Autism Therapists in Willow Grove, PA

Photo of Danielle Epler, PsyD, Psychologist
Danielle Epler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Willow Grove, PA 19090
Life is full of moments when children and their families feel stuck. Is your child is struggling in school, feeling anxious, or having difficulty focusing? As a parent, do you feel overwhelmed by your child’s behavioral difficulties? Call for a free 15-minute consultation to see if I am a good fit to help your family get back on the right path or help you understand your child's differences. I specialize in conducting psychological evaluations as well as providing therapy to support children with autism, ADHD, learning disorders, as well as co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression and other behavioral disorders.
Life is full of moments when children and their families feel stuck. Is your child is struggling in school, feeling anxious, or having difficulty focusing? As a parent, do you feel overwhelmed by your child’s behavioral difficulties? Call for a free 15-minute consultation to see if I am a good fit to help your family get back on the right path or help you understand your child's differences. I specialize in conducting psychological evaluations as well as providing therapy to support children with autism, ADHD, learning disorders, as well as co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression and other behavioral disorders.
(267) 310-1532 View (267) 310-1532
Photo of Faye Lovrinic, PsyD, Psychologist
Faye Lovrinic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090
Our services include: evaluation/consultation for ADHD, mood disorder, autism, anxiety; social skills training, individual/family therapy; co-parenting intervention; custody evaluations; couples therapy; child/adolescent therapy; neuropsychological assessment/treatment.
I view each child, teen, young adult, and family as unique. That uniqueness is why I draw from different therapy modalities to support emotional well-being. Anxiety and depression often stem from complicated interpersonal relationships, lack of self-confidence, and feeling unable to control events in our lives. Our joint effort can help you attain the freedom to make positive choices in your life. I bring clinical experience offered in a genuine, nonjudgmental, confidential atmosphere. Drawing from cognitive behavior approaches, insight therapy, and mindfulness practice, my goal is to provide tools to help you in improving your state of mind.
Our services include: evaluation/consultation for ADHD, mood disorder, autism, anxiety; social skills training, individual/family therapy; co-parenting intervention; custody evaluations; couples therapy; child/adolescent therapy; neuropsychological assessment/treatment.
I view each child, teen, young adult, and family as unique. That uniqueness is why I draw from different therapy modalities to support emotional well-being. Anxiety and depression often stem from complicated interpersonal relationships, lack of self-confidence, and feeling unable to control events in our lives. Our joint effort can help you attain the freedom to make positive choices in your life. I bring clinical experience offered in a genuine, nonjudgmental, confidential atmosphere. Drawing from cognitive behavior approaches, insight therapy, and mindfulness practice, my goal is to provide tools to help you in improving your state of mind.
(215) 437-0431 View (215) 437-0431
Photo of William La Valle - Counseling & Assessments, at the SMart Center, PsyD, Psychologist
Counseling & Assessments, at the SMart Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090
Our multi-disciplinary team of professionals have experience in testing autism, anxiety, depression, learning challenges (ADHD, Dyslexia), etc.
Counseling & Assessments is a mental health agency that provides comprehensive clinical assessments and counseling services for a wide range of psychological, developmental and behavioral issues for children, teens and adults. We specialize in both testing individuals as well as offering treatment for an array of mental health challenges.
Our multi-disciplinary team of professionals have experience in testing autism, anxiety, depression, learning challenges (ADHD, Dyslexia), etc.
Counseling & Assessments is a mental health agency that provides comprehensive clinical assessments and counseling services for a wide range of psychological, developmental and behavioral issues for children, teens and adults. We specialize in both testing individuals as well as offering treatment for an array of mental health challenges.
(267) 310-1642 View (267) 310-1642
Photo of Rosemarie Manfredi, PsyD, Psychologist
Rosemarie Manfredi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Willow Grove, PA 19090
I specialize in diagnostic and neuropsychological evaluations for autism spectrum disorders, learning differences/disabilities, ADHD, and other conditions affecting learning, development, and behavior.
Our brains are incredibly complex: they are always developing and changing as we learn and grow. My philosophy is that all individuals have the ability to overcome challenges and reach their potential. An in-depth understanding of who you are as a person goes a long way in helping you achieve your goals. As a neuropsychologist, I offer comprehensive evaluations that can help clarify how you learn most effectively and describe your unique neurocognitive and emotional profile. I can help you determine why difficulties may be occurring and identify strategies that are most likely to be helpful to you.
I specialize in diagnostic and neuropsychological evaluations for autism spectrum disorders, learning differences/disabilities, ADHD, and other conditions affecting learning, development, and behavior.
Our brains are incredibly complex: they are always developing and changing as we learn and grow. My philosophy is that all individuals have the ability to overcome challenges and reach their potential. An in-depth understanding of who you are as a person goes a long way in helping you achieve your goals. As a neuropsychologist, I offer comprehensive evaluations that can help clarify how you learn most effectively and describe your unique neurocognitive and emotional profile. I can help you determine why difficulties may be occurring and identify strategies that are most likely to be helpful to you.
(215) 515-2388 View (215) 515-2388
Photo of Susan Rachel Span, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Rachel Span
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090  (Online Only)
With almost 20 years of experience in the field, what I bring to my clients is a warm, unique ability to support them, and hear them in a way that helps them to heal. I believe the relationship that a client has with the therapist is essential to make change, and I pride myself on the positive connections I have with children, adolescents and adults.
With almost 20 years of experience in the field, what I bring to my clients is a warm, unique ability to support them, and hear them in a way that helps them to heal. I believe the relationship that a client has with the therapist is essential to make change, and I pride myself on the positive connections I have with children, adolescents and adults.
(267) 843-8031 View (267) 843-8031
Photo of Dawn Davis Therapy And Supervision, LMFT, CGT, AAMFTAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
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.
(717) 937-1544 View (717) 937-1544
Photo of Nicole Lipkin - Equilibria Psychological & Consultation Services, PsyD, MBA, Psychologist
Equilibria Psychological & Consultation Services
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willow Grove, PA 19090
We are a group practice of over 70 therapists. At Equilibria, our goal is to help individuals achieve their personal potential and long term growth by compassionately and respectfully helping them live in balance. We utilize an integrative, strength based treatment model to address each individual's set of unique issues. Our belief is that treatment must be flexible and tailored to achieve symptom relief and increased self understanding.
We are a group practice of over 70 therapists. At Equilibria, our goal is to help individuals achieve their personal potential and long term growth by compassionately and respectfully helping them live in balance. We utilize an integrative, strength based treatment model to address each individual's set of unique issues. Our belief is that treatment must be flexible and tailored to achieve symptom relief and increased self understanding.
(484) 613-2595 x1 View (484) 613-2595 x1
Photo of Lindsay MacGeorge, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay MacGeorge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willow Grove, PA 19090
Do you feel stressed-out, overwhelmed, have trouble making decisions or find that your emotions are interfering with relationships? Maybe you're a parent who is at a loss of how to help your children with their intense emotions and behaviors. Life is not always easy, but with the right tools you can learn ways to grow and adapt so that you can more easily handle the ups and down of life. Beginning therapy might seem scary, but we will work together to achieve your goals! “Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. Tip toe if you must, but take the first step." - Naeem Callaway
Do you feel stressed-out, overwhelmed, have trouble making decisions or find that your emotions are interfering with relationships? Maybe you're a parent who is at a loss of how to help your children with their intense emotions and behaviors. Life is not always easy, but with the right tools you can learn ways to grow and adapt so that you can more easily handle the ups and down of life. Beginning therapy might seem scary, but we will work together to achieve your goals! “Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. Tip toe if you must, but take the first step." - Naeem Callaway
(267) 263-7423 View (267) 263-7423
Photo of Maria Procopio-Moser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Procopio-Moser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090
Do you ever feel stuck engaging in the same behavioral patterns and wonder if your outcomes would change only if you could change? Sometimes we feel that our lives are predetermined, and we have no control over our own destiny. Allow me to guide you through your journey of change and healing through evidence-based methods that will help you regain personal agency, so that you may live your life to your fullest potential. I am a licensed-clinical social worker with decades of experience helping people.
Do you ever feel stuck engaging in the same behavioral patterns and wonder if your outcomes would change only if you could change? Sometimes we feel that our lives are predetermined, and we have no control over our own destiny. Allow me to guide you through your journey of change and healing through evidence-based methods that will help you regain personal agency, so that you may live your life to your fullest potential. I am a licensed-clinical social worker with decades of experience helping people.
(215) 935-4188 View (215) 935-4188
Photo of Sarah Prince, MA
Sarah Prince
MA
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090
Welcome! My name is Sarah Prince, MA and I have a passion for helping individuals achieve personal goals and identify strengths and values to help navigate life challenges. I specialize in working with adolescents, emerging adults, adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, ADHD, life transitions, stress management, body image concerns, and anyone who may need some guidance through feeling unstuck. I enjoy supporting individuals throughout developmental stages, including identity formation, academic/career stress, and relationship stages.
Welcome! My name is Sarah Prince, MA and I have a passion for helping individuals achieve personal goals and identify strengths and values to help navigate life challenges. I specialize in working with adolescents, emerging adults, adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, ADHD, life transitions, stress management, body image concerns, and anyone who may need some guidance through feeling unstuck. I enjoy supporting individuals throughout developmental stages, including identity formation, academic/career stress, and relationship stages.
(267) 500-9429 View (267) 500-9429
Photo of Dawn Allison Wolf, MS, NCC , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Allison Wolf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willow Grove, PA 19090
Treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion is very important to me and I will seek to establish a genuine, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to start therapy can be hard but I am here to help you get started!
Treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion is very important to me and I will seek to establish a genuine, caring therapeutic relationship with my clients. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to start therapy can be hard but I am here to help you get started!
(267) 214-3797 View (267) 214-3797
Photo of Paul VanAntwerp, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul VanAntwerp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Willow Grove, PA 19090
I'm Paul VanAntwerp, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience working in the Mental Health field. My career path and clinical experience has included years of inpatient hospital work, treatment programs (PHP, IOP, RTF) and various outpatient therapy settings. I take pride in offering a non-judgmental and client-centered space for you to address all issues and problems that you want help with at this point in your life. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder while respectfully helping individuals in facing and overcoming all of their life challenges and obstacles.
I'm Paul VanAntwerp, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience working in the Mental Health field. My career path and clinical experience has included years of inpatient hospital work, treatment programs (PHP, IOP, RTF) and various outpatient therapy settings. I take pride in offering a non-judgmental and client-centered space for you to address all issues and problems that you want help with at this point in your life. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder while respectfully helping individuals in facing and overcoming all of their life challenges and obstacles.
(215) 996-7899 View (215) 996-7899

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jaime Friedman - Aspire Child & Family Services, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Aspire Child & Family Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
Aspire Child & Family Services can help if your child needs behavioral health services due to a diagnosis of Autism or another behavioral disorder.
Dr. Jaime Friedman is the Director and owner at Aspire Child & Family Services. The main focus of the practice is Intensive behavioral health services (Applied Behavior Analysis or ABA) for children with Autism. Behavior specialists and behavior technicians are available to work one on one with children in their home, school, and/or community settings. Medicaid (Montgomery, Bucks, Delaware Counties) are accepted. Please see www.aspirecfs.com for further information. *Please note we are not accepting clients for talk therapy.*
Aspire Child & Family Services can help if your child needs behavioral health services due to a diagnosis of Autism or another behavioral disorder.
Dr. Jaime Friedman is the Director and owner at Aspire Child & Family Services. The main focus of the practice is Intensive behavioral health services (Applied Behavior Analysis or ABA) for children with Autism. Behavior specialists and behavior technicians are available to work one on one with children in their home, school, and/or community settings. Medicaid (Montgomery, Bucks, Delaware Counties) are accepted. Please see www.aspirecfs.com for further information. *Please note we are not accepting clients for talk therapy.*
(267) 733-6618 View (267) 733-6618
Photo of Emilie Flynn, MA, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emilie Flynn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Horsham, PA 19044
Hi, I'm Emilie! Do you or your child struggle with big emotions or impulses? I work with children ages 4-12 and adults 18+ with Autism, Anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral or neurodevelopmental differences.
Hi, I'm Emilie! Do you or your child struggle with big emotions or impulses? I work with children ages 4-12 and adults 18+ with Autism, Anxiety, ADHD, and other behavioral or neurodevelopmental differences.
(267) 450-2640 View (267) 450-2640
Photo of Jeri Sebastian, PhD, Psychologist
Jeri Sebastian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006
I see children and adolescents and assess for ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities.
I specialize in psychological assessment and testing primarily for autism spectrum disorders and ADHD. I am trying to focus my practice on the assessment of young children as the younger they are diagnosed with autism, the sooner they can begin life-changing treatment. I am an excellent diagnostician and can help you figure out what is going on with your child. I have helped hundreds of children by diagnosing them correctly and connecting them with resources for treatment. At Aspire, we provide diagnosis and treatment utilizing ABA therapy.
I see children and adolescents and assess for ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities.
I specialize in psychological assessment and testing primarily for autism spectrum disorders and ADHD. I am trying to focus my practice on the assessment of young children as the younger they are diagnosed with autism, the sooner they can begin life-changing treatment. I am an excellent diagnostician and can help you figure out what is going on with your child. I have helped hundreds of children by diagnosing them correctly and connecting them with resources for treatment. At Aspire, we provide diagnosis and treatment utilizing ABA therapy.
(215) 857-9748 View (215) 857-9748
Photo of Antonella Pontoriero, PsyD, Psychologist
Antonella Pontoriero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hatboro, PA 19040  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping children ages 6 & up diagnosed with ADHD,ODD,Intellectual Disabilities, Autism& life changes.
Being a parent is a scary &exciting lifelong journey.The journey begins as a new mom learning to balance this new role without losing yourself.Needing support is never something to be ashamed of.Sometimes our thoughts& emotions can make us believe that we are failing while trying to adapt to these changes.I will work along side you to move past this obstacle. As your child grows, other challenges may arise along this journey. I am also here to support parents whose child has just received a mental health diagnosis. Receiving a diagnosis can be overwhelming& sometimes we don’t know where to start.
I am passionate about helping children ages 6 & up diagnosed with ADHD,ODD,Intellectual Disabilities, Autism& life changes.
Being a parent is a scary &exciting lifelong journey.The journey begins as a new mom learning to balance this new role without losing yourself.Needing support is never something to be ashamed of.Sometimes our thoughts& emotions can make us believe that we are failing while trying to adapt to these changes.I will work along side you to move past this obstacle. As your child grows, other challenges may arise along this journey. I am also here to support parents whose child has just received a mental health diagnosis. Receiving a diagnosis can be overwhelming& sometimes we don’t know where to start.
(267) 732-0928 View (267) 732-0928
Photo of Genevieve Powell - Holtz and Powell Marriage and Family Services LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holtz and Powell Marriage and Family Services LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Horsham, PA 19044
Genevieve specializes in working with children with behavioral problems, families affected by Autism, blended families, individuals with trauma, couples and eating disorders.
Holtz and Powell Marriage and Family Services LLC is a therapy practice that specializes in problems in the family and couple. We work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations and religions with no judgement and acceptance. We are an LGBT friendly practice. Marriage and Family Therapy differs from Individual Therapy in that all affected parties are included in therapy to promote lasting change. We conduct individual therapy from a systemic lens and an innate curiosity about the human experience. Feel free to check outer website for more information www.hpmfts.com.
Genevieve specializes in working with children with behavioral problems, families affected by Autism, blended families, individuals with trauma, couples and eating disorders.
Holtz and Powell Marriage and Family Services LLC is a therapy practice that specializes in problems in the family and couple. We work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations and religions with no judgement and acceptance. We are an LGBT friendly practice. Marriage and Family Therapy differs from Individual Therapy in that all affected parties are included in therapy to promote lasting change. We conduct individual therapy from a systemic lens and an innate curiosity about the human experience. Feel free to check outer website for more information www.hpmfts.com.
(267) 460-2546 View (267) 460-2546
Photo of Derek Pendleton, LCSW, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derek Pendleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Hatboro, PA 19040
, and Autism.
I believe that the relationship and trust built in therapy are the most important and necessary agents for meaningful, lasting change, and that compassionate care is essential to your feeling validated and empowered throughout the process. Without these connections, even the most qualified and well-intentioned therapist may fail in attempting to help. As such, I devote much time and energy in my sessions towards developing and enhancing therapeutic relationships, making sure to always listen carefully and empathically, so as to fully understand the sensitive issues discussed from your perspective and at your pace.
, and Autism.
I believe that the relationship and trust built in therapy are the most important and necessary agents for meaningful, lasting change, and that compassionate care is essential to your feeling validated and empowered throughout the process. Without these connections, even the most qualified and well-intentioned therapist may fail in attempting to help. As such, I devote much time and energy in my sessions towards developing and enhancing therapeutic relationships, making sure to always listen carefully and empathically, so as to fully understand the sensitive issues discussed from your perspective and at your pace.
(267) 428-3650 View (267) 428-3650
Photo of Ernest Pearson, MS, LPC, CAADC, LBS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ernest Pearson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC, LBS
Verified Verified
Abington, PA 19001  (Online Only)
Pearson also has experience working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Developmental Disabilities.
Mr. Pearson is an experienced Mental Health Professional who is dedicated to serving individuals, families and communities who are in need of counseling and behavioral health services. Mr. Pearson is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Licensed Behavioral Specialist in the State of Pennsylvania. Mr. Pearson has over 13 years of experience providing therapeutic services in a variety of settings to children, adolescents and adults including outpatient mental health centers, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, drug and alcohol treatment facilities and in public school systems throughout PA
Pearson also has experience working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Developmental Disabilities.
Mr. Pearson is an experienced Mental Health Professional who is dedicated to serving individuals, families and communities who are in need of counseling and behavioral health services. Mr. Pearson is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and Licensed Behavioral Specialist in the State of Pennsylvania. Mr. Pearson has over 13 years of experience providing therapeutic services in a variety of settings to children, adolescents and adults including outpatient mental health centers, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, drug and alcohol treatment facilities and in public school systems throughout PA
(267) 450-2726 View (267) 450-2726
Photo of Greg A. Kidorf, PhD, Psychologist
Greg A. Kidorf
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dresher, PA 19025
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.
(267) 209-7823 View (267) 209-7823

See more therapy options for Willow Grove

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.