, better understanding of themselves or their children, guidance in educational/vocational/therapeutic treatment planning. I help clients answer questions such as: Are these behaviors/patterns a clinical problem? Is there a diagnosis that is appropriate for me? What does that mean? Where do I go from here?
![Photo of Laura Gauer Bermudez, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d5198b0-f42e-4c4c-84c1-fc746e32b5fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Gauer Bermudez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Scarsdale, NY 10583
In my practice, I primarily serve adolescents (10-19) and young adults (20s-30s) with presenting issues including but not limited to anxiety, relationship conflict, low self-esteem, trauma, transitions to college, career stress/uncertainty, and grief/loss. Additionally, as a family member to children and adults on the Autism spectrum, I work with ASD clients, parents, partners, and other loved ones to help them better understand this form of neurodiversity.
In my practice, I primarily serve adolescents (10-19) and young adults (20s-30s) with presenting issues including but not limited to anxiety, relationship conflict, low self-esteem, trauma, transitions to college, career stress/uncertainty, and grief/loss. Additionally, as a family member to children and adults on the Autism spectrum, I work with ASD clients, parents, partners, and other loved ones to help them better understand this form of neurodiversity.
![Photo of --> Gail - Innovative Spectrum Services, PhD, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb13eb9a-ece7-4b53-91ac-d200f3887012/4/320x400.jpeg)
We use a neurodiverse lens to understand autism and to support children, young adults, couples, and families. Together, we carefully assess the important concerns that you identify. Relying on a strength-based approach, we individualize help, building independence, while reducing emotional reactivity. We have advanced skills in RUBI Parent Training, AsperCoach training (AANE), Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Stanford Neurodiversity Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Autism (CBT), Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Autism, as well as UCLA’s PEERS social skills, and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
We use a neurodiverse lens to understand autism and to support children, young adults, couples, and families. Together, we carefully assess the important concerns that you identify. Relying on a strength-based approach, we individualize help, building independence, while reducing emotional reactivity. We have advanced skills in RUBI Parent Training, AsperCoach training (AANE), Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Stanford Neurodiversity Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Autism (CBT), Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Autism, as well as UCLA’s PEERS social skills, and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
![Photo of Brandon F Heimberg - Heimberg Neuropsychology, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7db6e293-09a0-423f-b7e4-ff58af325060/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Heimberg takes the time to get to the root of the problem through comprehensive neuropsychological or psychological assessment to assess for a wide range of psychological and medical conditions. Our patient's find comfort in receiving a thorough diagnostic evaluation to assess for conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, a specific learning disorder, neuropsychological sequelau of complex medical conditions or treatment, traumatic brain injury, post traumatic stress disorder, and neurodegenerative conditions (alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, etc.).
Dr. Heimberg takes the time to get to the root of the problem through comprehensive neuropsychological or psychological assessment to assess for a wide range of psychological and medical conditions. Our patient's find comfort in receiving a thorough diagnostic evaluation to assess for conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, a specific learning disorder, neuropsychological sequelau of complex medical conditions or treatment, traumatic brain injury, post traumatic stress disorder, and neurodegenerative conditions (alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, etc.).
![Photo of Jill Brickman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5e7b2e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Are you or your child struggling in school? Is reading, writing, math, or inattention leading to academic or emotional problems? Do you suspect Autism or Asperger's Disorder? I offer complete psychological assessments tailored to your individual needs and questions.
Are you or your child struggling in school? Is reading, writing, math, or inattention leading to academic or emotional problems? Do you suspect Autism or Asperger's Disorder? I offer complete psychological assessments tailored to your individual needs and questions.
![Photo of Kane Tung - Van Reipen Counseling and Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ebffcb4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Van Reipen Counseling and Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hartsdale, NY 10530 (Online Only)
As a single father of a non-verbal Autistic child and previous staff Psychologist for premier centers for Autism, Hospitals, Neuropsychology clinics, Hospices & Nursing Homes, I constantly train intensely in the field of Autism as if my child's life depends on it, because it does.
I strive to be the therapist I'd want for myself—actively engaged and genuinely invested in your journey. I customize action plans that work for you and help you understand your genuine self: like a Scientific/Psychological Horoscope Reading. Whether new to therapy or experienced, clients often find me to be their secret weapon in navigating life's challenges. I specialize in DBT, ACT, CBT, and Gottman Couples Therapy, as well as extensive work with Autism/ADHD, Grief and End-of-Life issues, integrating these approaches to help you Survive. Live. Upgrade/Evolve. Not necessarily in that order.
As a single father of a non-verbal Autistic child and previous staff Psychologist for premier centers for Autism, Hospitals, Neuropsychology clinics, Hospices & Nursing Homes, I constantly train intensely in the field of Autism as if my child's life depends on it, because it does.
I strive to be the therapist I'd want for myself—actively engaged and genuinely invested in your journey. I customize action plans that work for you and help you understand your genuine self: like a Scientific/Psychological Horoscope Reading. Whether new to therapy or experienced, clients often find me to be their secret weapon in navigating life's challenges. I specialize in DBT, ACT, CBT, and Gottman Couples Therapy, as well as extensive work with Autism/ADHD, Grief and End-of-Life issues, integrating these approaches to help you Survive. Live. Upgrade/Evolve. Not necessarily in that order.
![Photo of Joanna Nappi, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7501ac92-c2c9-4ac8-9874-962660bdaf2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
By searching for a therapist, you have already taken the first step towards creating the life you want. I view everyday as a fresh start and an opportunity to become whoever you want to be. As a therapist, I work with children, adolescents, and adults on a wide range of issues/topics, such as, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, gender and sexuality, life transitions, relational difficulties, and emotional regulation. I am especially interested in LGBTQIA+ issues, emerging adulthood, Autism / ASD, women's issues, incorporating art/movement/creativity, parent training, and fostering the mind-body connection.
By searching for a therapist, you have already taken the first step towards creating the life you want. I view everyday as a fresh start and an opportunity to become whoever you want to be. As a therapist, I work with children, adolescents, and adults on a wide range of issues/topics, such as, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, gender and sexuality, life transitions, relational difficulties, and emotional regulation. I am especially interested in LGBTQIA+ issues, emerging adulthood, Autism / ASD, women's issues, incorporating art/movement/creativity, parent training, and fostering the mind-body connection.
![Photo of Dr. Jaime Fleckner Black, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb3f3c4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work in private practice and see individuals with many different needs, but my main area of expertise lies in treating teens and adults with autism (previously known as Asperger Syndrome (AS). Many of my autistic clients share characteristics with my "neurotypical" clients. Who hasn't fumbled when speaking to a potential friend or date? Have you ever been told that you misinterpreted something someone said? For individuals with autism, this happens all the time, and most "neurotypicals" can empathize with that.
I work in private practice and see individuals with many different needs, but my main area of expertise lies in treating teens and adults with autism (previously known as Asperger Syndrome (AS). Many of my autistic clients share characteristics with my "neurotypical" clients. Who hasn't fumbled when speaking to a potential friend or date? Have you ever been told that you misinterpreted something someone said? For individuals with autism, this happens all the time, and most "neurotypicals" can empathize with that.
![Photo of Yedidya Levy - Alloy Psychotherapy (Low Cost Specialized Care), PsyD, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f241c7d-7e71-4ae6-878a-637471e21f3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alloy Psychotherapy (Low Cost Specialized Care)
PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Rochelle, NY 10804
Our therapists specialize in depression, anxiety, OCD, relationships, autism, life transitions, grief, and more. Some of our clinicians accept insurance, and others can be seen for as low as $100 per session. Therapists at Alloy Psychotherapy are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Our clinicians prioritize curiosity, honesty, and effective treatment modalities. Let us know what you are looking for so we can connect you with the best-fitting therapist. My name is Dr. Didi Levy, and I founded Alloy Psychotherapy. Feel free to reach out for a free consultation.
Our therapists specialize in depression, anxiety, OCD, relationships, autism, life transitions, grief, and more. Some of our clinicians accept insurance, and others can be seen for as low as $100 per session. Therapists at Alloy Psychotherapy are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Our clinicians prioritize curiosity, honesty, and effective treatment modalities. Let us know what you are looking for so we can connect you with the best-fitting therapist. My name is Dr. Didi Levy, and I founded Alloy Psychotherapy. Feel free to reach out for a free consultation.
![Photo of Karina G. Campos, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41c7e2dd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Campos specializes in treating various clinical issues, such as anxiety disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, social problems, organization and executive functioning difficulties.
Dr. Campos is a licensed CT and NY state clinical psychologist. Dr. Campos works with children, adolescents and young adults. She also works with individuals and couples having difficulties related to pregnancy, and prenatal and neonatal health and parenting. Common issues parents experience include transitioning to new parenthood, sleep difficulties, postpartum depression, and relationship stress. Dr. Campos completed her undergraduate psychology degree at UCLA and her masters and doctoral degrees at Pepperdine University. Dr. Campos completed her APA approved doctoral internship at NYU Child Study Center and Bellevue Hospital. She has extensive training in several evidence-based treatments, including ABA, PCIT, DBT, PEERS, TF-CBT.
Campos specializes in treating various clinical issues, such as anxiety disorders, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, social problems, organization and executive functioning difficulties.
Dr. Campos is a licensed CT and NY state clinical psychologist. Dr. Campos works with children, adolescents and young adults. She also works with individuals and couples having difficulties related to pregnancy, and prenatal and neonatal health and parenting. Common issues parents experience include transitioning to new parenthood, sleep difficulties, postpartum depression, and relationship stress. Dr. Campos completed her undergraduate psychology degree at UCLA and her masters and doctoral degrees at Pepperdine University. Dr. Campos completed her APA approved doctoral internship at NYU Child Study Center and Bellevue Hospital. She has extensive training in several evidence-based treatments, including ABA, PCIT, DBT, PEERS, TF-CBT.
![Photo of Lauren Pepa, PhD , BCBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52f06c9e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical psychologist and board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) specializing in the assessment and treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions (ADHD, intellectual disability, learning disorders). I have worked professionally with people with developmental disabilities for almost 15 years and am very dedicated to this special group! I also have extensive experience using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat individuals with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, and other concerns.
I am a clinical psychologist and board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) specializing in the assessment and treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions (ADHD, intellectual disability, learning disorders). I have worked professionally with people with developmental disabilities for almost 15 years and am very dedicated to this special group! I also have extensive experience using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat individuals with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, and other concerns.
![Photo of Rebecca McKee - The 13th Child Autism & Behavioral Coaching, Inc, MSEd, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4923dade-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The 13th Child Autism & Behavioral Coaching, Inc. is a consulting company focused on those living with Autism Spectrum Disorder & other socio-behavioral uniqueness. Direct teaching is available in a 1-1 setting within the home or school, as well as incidental teaching in the natural environment of classrooms and households. We focus on children, teens and adults that struggle academically, behaviorally and socially.
The 13th Child Autism & Behavioral Coaching, Inc. is a consulting company focused on those living with Autism Spectrum Disorder & other socio-behavioral uniqueness. Direct teaching is available in a 1-1 setting within the home or school, as well as incidental teaching in the natural environment of classrooms and households. We focus on children, teens and adults that struggle academically, behaviorally and socially.
![Photo of Lisa A DeDomenico, PhD, BCBA, LBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/548889e6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa A DeDomenico
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvington, NY 10533
Waitlist for new clients
I treat children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation issues, OCD, ADHD, autism & other behavioral difficulties that interfere with participating in life activities.
As a licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist & licensed behavioral analyst, I treat children, teens and young adults presenting with a wide range of emotional difficulties. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients to help gain a deeper understanding of themselves and make effective changes in their lives. In my practice I utilize techniques that help facilitate a change in mindset. I have completed training at Mindful Schools and The Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy among others and I incorporate mindfulness into sessions on an individual basis for interested families.
I treat children, teens, and young adults with anxiety, depression, emotional regulation issues, OCD, ADHD, autism & other behavioral difficulties that interfere with participating in life activities.
As a licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist & licensed behavioral analyst, I treat children, teens and young adults presenting with a wide range of emotional difficulties. I believe in working collaboratively with my clients to help gain a deeper understanding of themselves and make effective changes in their lives. In my practice I utilize techniques that help facilitate a change in mindset. I have completed training at Mindful Schools and The Institute for Meditation and Psychotherapy among others and I incorporate mindfulness into sessions on an individual basis for interested families.
![Photo of Emily Becker-Weidman, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b8fab7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I also have specialized training in neuropsychological and autism assessment.
I offer a variety of assessment and treatment services for children, teens, and adults. I have 10+ years experience working with children and families, helping them cope with a wide variety of issues. I specialize in attachment focused treatment and mood disorders. I work with parents to learn more adaptive ways to relate to their child and help children develop their ability to cope more effectively with stressful feelings and deepen their capacity to form close relationships. I also work with your child to develop skills to better cope with their worries, self-criticism or depressive feelings.
I also have specialized training in neuropsychological and autism assessment.
I offer a variety of assessment and treatment services for children, teens, and adults. I have 10+ years experience working with children and families, helping them cope with a wide variety of issues. I specialize in attachment focused treatment and mood disorders. I work with parents to learn more adaptive ways to relate to their child and help children develop their ability to cope more effectively with stressful feelings and deepen their capacity to form close relationships. I also work with your child to develop skills to better cope with their worries, self-criticism or depressive feelings.
![Photo of Benjamin R Okin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/875f2cec-16c0-415e-a477-80d6ef0ddb7b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Childhood and adolescence is a trying time for those in it and their family. Your child may be struggling with ADHD, motivation, impulsivity, depression, difficulty with peers, anxiety, autism, video game addiction or other any number or combination of other challenges, and that is alright. Adversity is natural at all points in our lives, but there is worth in addressing and meeting these challenges to improve your child/adolescent's well being and help them function more effectively to achieve greater success and happiness as soon as possible.
Childhood and adolescence is a trying time for those in it and their family. Your child may be struggling with ADHD, motivation, impulsivity, depression, difficulty with peers, anxiety, autism, video game addiction or other any number or combination of other challenges, and that is alright. Adversity is natural at all points in our lives, but there is worth in addressing and meeting these challenges to improve your child/adolescent's well being and help them function more effectively to achieve greater success and happiness as soon as possible.
See more therapy options for Valhalla
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Valhalla
- Ardsley
- Armonk
- Briarcliff Manor
- Chappaqua
- Hartsdale
- Irvington
- Ossining
- Pleasantville
- Purchase
- Scarsdale
- Tarrytown
- White Plains
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.