Autism Therapists in Mars, PA
![Photo of Alexandra Dimoff, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49fdc021-386d-4e29-9247-8394e6064e2a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have trainings in and utilize Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Person-Centered, mindfulness, play, and family therapies for treating anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive, and autism spectrum disorders with a focus on social skills, healthy relationships, and healthy lifestyle habits.
Accepting new clients! Sometimes our journey requires a detour. It may feel mentally and physically overwhelming. Having someone to help navigate anxiety, depression, uncertainty, relationships, work, and day-to-day life is the first step in helping you reach your final destination. I believe in finding joy in the journey, and the therapeutic relationship is a vital component of the healing process in the journey. Let me help guide you in your journey. I have trainings in and utilize Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Person-Centered, mindfulness, play, and family therapies for treating anxiety, depression, and OCD.
I have trainings in and utilize Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Person-Centered, mindfulness, play, and family therapies for treating anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive, and autism spectrum disorders with a focus on social skills, healthy relationships, and healthy lifestyle habits.
Accepting new clients! Sometimes our journey requires a detour. It may feel mentally and physically overwhelming. Having someone to help navigate anxiety, depression, uncertainty, relationships, work, and day-to-day life is the first step in helping you reach your final destination. I believe in finding joy in the journey, and the therapeutic relationship is a vital component of the healing process in the journey. Let me help guide you in your journey. I have trainings in and utilize Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, Person-Centered, mindfulness, play, and family therapies for treating anxiety, depression, and OCD.
![Photo of Jennifer Brosenitsch, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47a460b6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life can often be overwhelming. I can help you tap into your inner strength and personal power so you can make the changes needed to feel better and create a more fulfilling life. Whether you are looking into counseling for some personal growth or because you are hanging by a thread, I can provide you tools for healing and reaching your goals. There is nothing weak about being in the care of a counselor. It's STRONG. You are not passively waiting for your strength or healing. You are doing the work. It's my privilege to be a part of that process.
Life can often be overwhelming. I can help you tap into your inner strength and personal power so you can make the changes needed to feel better and create a more fulfilling life. Whether you are looking into counseling for some personal growth or because you are hanging by a thread, I can provide you tools for healing and reaching your goals. There is nothing weak about being in the care of a counselor. It's STRONG. You are not passively waiting for your strength or healing. You are doing the work. It's my privilege to be a part of that process.
![Photo of Steven Pasquinelli - Psychological Associates, Inc., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/133b9222-b093-471a-942b-6ed0c5f756b3/1/320x400.png)
Among the many reasons why people seek counseling, one reason stands out as a factor....LIFETIME CHANGES. Change is a constant in our lives that many strongly resist, and have difficulty coping. Lifetime changes do not need to cause distress. Individuals can become stronger. There are tools to creating new, healthier, effective styles of living. Each person coming into counseling has their own individual needs. As clinicians, we want to partner with our clients to identify their goals and help them on their journey to a healthier, more satisfying life.
Among the many reasons why people seek counseling, one reason stands out as a factor....LIFETIME CHANGES. Change is a constant in our lives that many strongly resist, and have difficulty coping. Lifetime changes do not need to cause distress. Individuals can become stronger. There are tools to creating new, healthier, effective styles of living. Each person coming into counseling has their own individual needs. As clinicians, we want to partner with our clients to identify their goals and help them on their journey to a healthier, more satisfying life.
![Photo of Suzanne Elia-Hoyes, LPC , Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab577be4-4156-4f97-899c-00291fa6e5cb/1/320x400.png)
My name is Suzanne Elia-Hoyes. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Over the last 24 years, I have worked as a professional school counselor, a licensed professional counselor in a school setting and in private practice, and a BCBA. These roles have allowed me to respond to the needs of diverse individuals, including those considered “at-risk” and those with special needs, through the primary interventions of individual and small-group counseling.
My name is Suzanne Elia-Hoyes. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Over the last 24 years, I have worked as a professional school counselor, a licensed professional counselor in a school setting and in private practice, and a BCBA. These roles have allowed me to respond to the needs of diverse individuals, including those considered “at-risk” and those with special needs, through the primary interventions of individual and small-group counseling.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Kelsey Chizmar - Kelsey Chizmar Therapy, LLC, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3121245d-1116-42dd-89da-50d3dac73462/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Chizmar Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, stressed, anxious, or overstimulated? My ideal clients received an ADHD and/or autism diagnosis and are looking for a provider who truly understands them and their unique needs. If not formally diagnosed, they could be suspecting, wanting to learn more, or otherwise. My clients often have used drugs or alcohol to cope in the past, and are in long term recovery now.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, stressed, anxious, or overstimulated? My ideal clients received an ADHD and/or autism diagnosis and are looking for a provider who truly understands them and their unique needs. If not formally diagnosed, they could be suspecting, wanting to learn more, or otherwise. My clients often have used drugs or alcohol to cope in the past, and are in long term recovery now.
![Photo of Christina Pettinato, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46346196-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Pettinato
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling anxious, alone, or depressed? Maybe you're feeling stuck in life? I'm here to help. Through meaningful conversation, you and I will navigate your issues and struggles with proven problem-solving techniques, coping skills, and self-reflection. My goal is to help you map out opportunities for growth, awareness, trust, and mindfulness in your life and your relationships. I provide professional counseling services with an approach that is conversational, non-judgmental, and supportive. Some of my specialties include; anxiety, autism spectrum, depression, grief, guilt, life transitions, relationships, trauma, and trust.
Are you feeling anxious, alone, or depressed? Maybe you're feeling stuck in life? I'm here to help. Through meaningful conversation, you and I will navigate your issues and struggles with proven problem-solving techniques, coping skills, and self-reflection. My goal is to help you map out opportunities for growth, awareness, trust, and mindfulness in your life and your relationships. I provide professional counseling services with an approach that is conversational, non-judgmental, and supportive. Some of my specialties include; anxiety, autism spectrum, depression, grief, guilt, life transitions, relationships, trauma, and trust.
![Photo of Dr. John Edward Carosso - Dr. John Carosso, Psy.D., Child Psychologist, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7dd8c266-de9a-44ed-8035-0d8d41e60c19/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. John Carosso, Psy.D., Child Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
He is a partner at Community Psychiatric Centers, and Executive Director at the Autism Center of Pittsburgh where there is a focus on meeting the needs of the autism community in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas.
Dr. John Carosso works as a Child Psychologist and School Psychologist specializing in conducting child psychological diagnostic evaluations for Autism, ADHD, behavioral and learning issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma. He is also Clinical Director of Community Psychiatric Centers where children can be seen for treatment. Dr. Carosso can be seen in offices in Monroeville, Greensburg, and North Hills. Check out his website at HelpForYourChild.com.
He is a partner at Community Psychiatric Centers, and Executive Director at the Autism Center of Pittsburgh where there is a focus on meeting the needs of the autism community in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas.
Dr. John Carosso works as a Child Psychologist and School Psychologist specializing in conducting child psychological diagnostic evaluations for Autism, ADHD, behavioral and learning issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma. He is also Clinical Director of Community Psychiatric Centers where children can be seen for treatment. Dr. Carosso can be seen in offices in Monroeville, Greensburg, and North Hills. Check out his website at HelpForYourChild.com.
![Photo of Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84a6c1e8-7c29-4326-b9aa-6afa38e94b48/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP who conducts neuropsychological, psychological, academic, and independent educational evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., BPD), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP who conducts neuropsychological, psychological, academic, and independent educational evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., BPD), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
![Photo of Monica Dunlap - Dunlap & Associates Counseling and Art Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cf32c20-0193-4b78-b604-c564d26738f1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dunlap & Associates Counseling and Art Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
We have experience working with those who face Academic Struggles, Addictions, ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar, Behavioral Problems, Breakups, Codependency, Communication, Dating, Divorce, Depression, Grief, Hoarding, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parenting Issues, Relational Problems, Self-Injurious Behavior, Trauma, Work conflicts, etc.
NOW OFFERING ART THERAPY. Many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. We are especially skilled at working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. Clients have described us as “Therapists for people who don’t like therapy”. We try to understand people on an individual level & adapt our skills to meet their needs. Our goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working to root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
We have experience working with those who face Academic Struggles, Addictions, ADHD, Anger, Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar, Behavioral Problems, Breakups, Codependency, Communication, Dating, Divorce, Depression, Grief, Hoarding, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parenting Issues, Relational Problems, Self-Injurious Behavior, Trauma, Work conflicts, etc.
NOW OFFERING ART THERAPY. Many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. We are especially skilled at working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. Clients have described us as “Therapists for people who don’t like therapy”. We try to understand people on an individual level & adapt our skills to meet their needs. Our goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working to root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
![Photo of Lynn Goodwin, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf19ba8e-979e-42bd-b98c-478014ffcacf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am also an Autism Certified Specialist.
I am licensed in Arizona and Pennsylvania. I offer online counseling for those who need convenience and flexibility. All individuals are uniquely gifted, have immeasurable purpose and value, and are all deserving of emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness. I also believe that wellness is a lifelong journey filled with opportunities for healing and growth. We all have the raw materials for an authentic life but sometimes we need help figuring out what that means for us.
I am also an Autism Certified Specialist.
I am licensed in Arizona and Pennsylvania. I offer online counseling for those who need convenience and flexibility. All individuals are uniquely gifted, have immeasurable purpose and value, and are all deserving of emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness. I also believe that wellness is a lifelong journey filled with opportunities for healing and growth. We all have the raw materials for an authentic life but sometimes we need help figuring out what that means for us.
![Photo of Jennifer Eldridge, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48441a3a-80f8-450d-a978-b94f4cf3f077/2/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and adults (preschool-age 80+). I am fortunate to have helped individuals over the past 20+ years as they strive to overcome life's challenges and access life's joys. While a variety of therapy techniques that I am trained in can be of value, clients and I select the ones that they find to be most helpful to them personally. I primarily see clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, divorce, school/work and family problems, ADHD, Autism, childhood issues, and processing past traumatic or stressful life events.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and adults (preschool-age 80+). I am fortunate to have helped individuals over the past 20+ years as they strive to overcome life's challenges and access life's joys. While a variety of therapy techniques that I am trained in can be of value, clients and I select the ones that they find to be most helpful to them personally. I primarily see clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, divorce, school/work and family problems, ADHD, Autism, childhood issues, and processing past traumatic or stressful life events.
![Photo of Lauren Johnson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b124972-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
Seeking help can feel uncomfortable, not only to those who have never sought therapy before, but also to those who have had negative experiences with counseling in the past. With over 17 years of experience working with those who struggle with ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Behavioral Problems, Depression, Motivation, Parenting, Relationship Issues, Work Issues, etc., my goal is to create a comfortable atmosphere where we work together to achieve your goals. Your goals will be based on what you want for yourself.
Seeking help can feel uncomfortable, not only to those who have never sought therapy before, but also to those who have had negative experiences with counseling in the past. With over 17 years of experience working with those who struggle with ADHD, Anxiety, Autism, Behavioral Problems, Depression, Motivation, Parenting, Relationship Issues, Work Issues, etc., my goal is to create a comfortable atmosphere where we work together to achieve your goals. Your goals will be based on what you want for yourself.
![Photo of Avi Diamond, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26bf842b-d323-4559-b478-05d0d6c7b3d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in addressing barriers to intimacy, attachment concerns, Autism, and ADHD.
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Are you feeling unheard in your relationship? Do you struggle with understanding or expressing your gender identity and/or sexuality? Many of my clients are individuals and couples who are frustrated with cycles that are no longer working for them and are looking for a guide to hold them accountable in reaching their goals.
I specialize in addressing barriers to intimacy, attachment concerns, Autism, and ADHD.
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Are you feeling unheard in your relationship? Do you struggle with understanding or expressing your gender identity and/or sexuality? Many of my clients are individuals and couples who are frustrated with cycles that are no longer working for them and are looking for a guide to hold them accountable in reaching their goals.
![Photo of Jennifer Ruttinger, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9ed9b77-5b75-4b28-80c8-dad7d761268a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Ruttinger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrendale, PA 15086
I have experience working with individuals and couples with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, autism, and substance use disorders.
I am passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. I am committed to forming strong, trusting relationships with clients, believing that the therapeutic alliance is at the heart of treatment. I believe in working together to create meaningful change across all areas: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social.
I have experience working with individuals and couples with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, autism, and substance use disorders.
I am passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. I am committed to forming strong, trusting relationships with clients, believing that the therapeutic alliance is at the heart of treatment. I believe in working together to create meaningful change across all areas: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social.
![Photo of Kristie Abbs, DSW, LCSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5eb873a-07da-4ff6-99ef-aa227267fb12/3/320x400.jpeg)
I currently work with clients dealing with mental health issues including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Autism, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, and Adjustment Disorders.
I am very excited to have an opportunity to work with you to overcome your struggles and meet the goals that you want to achieve. My work with you and your loved ones will encompass exploring emotions, behaviors, experiences, and your needs. Over my 18 years of practice in the mental health field and doctoral level training, I have learned how to assist individuals, couples, groups, children, and families in learning essential skills to improve and grow, leading them to changes that have positively impacted their lives.
I currently work with clients dealing with mental health issues including: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Autism, ADHD, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, and Adjustment Disorders.
I am very excited to have an opportunity to work with you to overcome your struggles and meet the goals that you want to achieve. My work with you and your loved ones will encompass exploring emotions, behaviors, experiences, and your needs. Over my 18 years of practice in the mental health field and doctoral level training, I have learned how to assist individuals, couples, groups, children, and families in learning essential skills to improve and grow, leading them to changes that have positively impacted their lives.
![Photo of Dr. Deepika Pandey, PhD, MSc, MEd, LBS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38c2c3ac-0a95-46b4-81bd-2427439aeafc/1/320x400.jpeg)
This is Deepika Pandey, Licensed Behavior Specialist. Currently, i am working with the Neurodiversity population. I have had the years of privilege of helping many young children with autism spectrum, ADHD, Down syndrome mental and behavioral health issues. I have experience working with in-home, in-school wraparound services. My sessions are based on ABA-Evidence Based Intervention within most natural environment of learning. Parental teaching, skills transferring is always my extra priority for a successful session.
This is Deepika Pandey, Licensed Behavior Specialist. Currently, i am working with the Neurodiversity population. I have had the years of privilege of helping many young children with autism spectrum, ADHD, Down syndrome mental and behavioral health issues. I have experience working with in-home, in-school wraparound services. My sessions are based on ABA-Evidence Based Intervention within most natural environment of learning. Parental teaching, skills transferring is always my extra priority for a successful session.
![Photo of Dr. Diana Lee Wilcox, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49ab8f3e-4e54-482e-b2f3-9284d509de59/1/320x400.jpeg)
Immediate openings as of Sept 12, 2024! With over 30 years of clinical experience, I earned my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from UNCG. I empower adult men and women to overcome anxiety, obsessive thoughts, autism, control issues, and depression. I provide virtual sessions only. At the client's request, I can provide Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Insight-Oriented Therapy, and also Christian-Based Therapy. You can hear my healing music on Spotify and Apple Music at Diana Wilcox Thank God In Advance II: The Music. (A complement to the upcoming book!). Finally, listen to my podcast at Golden Chat!
Immediate openings as of Sept 12, 2024! With over 30 years of clinical experience, I earned my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from UNCG. I empower adult men and women to overcome anxiety, obsessive thoughts, autism, control issues, and depression. I provide virtual sessions only. At the client's request, I can provide Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Insight-Oriented Therapy, and also Christian-Based Therapy. You can hear my healing music on Spotify and Apple Music at Diana Wilcox Thank God In Advance II: The Music. (A complement to the upcoming book!). Finally, listen to my podcast at Golden Chat!
![Photo of Molly Scott-Anthony, PsyD, NCSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/450260a9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am able to provide testing to assess gifted intelligence, Independent Educational Evaluations, and am trained in the ADOS-2 to assess for autism spectrum disorders.
**Currently on leave. Please contact via website to be placed on the wait list/schedule upon return ** I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in work with children and their families. I am trained in Parent Child Interaction Therapy, an evidence-based therapy for young children between 2.5-7 exhibiting behavioral challenges such as aggression, negative attention-seeking behaviors, low self-esteem, and defiance. Many parents who enroll in PCIT express feelings of stress, frustration, and are overwhelmed by attempts to manage their child's behavior while maintaining a positive relationship.
I am able to provide testing to assess gifted intelligence, Independent Educational Evaluations, and am trained in the ADOS-2 to assess for autism spectrum disorders.
**Currently on leave. Please contact via website to be placed on the wait list/schedule upon return ** I am a licensed psychologist who specializes in work with children and their families. I am trained in Parent Child Interaction Therapy, an evidence-based therapy for young children between 2.5-7 exhibiting behavioral challenges such as aggression, negative attention-seeking behaviors, low self-esteem, and defiance. Many parents who enroll in PCIT express feelings of stress, frustration, and are overwhelmed by attempts to manage their child's behavior while maintaining a positive relationship.
![Photo of Bryan Leleski - Bright Beginnings Counseling and Tutoring, LPC, MSEd, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/183efa7f-9b5c-4e4d-91cf-24e030ddcda6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bright Beginnings Counseling and Tutoring
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd, MS
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
I provide expert guidance to those challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder, respectfully.
I can help. In these challenging times, it's important to have a person and place for support; a place where your voice is truly heard. At Bright Beginnings Counseling and Tutoring LLC, I understand the art of listening and guidance.
I provide expert guidance to those challenged with Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Loss, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder, respectfully.
I can help. In these challenging times, it's important to have a person and place for support; a place where your voice is truly heard. At Bright Beginnings Counseling and Tutoring LLC, I understand the art of listening and guidance.
![Photo of Sarah Ingram, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9365e3f5-a85b-4e8f-94ab-e61e0e64359e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work best with clients who are trying to figure out how to cope with Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Trauma, or Autism. I use techniques based on Cognitive Therapy and Trauma-Informed Care. Each session is based on the client's current issues while keeping in mind the big picture of who they are, what their goals are, and how their past has impacted their current life. My goal is to help clients find healthy ways to improves their lives. Together, we figure out what the next right step is for a healthy life.
I work best with clients who are trying to figure out how to cope with Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Trauma, or Autism. I use techniques based on Cognitive Therapy and Trauma-Informed Care. Each session is based on the client's current issues while keeping in mind the big picture of who they are, what their goals are, and how their past has impacted their current life. My goal is to help clients find healthy ways to improves their lives. Together, we figure out what the next right step is for a healthy life.
See more therapy options for Mars
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Mars
- Allison Park
- Butler
- Coraopolis
- Cranberry Township
- Fox Chapel
- Gibsonia
- Moon Township
- Natrona Heights
- New Kensington
- Sewickley
- Warrendale
- Wexford
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.