Autism Therapists in Shadyside, PA
![Photo of Heather M Martin - Heather Martin LCSW / Alliance Therapy Center, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbd37028-1983-416b-b821-0124cc038a44/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Martin LCSW / Alliance Therapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Shadyside, PA 15232
Therapists at Alliance Therapy Center have immediate openings for clients, now including children ages 3 and up! Click our website link to request an appointment. We look forward to working with you!
Therapists at Alliance Therapy Center have immediate openings for clients, now including children ages 3 and up! Click our website link to request an appointment. We look forward to working with you!
![Photo of Avory Billman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5550d4e8-90c0-4350-b79d-34c45a2f7340/2/320x400.jpeg)
Avory Billman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shadyside, PA 15232
Waitlist for new clients
My focus includes trauma-informed therapy with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals. I primarily work with adolescents and young adults. I utilize evidence-based, affirming practices to support my clients in processing trauma, regulating mood instability, improving relationships, coping with life transitions, and building confidence in themselves.
My focus includes trauma-informed therapy with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals. I primarily work with adolescents and young adults. I utilize evidence-based, affirming practices to support my clients in processing trauma, regulating mood instability, improving relationships, coping with life transitions, and building confidence in themselves.
![Photo of Dr. Alanna Downing, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2aeea736-9200-465b-8c1a-5841dce5be4f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My approach integrates a variety of evidence-based practices including psychodynamic, CBT & DBT. I have been effective at utilizing these treatment modalities to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, and other clinical concerns. Clients also come to my practice to improve relationships and navigate stressful life changes. I have in person and Telehealth availability for children and adults in Shadyside, PA.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, and adults. My approach integrates a variety of evidence-based practices including psychodynamic, CBT & DBT. I have been effective at utilizing these treatment modalities to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, and other clinical concerns. Clients also come to my practice to improve relationships and navigate stressful life changes. I have in person and Telehealth availability for children and adults in Shadyside, PA.
![Photo of Amber Moskowitz, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d934abd5-7e25-4ceb-8055-eae0ee51b33b/4/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Moskowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shadyside, PA 15232
I am most drawn to supporting individuals interested in empathically instilling acceptance for themselves and the way they have learned to survive within their environment. I work best with teens and young adults who tend to over-think and want to lean to befriend their feelings. If you find yourself struggling with transitions, managing emotions or trusting yourself and others, I would be honored to support you in discovering ways to reduce tension and increase understanding around what your “symptoms” are trying to tell you.
I am most drawn to supporting individuals interested in empathically instilling acceptance for themselves and the way they have learned to survive within their environment. I work best with teens and young adults who tend to over-think and want to lean to befriend their feelings. If you find yourself struggling with transitions, managing emotions or trusting yourself and others, I would be honored to support you in discovering ways to reduce tension and increase understanding around what your “symptoms” are trying to tell you.
![Photo of Jennifer Huffman - True To You Counseling And Coaching, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db86e201-6af7-4874-a6c9-0f8bc22575ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Huffman - True To You Counseling And Coaching
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shadyside, PA 15232 (Online Only)
I am taking new clients as of July 2024. I have partnered with a colleague, Frank Bienkowski to create a new practice, True to You Counseling and Coaching. Over my 20+ years in the field of mental health I’ve come to believe most people are seeking to understand their place and purpose in this challenging world. Navigating things like relationships, finances, careers, family, and trying to make the right choices all while having many unexpected events thrown in can be destabilizing. When you feel lost and have more questions than answers, I am here to help you sort through the overwhelm.
I am taking new clients as of July 2024. I have partnered with a colleague, Frank Bienkowski to create a new practice, True to You Counseling and Coaching. Over my 20+ years in the field of mental health I’ve come to believe most people are seeking to understand their place and purpose in this challenging world. Navigating things like relationships, finances, careers, family, and trying to make the right choices all while having many unexpected events thrown in can be destabilizing. When you feel lost and have more questions than answers, I am here to help you sort through the overwhelm.
![Photo of Alice Link, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fa8605c-4c42-4a7f-93be-06ba5f7532d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alice Link
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shadyside, PA 15232 (Online Only)
I provide counseling for individuals or couples seeking to address concerns related to anxiety, sexual health, parenting, and/or relationships. I offer a comfortable and relaxed approach in sessions to facilitate honest interaction with my clients. The therapy I provide is evidence-based, relational, sex-positive, and humanistic in nature.
I provide counseling for individuals or couples seeking to address concerns related to anxiety, sexual health, parenting, and/or relationships. I offer a comfortable and relaxed approach in sessions to facilitate honest interaction with my clients. The therapy I provide is evidence-based, relational, sex-positive, and humanistic in nature.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Tammie Barkus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f360898-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tammie Barkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in substance abuse, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar and dual-diagnosis.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified drug and alcohol counselor. I have over 10 years experience in therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
I specialize in substance abuse, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, bipolar and dual-diagnosis.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified drug and alcohol counselor. I have over 10 years experience in therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
![Photo of Gina Ager, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4d692d4-c5f9-4719-9ee8-763b654bcccb/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have particular interest in working with children and adolescents whom have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I love working with KIDS and TEENS! Connecting to a child's world is so interesting. I thoroughly enjoy engaging with their creativity and curiosity. I understand children are sensitive to the relationships in their life. Times of stress can take a toll on all relationships, the one with ourselves, with our family members, and often times our children. I work to be present, offer a nonjudgmental, and understanding atmosphere. Making sense of life's challenges and choices can be complicated. Let me help your child and family navigate through challenges to reclaim your peace and gain a new sense of freedom.
I have particular interest in working with children and adolescents whom have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I love working with KIDS and TEENS! Connecting to a child's world is so interesting. I thoroughly enjoy engaging with their creativity and curiosity. I understand children are sensitive to the relationships in their life. Times of stress can take a toll on all relationships, the one with ourselves, with our family members, and often times our children. I work to be present, offer a nonjudgmental, and understanding atmosphere. Making sense of life's challenges and choices can be complicated. Let me help your child and family navigate through challenges to reclaim your peace and gain a new sense of freedom.
![Photo of Christine Lynn Sheffey - Sheffey Consultants LLC, MSW, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ef5b68e-6aae-4d6f-82ce-0c50299bad24/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 21 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults impacted by autism, developmental disabilities, and/or behavioral health needs. I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and specialize in individual and family therapy.
I have over 21 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults impacted by autism, developmental disabilities, and/or behavioral health needs. I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and specialize in individual and family therapy.
![Photo of Barbara Thomas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/def9cdb1-4928-4aff-b6d9-19b7265653a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232 (Online Only)
Barbara Thomas is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has 6 years of experience working with children, adolescents, couples, and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and family/life transitions. Additionally, Barbara has experience working with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), trauma, grief and loss, and multigenerational family patterns. Barbara completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology at Pennsylvania State University and her Master of Science (MS) in Marriage and Family Therapy at Seton Hall University.
Barbara Thomas is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who has 6 years of experience working with children, adolescents, couples, and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and family/life transitions. Additionally, Barbara has experience working with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), trauma, grief and loss, and multigenerational family patterns. Barbara completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology at Pennsylvania State University and her Master of Science (MS) in Marriage and Family Therapy at Seton Hall University.
![Photo of Chris Wesling, LPC, LBS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48159a85-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Along with my LPC and NCC, I am a Licensed Behavior Specialist and specially trained in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
"The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination." These are wise words from Carl Rogers, one of my biggest influences. My approach with clients comes from years of direct work with children, adolescents, families, and adults. Providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere is what I strive for as we create a therapeutic alliance and work through difficulties that you are facing. We will work together and address your concerns by focusing on your strengths and setting up goals that we will achieve with evidence-based practices.
Along with my LPC and NCC, I am a Licensed Behavior Specialist and specially trained in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
"The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination." These are wise words from Carl Rogers, one of my biggest influences. My approach with clients comes from years of direct work with children, adolescents, families, and adults. Providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere is what I strive for as we create a therapeutic alliance and work through difficulties that you are facing. We will work together and address your concerns by focusing on your strengths and setting up goals that we will achieve with evidence-based practices.
![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 15206
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 Erica Maloney, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c2fe2e1-c516-40c4-8797-e22c0f9f7652/1/320x400.png)
Erica Maloney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Waitlist for new clients
I also have advanced skills and experience working with children/youth who have autism.
Welcome! My name is Dr. Erica Maloney, I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and lifelong yinzer. My approach is casual and affirming. You can depend on me to come to each session ready to share my positive energy, sense of humor and unconditional positive regard. As a member of the queer and neurodivergent community, I leverage my life experience to help me provide culturally responsive and relevant therapy for LGBTQIA+ folks. I think my most valuable skill is creating a safe and welcoming space for every client. I work under the clinical supervision of Judith Krynski, Licensed Psychologist.
I also have advanced skills and experience working with children/youth who have autism.
Welcome! My name is Dr. Erica Maloney, I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and lifelong yinzer. My approach is casual and affirming. You can depend on me to come to each session ready to share my positive energy, sense of humor and unconditional positive regard. As a member of the queer and neurodivergent community, I leverage my life experience to help me provide culturally responsive and relevant therapy for LGBTQIA+ folks. I think my most valuable skill is creating a safe and welcoming space for every client. I work under the clinical supervision of Judith Krynski, Licensed Psychologist.
![Photo of Daniel Marston, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/482daa8c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also have over 20 years of experience teaching at the university level along with a number of national publications and presentations on cognitive-behavioral therapy along with depression, autism, neuropsychology and behavioral disorders.
Hello and Welcome!! I am Dr. Daniel Marston, a Licensed Psychologist in the state of Pennsylvania. I have been in clinical practice for over 20 years and have helped many people overcome many different challenges. I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy and am board-certified in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). My approach to counseling is a strong combination of caring and research. I strongly believe that counseling needs to be much more than just “friendly talk” and that the only way to do this is to base it solidly on clinical research.
I also have over 20 years of experience teaching at the university level along with a number of national publications and presentations on cognitive-behavioral therapy along with depression, autism, neuropsychology and behavioral disorders.
Hello and Welcome!! I am Dr. Daniel Marston, a Licensed Psychologist in the state of Pennsylvania. I have been in clinical practice for over 20 years and have helped many people overcome many different challenges. I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy and am board-certified in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). My approach to counseling is a strong combination of caring and research. I strongly believe that counseling needs to be much more than just “friendly talk” and that the only way to do this is to base it solidly on clinical research.
![Photo of Kalila Beehler, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b8cdf6d-14c1-4f56-b3c6-fe8151dc209e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychotherapist for Panorama Therapy. I hold a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman's University in Denton, Texas. I believe that everyone deserves to have a space to learn about ourselves and to be fully authentic. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, and that my clients are experts on themselves. I feel honored each time a client chooses to work with me as they grow and heal, and welcome any wandering soul seeking a space to be seen and heard. I have a strong passion for intersectional identities, especially of neurodivergence, specifically autism, and 2SLGBTQ+.
I am a psychotherapist for Panorama Therapy. I hold a Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology from Texas Woman's University in Denton, Texas. I believe that everyone deserves to have a space to learn about ourselves and to be fully authentic. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, and that my clients are experts on themselves. I feel honored each time a client chooses to work with me as they grow and heal, and welcome any wandering soul seeking a space to be seen and heard. I have a strong passion for intersectional identities, especially of neurodivergence, specifically autism, and 2SLGBTQ+.
![Photo of Warren A Levy, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d90f03ba-ef20-4d9c-8934-5cd0066ab323/2/320x400.jpeg)
Insight. Strategies. Problem Solving. Coaching. Support. I draw on over 20 years of experience working with adults, teens, and children to help clients with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Asperger's/Autism Spectrum. My therapy is focused on increasing insight and taking small steps that lead to positive changes. It is collaborative, strengths-based, goal-oriented, and structured to produce results in weeks to months, not years. I can help with issues such as stress management, motivation, organization, coping skills, self-esteem, social skills, communication issues in relationships, and life direction.
Insight. Strategies. Problem Solving. Coaching. Support. I draw on over 20 years of experience working with adults, teens, and children to help clients with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Asperger's/Autism Spectrum. My therapy is focused on increasing insight and taking small steps that lead to positive changes. It is collaborative, strengths-based, goal-oriented, and structured to produce results in weeks to months, not years. I can help with issues such as stress management, motivation, organization, coping skills, self-esteem, social skills, communication issues in relationships, and life direction.
![Photo of Jeffrey Leoni, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21222b3a-563d-4f95-a2d6-4a5f51a95ef5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults with autism on gaining independence.
My goal as your therapist is to be a guide on your journey to a lasting state of well-being and also to be your support anchor as you work to resolve the difficult, hurtful, and disruptive experiences of your life. You will be able to resolve relationship conflicts, develop new and more effective ways of thinking and feeling about yourself and others, and resolve issues that are keeping you from experiencing high levels of joy and fulfillment in life. It would be my honor to be your mentor in this work and together we will create a safe space to process all of these experiences via this powerful process of healing.
I work with adults with autism on gaining independence.
My goal as your therapist is to be a guide on your journey to a lasting state of well-being and also to be your support anchor as you work to resolve the difficult, hurtful, and disruptive experiences of your life. You will be able to resolve relationship conflicts, develop new and more effective ways of thinking and feeling about yourself and others, and resolve issues that are keeping you from experiencing high levels of joy and fulfillment in life. It would be my honor to be your mentor in this work and together we will create a safe space to process all of these experiences via this powerful process of healing.
![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 Paula Kauffman Oberly, LPC, NCC, BCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42765ad5-c110-44b3-9917-3c3f07952612/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paula Kauffman Oberly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BCC, ACS
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
I have helped clients like you successfully address a variety of issues related to relationships, family, work, school, college and career, including: Autism, ADHD, Depression, Learning Disabilities, Grief, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Anger Management, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Stress Management, and Executive Functioning difficulties.
My goal is to help you gain the insights & tools to feel successful and satisfied. I have an eclectic strengths-based approach integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adlerian Theory, creative expression and bibliotherapy. I provide a variety of services, including: Individual, Family, and Group Therapy for all ages. Including Grief and Parent Counseling.
I have helped clients like you successfully address a variety of issues related to relationships, family, work, school, college and career, including: Autism, ADHD, Depression, Learning Disabilities, Grief, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Anger Management, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Stress Management, and Executive Functioning difficulties.
My goal is to help you gain the insights & tools to feel successful and satisfied. I have an eclectic strengths-based approach integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adlerian Theory, creative expression and bibliotherapy. I provide a variety of services, including: Individual, Family, and Group Therapy for all ages. Including Grief and Parent Counseling.
![Photo of Marcus DeMott, MSW, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42fc9d48-7ba2-4edb-90c5-5bc6186a57a1/4/320x400.jpeg)
Experienced with LGBTQIA, trauma survivors, individuals with developmental, physical and/or learning disabilities, including Autism Spectrum and ADHD, as well as other mental health issues.
Way to go! Just by being here and looking on this site, you are talking the first steps to being your whole self. You should feel proud today for this! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of therapy experience, I work with clients to find ways through the struggles they are experiencing to reach a place of solace where they feel able to manage the pressures of life. I use evidence-based approaches to help clients create lasting changes, and not just “Band-Aid” solutions.
Experienced with LGBTQIA, trauma survivors, individuals with developmental, physical and/or learning disabilities, including Autism Spectrum and ADHD, as well as other mental health issues.
Way to go! Just by being here and looking on this site, you are talking the first steps to being your whole self. You should feel proud today for this! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of therapy experience, I work with clients to find ways through the struggles they are experiencing to reach a place of solace where they feel able to manage the pressures of life. I use evidence-based approaches to help clients create lasting changes, and not just “Band-Aid” solutions.
See more therapy options for Shadyside
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Shadyside
- Allison Park
- Bethel Park
- Carnegie
- Fox Chapel
- Monroeville
- Mount Lebanon
- Pittsburgh
- Plum
- South Park
- Squirrel Hill
- Upper Saint Clair
- West Mifflin
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.