Autism Therapists in Eugene, OR

Photo of Daniel Duncan - Applegate Counseling LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Applegate Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97403
Some of our specialties include autism therapy, counseling for anxiety, and treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder.
At Applegate Counseling, we strive to help individuals, families, and couples address challenges and work towards their goals in a safe environment. While we draw on cognitive behavioral techniques, we work alongside you to determine and apply the most appropriate strategies for your situation.
Some of our specialties include autism therapy, counseling for anxiety, and treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder.
At Applegate Counseling, we strive to help individuals, families, and couples address challenges and work towards their goals in a safe environment. While we draw on cognitive behavioral techniques, we work alongside you to determine and apply the most appropriate strategies for your situation.
(458) 232-4489 View (458) 232-4489
Photo of Heather Swaney, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Swaney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
I specialize in Trauma, Childhood and Adult Abuse, Grief/Loss, Depression, LGBTQ++ issues, Anxiety/Panic and Co-Parenting and adults and children diagnosed with Autism.
I believe that each person has a unique story that has been their life and that healing begins by telling and understanding those stories. I believe part of my role as a therapist is to walk side by side in collaboration on this journey. I focus on your strengths and help you find and manifest who you are meant to be through your challenges. I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment to be able to process experiences and events that may be interfering with life, and learn to problem solve and practice tools to cope when triggers arise in an unbiased place.
I specialize in Trauma, Childhood and Adult Abuse, Grief/Loss, Depression, LGBTQ++ issues, Anxiety/Panic and Co-Parenting and adults and children diagnosed with Autism.
I believe that each person has a unique story that has been their life and that healing begins by telling and understanding those stories. I believe part of my role as a therapist is to walk side by side in collaboration on this journey. I focus on your strengths and help you find and manifest who you are meant to be through your challenges. I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment to be able to process experiences and events that may be interfering with life, and learn to problem solve and practice tools to cope when triggers arise in an unbiased place.
(541) 283-0268 View (541) 283-0268
Photo of Katrina Evans, PsyD, Psychologist
Katrina Evans
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
I provide psychological assessments for children, teens, and adults. I assist clients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns. Common concerns include: autism, intellectual and learning differences, anxiety and depression, trauma-related presentations (e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder or PTSD), life transitions (e.g., high school to college), obsessions and compulsions, and executive functioning differences.
I provide psychological assessments for children, teens, and adults. I assist clients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns. Common concerns include: autism, intellectual and learning differences, anxiety and depression, trauma-related presentations (e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder or PTSD), life transitions (e.g., high school to college), obsessions and compulsions, and executive functioning differences.
(971) 314-5922 View (971) 314-5922
Photo of Alondra Rogers, DSW, CSWA, LMSW
Alondra Rogers
Clinical Social Work Associate, DSW, CSWA, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97402  (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 Madeline Warnick, LPC, NCC, MCoun, Licensed Professional Counselor
Madeline Warnick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MCoun
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
In addition to therapy and KAP, I also offer diagnostic assessments for Autism and ADHD.
New Group - See below! Your inner critic can make you see yourself through a cruel funhouse mirror, where all you can see are the parts of you that you don’t like. You may have had past experiences - in relationships, your family, school, or society - that left you feeling like there's something wrong with you. Maybe you’ve been told you’re “too sensitive” or “too much,” and now you tell yourself those things on repeat. You may struggle with listening to and trusting your feelings, intuition, or body, and you long for more confidence & self-trust. My clients are people who want to go deep (even if a part of them is also afraid to!).
In addition to therapy and KAP, I also offer diagnostic assessments for Autism and ADHD.
New Group - See below! Your inner critic can make you see yourself through a cruel funhouse mirror, where all you can see are the parts of you that you don’t like. You may have had past experiences - in relationships, your family, school, or society - that left you feeling like there's something wrong with you. Maybe you’ve been told you’re “too sensitive” or “too much,” and now you tell yourself those things on repeat. You may struggle with listening to and trusting your feelings, intuition, or body, and you long for more confidence & self-trust. My clients are people who want to go deep (even if a part of them is also afraid to!).
(458) 203-1667 View (458) 203-1667
Photo of Krispin Mayfield, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krispin Mayfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
I have certification in Religious Trauma Studies and as an Autism Clinical Specialist, although I find my best training has been from the lived experiences from clients.
I help clients recover from religious trauma, especially those who grow up in a high control religion. I also provide couples therapy, with a focus on couples where one or both partners are ADHD or Autistic. I use approaches that focus on attachment and the nervous system.
I have certification in Religious Trauma Studies and as an Autism Clinical Specialist, although I find my best training has been from the lived experiences from clients.
I help clients recover from religious trauma, especially those who grow up in a high control religion. I also provide couples therapy, with a focus on couples where one or both partners are ADHD or Autistic. I use approaches that focus on attachment and the nervous system.
(503) 213-6990 View (503) 213-6990
Photo of Lorie Ann Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lorie Ann Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
I have many years of experience working with people experiencing prenatal/postpartum, anxiety/depression, trauma, relationship issues, narcissism, family issues, military, autism, learning disabilities and substance abuse.
Now offering intensive couple’s coaching and 3 Principles coaching for individuals! Packages start at $900 for 4 sessions. I provide counseling and coaching to individuals and families who are interested in increasing their well-being. Individual counseling sessions can be billed to the insurances listed below. My approach is refreshing and well suited to clients who hope to live with less stress, less depression, anxiety and unhealthy coping habits. Clients will begin to live with more peace of mind, happiness, balance and fulfilling relationships.
I have many years of experience working with people experiencing prenatal/postpartum, anxiety/depression, trauma, relationship issues, narcissism, family issues, military, autism, learning disabilities and substance abuse.
Now offering intensive couple’s coaching and 3 Principles coaching for individuals! Packages start at $900 for 4 sessions. I provide counseling and coaching to individuals and families who are interested in increasing their well-being. Individual counseling sessions can be billed to the insurances listed below. My approach is refreshing and well suited to clients who hope to live with less stress, less depression, anxiety and unhealthy coping habits. Clients will begin to live with more peace of mind, happiness, balance and fulfilling relationships.
(458) 215-1723 View (458) 215-1723
Photo of Kelly M. Murray, PhD, Psychologist
Kelly M. Murray
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
As a licensed psychologist, my treatment approach utilizes Evidence Based Practices and includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy. I have experience treating a wide range of mental health issues with particular interests in Neurodiversity (Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Learning Disorder), Trauma (PTSD, CPTSD), and Anxiety Disorder (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Specific Phobia, Generalized Anxiety).
As a licensed psychologist, my treatment approach utilizes Evidence Based Practices and includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy. I have experience treating a wide range of mental health issues with particular interests in Neurodiversity (Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Learning Disorder), Trauma (PTSD, CPTSD), and Anxiety Disorder (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Specific Phobia, Generalized Anxiety).
(541) 897-7070 View (541) 897-7070
Photo of Erik Sorensen, PhD, Psychologist
Erik Sorensen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
Types of Evaluations: Diagnoses of Disorders, such as ADHD, Autism, Depression etc.
PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS only. They offer an in-depth review of current functioning to help focus treatment efforts and help agencies, schools, and legal professionals make difficult decisions. Treatment recommendations are included for use by individuals, families, professionals, teachers, and agencies. Call with questions and check out my website for details.
Types of Evaluations: Diagnoses of Disorders, such as ADHD, Autism, Depression etc.
PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONS only. They offer an in-depth review of current functioning to help focus treatment efforts and help agencies, schools, and legal professionals make difficult decisions. Treatment recommendations are included for use by individuals, families, professionals, teachers, and agencies. Call with questions and check out my website for details.
(541) 345-8749 View (541) 345-8749
Photo of Kendra A Brott, MS, MAT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kendra A Brott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MAT, LPC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97405  (Online Only)
Kendra grew up as a military brat and has a deep personal understanding of PTSD, bipolar, autism, and schizophrenia.
From acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a unique approach to psychotherapy. ART is unique because the ART Therapist guides the client to replace the negative images in the mind that cause the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress with positive images of the client’s choosing. This is done quickly, most often within one session! Once the negative images have been replaced by positive ones, the triggers will be gone. Nightmares and repeated intrusive thoughts will stop. Basic & Enhanced training in ART. Kendra offers reality-based talk therapy as well.
Kendra grew up as a military brat and has a deep personal understanding of PTSD, bipolar, autism, and schizophrenia.
From acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a unique approach to psychotherapy. ART is unique because the ART Therapist guides the client to replace the negative images in the mind that cause the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress with positive images of the client’s choosing. This is done quickly, most often within one session! Once the negative images have been replaced by positive ones, the triggers will be gone. Nightmares and repeated intrusive thoughts will stop. Basic & Enhanced training in ART. Kendra offers reality-based talk therapy as well.
(458) 236-7449 View (458) 236-7449
Photo of Jamie Worthington, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Worthington
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
Specializing in addressing anxiety, depression, PTSD, adult autism, older adult therapy, and re-entry from incarceration, I aim to provide a holistic approach to mental wellness.
Hello there, I'm Jamie Worthington, Licensed Professional Therapist located in Redmond, Oregon. Right now, I provide telehealth counseling for anyone living in the state of Oregon. All you need is a computer or a smart phone for video chatting, and we are good to go! I can also do sessions via phone. I truly love helping people discover who they are and assist them to reach their goals. My ideal client is anyone who wants to put in the work and grow. I want to help you become the person that you want to be! I can help you work through and process trauma, encourage you, advocate for you, and challenge you.
Specializing in addressing anxiety, depression, PTSD, adult autism, older adult therapy, and re-entry from incarceration, I aim to provide a holistic approach to mental wellness.
Hello there, I'm Jamie Worthington, Licensed Professional Therapist located in Redmond, Oregon. Right now, I provide telehealth counseling for anyone living in the state of Oregon. All you need is a computer or a smart phone for video chatting, and we are good to go! I can also do sessions via phone. I truly love helping people discover who they are and assist them to reach their goals. My ideal client is anyone who wants to put in the work and grow. I want to help you become the person that you want to be! I can help you work through and process trauma, encourage you, advocate for you, and challenge you.
(458) 236-3197 View (458) 236-3197
Photo of Elli Adkins, MS, LPCA
Elli Adkins
Professional Counselor Associate , MS, LPCA
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97402
I specialize in trauma processing, depression, and anxiety, but have worked with a variety of issues including bipolar disorder, difficult relationships, autism, ADHD, personality disorders, PTSD, life transitions, low self-esteem, grief/loss, substance abuse, psychosis and more.
Currently only accepting Moda health insurance and out-of-pocket payments. Our past experiences can impact how we navigate the present. Understanding and processing our experiences can lead to healing and transformation. My priority is creating an open and safe space to explore these experiences through genuine connection, empathy and acceptance. I use a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to therapy that draws on techniques from attachment theory, somatic therapy, EMDR, CBT and others that align with your unique needs, values and goals.
I specialize in trauma processing, depression, and anxiety, but have worked with a variety of issues including bipolar disorder, difficult relationships, autism, ADHD, personality disorders, PTSD, life transitions, low self-esteem, grief/loss, substance abuse, psychosis and more.
Currently only accepting Moda health insurance and out-of-pocket payments. Our past experiences can impact how we navigate the present. Understanding and processing our experiences can lead to healing and transformation. My priority is creating an open and safe space to explore these experiences through genuine connection, empathy and acceptance. I use a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to therapy that draws on techniques from attachment theory, somatic therapy, EMDR, CBT and others that align with your unique needs, values and goals.
(971) 396-1526 View (971) 396-1526
Photo of Lynn Talmon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynn Talmon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97403  (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 Joshua Bytendorp, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joshua Bytendorp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
As a queer neurodivergent (autism/ADHD) sex therapist, I provide a unique experience for my clients to be able to work through issues around sex, sexuality, trauma, religious trauma, gender dysphoria and other mental health issues. I provide a safe nonjudgmental place for those who identify as queer, neurodivergent, kinky, ENM who wants a therapist who has extensive training and understanding of the issues that you face and deal with.
As a queer neurodivergent (autism/ADHD) sex therapist, I provide a unique experience for my clients to be able to work through issues around sex, sexuality, trauma, religious trauma, gender dysphoria and other mental health issues. I provide a safe nonjudgmental place for those who identify as queer, neurodivergent, kinky, ENM who wants a therapist who has extensive training and understanding of the issues that you face and deal with.
(503) 400-3683 View (503) 400-3683
Photo of James Reling, MS, CRC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Reling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97402
If you're sensing traits of Autism/ADHD, let's examine them together – from the joy of weekend research rabbit holes and regulating routines to annoying sensory sensitivities, social misunderstandings, and masking, to the overwhelming disconnect from your body. The exhaustion and emotional challenges you're facing deserve attention. I'm here to equip you with information and strategies. In our journey, we'll not only understand these facets but also celebrate your strengths. This safe space is dedicated to understanding the remarkable individual you are... weirdos, misfits, loners, rebels, and rigid rule-followers are all welcome.
If you're sensing traits of Autism/ADHD, let's examine them together – from the joy of weekend research rabbit holes and regulating routines to annoying sensory sensitivities, social misunderstandings, and masking, to the overwhelming disconnect from your body. The exhaustion and emotional challenges you're facing deserve attention. I'm here to equip you with information and strategies. In our journey, we'll not only understand these facets but also celebrate your strengths. This safe space is dedicated to understanding the remarkable individual you are... weirdos, misfits, loners, rebels, and rigid rule-followers are all welcome.
(503) 714-7621 View (503) 714-7621
Photo of Bodhi Richards, NCC, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bodhi Richards
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97402  (Online Only)
“Why does he do that? He’s so mean sometimes. No matter how hard I try, our relationship keeps getting worse! I’m doing everything I can, and it seems like he does nothing at all. I wish he would stop drinking. I wish he would come home at night… Sometimes I wish he would stay away forever.” If you’ve ever had any of these thoughts, you are not alone. A little less than half of all marriages end within a few years, and it’s usually because of stories like this. You’ve tried to avoid that fate on your own. Now you’re desperate enough to try therapy, and you're wondering “What can this guy do?" Well, together, we'll do a lot!
“Why does he do that? He’s so mean sometimes. No matter how hard I try, our relationship keeps getting worse! I’m doing everything I can, and it seems like he does nothing at all. I wish he would stop drinking. I wish he would come home at night… Sometimes I wish he would stay away forever.” If you’ve ever had any of these thoughts, you are not alone. A little less than half of all marriages end within a few years, and it’s usually because of stories like this. You’ve tried to avoid that fate on your own. Now you’re desperate enough to try therapy, and you're wondering “What can this guy do?" Well, together, we'll do a lot!
(541) 939-8137 View (541) 939-8137
Photo of Valerie King, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valerie King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97405  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself having the same argument with your partner over and over again? Are you looking to get a bit of that 'spark' back from the beginning of your relationship? Or maybe you are finding yourself stuck and overwhelmed with new challenges in your life. If so, you're in the right place. I specialize in working with couples who are looking to improve their communication and connection, as well as individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, family conflict, or are processing trauma. Together we'll create a safe and welcoming space for you to grow and make meaningful changes in your life.
Do you find yourself having the same argument with your partner over and over again? Are you looking to get a bit of that 'spark' back from the beginning of your relationship? Or maybe you are finding yourself stuck and overwhelmed with new challenges in your life. If so, you're in the right place. I specialize in working with couples who are looking to improve their communication and connection, as well as individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, family conflict, or are processing trauma. Together we'll create a safe and welcoming space for you to grow and make meaningful changes in your life.
(458) 203-1878 View (458) 203-1878
Photo of Lorraine McKenzie, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorraine McKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic philosophy is that it is very possible, with the right kind of support, to recover from most mental health and life challenges. Let’s have a discussion about what you want to achieve, and we can come up with a plan that will help you live your best life. I treat the people I work with as "people first," rather than labels, cases, or subjects. Since I have been involved with healing work, the definitions for "disorders" has continually changed. Because I believe in the absolute and intrinsic beauty and worth of human beings, I'm more likely to frame something as a challenge or a difficulty than as disorder.
My therapeutic philosophy is that it is very possible, with the right kind of support, to recover from most mental health and life challenges. Let’s have a discussion about what you want to achieve, and we can come up with a plan that will help you live your best life. I treat the people I work with as "people first," rather than labels, cases, or subjects. Since I have been involved with healing work, the definitions for "disorders" has continually changed. Because I believe in the absolute and intrinsic beauty and worth of human beings, I'm more likely to frame something as a challenge or a difficulty than as disorder.
(458) 203-8649 View (458) 203-8649
Photo of Shannon Stuart-Maver, PhD, Psychologist
Shannon Stuart-Maver
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97405  (Online Only)
I work collaboratively with clients to identify and work through elements that are keeping them stuck in patterns of anxiety, anger, feelings of hopelessness or recurrent conflict with loved ones. I enjoy supporting my clients in empowering themselves to break these negative patterns while creating and establishing new ones that increase happiness and positive relationships. The quality of our relationship is key to on-going success in therapy, and I work hard to build trust through being wholeheartedly present and genuine, while creating a safe and compassionate space to talk about difficult issues.
I work collaboratively with clients to identify and work through elements that are keeping them stuck in patterns of anxiety, anger, feelings of hopelessness or recurrent conflict with loved ones. I enjoy supporting my clients in empowering themselves to break these negative patterns while creating and establishing new ones that increase happiness and positive relationships. The quality of our relationship is key to on-going success in therapy, and I work hard to build trust through being wholeheartedly present and genuine, while creating a safe and compassionate space to talk about difficult issues.
(458) 202-8433 View (458) 202-8433
Photo of Laura O'Connor, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Laura O'Connor
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
Currently Accepting New Clients! I provide individualized assessments for children, teens, and adults facing a wide range of neurocognitive, academic, social, and emotional challenges. I believe that psychological evaluations can play an integral role in deepening our self-awareness while illuminating a path to greater balance and optimal functioning. In my work, I use both clinical interviewing and psychometric testing to gain a comprehensive understanding of each individual. I consider all aspects of the person – from their biology and cognitive processes to their mood, relationships, and cultural influences.
Currently Accepting New Clients! I provide individualized assessments for children, teens, and adults facing a wide range of neurocognitive, academic, social, and emotional challenges. I believe that psychological evaluations can play an integral role in deepening our self-awareness while illuminating a path to greater balance and optimal functioning. In my work, I use both clinical interviewing and psychometric testing to gain a comprehensive understanding of each individual. I consider all aspects of the person – from their biology and cognitive processes to their mood, relationships, and cultural influences.
(541) 357-9433 View (541) 357-9433
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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.