Therapists in Spring House, PA
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![Photo of Wendy A. Maraska, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/449c4477-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults, families, schools, and community agencies in the areas of anxiety, mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, group counseling, school/peer conflicts, grief/loss, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship dynamics.
In my practice, I support my clients' emotional growth in a safe and nurturing environment through an eclectic, solution-focused approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, evaluating healthy lifestyle choices, and awareness of the mind-body connection. Most importantly, I recognize the importance of positive therapeutic alliance and evidence-based practices in support of my clients' unique personal and interpersonal growth. I have worked in the field of mental health for 15+ years. My Master's is from Gwynedd-Mercy University and I am completing a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Arcadia University.
I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, adults, families, schools, and community agencies in the areas of anxiety, mood disorders, autism spectrum disorders, group counseling, school/peer conflicts, grief/loss, low self-esteem, trauma, and relationship dynamics.
In my practice, I support my clients' emotional growth in a safe and nurturing environment through an eclectic, solution-focused approach that includes cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, evaluating healthy lifestyle choices, and awareness of the mind-body connection. Most importantly, I recognize the importance of positive therapeutic alliance and evidence-based practices in support of my clients' unique personal and interpersonal growth. I have worked in the field of mental health for 15+ years. My Master's is from Gwynedd-Mercy University and I am completing a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Arcadia University.
![Photo of Tina Gonzales - Dr Tina Gonzales, LLC, PsyD , Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc502e32-62c4-40bb-8b38-901b081467c0/2/320x400.jpeg)
learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism, Personality, Bariatric Screening, and Police Officer Screening).
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and I work specifically with children, adolescents, young adults and families who are interested in navigating life's challenges, gaining new perspective, and building better relationships. My therapeutic approach is integrative as I integrate evidence-based practices with client focused goals to produce meaningful results.
learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism, Personality, Bariatric Screening, and Police Officer Screening).
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and I work specifically with children, adolescents, young adults and families who are interested in navigating life's challenges, gaining new perspective, and building better relationships. My therapeutic approach is integrative as I integrate evidence-based practices with client focused goals to produce meaningful results.
![Photo of Jean-Pierre Assouad - Quintessential Health, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/852eb2da-f4e5-4067-b76e-e33d3abff3b2/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Quintessential Health, we serve a wide range of individuals from young children to adults. We often individual therapy, group counseling, couples counseling, and assessment/testing services. We specialize in generalized and social anxiety, depression, relationship issues, behavioral difficulties, grief/loss, Autism, ADHD, and trauma. Common referrals for assessments include ADHD concerns, Autism, academic difficulties, psychoeducational assessments, and developmental concerns. We welcome patients from the following states: PA, NJ, MD
At Quintessential Health, we serve a wide range of individuals from young children to adults. We often individual therapy, group counseling, couples counseling, and assessment/testing services. We specialize in generalized and social anxiety, depression, relationship issues, behavioral difficulties, grief/loss, Autism, ADHD, and trauma. Common referrals for assessments include ADHD concerns, Autism, academic difficulties, psychoeducational assessments, and developmental concerns. We welcome patients from the following states: PA, NJ, MD
![Photo of Sari Goldman - Goldman Psychological Services, PsyD, LCSW, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51431669-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Goldman Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Villanova, PA 19085
Please feel free to contact me to talk further about my therapeutic process or to learn more about the psychological assessment services that we offer, such as diagnosing autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning differences, etc.
Children, teenagers, and adults all want to feel in charge of their own lives; I believe in fostering your personal growth and change despite any obstacles you might encounter. As humans, we strive to feel capable, considered, content, centered, and connected to others. I will help you realize your inherent strengths; such as, encouraging parents to feel competent in their parenting strategies; guiding children and teens to respect and understand their parents’ values and expectations; bridging gaps in communication between couples and family members; and challenging you or your child to take new, manageable risks in your life.
Please feel free to contact me to talk further about my therapeutic process or to learn more about the psychological assessment services that we offer, such as diagnosing autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning differences, etc.
Children, teenagers, and adults all want to feel in charge of their own lives; I believe in fostering your personal growth and change despite any obstacles you might encounter. As humans, we strive to feel capable, considered, content, centered, and connected to others. I will help you realize your inherent strengths; such as, encouraging parents to feel competent in their parenting strategies; guiding children and teens to respect and understand their parents’ values and expectations; bridging gaps in communication between couples and family members; and challenging you or your child to take new, manageable risks in your life.
![Photo of Carolyn Seplow, LCSW, MSS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44ae46fc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carolyn Seplow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Tweens and teens are undergoing a wondrous and uncertain time of discovery and growth. Parent/child conflicts become common and risky behaviors more prevalent. Navigating this territory may be a time of great uncertainty and tension. For 20 years I have been helping children and families work through issues such as depression and anxiety, friendship or school problems, communication and social troubles, on-line behavior and family conflict, sexuality and gender questions, and autism and learning differences. Call and we can discuss your particular concerns and decide if I would be a good fit for you and/or your child.
Tweens and teens are undergoing a wondrous and uncertain time of discovery and growth. Parent/child conflicts become common and risky behaviors more prevalent. Navigating this territory may be a time of great uncertainty and tension. For 20 years I have been helping children and families work through issues such as depression and anxiety, friendship or school problems, communication and social troubles, on-line behavior and family conflict, sexuality and gender questions, and autism and learning differences. Call and we can discuss your particular concerns and decide if I would be a good fit for you and/or your child.
![Photo of Christine McGuire - Evergreen Counseling and Psychological Associates, PsyD, PhD, LCSW, LPC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbce4664-1900-4dda-b602-ff064c98191e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Evergreen Counseling and Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Waitlist for new clients
Our clinicians have training, certification in CBT, Short Term Psychodynamic, Mindfulness, EMDR, Family Therapy (Systems, Structural), and Couples Therapy, Autism Evaluation and Diagnosis, educational testing and full battery psychological assessment for children and adults.
We welcome you to Evergreen! We are a private practice group of compassionate and skilled Clinical Psychologists, Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Professional Counselors in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. We understand it's not easy to open up to someone you don't know, but we strive to make your experience as easy and comfortable as possible. We are here to support you, to help develop workable solutions, and to improve overall health and well-being. We know that change and happiness are possible. You don't have to struggle; help is available. Our office staff are here and want to hear from you.
Our clinicians have training, certification in CBT, Short Term Psychodynamic, Mindfulness, EMDR, Family Therapy (Systems, Structural), and Couples Therapy, Autism Evaluation and Diagnosis, educational testing and full battery psychological assessment for children and adults.
We welcome you to Evergreen! We are a private practice group of compassionate and skilled Clinical Psychologists, Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Professional Counselors in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia. We understand it's not easy to open up to someone you don't know, but we strive to make your experience as easy and comfortable as possible. We are here to support you, to help develop workable solutions, and to improve overall health and well-being. We know that change and happiness are possible. You don't have to struggle; help is available. Our office staff are here and want to hear from you.
![Photo of Willie Knight, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db7c2db-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are having difficulty overcoming struggles in your life, you are not alone. I can help you navigate through these issues, and offer a safe, comfortable, confidential space for you to share. I listen with empathy and can assist you in defining appropriate strategies to help you meet your treatment goals. My clientele consists of children, adolescents, and adults; I have experience working with a variety of issues including: ADHD, ADD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Adjustment issues, low self-esteem, poor coping skills, and interpersonal relationship problems.
If you are having difficulty overcoming struggles in your life, you are not alone. I can help you navigate through these issues, and offer a safe, comfortable, confidential space for you to share. I listen with empathy and can assist you in defining appropriate strategies to help you meet your treatment goals. My clientele consists of children, adolescents, and adults; I have experience working with a variety of issues including: ADHD, ADD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Adjustment issues, low self-esteem, poor coping skills, and interpersonal relationship problems.
![Photo of Tiffany Griffiths - Integrated Behavioral Health Services, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5156597f-e7b1-4c96-b0c6-f855d432a87b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Integrated Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
Our specialties and interests include: Psychological testing and evaluations for ADHD, Autism, learning disabilities, personality and differential diagnosis.
Integrated Behavioral Health Services LLC, an affiliate of Tiffany Griffiths, PsyD & Associates, Inc. provides integrated and evidence-based psychological, counseling, assessment, and wellness services for individuals, families, and groups. We believe in a holistic approach to the wellness of mind, body, and spirit. Our experienced and skilled clinical staff work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you.
Our specialties and interests include: Psychological testing and evaluations for ADHD, Autism, learning disabilities, personality and differential diagnosis.
Integrated Behavioral Health Services LLC, an affiliate of Tiffany Griffiths, PsyD & Associates, Inc. provides integrated and evidence-based psychological, counseling, assessment, and wellness services for individuals, families, and groups. We believe in a holistic approach to the wellness of mind, body, and spirit. Our experienced and skilled clinical staff work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you.
![Photo of Kathleen Nash, MFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fedd6c0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Nash
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Wales, PA 19454 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
A sense of belonging, trust, fairness, safety, understanding, and receiving credit. These are just a few of the words my clients express as needs when they enter therapy.
A sense of belonging, trust, fairness, safety, understanding, and receiving credit. These are just a few of the words my clients express as needs when they enter therapy.
![Photo of Dr. Amanda Johns, LCSW, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e864f7d-f10b-45f1-aed9-fe7b53879207/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Amanda Johns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ASDCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
You want to understand yourself and others. You want to feel supported, valued, seen and heard, instead of feeling overwhelmed and misunderstood. You're searching for someone to finally listen, to understand you, and to help you find answers. You might be nervous, but you are ready to do the work to change. I can help you. I'm a therapist that is very straight to the point. I believe your time, and money are valuable - and that you deserve quality and compassionate help. When you are in my office the focus is on you and your needs. You’re encouraged to be your authentic self, and you’ll get the same back from me.
You want to understand yourself and others. You want to feel supported, valued, seen and heard, instead of feeling overwhelmed and misunderstood. You're searching for someone to finally listen, to understand you, and to help you find answers. You might be nervous, but you are ready to do the work to change. I can help you. I'm a therapist that is very straight to the point. I believe your time, and money are valuable - and that you deserve quality and compassionate help. When you are in my office the focus is on you and your needs. You’re encouraged to be your authentic self, and you’ll get the same back from me.
![Photo of Steven Richfield, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/416e352f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My typical client is a child, teen or adult struggling with depression/anxiety, ADHD, OCD or ASD. Problems adapting to school, work, marriage, relationships, and executive functioning bring havoc and heartache to life. Underachievement, activation troubles, damaged self-esteem, or issues navigating priorities are the norm for the population I help every day. Clients look to me for coaching improved decision making, optimizing work/school performance, and better overall psychological health. I offer strategic tools and templates to fulfill these goals by identifying problem sources and collaborating upon action steps for solutions
My typical client is a child, teen or adult struggling with depression/anxiety, ADHD, OCD or ASD. Problems adapting to school, work, marriage, relationships, and executive functioning bring havoc and heartache to life. Underachievement, activation troubles, damaged self-esteem, or issues navigating priorities are the norm for the population I help every day. Clients look to me for coaching improved decision making, optimizing work/school performance, and better overall psychological health. I offer strategic tools and templates to fulfill these goals by identifying problem sources and collaborating upon action steps for solutions
![Photo of Brianna Matey - Open Minds Psychological, PsyD, LPC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24c6a39e-32fd-4cd1-9084-e1996b363149/4/320x400.jpeg)
At Open Minds Psychological our clinicians are trained using a variety of evidence-informed models to support individuals, couples and families, and groups. Services offered are diagnostic evaluations, therapy (individual, family, group), career counseling, behavior consultation, parent support and co-parenting.
At Open Minds Psychological our clinicians are trained using a variety of evidence-informed models to support individuals, couples and families, and groups. Services offered are diagnostic evaluations, therapy (individual, family, group), career counseling, behavior consultation, parent support and co-parenting.
![Photo of Jennifer Paget - Capable Family Coaching, MS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abc982c8-9871-4206-a2ab-967ef0c581e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Every day is filled with parenting battles that leave you exhausted and guilt-ridden, having lost your temper too many times. You ache for a more peaceful home and a loving relationship with your child or teen, but you don’t know how to get there. General advice and tips sound good on paper but they are not working with your child, and you don’t know why. Your energy and resilience are taking a serious hit. Worst of all, you are afraid that your child will be emotionally harmed by all the turmoil that goes on from day to day.
Every day is filled with parenting battles that leave you exhausted and guilt-ridden, having lost your temper too many times. You ache for a more peaceful home and a loving relationship with your child or teen, but you don’t know how to get there. General advice and tips sound good on paper but they are not working with your child, and you don’t know why. Your energy and resilience are taking a serious hit. Worst of all, you are afraid that your child will be emotionally harmed by all the turmoil that goes on from day to day.
![Photo of Katie Lesher, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/487fdc6d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you feel stuck, ruminative, or disconnected from your own life, and are seeking an engaged and examined life, psychotherapy can help. I deeply enjoy empowering my patients to know themselves and those around them with greater nuance, depth and honesty. Rather than labeling symptoms in a medicalized, detached way, I work to help patients negotiate complex relationships with themselves and those around them. By identifying patterns and the ways we find ourselves "stuck", psychotherapy can help disentangle these impasses, offering a freer way of being in the world.
If you feel stuck, ruminative, or disconnected from your own life, and are seeking an engaged and examined life, psychotherapy can help. I deeply enjoy empowering my patients to know themselves and those around them with greater nuance, depth and honesty. Rather than labeling symptoms in a medicalized, detached way, I work to help patients negotiate complex relationships with themselves and those around them. By identifying patterns and the ways we find ourselves "stuck", psychotherapy can help disentangle these impasses, offering a freer way of being in the world.
![Photo of Scott Horowitz - Ellie Mental Health - Fort Washington, PA, LPC, MT-BC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26e7a77d-7104-4050-a294-79ac9a22ebbb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ellie Mental Health - Fort Washington, PA
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MT-BC, ACS
Verified Verified
Fort Washington, PA 19034
Ellie Mental Health in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. Our awesome team of therapists sees clients ages 5 to end of life, and work with individuals, couples and families.
Ellie Mental Health in Fort Washington, Pennsylvania isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs. Our awesome team of therapists sees clients ages 5 to end of life, and work with individuals, couples and families.
![Photo of Lauren Bittner - Nourish Center for Therapy & Wellness, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/909f1475-9bf7-4ba7-895b-4e2fbc2eda0a/1/320x400.png)
Nourish Center for Therapy & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Are you in need of change and encouragement? A supportive, accepting and accountable relationship with your therapist is key to see positive change. It is time for you to be free of what has kept you stuck and hurting. Our team are down to earth, relatable therapists ready to help you heal. Our practice offers a wide range of services for children, adolescents and adults such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, somatic body work & dance movement therapy. Nourish also offers EMDR intensives. Reach out today to connect!
Are you in need of change and encouragement? A supportive, accepting and accountable relationship with your therapist is key to see positive change. It is time for you to be free of what has kept you stuck and hurting. Our team are down to earth, relatable therapists ready to help you heal. Our practice offers a wide range of services for children, adolescents and adults such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, somatic body work & dance movement therapy. Nourish also offers EMDR intensives. Reach out today to connect!
![Photo of Victoria Geppert, MA, MFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8706ef4-1b45-437d-ac36-de428a63f615/2/320x400.png)
My therapeutic philosophy really lies in the belief that the client is the expert of their lives and I am walking beside them to help create safety. Once they feel safe in all their uncomfortable places, we can begin to be curious about the experiences of life. We can begin to fill those spaces with healthy energy and love. The journey can be arduous and it can also be fun. This is why I am here. To be with you through it all.
My therapeutic philosophy really lies in the belief that the client is the expert of their lives and I am walking beside them to help create safety. Once they feel safe in all their uncomfortable places, we can begin to be curious about the experiences of life. We can begin to fill those spaces with healthy energy and love. The journey can be arduous and it can also be fun. This is why I am here. To be with you through it all.
![Photo of Dawn Davis Therapy And Supervision, LMFT, CGT, AAMFTAS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ba8effa-c734-4386-8c3e-3e1dc5c3d7a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Davis Therapy And Supervision
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CGT, AAMFTAS
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090
Whether you are struggling with feeling good about yourself, overwhelm, grief, finding life meaning, unhelpful relationship patterns, or anything else weighing on your mind and heart, I would be honored to navigate your journey with you. No concerns are too big or too small-if it matters to you, it matters to me. I believe therapeutic success involves not getting rid of parts of you that struggle but uncovering your inner strengths to cope and reduce symptoms in healthy ways, in addition to acknowledging accomplishments big or small, and trusting the process, as change may take longer or look different than you may expect.
Whether you are struggling with feeling good about yourself, overwhelm, grief, finding life meaning, unhelpful relationship patterns, or anything else weighing on your mind and heart, I would be honored to navigate your journey with you. No concerns are too big or too small-if it matters to you, it matters to me. I believe therapeutic success involves not getting rid of parts of you that struggle but uncovering your inner strengths to cope and reduce symptoms in healthy ways, in addition to acknowledging accomplishments big or small, and trusting the process, as change may take longer or look different than you may expect.
![Photo of Jessica B Covitz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4d948ff-201b-4db2-9ac0-b81abec2683e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica B Covitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027 (Online Only)
Sometimes we look around and life is not the way we want it to be: full of disappointment, stress, sadness or loss. Sometimes we need help finding our way. In my practice, I seek to create a compassionate, supportive space for collaborative exploration, growth and positive change. I create a place where you can be seen and acknowledged, and you can give words to feelings and experiences, to discover greater understanding and self- awareness. When we understand our patterns of behaviors and feelings, we can free ourselves of the unwanted burdens that weigh us down, and live more fully and happily in the present.
Sometimes we look around and life is not the way we want it to be: full of disappointment, stress, sadness or loss. Sometimes we need help finding our way. In my practice, I seek to create a compassionate, supportive space for collaborative exploration, growth and positive change. I create a place where you can be seen and acknowledged, and you can give words to feelings and experiences, to discover greater understanding and self- awareness. When we understand our patterns of behaviors and feelings, we can free ourselves of the unwanted burdens that weigh us down, and live more fully and happily in the present.
![Photo of Danielle Robinson - Mental Essentials, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/643a7892-7927-44e9-b4c8-2549b64e439e/2/320x400.png)
Mental Essentials, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Norristown, PA 19401 (Online Only)
Life is a wonderful gift filled with an array of experiences. Apart of the reality of being human is that we cycle through various seasons and emotional states throughout our lives. Feeling sadness is just as natural as feeling happiness, feeling excited is just as relevant as feeling afraid. Feeling our feelings is what we’re meant to do. Have you been feeling stuck from a life event, feeling overwhelmed with your everyday life and responsibilities, or feeling like you need to do some internal work and address somethings that you’ve been avoiding?
Life is a wonderful gift filled with an array of experiences. Apart of the reality of being human is that we cycle through various seasons and emotional states throughout our lives. Feeling sadness is just as natural as feeling happiness, feeling excited is just as relevant as feeling afraid. Feeling our feelings is what we’re meant to do. Have you been feeling stuck from a life event, feeling overwhelmed with your everyday life and responsibilities, or feeling like you need to do some internal work and address somethings that you’ve been avoiding?
See more therapy options for Spring House
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.