Autism Therapists in Mustang, OK

Photo of Dr. Camryn Lopez, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Camryn Lopez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mustang, OK 73064
When it comes to mental health, it can be difficult to know where to begin! At Renew Counseling and Psychological Services, we provide psychological assessments for clients of all ages and presenting concerns. These comprehensive evaluations assess cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and social factors to provide you with an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. We assess for a variety of presenting concerns including autism, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. You will walk away with better insights into yourself and increased knowledge of what treatment is right for you.
When it comes to mental health, it can be difficult to know where to begin! At Renew Counseling and Psychological Services, we provide psychological assessments for clients of all ages and presenting concerns. These comprehensive evaluations assess cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and social factors to provide you with an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. We assess for a variety of presenting concerns including autism, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. You will walk away with better insights into yourself and increased knowledge of what treatment is right for you.
(405) 704-3460 View (405) 704-3460
Photo of Jakenzee Nuzum, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jakenzee Nuzum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mustang, OK 73064
I am also certified in AutPlay therapy, which is a type of play therapy focused on working with children who have autism.
I believe that we were made to be in relationship with one another, which means no one is meant to struggle alone. It may sound odd, but I believe that we can find purpose and meaning through our suffering. I am a Christian and enjoy bringing this into the therapy room at the request of the client. My role as a counselor is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment for each of my clients in order to promote learning, growth, and healing. I focus on meeting each of my clients where they are and working together to meet their needs.
I am also certified in AutPlay therapy, which is a type of play therapy focused on working with children who have autism.
I believe that we were made to be in relationship with one another, which means no one is meant to struggle alone. It may sound odd, but I believe that we can find purpose and meaning through our suffering. I am a Christian and enjoy bringing this into the therapy room at the request of the client. My role as a counselor is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment for each of my clients in order to promote learning, growth, and healing. I focus on meeting each of my clients where they are and working together to meet their needs.
(405) 867-6463 View (405) 867-6463
Photo of Chase William Carpenter, MA, LPC-C
Chase William Carpenter
LPC Candidate, MA, LPC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mustang, OK 73064
In group, ages 12+ (yes, even adults) with ADHD, autism, anxiety, or depression, my D&D groups provide a safe, fun space to heal, connect, and build confidence.
Life can feel like a whirlwind, leaving you overwhelmed, scattered, or just plain stuck. But here's the deal: you're not alone in this journey. I'm here to roll up my sleeves with you and dive into your story. Together, we'll uncover hidden strengths and build strategies to help you thrive. My approach is all about creating a safe space where you can be your authentic self. No judgment, just genuine support and guidance. I'm passionate about the power of human connection and how it can transform lives. Whether you're feeling lost or just need a fresh perspective, I'm committed to walking with you.
In group, ages 12+ (yes, even adults) with ADHD, autism, anxiety, or depression, my D&D groups provide a safe, fun space to heal, connect, and build confidence.
Life can feel like a whirlwind, leaving you overwhelmed, scattered, or just plain stuck. But here's the deal: you're not alone in this journey. I'm here to roll up my sleeves with you and dive into your story. Together, we'll uncover hidden strengths and build strategies to help you thrive. My approach is all about creating a safe space where you can be your authentic self. No judgment, just genuine support and guidance. I'm passionate about the power of human connection and how it can transform lives. Whether you're feeling lost or just need a fresh perspective, I'm committed to walking with you.
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Photo of Jason Crouch, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Crouch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mustang, OK 73064
I possess a strong passion for working with children, preteens, teenagers, young adults, and their families. Difficult struggles including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and anger management problems can affect people of all ages. Regardless of whether these struggles are due in part to trauma, family changes, abuse, or other factors, I help my clients feel more self-assured and help prepare them to succeed on their own. By diving deep into the individual and grasping their unique perspective of the world around them, we can help them on their journey forward. I have openings and would love to work with you and your family.
I possess a strong passion for working with children, preteens, teenagers, young adults, and their families. Difficult struggles including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and anger management problems can affect people of all ages. Regardless of whether these struggles are due in part to trauma, family changes, abuse, or other factors, I help my clients feel more self-assured and help prepare them to succeed on their own. By diving deep into the individual and grasping their unique perspective of the world around them, we can help them on their journey forward. I have openings and would love to work with you and your family.
(405) 454-7999 View (405) 454-7999
Photo of Lynly Grider, Lynly Grider, LPC-C, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lynly Grider
Pre-Licensed Professional, Lynly Grider, LPC-C, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mustang, OK 73064
I am dedicated to supporting anyone who is searching for healing. I know that military families, special needs families, and women in ministry require extra compassion and understanding. I provide a nurturing space for military families to navigate the stress of deployments and relocations, helping them strengthen their bonds and find resilience. For special needs families, I offer guidance in balancing caregiving demands with self-care. Women in ministry receive empathetic support to manage the unique pressures of their roles while nurturing their own well-being. My goal is to empower you through your journey with warmth and care.
I am dedicated to supporting anyone who is searching for healing. I know that military families, special needs families, and women in ministry require extra compassion and understanding. I provide a nurturing space for military families to navigate the stress of deployments and relocations, helping them strengthen their bonds and find resilience. For special needs families, I offer guidance in balancing caregiving demands with self-care. Women in ministry receive empathetic support to manage the unique pressures of their roles while nurturing their own well-being. My goal is to empower you through your journey with warmth and care.
(405) 955-2379 View (405) 955-2379
Photo of Stetson Purgason, MEd, LPC-CAN, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stetson Purgason
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, LPC-CAN
Verified Verified
Mustang, OK 73064
Waitlist for new clients
Have you ever found yourself isolating and spending more time on social media than you would like? Maybe you find yourself comparing your experiences and circumstances to others and begin to be increasingly critical to yourself. You might internalize these thoughts even more which creates feelings of inadequacy, hopelessness, and loss of motivation to push on. You might dwell in the past and long for the days when things seemed simpler, or spend too much time panicking on what is to come in the future. You are needing assistance with grounding, loving who you are, and finding ways to manage negative thoughts and behaviors.
Have you ever found yourself isolating and spending more time on social media than you would like? Maybe you find yourself comparing your experiences and circumstances to others and begin to be increasingly critical to yourself. You might internalize these thoughts even more which creates feelings of inadequacy, hopelessness, and loss of motivation to push on. You might dwell in the past and long for the days when things seemed simpler, or spend too much time panicking on what is to come in the future. You are needing assistance with grounding, loving who you are, and finding ways to manage negative thoughts and behaviors.
(405) 451-3396 View (405) 451-3396

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karie Mae Talkington, MEd, LPC-S, CSP, EMDR, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karie Mae Talkington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, CSP, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
Yukon, OK 73099  (Online Only)
For adults with ADHD or autism, I'm here to be a resource, and navigate unfamiliar territory, whether for you or your child.
Hello! I am here to be a trusted professional to help you or your family through a trying time in your life. Reaching out for help can be hard; trust me, I know (because I've struggled with it as well). When it comes down to it, almost everyone walking the face of this Earth could have used counseling, support, or extra guidance at one point or another in their lives. The stigma that used to go along with mental health issues is starting to dissipate due to people finally speaking up and saying, "You're not alone, I struggle with that too!" I am fortunate to be in a profession that allows me to help people every day!
For adults with ADHD or autism, I'm here to be a resource, and navigate unfamiliar territory, whether for you or your child.
Hello! I am here to be a trusted professional to help you or your family through a trying time in your life. Reaching out for help can be hard; trust me, I know (because I've struggled with it as well). When it comes down to it, almost everyone walking the face of this Earth could have used counseling, support, or extra guidance at one point or another in their lives. The stigma that used to go along with mental health issues is starting to dissipate due to people finally speaking up and saying, "You're not alone, I struggle with that too!" I am fortunate to be in a profession that allows me to help people every day!
(580) 681-1943 View (580) 681-1943
Photo of Jamie Lynn Mungai - Pendulum Therapy Services, LLC , MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pendulum Therapy Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73159
Waitlist for new clients
I have 22 years experience working with children/adults on the autism spectrum and with developmental disabilities .
The smallest change can affect your whole life. Life seems to continue even if we don't feel prepared for it. Moments of anxiety and depression can feel overwhelming. A new diagnosis or loss can create feelings that are difficult to control. Both past and present trauma can leave a lasting impact without support. Addiction can ruin relationships with friends and family. Any of these issues can cause problems in a person's life and therapy can create change in one's life. I believe all clients deserve to be in a place that is judgement free.
I have 22 years experience working with children/adults on the autism spectrum and with developmental disabilities .
The smallest change can affect your whole life. Life seems to continue even if we don't feel prepared for it. Moments of anxiety and depression can feel overwhelming. A new diagnosis or loss can create feelings that are difficult to control. Both past and present trauma can leave a lasting impact without support. Addiction can ruin relationships with friends and family. Any of these issues can cause problems in a person's life and therapy can create change in one's life. I believe all clients deserve to be in a place that is judgement free.
(405) 251-8567 View (405) 251-8567
Photo of Rachele L Floyd - St Dymphna Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
St Dymphna Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bethany, OK 73008
I conduct evaluations to assess for most mental health diagnoses, including but not limited to Autism, ADHD, Learning Disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, Neurocognitive Disorders (such as dementia or TBI).
I am a psychologist with over 20 years experience in the mental health field, specializing in psychological assessment. Right now I am accepting clients for psychological assessment only; I am not accepting new psychotherapy clients.
I conduct evaluations to assess for most mental health diagnoses, including but not limited to Autism, ADHD, Learning Disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, Neurocognitive Disorders (such as dementia or TBI).
I am a psychologist with over 20 years experience in the mental health field, specializing in psychological assessment. Right now I am accepting clients for psychological assessment only; I am not accepting new psychotherapy clients.
(405) 645-9563 View (405) 645-9563
Photo of Dr. Scott P Secor, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Scott P Secor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Yukon, OK 73099
Waitlist for new clients
, ADHD, Autism) to personality disorders.
I believe that life's struggles can have multiple causes. That is, difficulties can be related to developmental issues, childhood or family-of-origin issues with deep-rooted histories or can be unexpected circumstances ranging from daily frustrations to traumatic life-altering events. My approach to therapy understands that much of our healing can be found in an empathic, supportive therapeutic encounter that challenges and supports individuals on a journey of self-discovery. I believe that good therapy is found when a therapist collaborates with his/her clients in this journey of self-discovery.
, ADHD, Autism) to personality disorders.
I believe that life's struggles can have multiple causes. That is, difficulties can be related to developmental issues, childhood or family-of-origin issues with deep-rooted histories or can be unexpected circumstances ranging from daily frustrations to traumatic life-altering events. My approach to therapy understands that much of our healing can be found in an empathic, supportive therapeutic encounter that challenges and supports individuals on a journey of self-discovery. I believe that good therapy is found when a therapist collaborates with his/her clients in this journey of self-discovery.
(405) 407-1151 View (405) 407-1151
Photo of Brittain Keifer, LMFT, SLP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittain Keifer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SLP
Verified Verified
Yukon, OK 73099  (Online Only)
We are experienced in stress, anxiety, LGBTQ, parenting issues, anger management, depression, compassion fatigue, geriatric, autism, blended families, cancer, Asperger Syndrome, and abandonment.
Hello, my name is Brittain Keifer and we offer premium mental health services. I have been a therapist since 2009 and I have extensive experience in helping individuals, couples, adolescents and families navigate through various seasons in life. Therapy is a place where you can come and there are no expectations of you. I take a client-centered approach implementing a variety of therapeutic techniques, assisting you to discover healthy ways of communicating, resolving conflict and establishing boundaries and self-discovery. This is YOUR time and it is my passion to help you on your journey! Come and experience the change.
We are experienced in stress, anxiety, LGBTQ, parenting issues, anger management, depression, compassion fatigue, geriatric, autism, blended families, cancer, Asperger Syndrome, and abandonment.
Hello, my name is Brittain Keifer and we offer premium mental health services. I have been a therapist since 2009 and I have extensive experience in helping individuals, couples, adolescents and families navigate through various seasons in life. Therapy is a place where you can come and there are no expectations of you. I take a client-centered approach implementing a variety of therapeutic techniques, assisting you to discover healthy ways of communicating, resolving conflict and establishing boundaries and self-discovery. This is YOUR time and it is my passion to help you on your journey! Come and experience the change.
(918) 417-1255 View (918) 417-1255
Photo of Chelsea E Sutton, MS , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chelsea E Sutton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73107
Life is a journey, not a destination. I am here to help people along their path, whatever that may bring. I serve teens, adults, families and couples. I come form a multi- cultural and diverse background that helps me work with all populations while always taking into account the uniqueness of each of us. I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, autism, anger, OCD, trauma, ADHD, personality disorders, difficult life transitions, low self-esteem, work place stress, and/or relationship difficulties.
Life is a journey, not a destination. I am here to help people along their path, whatever that may bring. I serve teens, adults, families and couples. I come form a multi- cultural and diverse background that helps me work with all populations while always taking into account the uniqueness of each of us. I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, autism, anger, OCD, trauma, ADHD, personality disorders, difficult life transitions, low self-esteem, work place stress, and/or relationship difficulties.
(405) 643-6969 View (405) 643-6969
Photo of Emily Linsky, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Linsky
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Yukon, OK 73085
Now accepting new clients: FALL 2024! At my core, I believe that play is an essential part of a human interaction. This is because I wholeheartedly believe that play should not end at a certain age, or when a child is “too old”. From a young age, play is how we learn boundaries and social skills. Play can also be used to process trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and much more. Play therapy can help build trust and attachment with your child, while the both of you learn more helpful behaviors and how to express your emotions. I encourage a child’s caregivers to take an active role in the therapeutic process.
Now accepting new clients: FALL 2024! At my core, I believe that play is an essential part of a human interaction. This is because I wholeheartedly believe that play should not end at a certain age, or when a child is “too old”. From a young age, play is how we learn boundaries and social skills. Play can also be used to process trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and much more. Play therapy can help build trust and attachment with your child, while the both of you learn more helpful behaviors and how to express your emotions. I encourage a child’s caregivers to take an active role in the therapeutic process.
(405) 351-6012 View (405) 351-6012
Photo of Stephanie Sandberg, MS, LADC/MH, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Stephanie Sandberg
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LADC/MH
Verified Verified
Yukon, OK 73099
Coming to the realization that you need help on your journey of your personal life story is the hardest part. I am here to help organize your thoughts effectively and to help you learn skills that will give you the relief you need. Your life is unique, both good and bad, and I am honored to have you give me the privilege of helping you with your choices moving forward. Your life story and your journey moving forward from here does not have to be as difficult, hectic, and uncontrollable as it is now. I want to help you make the decisions necessary to succeed and be proud of your own accomplishments moving forward.
Coming to the realization that you need help on your journey of your personal life story is the hardest part. I am here to help organize your thoughts effectively and to help you learn skills that will give you the relief you need. Your life is unique, both good and bad, and I am honored to have you give me the privilege of helping you with your choices moving forward. Your life story and your journey moving forward from here does not have to be as difficult, hectic, and uncontrollable as it is now. I want to help you make the decisions necessary to succeed and be proud of your own accomplishments moving forward.
(405) 422-9735 View (405) 422-9735
Photo of Ronald Butler, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Ronald Butler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Yukon, OK 73099
Ronnie Butler, LPC - Licensed Professional Counselor In Oklahoma, Texas, & New Mexico (LPCC). I've been practicing Counseling/Psychotherapy for over 25 years. I also hold an endorsement from the Oklahoma Board of Behavioral Health as a Clinical Supervisor for LPC Interns. My approach to therapy can best be described as multi-disciplinary, eclectic, with solid foundations in Client-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral models. Establishing trust in our therapeutic relationship is crucial to facilitate positive changes, achieve goals for treatment, and help you realize your potential.
Ronnie Butler, LPC - Licensed Professional Counselor In Oklahoma, Texas, & New Mexico (LPCC). I've been practicing Counseling/Psychotherapy for over 25 years. I also hold an endorsement from the Oklahoma Board of Behavioral Health as a Clinical Supervisor for LPC Interns. My approach to therapy can best be described as multi-disciplinary, eclectic, with solid foundations in Client-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral models. Establishing trust in our therapeutic relationship is crucial to facilitate positive changes, achieve goals for treatment, and help you realize your potential.
(918) 972-1542 View (918) 972-1542
Photo of Jocelyn Barton, LCP, Psychologist
Jocelyn Barton
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Yukon, OK 73099  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Jocelyn Barton (Oklahoma license 1328) and I am a clinical psychologist with more than 12 years of experience helping people become their best selves. My style is warm, empathic, and optimistic. I utilize a client-centered approach (meaning that YOU are the expert on you) that will allow you to identify your own strengths and resources. I work with my clients to find the treatments that fit them the best, with significant experience using empirically supported interventions (like CBT and ACT).
My name is Dr. Jocelyn Barton (Oklahoma license 1328) and I am a clinical psychologist with more than 12 years of experience helping people become their best selves. My style is warm, empathic, and optimistic. I utilize a client-centered approach (meaning that YOU are the expert on you) that will allow you to identify your own strengths and resources. I work with my clients to find the treatments that fit them the best, with significant experience using empirically supported interventions (like CBT and ACT).
(918) 517-8744 View (918) 517-8744
Photo of Zander Holland, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zander Holland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethany, OK 73008
Everyone is trying their best. The world we live in rarely offers people the opportunity to live life trauma-free. Certainly no one I've met has lived that life. It's not until we recognize the ways in which we've been hurt, most often by people we trusted most, that we are able to find ourselves again. Trauma tells us we can't move on or be happy, it tells us that we aren't worth the good and fulfilling life we deserve. Trauma tells us that we deserve to be punished and alone. Unlearning these harmful narratives allows us to develop healthy boundaries and connection with those closest to us.
Everyone is trying their best. The world we live in rarely offers people the opportunity to live life trauma-free. Certainly no one I've met has lived that life. It's not until we recognize the ways in which we've been hurt, most often by people we trusted most, that we are able to find ourselves again. Trauma tells us we can't move on or be happy, it tells us that we aren't worth the good and fulfilling life we deserve. Trauma tells us that we deserve to be punished and alone. Unlearning these harmful narratives allows us to develop healthy boundaries and connection with those closest to us.
(405) 956-3981 View (405) 956-3981
Photo of Jennifer Morton, MLA, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Morton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MLA, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73170
New Clients Accepted Book ONLINE at jennifer-morton.clientsecure.me When looking for a therapist you want someone you can trust. You want to feel safe.. right? You may feel that you are different than others and you want to know you can talk to someone that understands how to help. I have been a support for those who have experienced social anxiety, LGBTQ discrimination, depression and trauma. I pride myself in a non-judgemental space for you to heal. I take a relational approach and know that progress can be made when you have a trusted person that can support you through the changes you are wanting to make.
New Clients Accepted Book ONLINE at jennifer-morton.clientsecure.me When looking for a therapist you want someone you can trust. You want to feel safe.. right? You may feel that you are different than others and you want to know you can talk to someone that understands how to help. I have been a support for those who have experienced social anxiety, LGBTQ discrimination, depression and trauma. I pride myself in a non-judgemental space for you to heal. I take a relational approach and know that progress can be made when you have a trusted person that can support you through the changes you are wanting to make.
(405) 451-4221 View (405) 451-4221
Photo of Kathleen Niblack - Cobblestone Counseling Services LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cobblestone Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73127  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide a compassionate and confidential atmosphere to discuss personal concerns for all those seeking help. Through individual, family, teen, couples, and group counseling, our hope is that each person will come to appreciate the uniqueness of their personalities and find new avenues of self discovery.
Our mission is to provide a compassionate and confidential atmosphere to discuss personal concerns for all those seeking help. Through individual, family, teen, couples, and group counseling, our hope is that each person will come to appreciate the uniqueness of their personalities and find new avenues of self discovery.
(405) 880-8821 View (405) 880-8821
Photo of Crystal Rios - Metro Family Therapy Counseling and Float Spa, LMFT, LPC, LADC, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Metro Family Therapy Counseling and Float Spa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LADC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethany, OK 73008
We are a group of healthcare professionals with many years of experience working with both children and adults. We use a integrative approach including a treatment team of massage therapists, dietitians, pediatritions, family physicians, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals. We also specialize in holistic treatments such as massage and float therapy, yoga, professional counseling and evaluations. We partner with a psychiatrist to provide medication management via telecommunication
We are a group of healthcare professionals with many years of experience working with both children and adults. We use a integrative approach including a treatment team of massage therapists, dietitians, pediatritions, family physicians, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals. We also specialize in holistic treatments such as massage and float therapy, yoga, professional counseling and evaluations. We partner with a psychiatrist to provide medication management via telecommunication
(405) 837-1033 View (405) 837-1033
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.