Autism Therapists in Mount Pocono, PA
![Photo of Chyna Smith, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1d7311a-4189-40f4-96e4-0e1a1efc4dd8/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Chyna Smith. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Lock Haven University and my Master of Science in Forensic Psychology at Nova Southeastern University. I am a recognized member of Psi Chi, The International Honor Society in Psychology. I have worked in the mental health field for over 5 years with various ages and backgrounds.
My name is Chyna Smith. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Lock Haven University and my Master of Science in Forensic Psychology at Nova Southeastern University. I am a recognized member of Psi Chi, The International Honor Society in Psychology. I have worked in the mental health field for over 5 years with various ages and backgrounds.
![Photo of Louise E. Knight Long - MindBridge Group, LLC, LSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/544db6d9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
MindBridge Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pocono, PA 18344
Are you struggling, feeling stuck, overwhelmed and burned out? This can cause emotional stress and breakdown on a regular basis. You are making a brave step in asking for help and I strive to meet the individual where he or she may be without judgement. As a therapist, it is my goal to help you identify your strengths and potentials to improve your day to day functioning as we work towards resolving any challenges you may be experiencing. We will work collaboratively to work on your issues, desired goals and outcome. I provide a safe nurturing friendly environment where you can feel free to express your concerns and desires.
Are you struggling, feeling stuck, overwhelmed and burned out? This can cause emotional stress and breakdown on a regular basis. You are making a brave step in asking for help and I strive to meet the individual where he or she may be without judgement. As a therapist, it is my goal to help you identify your strengths and potentials to improve your day to day functioning as we work towards resolving any challenges you may be experiencing. We will work collaboratively to work on your issues, desired goals and outcome. I provide a safe nurturing friendly environment where you can feel free to express your concerns and desires.
![Photo of Geddes Sean-Schubert Gibbs - Live Life Counseling and Psychotherapy Servs. LLC, MSOL, CSSW, LMSW, CFLEc, EdDs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b39d58f8-4cc4-4873-8cc2-3e69967f1f18/2/320x400.jpeg)
Live Life Counseling and Psychotherapy Servs. LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSOL, CSSW, LMSW, CFLEc, EdDs
Verified Verified
Mount Pocono, PA 18344
As a male therapist in the Stroudsburg and adjacent communities, I assist individuals with addressing the many challenges that persist in our environment, and that promote unexpected, overwhelming stress. I focus particularly on human behavior and the elements that we can control, to the extent that it allows the individual in need to hopefully reap the benefits of living a rewarding and fulfilling life. Historically, men are very resistant toward the counseling experience. I allay their anxiety by providing a friendly, non-judgmental setting for candid dialogue during the process. My practice is devoted to improving social relationships through healthy interventions at all times.
As a male therapist in the Stroudsburg and adjacent communities, I assist individuals with addressing the many challenges that persist in our environment, and that promote unexpected, overwhelming stress. I focus particularly on human behavior and the elements that we can control, to the extent that it allows the individual in need to hopefully reap the benefits of living a rewarding and fulfilling life. Historically, men are very resistant toward the counseling experience. I allay their anxiety by providing a friendly, non-judgmental setting for candid dialogue during the process. My practice is devoted to improving social relationships through healthy interventions at all times.
![Photo of Andrew Said - Pocono Counseling Associates, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d150687-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pocono Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mount Pocono, PA 18344
I am a board certified, licensed professional counselor as well as a certified anger management specialist and a certified secondary school counselor. I have worked in the mental health profession for over 10 years. As a therapist I offer individual, couples, and family therapy in the areas of anxiety and mood issues, relationship and conflict resolution, stress and anger management, behavioral disorders, and more. My experience in a school setting offers a unique perspective in working with adolescents and young adults. I have a particular interest working with teenage and adult populations as well as the elderly and the distinctive challenges they face.
I am a board certified, licensed professional counselor as well as a certified anger management specialist and a certified secondary school counselor. I have worked in the mental health profession for over 10 years. As a therapist I offer individual, couples, and family therapy in the areas of anxiety and mood issues, relationship and conflict resolution, stress and anger management, behavioral disorders, and more. My experience in a school setting offers a unique perspective in working with adolescents and young adults. I have a particular interest working with teenage and adult populations as well as the elderly and the distinctive challenges they face.
![Photo of Brooke Davidson - Eleven Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b6013c1-b9f6-4eb5-8142-d232ec90651c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke Davidson - Eleven Eleven Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Pocono, PA 18344 (Online Only)
Are you seeking a safe, supportive space to navigate life's challenges? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to serving adults, elders, and the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities, I provide individual and couples therapy focused on fostering safety and understanding. Whether facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, my practice offers a haven for exploring your thoughts and emotions without judgment. My goal is to create a welcoming environment where you feel seen, heard, and valued, empowering you to address your needs and achieve your goals through meaningful interpersonal work.
Are you seeking a safe, supportive space to navigate life's challenges? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to serving adults, elders, and the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities, I provide individual and couples therapy focused on fostering safety and understanding. Whether facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or life transitions, my practice offers a haven for exploring your thoughts and emotions without judgment. My goal is to create a welcoming environment where you feel seen, heard, and valued, empowering you to address your needs and achieve your goals through meaningful interpersonal work.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Michelle L. Wonders, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d48be60-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michelle L. Wonders
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cresco, PA 18326 (Online Only)
I have experience with a variety of mental health disorders as well as 30+ years' experience with Intellectual Disabilities, Autism, with an ABA focus.
Now accepting Telehealth patients! I believe that every person is a unique story that is being written. Each day is a new opportunity to develop healthy habits to unlock your full potential. I use a strengths-based approach to build upon skills you didn't even know you have! My orientation is primarily Person-Centered, and I use techniques of CBT to change damaging thought patterns into healthy ones. We will develop a collaborative partnership to embark in process of self-discovery and growth. My role is to guide you using my expertise/training to assist you in traveling on your exciting journey of growth and self-awareness.
I have experience with a variety of mental health disorders as well as 30+ years' experience with Intellectual Disabilities, Autism, with an ABA focus.
Now accepting Telehealth patients! I believe that every person is a unique story that is being written. Each day is a new opportunity to develop healthy habits to unlock your full potential. I use a strengths-based approach to build upon skills you didn't even know you have! My orientation is primarily Person-Centered, and I use techniques of CBT to change damaging thought patterns into healthy ones. We will develop a collaborative partnership to embark in process of self-discovery and growth. My role is to guide you using my expertise/training to assist you in traveling on your exciting journey of growth and self-awareness.
![Photo of Alla Leybinsky, LPC, LMHC , M Ed, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51e949f0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alla Leybinsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC , M Ed, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tobyhanna, PA 18466
Living with depression is like living with thick fog that rolls into your life and affects everything meaningful in its path. It changes everything about you … how you think, feel and function in daily activities. It may have even started interfering with your ability to work, study, eat, sleep, and enjoy life. The people close to you probably have noticed, but they don’t know how to help you, and you don’t know how to help yourself. Trying to get through the day is overwhelming and seems like an impossible task. Seeking help from a therapist can seem scary because you want to make sure you choose someone who you truly connect with.
Living with depression is like living with thick fog that rolls into your life and affects everything meaningful in its path. It changes everything about you … how you think, feel and function in daily activities. It may have even started interfering with your ability to work, study, eat, sleep, and enjoy life. The people close to you probably have noticed, but they don’t know how to help you, and you don’t know how to help yourself. Trying to get through the day is overwhelming and seems like an impossible task. Seeking help from a therapist can seem scary because you want to make sure you choose someone who you truly connect with.
![Photo of Phillip Long, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccd403ec-78a8-427d-9d46-60892d49b146/3/320x400.jpeg)
First off, thank you for taking the time to read my profile. In my time as a counselor/therapist I have found that the process of selecting a therapist is at best awkward, and at worst terrifying. People simply don’t wake-up feeling upset one day and think, “Wow, I feel yucky, I think I will talk to a therapist.” More often than not a therapist is considered as a last resort, or after coming to a conclusion of, “I don’t know what else to do.”
First off, thank you for taking the time to read my profile. In my time as a counselor/therapist I have found that the process of selecting a therapist is at best awkward, and at worst terrifying. People simply don’t wake-up feeling upset one day and think, “Wow, I feel yucky, I think I will talk to a therapist.” More often than not a therapist is considered as a last resort, or after coming to a conclusion of, “I don’t know what else to do.”
Online Therapists
![Photo of Gina P Laird - Laird Family Counseling, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43a0a97c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laird Family Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenixville, PA 19460
With two decades of experience working with children and families facing Autism and other emotional/behavioral challenges, I offer expert guidance on social skills, emotion regulation, communication, parenting strategies, and compliance, to promote peace and understanding in your home.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I apply principles of family systems theory to all clients, recognizing the significance of the family dynamic in fostering client progress. Working with individuals, couples, children and adolescents, my goal is to empower you to break free from negative patterns and live a genuine, healthy, and fulfilling life.
With two decades of experience working with children and families facing Autism and other emotional/behavioral challenges, I offer expert guidance on social skills, emotion regulation, communication, parenting strategies, and compliance, to promote peace and understanding in your home.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I apply principles of family systems theory to all clients, recognizing the significance of the family dynamic in fostering client progress. Working with individuals, couples, children and adolescents, my goal is to empower you to break free from negative patterns and live a genuine, healthy, and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Ian Wagner, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8f874b8-9187-4039-bb39-b33f0898dc22/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ian Wagner
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orefield, PA 18069
If you're experiencing struggles with trauma, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, I can help.
My belief is that the best clinical tool is the relationship between counselor and client, so I will focus on getting to know you, how you want to live your life and what goals are most important to you. As a gay male of color, I am part of two underserved communities, and I accept and respect the responsibility my position holds. I proudly work with my peers, both LGBT+ and individuals of color.
If you're experiencing struggles with trauma, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, I can help.
My belief is that the best clinical tool is the relationship between counselor and client, so I will focus on getting to know you, how you want to live your life and what goals are most important to you. As a gay male of color, I am part of two underserved communities, and I accept and respect the responsibility my position holds. I proudly work with my peers, both LGBT+ and individuals of color.
![Photo of Paula Ann Bellavance, LPC, BSL, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a6f273c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paula Ann Bellavance
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BSL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lawn, PA 19609 (Online Only)
I’m an experienced therapist working at Kahl Counseling in PA, providing online psychotherapy for a variety of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and grief, as well as areas of specialty such as PTSD, autism, hoarding & LGBTQ issues. I offer dynamic, client-centered and strength-based services to individuals age six and up, couples, families and groups. My clients tell me what they like best about me is my compassion. I strive to offer a personalized approach to problem-solving, and I’m dedicated to helping my clients resolve their unique issues in my work at Kahl Counseling.
I’m an experienced therapist working at Kahl Counseling in PA, providing online psychotherapy for a variety of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and grief, as well as areas of specialty such as PTSD, autism, hoarding & LGBTQ issues. I offer dynamic, client-centered and strength-based services to individuals age six and up, couples, families and groups. My clients tell me what they like best about me is my compassion. I strive to offer a personalized approach to problem-solving, and I’m dedicated to helping my clients resolve their unique issues in my work at Kahl Counseling.
![Photo of Deborah Knecht, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/475948f8-b57f-41f1-9810-d26f28b16111/2/320x400.png)
Deborah Knecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18017 (Online Only)
Deb's specialty is Autism.
Deborah "Deb" Knecht is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. She is a seasoned therapist who has vast experience in the mental health field. She graduated from Marywood University with a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling.
Deb's specialty is Autism.
Deborah "Deb" Knecht is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. She is a seasoned therapist who has vast experience in the mental health field. She graduated from Marywood University with a Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling.
![Photo of Lisa Gottesman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/498634c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Gottesman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102 (Online Only)
As your therapist, I will provide a warm and supportive counseling environment where we will begin to work through any current or past challenges or stressors that have led you here. Therapy is most effective when you feel safe and validated as you open up about your life experiences. Through my candor, use of humor, and interactive feedback during sessions, I aim to do just that. My scope of practice includes working with individuals who may experience various forms of anxiety, low self-esteem and those in the neurodiverse and Autism communities.
As your therapist, I will provide a warm and supportive counseling environment where we will begin to work through any current or past challenges or stressors that have led you here. Therapy is most effective when you feel safe and validated as you open up about your life experiences. Through my candor, use of humor, and interactive feedback during sessions, I aim to do just that. My scope of practice includes working with individuals who may experience various forms of anxiety, low self-esteem and those in the neurodiverse and Autism communities.
![Photo of Greg A. Kidorf, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6824b7d-c358-4142-aa94-849ce5efa371/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am familiar with all aspects of special education programming and work with students who present with a wide range of learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and emotional disturbances.
Hello. I specialize in psycho-educational evaluations in order to help determine educational needs of students who present with learning, behavioral, and/or social/emotional challenges. In addition to my state licensure, I am certified as a school psychologist in Pennsylvania. I have been working over 25 years in school settings and private practice - and I perform initial and independent evaluations (including diagnostic assessments) while helping to resolve difficult cases in a harmonious way. I look forward to working with you and/or your child's school to find an educational program that best fits his/her needs.
I am familiar with all aspects of special education programming and work with students who present with a wide range of learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, and emotional disturbances.
Hello. I specialize in psycho-educational evaluations in order to help determine educational needs of students who present with learning, behavioral, and/or social/emotional challenges. In addition to my state licensure, I am certified as a school psychologist in Pennsylvania. I have been working over 25 years in school settings and private practice - and I perform initial and independent evaluations (including diagnostic assessments) while helping to resolve difficult cases in a harmonious way. I look forward to working with you and/or your child's school to find an educational program that best fits his/her needs.
![Photo of Dr. David Butman, PsyD , Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4edc046-06ad-4806-ae5b-5dcdfd4b96ef/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Andrew Lightfoot, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31e176b0-89ef-46c8-adec-8a885355f53d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Lightfoot
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Drew Lightfoot specializes in working with individuals with depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, couples and marriage counseling, autism-spectrum disorder, and trauma/PTSD. His approach includes a mixture of finding a meaning and purpose in life, learning ways to cope with stress and overwhelming emotions, improving social skills and communication, and changing the negative ways we think about ourselves and our world. Drew Lightfoot is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of combined education and experience in the field of Psychology and Counseling.
Drew Lightfoot specializes in working with individuals with depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, couples and marriage counseling, autism-spectrum disorder, and trauma/PTSD. His approach includes a mixture of finding a meaning and purpose in life, learning ways to cope with stress and overwhelming emotions, improving social skills and communication, and changing the negative ways we think about ourselves and our world. Drew Lightfoot is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of combined education and experience in the field of Psychology and Counseling.
![Photo of Kierstin Carreira, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a63ec04-492b-4ea1-8344-1ef2a7796585/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kierstin Carreira is an experienced Child Psychotherapist specializing in Trauma and Family Conflict issues. She concentrates in Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, ODD, DMDD, and Anxiety. She has extensive knowledge in the area of trauma. She utilizes play therapy to elicit conversation and openness with children, and works with parents experiencing anxiety and depression due to family challenges.
Kierstin Carreira is an experienced Child Psychotherapist specializing in Trauma and Family Conflict issues. She concentrates in Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, ODD, DMDD, and Anxiety. She has extensive knowledge in the area of trauma. She utilizes play therapy to elicit conversation and openness with children, and works with parents experiencing anxiety and depression due to family challenges.
![Photo of Derek Pendleton, LCSW, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cf10b57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Derek Pendleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
I have nearly 25 years of experience providing individual, family, and couples therapy to people of all ages and diagnoses. My areas of specialty include adult/adolescent Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction (all types), and Anger Management. In addition, I work well with families whose children struggle with behavioral and emotional problems, including diagnoses of A.D.H.D., Oppositional Defiant Disorder (O.D.D.), and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I am trained in various Evidenced-Based Practices - such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - that have been proven to help individuals feel better soon.
![Photo of Carrissa Delaney, MA, BSL, LPC, LPCMH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46ddf442-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carrissa Delaney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BSL, LPC, LPCMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kennett Square, PA 19348
"I count it as a blessing to devote my professional time to serving individuals and families struggling with a wide range of mental health struggles including depression, addictions, anxiety, maladaptive personality features, parenting strategies, parenting a child with autism, and familial adjustment to separation or divorce. A proponent of technical eclecticism as an outpatient and community-based therapist, I specialize in Psychoanalytic, Trauma-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
"I count it as a blessing to devote my professional time to serving individuals and families struggling with a wide range of mental health struggles including depression, addictions, anxiety, maladaptive personality features, parenting strategies, parenting a child with autism, and familial adjustment to separation or divorce. A proponent of technical eclecticism as an outpatient and community-based therapist, I specialize in Psychoanalytic, Trauma-Focused, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Katherine Martin, Psychological Services
Psychologist, MEd, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
My practice includes diagnostic assessment of children with autism utilizing a comprehensive neuropsychological battery including the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale.
I have worked with children, their parents and teachers for over 25 years performing comprehensive cognitive, neuropsychological, developmental, educational and personality assessment. My practice includes developing strategies for children and adolescents with learning, emotional and developmental disabilities which includes parent training, advocacy and teacher consultation. I also perform evaluations for eligibility for gifted and talented programs, adolescents who need accommodations for taking the SAT's and educational support plans for higher education. I have extensive training and experience in the development of programs for children with high functioning autism, ADHD, dyslexia and complex learning disorders.
My practice includes diagnostic assessment of children with autism utilizing a comprehensive neuropsychological battery including the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale.
I have worked with children, their parents and teachers for over 25 years performing comprehensive cognitive, neuropsychological, developmental, educational and personality assessment. My practice includes developing strategies for children and adolescents with learning, emotional and developmental disabilities which includes parent training, advocacy and teacher consultation. I also perform evaluations for eligibility for gifted and talented programs, adolescents who need accommodations for taking the SAT's and educational support plans for higher education. I have extensive training and experience in the development of programs for children with high functioning autism, ADHD, dyslexia and complex learning disorders.
See more therapy options for Mount Pocono
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Mount Pocono
- Clarks Summit
- Dickson City
- Dunmore
- East Stroudsburg
- Easton
- Hawley
- Kingston
- Nazareth
- Olyphant
- Scranton
- Stroudsburg
- Wilkes Barre
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.