Autism Therapists in Doylestown, PA

Photo of Dr. David Butman, PsyD , Psychologist
Dr. David Butman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Dr. David Butman is a licensed clinical psychologist and owner of Keystone Psychological Testing & Consulting, an intentionally small private practice in Doylestown, PA. Our practice specializes in providing high-quality, comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adults. Dr. Butman specializes in the assessment and diagnosis of ADHD, Autism, and learning differences, as well as mood and anxiety disorders, behavioral difficulties in children, and problems in executive functioning.
Dr. David Butman is a licensed clinical psychologist and owner of Keystone Psychological Testing & Consulting, an intentionally small private practice in Doylestown, PA. Our practice specializes in providing high-quality, comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adults. Dr. Butman specializes in the assessment and diagnosis of ADHD, Autism, and learning differences, as well as mood and anxiety disorders, behavioral difficulties in children, and problems in executive functioning.
(215) 515-6121 View (215) 515-6121
Photo of Wendy A. Maraska, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy A. Maraska
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults, families, schools, and community agencies in the areas of anxiety, mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, group counseling, school/peer conflicts, grief/loss, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship dynamics.
In my practice, I support my clients' emotional growth in a safe and nurturing environment through an eclectic, solution-focused approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, evaluating healthy lifestyle choices, and awareness of the mind-body connection. Most importantly, I recognize the importance of positive therapeutic alliance and evidence-based practices in support of my clients' unique personal and interpersonal growth. I have worked in the field of mental health for 18+ years.
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults, families, schools, and community agencies in the areas of anxiety, mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, group counseling, school/peer conflicts, grief/loss, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship dynamics.
In my practice, I support my clients' emotional growth in a safe and nurturing environment through an eclectic, solution-focused approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, evaluating healthy lifestyle choices, and awareness of the mind-body connection. Most importantly, I recognize the importance of positive therapeutic alliance and evidence-based practices in support of my clients' unique personal and interpersonal growth. I have worked in the field of mental health for 18+ years.
(215) 712-8041 x703 View (215) 712-8041 x703
Photo of Jean Ruttenberg, MA
Jean Ruttenberg
MA
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
As executive director (1985 to 2010), I lead the Center for Autism.
For over 20 years, I've specialized in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, providing treatment to children and adults. I assist individuals with exploring and expanding their abilities in the areas of adaptive social-emotional development, self awareness, and confidence building to allow them to meet the demands of daily living. I work closely with family members in developing home strategies including behavioral supports, environmental modifications, and visual supports, that promote growth and independence. Therapy goals focus on the formation of skills that allow the individual with ASD to improve their quality of life.
As executive director (1985 to 2010), I lead the Center for Autism.
For over 20 years, I've specialized in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, providing treatment to children and adults. I assist individuals with exploring and expanding their abilities in the areas of adaptive social-emotional development, self awareness, and confidence building to allow them to meet the demands of daily living. I work closely with family members in developing home strategies including behavioral supports, environmental modifications, and visual supports, that promote growth and independence. Therapy goals focus on the formation of skills that allow the individual with ASD to improve their quality of life.
(215) 491-1119 View (215) 491-1119
Photo of Emilie Flynn, MA, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emilie Flynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18902  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! I'm Emilie. Do you or your child struggle to cope with big emotions or regulate your impulses? My expertise includes supporting individuals ages 4-12 and 18+ with Autism, Anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral or neurodevelopmental differences.
Hi there! I'm Emilie. Do you or your child struggle to cope with big emotions or regulate your impulses? My expertise includes supporting individuals ages 4-12 and 18+ with Autism, Anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral or neurodevelopmental differences.
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Photo of Katie Bascom, PsyD, LBS, Psychologist
Katie Bascom
Psychologist, PsyD, LBS
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Bascom performs assessments, evaluations and testing for: ADHD Assessment/Evaluation (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ASD Assessment/Evaluation ( Autism Spectrum Disorder), OCD Assessments, and Comprehensive Psychological Evaluation.
We welcome Dr. Katie Bascom as a member of our PS Psychiatry team. Dr. Bascom works with children, adolescents, young adults and adults. Her work with children and adolescents includes parents support. Her doctoral internship was at WellSpan Phihaven Behavioral Health, where she completed comprehensive psychological evaluations for children with ADHD and other mental health issues. She completed her pre-doctoral practicum placement at CHOP (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia) in the Center for the Management of ADHD. Shereceived her Psy.D. from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM).
Bascom performs assessments, evaluations and testing for: ADHD Assessment/Evaluation (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ASD Assessment/Evaluation ( Autism Spectrum Disorder), OCD Assessments, and Comprehensive Psychological Evaluation.
We welcome Dr. Katie Bascom as a member of our PS Psychiatry team. Dr. Bascom works with children, adolescents, young adults and adults. Her work with children and adolescents includes parents support. Her doctoral internship was at WellSpan Phihaven Behavioral Health, where she completed comprehensive psychological evaluations for children with ADHD and other mental health issues. She completed her pre-doctoral practicum placement at CHOP (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia) in the Center for the Management of ADHD. Shereceived her Psy.D. from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM).
(267) 497-3233 View (267) 497-3233
Photo of Dr. Joanne M. Kling, EdD, LBS, ASDC
Dr. Joanne M. Kling
EdD, LBS, ASDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
I am also a certified autism clinical specialist; however, I do not diagnose autism as that should be done by a physician.
Hi! I'm Dr. Joanne and I work with children, adolescents, and adults in a warm and caring environment. I help individuals who who are experiencing the effects of stress and anxiety as well as life transitions. In my work with children, I incorporate play therapy techniques and behavior interventions. In my work with adults, I provide a warm and caring environment for individuals to express their feelings while giving them the tools they need to live their best life.
I am also a certified autism clinical specialist; however, I do not diagnose autism as that should be done by a physician.
Hi! I'm Dr. Joanne and I work with children, adolescents, and adults in a warm and caring environment. I help individuals who who are experiencing the effects of stress and anxiety as well as life transitions. In my work with children, I incorporate play therapy techniques and behavior interventions. In my work with adults, I provide a warm and caring environment for individuals to express their feelings while giving them the tools they need to live their best life.
(267) 369-6751 View (267) 369-6751
Photo of Jessica Lax, PsyD, Psychologist
Jessica Lax
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and earned my degree from Chestnut Hill College with a specialty in psychological assessment, and I recently went back and earned my Certification in School Psychology. I completed my predoctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship with a concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders across the lifespan at an Autism Center for Excellence in Philadelphia. I received extensive training with (ADOS) Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Edition and have the knowledge and expertise in gold standard evaluation practices to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder in children as young as 18 months.
I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and earned my degree from Chestnut Hill College with a specialty in psychological assessment, and I recently went back and earned my Certification in School Psychology. I completed my predoctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship with a concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorders across the lifespan at an Autism Center for Excellence in Philadelphia. I received extensive training with (ADOS) Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Second Edition and have the knowledge and expertise in gold standard evaluation practices to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder in children as young as 18 months.
(267) 494-6734 View (267) 494-6734
Photo of Deborah Kleeman, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Deborah Kleeman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Sometimes life is not easy- it doesn't go the way we planned. Talking to someone who understands is the first step when things become difficult. I am a Certified School Counselor and Certified Student Assistance Counselor with 35 years of experience in assessing and addressing substance use, anxiety, depression, school avoidance, OCD, learning issues, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders.
Sometimes life is not easy- it doesn't go the way we planned. Talking to someone who understands is the first step when things become difficult. I am a Certified School Counselor and Certified Student Assistance Counselor with 35 years of experience in assessing and addressing substance use, anxiety, depression, school avoidance, OCD, learning issues, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders.
(267) 459-8889 View (267) 459-8889
Photo of Kim Bonvino, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Bonvino
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18902
I am passionate about working with children ages 2-12 and their parents. I work with kids using play therapy. In the play therapy room, children use toys to communicate what they have trouble saying in words; toys are the child’s words, and play is their language. Given the opportunity, environment, and relationship with a trained play therapist, children can overcome their struggles at home, school, etc. I work with children who are struggling with anxiety, depression, adhd, autism spectrum disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, academic challenges, anger management, mood instabilities, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
I am passionate about working with children ages 2-12 and their parents. I work with kids using play therapy. In the play therapy room, children use toys to communicate what they have trouble saying in words; toys are the child’s words, and play is their language. Given the opportunity, environment, and relationship with a trained play therapist, children can overcome their struggles at home, school, etc. I work with children who are struggling with anxiety, depression, adhd, autism spectrum disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, academic challenges, anger management, mood instabilities, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
(267) 633-8043 View (267) 633-8043
Photo of Susan Milgate Kuczura, PsyD, Psychologist
Susan Milgate Kuczura
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18902
Susan Kuczura, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist who has been working with children, adolescents and families in the Doylestown, New Hope and Bucks County for more than 20 years. A graduate of Temple University and Chestnut Hill College, she enjoys working with children and young adults. Susan served as the Clinical Director of a BHRS agency servicing Philadelphia. She collaborated with teachers, parents and counselors concerning behaviors and classroom interventions. Dr. Kuczura works with people with anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, Asperger's and Autism, OCD, family issues, depression and bereavement.
Susan Kuczura, Psy.D. is a licensed psychologist who has been working with children, adolescents and families in the Doylestown, New Hope and Bucks County for more than 20 years. A graduate of Temple University and Chestnut Hill College, she enjoys working with children and young adults. Susan served as the Clinical Director of a BHRS agency servicing Philadelphia. She collaborated with teachers, parents and counselors concerning behaviors and classroom interventions. Dr. Kuczura works with people with anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, Asperger's and Autism, OCD, family issues, depression and bereavement.
(267) 592-3643 View (267) 592-3643
Photo of Ariel Virk - Welsh Therapy, M, A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Welsh Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, M, A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
Hello, we work Welsh Therapy we work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, ODD, ASD, eating disorders, self harm, borderline personality disorder, anger management, school avoidance, sports concussions and sports injuries and the mental health symptoms that arise with those issues. Our practice has partnered with PS Psychiatry, a concierge psychiatric practice for our clients who request medication to assist with their mental health issues. PS Psychiatry has Psychologist who assesses our clients through Evaluations for ADHD, Anxiety, Autism and Comprehensive Psycho-educational Evaluations.
Hello, we work Welsh Therapy we work with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, ODD, ASD, eating disorders, self harm, borderline personality disorder, anger management, school avoidance, sports concussions and sports injuries and the mental health symptoms that arise with those issues. Our practice has partnered with PS Psychiatry, a concierge psychiatric practice for our clients who request medication to assist with their mental health issues. PS Psychiatry has Psychologist who assesses our clients through Evaluations for ADHD, Anxiety, Autism and Comprehensive Psycho-educational Evaluations.
(215) 607-6844 View (215) 607-6844
Photo of Doylestown Psychological Services - Doylestown Psychological Services, Psychologist
Doylestown Psychological Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18902
We are a group of clinicians who work with children, teens, adults, and families. We specialize in working with people who present with a variety of mental health issues including ADHD, anxiety disorders, OCD, depression and bipolar disorders, and autism/Asperger's. Some of our clients are new to therapy; others have seen different therapists before coming to us. Our goal is to be as welcoming as possible while making your experience productive and nurturing. We know that as our clients increase their functioning they feel better. Together we will help you reach your health goal.
We are a group of clinicians who work with children, teens, adults, and families. We specialize in working with people who present with a variety of mental health issues including ADHD, anxiety disorders, OCD, depression and bipolar disorders, and autism/Asperger's. Some of our clients are new to therapy; others have seen different therapists before coming to us. Our goal is to be as welcoming as possible while making your experience productive and nurturing. We know that as our clients increase their functioning they feel better. Together we will help you reach your health goal.
(267) 367-6504 View (267) 367-6504
Photo of Meghan Devine, PsyD, BCBA, Psychologist
Meghan Devine
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18902
Welcome! You have come to the right place whether you're seeking therapy, assessments, or parenting support. My practice emphasizes the importance of empowering parents through training and coaching, equipping them with the tools and strategies they need to support their children's growth and development effectively. I offer comprehensive assessments for ADHD, autism, learning differences, gifted/talented, behavioral assessments, IQ testing, & mood disorders for individuals of all ages. We will work together to navigate life's challenges and set yourself or your family up for success. Contact me to inquire about parenting workshops!
Welcome! You have come to the right place whether you're seeking therapy, assessments, or parenting support. My practice emphasizes the importance of empowering parents through training and coaching, equipping them with the tools and strategies they need to support their children's growth and development effectively. I offer comprehensive assessments for ADHD, autism, learning differences, gifted/talented, behavioral assessments, IQ testing, & mood disorders for individuals of all ages. We will work together to navigate life's challenges and set yourself or your family up for success. Contact me to inquire about parenting workshops!
(215) 867-6945 View (215) 867-6945
Photo of Faye Lovrinic, PsyD, Psychologist
Faye Lovrinic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Our services include: evaluation/consultation for ADHD, mood disorder, autism, anxiety; social skills training, individual/family therapy; co-parenting intervention; custody evaluations; couples therapy; child/adolescent therapy; neuropsychological assessment/treatment.
I view each child, teen, young adult, and family as unique. That uniqueness is why I draw from different therapy modalities to support emotional well-being. Anxiety and depression often stem from complicated interpersonal relationships, lack of self-confidence, and feeling unable to control events in our lives. Our joint effort can help you attain the freedom to make positive choices in your life. I bring clinical experience offered in a genuine, nonjudgmental, confidential atmosphere. Drawing from cognitive behavior approaches, insight therapy, and mindfulness practice, my goal is to provide tools to help you in improving your state of mind.
Our services include: evaluation/consultation for ADHD, mood disorder, autism, anxiety; social skills training, individual/family therapy; co-parenting intervention; custody evaluations; couples therapy; child/adolescent therapy; neuropsychological assessment/treatment.
I view each child, teen, young adult, and family as unique. That uniqueness is why I draw from different therapy modalities to support emotional well-being. Anxiety and depression often stem from complicated interpersonal relationships, lack of self-confidence, and feeling unable to control events in our lives. Our joint effort can help you attain the freedom to make positive choices in your life. I bring clinical experience offered in a genuine, nonjudgmental, confidential atmosphere. Drawing from cognitive behavior approaches, insight therapy, and mindfulness practice, my goal is to provide tools to help you in improving your state of mind.
(215) 437-0431 View (215) 437-0431
Photo of James J Stone, PsyD, Psychologist
James J Stone
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
I am a Neuropsychologist and Certified School Psychologist with nearly 30 years of experience. In our practice, The Center for Neuropsychology and Counseling, I specialize in providing consultation, guidance and evaluations services to children and adults in many different areas, including head injuries (including concussions evaluation and management), ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders neurological issues, and learning problems. Understanding the issues is key before effective interventions can be done.
I am a Neuropsychologist and Certified School Psychologist with nearly 30 years of experience. In our practice, The Center for Neuropsychology and Counseling, I specialize in providing consultation, guidance and evaluations services to children and adults in many different areas, including head injuries (including concussions evaluation and management), ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders neurological issues, and learning problems. Understanding the issues is key before effective interventions can be done.
(215) 688-5842 View (215) 688-5842
Photo of Cara Dececchis, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cara Dececchis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
I have obtained specialized training in dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, autism-spectrum and behavioral therapy.
As a licensed clinician, my goal is to create a supportive and safe space for individuals and their families to process their experiences. I hope to support others with exploring their individual symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma etc. that have affected their lives and the impact on their families. In therapy, my goal is to instill hope for positive growth and change. I implement a variety of therapeutic models to support development of healthy coping skills, self-confidence, non-judgmental acceptance, developing healthy support systems, and motivation for growth and healing.
I have obtained specialized training in dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, autism-spectrum and behavioral therapy.
As a licensed clinician, my goal is to create a supportive and safe space for individuals and their families to process their experiences. I hope to support others with exploring their individual symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma etc. that have affected their lives and the impact on their families. In therapy, my goal is to instill hope for positive growth and change. I implement a variety of therapeutic models to support development of healthy coping skills, self-confidence, non-judgmental acceptance, developing healthy support systems, and motivation for growth and healing.
(267) 460-5523 View (267) 460-5523
Photo of Jonathan H. Mack, PsyD , ABN, FACPN, Psychologist
Jonathan H. Mack
Psychologist, PsyD , ABN, FACPN
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Our practice specializes in neuropsychological and psychological assessment for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, traumatic brain injury and medical legal and forensic assessment, including child custody, fitness for duty and psychological and neuropsychological damages evaluations. We also specialize in treatment of PTSD, anxiety, dissociative disorders and traumatic brain injury. As well as testing we do psychotherapy, biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, cognitive rehabilitation, and medical referral as appropriate and as needed.
Our practice specializes in neuropsychological and psychological assessment for learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, traumatic brain injury and medical legal and forensic assessment, including child custody, fitness for duty and psychological and neuropsychological damages evaluations. We also specialize in treatment of PTSD, anxiety, dissociative disorders and traumatic brain injury. As well as testing we do psychotherapy, biofeedback, neurofeedback, EMDR, cognitive rehabilitation, and medical referral as appropriate and as needed.
(609) 554-1237 View (609) 554-1237
Photo of Katherine Baum, PhD, ABPP-CN, Psychologist
Katherine Baum
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
Doylestown, PA 18901
Autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, & giftedness are also my specialties.
I am a board-certified neuropsychologist with specialized training in understanding how neurological, developmental, and medical conditions affect children, teens', and young adults', and their families. I work with families to understand their concerns and use evidence-based approaches to evaluate the dynamic relationship between the brain, and an individual’s thoughts, behavior, learning, emotions, culture, and environment. Armed with this information, I work with families and others (teachers, doctors) to identify specific next steps. The goal is greater joy, fulfillment, purpose, satisfaction, and connectedness.
Autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, & giftedness are also my specialties.
I am a board-certified neuropsychologist with specialized training in understanding how neurological, developmental, and medical conditions affect children, teens', and young adults', and their families. I work with families to understand their concerns and use evidence-based approaches to evaluate the dynamic relationship between the brain, and an individual’s thoughts, behavior, learning, emotions, culture, and environment. Armed with this information, I work with families and others (teachers, doctors) to identify specific next steps. The goal is greater joy, fulfillment, purpose, satisfaction, and connectedness.
(215) 631-8207 View (215) 631-8207
Photo of Molly Marcus, PsyD, Psychologist
Molly Marcus
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist who offers therapy to adults with a particular expertise in anxiety, depression, young adulthood, college and graduate student population, navigating life's transitions (school, work, parenthood, etc), adoption, relationships, adjustment difficulties, and cultural diversity. In addition to therapy, I conduct psychoeducational and psychological evaluations for children, adolescence, and adults to assess cognitive, academic, personality, emotional, and social domains. This includes ADHD, learning disabilities, Autism, personality, and mood.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist who offers therapy to adults with a particular expertise in anxiety, depression, young adulthood, college and graduate student population, navigating life's transitions (school, work, parenthood, etc), adoption, relationships, adjustment difficulties, and cultural diversity. In addition to therapy, I conduct psychoeducational and psychological evaluations for children, adolescence, and adults to assess cognitive, academic, personality, emotional, and social domains. This includes ADHD, learning disabilities, Autism, personality, and mood.
(215) 965-4361 View (215) 965-4361
Photo of Shanel Santucci, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanel Santucci
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
My background includes working with those with ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, depression, mood disorders, and many other challenging behaviors.
I am here to help you become the best version of yourself. I have always been attracted to a holistic approach to counseling that includes brain health, nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, and overall wellness. Along with talk therapy, I also utilize Neurofeedback training to help stabilize brainwaves. Neurofeedback Therapy is a non-invasive/non-drug based form of treatment that facilitates desired functions and mental states. Self-regulation is key in improving daily stressors, quality of life, and a positive well being. I am rewarded by seeing my clients' efforts to grow and achieve their goals.
My background includes working with those with ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, depression, mood disorders, and many other challenging behaviors.
I am here to help you become the best version of yourself. I have always been attracted to a holistic approach to counseling that includes brain health, nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, and overall wellness. Along with talk therapy, I also utilize Neurofeedback training to help stabilize brainwaves. Neurofeedback Therapy is a non-invasive/non-drug based form of treatment that facilitates desired functions and mental states. Self-regulation is key in improving daily stressors, quality of life, and a positive well being. I am rewarded by seeing my clients' efforts to grow and achieve their goals.
(267) 753-7010 View (267) 753-7010
1
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.