Autism Therapists in Dallas, OR

Photo of Chelsea Green, MA, CCFP, QMHP-R, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chelsea Green
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CCFP, QMHP-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, OR 97338
New Clients Welcome! Life presents its fair share of challenges, and having someone by your side can make all the difference. I thrive on collaborating with individuals who seek change and are open to exploring new avenues. If you're 14 years or older and struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or autism spectrum disorder, you understand the complexities of navigating life. My approach is grounded in highlighting your strengths, and I utilize a variety of techniques to facilitate your healing journey. As a clinician, I prioritize flexibility, recognizing that each person is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution.
New Clients Welcome! Life presents its fair share of challenges, and having someone by your side can make all the difference. I thrive on collaborating with individuals who seek change and are open to exploring new avenues. If you're 14 years or older and struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, or autism spectrum disorder, you understand the complexities of navigating life. My approach is grounded in highlighting your strengths, and I utilize a variety of techniques to facilitate your healing journey. As a clinician, I prioritize flexibility, recognizing that each person is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution.
(971) 247-3185 View (971) 247-3185
Photo of Kim Maria Cansino, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Maria Cansino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dallas, OR 97338
Life has many up and downs and it all a journey, everyone has a different path to get to our destination. Therapy is process it is not perfect, but I will support you as you walk this path. I do not believe therapy is a one size fits all process, each person is as different as the therapy process. I believe the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is the most important relationship, I hold no judgements and I strive to make the client feel comfortable and supported.
Life has many up and downs and it all a journey, everyone has a different path to get to our destination. Therapy is process it is not perfect, but I will support you as you walk this path. I do not believe therapy is a one size fits all process, each person is as different as the therapy process. I believe the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is the most important relationship, I hold no judgements and I strive to make the client feel comfortable and supported.
(206) 202-6808 View (206) 202-6808
Photo of Mechelle M Millmaker, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mechelle M Millmaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dallas, OR 97338
I am currently offering both virtual and in person care. My office is located in downtown Salem, OR. My goal is to make care accessible to those who need it. Providing virtual care cuts down on your time spent driving to appointments, waiting in waiting rooms, and provides an opportunity for those that are unable to come to a physical location the ability to access services. I also understand that there is value in providing face to face appointments and virtual care is not always a good option for all, therefore I now offer in person appointments on Fridays and Saturdays.
I am currently offering both virtual and in person care. My office is located in downtown Salem, OR. My goal is to make care accessible to those who need it. Providing virtual care cuts down on your time spent driving to appointments, waiting in waiting rooms, and provides an opportunity for those that are unable to come to a physical location the ability to access services. I also understand that there is value in providing face to face appointments and virtual care is not always a good option for all, therefore I now offer in person appointments on Fridays and Saturdays.
(503) 506-4776 View (503) 506-4776
Photo of Marcie Walker - Hope Whisperer Christian Counseling, LLC, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hope Whisperer Christian Counseling, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Dallas, OR 97338
I am Marcie Walker, the Hope Whisperer, who is accepting new clients! In a safe, warm, and supportive environment, I will honor the words you share with me, and travel your journey with you. I have personal experience in therapeutic work with adults and families, as well as working with students at these grade levels: Middle, high, and college ages. I have 23 years experience working with the special needs population. Preventing bullying is my passion, so it is no wonder that, for the past twenty years as staff and student, I have advocated for many who were bullied and treated unfairly.
I am Marcie Walker, the Hope Whisperer, who is accepting new clients! In a safe, warm, and supportive environment, I will honor the words you share with me, and travel your journey with you. I have personal experience in therapeutic work with adults and families, as well as working with students at these grade levels: Middle, high, and college ages. I have 23 years experience working with the special needs population. Preventing bullying is my passion, so it is no wonder that, for the past twenty years as staff and student, I have advocated for many who were bullied and treated unfairly.
(503) 438-4354 View (503) 438-4354
Align Counseling LLC
Verified Verified
Dallas, OR 97338
Align Counseling’s philosophy and approach to services is one of inclusivity of all individuals regardless of their age, race, gender, religion, disabilities, or economic status. Everyone has the right to quality care and Align Counseling wants to ensure this is possible. All individuals will be treated with dignity and respect and offered services to align with their individual and family needs.
Align Counseling’s philosophy and approach to services is one of inclusivity of all individuals regardless of their age, race, gender, religion, disabilities, or economic status. Everyone has the right to quality care and Align Counseling wants to ensure this is possible. All individuals will be treated with dignity and respect and offered services to align with their individual and family needs.
(503) 782-9964 View (503) 782-9964
Photo of Amy Ruth Crevola, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Ruth Crevola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, OR 97338
Perhaps you are going through a rough patch and could use support and guidance, or perhaps you’ve struggled for many years and would like to see things differently, live things differently and are ready to “do therapy.” You are not broken. We each of us are inherently whole and in response to internalized messages and expected roles, or difficult situations and difficult histories, ill health, extreme stressors or trauma, our lives can feel broken. My passion is to help you feel more connected to yourself and the people you love and the world around you.
Perhaps you are going through a rough patch and could use support and guidance, or perhaps you’ve struggled for many years and would like to see things differently, live things differently and are ready to “do therapy.” You are not broken. We each of us are inherently whole and in response to internalized messages and expected roles, or difficult situations and difficult histories, ill health, extreme stressors or trauma, our lives can feel broken. My passion is to help you feel more connected to yourself and the people you love and the world around you.
(541) 406-3343 View (541) 406-3343
Photo of Rosanne O'Connor, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosanne O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, OR 97338
Not accepting new clients
Autism, ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment difficulties and more are common topics of therapy.
It can be difficult at times to ask for help. I'm glad you have taken the first step. I am a therapist with many years experience supporting a diverse population of clients. Most recently I have been working with midlife and seniors experiencing declines in health. Before this I was a children's therapist focusing on children with disabilities, and those who have experienced trauma. I also enjoy working with individuals who have struggled with addiction as their strength is inspiring. I am a former foster/adoptive parent and enjoy supporting all members of the adoption triad. Teens and young adults are also a focus.
Autism, ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, adjustment difficulties and more are common topics of therapy.
It can be difficult at times to ask for help. I'm glad you have taken the first step. I am a therapist with many years experience supporting a diverse population of clients. Most recently I have been working with midlife and seniors experiencing declines in health. Before this I was a children's therapist focusing on children with disabilities, and those who have experienced trauma. I also enjoy working with individuals who have struggled with addiction as their strength is inspiring. I am a former foster/adoptive parent and enjoy supporting all members of the adoption triad. Teens and young adults are also a focus.
(503) 987-3535 View (503) 987-3535

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rebekah Degner, MS, LPC Intern
Rebekah Degner
LPC Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OR 97351
It sounds "cliché" but I focus on meeting each client where they are from the very first therapy session. If you aren't sure what your exact issues, needs or goals for therapy are, you are not alone. I work with clients to identify key issues impacting daily life and contributing to their primary symptoms, develop treatment goals and objectives tailored to address the identified issues in a realistic way, and spending sessions working together to facilitate positive change.
It sounds "cliché" but I focus on meeting each client where they are from the very first therapy session. If you aren't sure what your exact issues, needs or goals for therapy are, you are not alone. I work with clients to identify key issues impacting daily life and contributing to their primary symptoms, develop treatment goals and objectives tailored to address the identified issues in a realistic way, and spending sessions working together to facilitate positive change.
(503) 809-4598 View (503) 809-4598

Online Therapists

Photo of Stephanie Caballero, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Caballero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
As a DIR Floortime Specialist, I understand the impact of having a family member on the Autism Spectrum.
It is not uncommon to feel lost at different points in life. Life can be complicated: Family dynamics, career fulfillment, managing multiple responsibilities, understanding your partner, overwhelmed from transitions, making sense of the past. I believe that together we can process your experiences which can lead to a meaningful life and personal growth. It's a huge step attending therapy and I welcome you into this space with sensitivity and compassion. I am a Latinx therapist dedicated to working with adults. I am licensed in Oregon (T1596) and California (111592). I am currently seeing clients for individual therapy.
As a DIR Floortime Specialist, I understand the impact of having a family member on the Autism Spectrum.
It is not uncommon to feel lost at different points in life. Life can be complicated: Family dynamics, career fulfillment, managing multiple responsibilities, understanding your partner, overwhelmed from transitions, making sense of the past. I believe that together we can process your experiences which can lead to a meaningful life and personal growth. It's a huge step attending therapy and I welcome you into this space with sensitivity and compassion. I am a Latinx therapist dedicated to working with adults. I am licensed in Oregon (T1596) and California (111592). I am currently seeing clients for individual therapy.
(971) 233-2471 View (971) 233-2471
Photo of Yasaman Kashani - Honeycomb Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Honeycomb Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
My name is Yasaman Kashani and I am a pediatric psychologist who specializes in diagnostic assessments and evaluation for ADHD, autism, learning disorders, and anxiety/depression. I provide evaluation for families who wonder about possible neurological differences in their children. I received my undergraduate and graduate degrees in psychology and social work from McGill University. I completed my doctorate in psychology at the University of Oregon gaining extensive training in diagnostic assessments.
My name is Yasaman Kashani and I am a pediatric psychologist who specializes in diagnostic assessments and evaluation for ADHD, autism, learning disorders, and anxiety/depression. I provide evaluation for families who wonder about possible neurological differences in their children. I received my undergraduate and graduate degrees in psychology and social work from McGill University. I completed my doctorate in psychology at the University of Oregon gaining extensive training in diagnostic assessments.
(971) 290-2172 View (971) 290-2172
Photo of Robert Mountainspring-Wood, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robert Mountainspring-Wood
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Springfield, OR 97477
In addition, autism allows Rob to have a deeper understanding and appreciation for neurodivergent clients.
Rob was born, adopted, and raised in Upstate South Carolina, where he learned to love everything college football, bluegrass music, and deep fried. Shortly after high school, Rob enlisted in the United States Army. Upon leaving the military, Rob moved to Oregon in 2014 with his spouse, who was raised here in Oregon. Rob graduated from Umpqua Community College, then attended University of Oregon from where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in General Social Sciences with a concentration in Crime, Law, and Society. From UO, Rob took a stroll to Bushnell University, where he earned a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling.
In addition, autism allows Rob to have a deeper understanding and appreciation for neurodivergent clients.
Rob was born, adopted, and raised in Upstate South Carolina, where he learned to love everything college football, bluegrass music, and deep fried. Shortly after high school, Rob enlisted in the United States Army. Upon leaving the military, Rob moved to Oregon in 2014 with his spouse, who was raised here in Oregon. Rob graduated from Umpqua Community College, then attended University of Oregon from where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in General Social Sciences with a concentration in Crime, Law, and Society. From UO, Rob took a stroll to Bushnell University, where he earned a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling.
(541) 348-6571 x1 View (541) 348-6571 x1
Photo of Kathy J Marshack - Kathy J. Marshack, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Kathy J. Marshack, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For the past years, I've been focused on working with people who are on the Autism Spectrum and their loved ones.
I am Dr. Kathy Marshack, psychologist and author. My credentials go back decades including a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a Doctorate in Psychology. I've trained with the best too. But as valuable as my education, training and experience are, I also know that each one of you is as unique and special as your fingerprints. I want to help you, so I'm offering Online Therapy for Oregon and Washington residents and Online Education appointments for various topics. Check my clinical website to make an appointment with me: www.kmarshack.com. I am not currrently taking new clinical clients at this time.
For the past years, I've been focused on working with people who are on the Autism Spectrum and their loved ones.
I am Dr. Kathy Marshack, psychologist and author. My credentials go back decades including a Master’s Degree in Social Work and a Doctorate in Psychology. I've trained with the best too. But as valuable as my education, training and experience are, I also know that each one of you is as unique and special as your fingerprints. I want to help you, so I'm offering Online Therapy for Oregon and Washington residents and Online Education appointments for various topics. Check my clinical website to make an appointment with me: www.kmarshack.com. I am not currrently taking new clinical clients at this time.
(503) 966-4173 View (503) 966-4173
Photo of Amanda Singh Bans - Resonance LLC, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Resonance LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Providers at Resonance can treat a variety of issues and clients, including adult survivors of child abuse, ADHD, Autism, CPTSD, PTSD, and Post Traumatic Growth, racial trauma, multiracial identity development, grief and loss, intergenerational trauma, religious trauma, and families impacted by severe and persistent mental health issues. All providers prioritize working with multiracial and monoracial people of color who are culturally dislocated. Our approach also focuses on the intersection of race with other identities, such as gender, sexuality, socioeconomic status, and geographic location.
Providers at Resonance can treat a variety of issues and clients, including adult survivors of child abuse, ADHD, Autism, CPTSD, PTSD, and Post Traumatic Growth, racial trauma, multiracial identity development, grief and loss, intergenerational trauma, religious trauma, and families impacted by severe and persistent mental health issues. All providers prioritize working with multiracial and monoracial people of color who are culturally dislocated. Our approach also focuses on the intersection of race with other identities, such as gender, sexuality, socioeconomic status, and geographic location.
(971) 314-4532 View (971) 314-4532
Photo of Matt Lundeberg - Oregon Autism Evaluations LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Oregon Autism Evaluations LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Am I on the autism spectrum? Does my teen have autism? These are questions Oregon Autism Evaluations LLC can help you answer. Matt Lundeberg, Psy.D. at Oregon Autism Evaluations LLC specializes in the psychological evaluation and treatment of autism spectrum disorder in adolescents and adults. Dr. Lundeberg considers gender differences in ASD presentations as part of the evaluation process. Additionally, while little consideration was made for masking and camouflaging in the past, Dr. Lundeberg is well trained and studied in the presentation of autism spectrum disorder in all gender expressions and identities.
Am I on the autism spectrum? Does my teen have autism? These are questions Oregon Autism Evaluations LLC can help you answer. Matt Lundeberg, Psy.D. at Oregon Autism Evaluations LLC specializes in the psychological evaluation and treatment of autism spectrum disorder in adolescents and adults. Dr. Lundeberg considers gender differences in ASD presentations as part of the evaluation process. Additionally, while little consideration was made for masking and camouflaging in the past, Dr. Lundeberg is well trained and studied in the presentation of autism spectrum disorder in all gender expressions and identities.
(971) 213-7421 View (971) 213-7421
Photo of Amanda (Mandy) Curtis, LCSW, CADCIII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda (Mandy) Curtis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCIII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97123
Waitlist for new clients
I also offer ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder assessments for adults.
I am currently on a waitlist for new clients. Do you struggle with not knowing who you are or what you want? Have you found that the coping skills that used to work just seem to fall short? Do you want a safe and nonjudgmental space to be able to talk with someone? I believe we all have the capacity to address our needs, become more authentic, and make positive changes towards our goals regardless of what we have been through in the past. We are able to access our own wisdom and truth when we feel safe and heard. I would love to provide that space and presence for you to share, grow, and heal.
I also offer ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder assessments for adults.
I am currently on a waitlist for new clients. Do you struggle with not knowing who you are or what you want? Have you found that the coping skills that used to work just seem to fall short? Do you want a safe and nonjudgmental space to be able to talk with someone? I believe we all have the capacity to address our needs, become more authentic, and make positive changes towards our goals regardless of what we have been through in the past. We are able to access our own wisdom and truth when we feel safe and heard. I would love to provide that space and presence for you to share, grow, and heal.
(503) 210-9463 View (503) 210-9463
Photo of Alondra Rogers, DSW, CSWA, LMSW
Alondra Rogers
Clinical Social Work Associate, DSW, CSWA, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy, OR 97055  (Online Only)
I specialize in everything Autism as well as commonly associated mental health conditions.
I specialize in providing affirming therapy to Autistic, ADHD, and other neurodivergent clients. My goal is to meet my clients wherever they are to support their self-discovery, radical self-acceptance, and building up their tool kits of accommodations and coping skills.
I specialize in everything Autism as well as commonly associated mental health conditions.
I specialize in providing affirming therapy to Autistic, ADHD, and other neurodivergent clients. My goal is to meet my clients wherever they are to support their self-discovery, radical self-acceptance, and building up their tool kits of accommodations and coping skills.
(503) 898-7797 View (503) 898-7797
Photo of Hila Pazner - Mind Map Psychoeducational Services, PhD, Psychologist
Mind Map Psychoeducational Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
We are a psychological assessment clinic that specializes in conducting assessments for children, teens, and young adults including those for learning disabilities (such as Dyslexia), Autism, ADHD, giftedness, anxiety, and depression. Our approach is compassionate, collaborative, and thorough. One of the goals of the assessment is to provide an in-depth understanding of the young person’s strengths and to uncover the causes of their challenges. Another goal is to provide families, teachers, and other individuals who work with the student with evidence-based recommendations so that they can succeed and thrive in their life.
We are a psychological assessment clinic that specializes in conducting assessments for children, teens, and young adults including those for learning disabilities (such as Dyslexia), Autism, ADHD, giftedness, anxiety, and depression. Our approach is compassionate, collaborative, and thorough. One of the goals of the assessment is to provide an in-depth understanding of the young person’s strengths and to uncover the causes of their challenges. Another goal is to provide families, teachers, and other individuals who work with the student with evidence-based recommendations so that they can succeed and thrive in their life.
(503) 461-1239 View (503) 461-1239
Photo of Lynn Talmon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynn Talmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I am strongly gender queer supporting, positive & allied! I am experienced & understanding of Adults w/ autism.
Serving ALL of Oregon online therapy. New Client Openings, No Waitlist. Individuals only. If life isn't how it should be, & if it's exhausting always struggling, then therapy can be a powerful way to change things now that you're ready. It is an HONOR to listen & be present as you discover your truth, joy, satisfaction, peace & confidence! I treat individuals only. If you're overwhelmed, anxious, down or stuck, talking to someone helps. Specialties: depression, anxiety, coping w/ climate change & environmental grief, sober/recovery, autistic spectrum, ending a relationship & need support during transition, codependency, LGBTQ2+
I am strongly gender queer supporting, positive & allied! I am experienced & understanding of Adults w/ autism.
Serving ALL of Oregon online therapy. New Client Openings, No Waitlist. Individuals only. If life isn't how it should be, & if it's exhausting always struggling, then therapy can be a powerful way to change things now that you're ready. It is an HONOR to listen & be present as you discover your truth, joy, satisfaction, peace & confidence! I treat individuals only. If you're overwhelmed, anxious, down or stuck, talking to someone helps. Specialties: depression, anxiety, coping w/ climate change & environmental grief, sober/recovery, autistic spectrum, ending a relationship & need support during transition, codependency, LGBTQ2+
(971) 247-1876 View (971) 247-1876
Photo of Tiffany Michelle Boersma, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Michelle Boersma
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132
Waitlist for new clients
I also really enjoy working with individuals, couples, as well as adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, identity issues, Autism, ADHD, and addictions to substances.
I am experienced in helping with a variety of issues from: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, interpersonal relationship issues, and chronic disease (cancer, Long COVID, Ehlers Danlos, Lyme Disease, etc.). I believe a person is a multifaceted mosaic of influences and experiences that brought them to where they are today. My style and modality of therapy is to come along side of you in order to help you uncover the deeper meaning and root causes of your distress without judgment. I offer kindness and warmth in my approach, allowing you to feel at ease and empowered in whatever issues you are facing.
I also really enjoy working with individuals, couples, as well as adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, identity issues, Autism, ADHD, and addictions to substances.
I am experienced in helping with a variety of issues from: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, interpersonal relationship issues, and chronic disease (cancer, Long COVID, Ehlers Danlos, Lyme Disease, etc.). I believe a person is a multifaceted mosaic of influences and experiences that brought them to where they are today. My style and modality of therapy is to come along side of you in order to help you uncover the deeper meaning and root causes of your distress without judgment. I offer kindness and warmth in my approach, allowing you to feel at ease and empowered in whatever issues you are facing.
(503) 461-0657 View (503) 461-0657
Photo of Gabi Rookard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabi Rookard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Being a kid (or a parent) today is so tough! My goal as a therapist is to help your child be their most authentic self and to support you as a parent along the way. Using a strengths-based and empowering approach, I view behavior through the lens of nervous system regulation and the neurodiversity paradigm. I work with issues including: anxiety, traumatic stress, family stressors and changes, behavioral issues, aggression, regression, self-esteem, and school problems. I'm experienced working with neurodiverse populations (ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences, etc.) To learn more about my approach, visit realworkwellness.com.
Being a kid (or a parent) today is so tough! My goal as a therapist is to help your child be their most authentic self and to support you as a parent along the way. Using a strengths-based and empowering approach, I view behavior through the lens of nervous system regulation and the neurodiversity paradigm. I work with issues including: anxiety, traumatic stress, family stressors and changes, behavioral issues, aggression, regression, self-esteem, and school problems. I'm experienced working with neurodiverse populations (ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences, etc.) To learn more about my approach, visit realworkwellness.com.
(971) 320-7116 View (971) 320-7116

See more therapy options for Dallas

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.