Autism Therapists in Johnson City, TN
![Photo of Lindsay Nicole Martinez - SpringWell Group, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef010ac3-98ff-4678-9701-38914d8ba032/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specialty areas include: Adjustment Issues, Adoption/Foster Care, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Certified in the ADOS-2), Behavioral Problems, Coping with Divorce/Separation, Depression, Developmental Delay, IEP/504 Consultation, Forensic, Parent-Child Relationship, Self-Esteem, School Avoidance, Social Skills, Trauma/PTSD & more.
Welcome to SpringWell Group! My name is Dr. Martinez & I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering comprehensive psychological testing, including Court-related evaluations. I also provide relational-focused therapy from a trauma-informed & attachment-based foundation that views secure relationship & interpersonal connection as central to healing and growth. I believe people have an innate need to be seen & are capable of remarkable growth, & that with caring support they can flourish in even the most difficult times. Services at client preferred location available for high privacy.
My specialty areas include: Adjustment Issues, Adoption/Foster Care, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Certified in the ADOS-2), Behavioral Problems, Coping with Divorce/Separation, Depression, Developmental Delay, IEP/504 Consultation, Forensic, Parent-Child Relationship, Self-Esteem, School Avoidance, Social Skills, Trauma/PTSD & more.
Welcome to SpringWell Group! My name is Dr. Martinez & I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering comprehensive psychological testing, including Court-related evaluations. I also provide relational-focused therapy from a trauma-informed & attachment-based foundation that views secure relationship & interpersonal connection as central to healing and growth. I believe people have an innate need to be seen & are capable of remarkable growth, & that with caring support they can flourish in even the most difficult times. Services at client preferred location available for high privacy.
![Photo of Whitney Estes, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f94b756-bfd5-48b2-bce1-f476ac37ce95/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a proud Appalachian American, living in East Tennessee with my husband and our three boys. Twelve years ago, I began working with individuals of varying abilities and diverse diagnoses. Populations served range from children with Autism Spectrum Disorder to adults with dual diagnosis and adolescents healing from abuse and neglect to women in recovery from domestic violence and human trafficking. These eclectic experiences have further confirmed that therapy can help everyone. No matter the phase of life, we can all benefit from someone walking with us.
I am a proud Appalachian American, living in East Tennessee with my husband and our three boys. Twelve years ago, I began working with individuals of varying abilities and diverse diagnoses. Populations served range from children with Autism Spectrum Disorder to adults with dual diagnosis and adolescents healing from abuse and neglect to women in recovery from domestic violence and human trafficking. These eclectic experiences have further confirmed that therapy can help everyone. No matter the phase of life, we can all benefit from someone walking with us.
![Photo of Erica Petree, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3e7b577-549a-4f9c-8d00-fa8598a00690/1/320x400.png)
Erica Petree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
Your current situation does not define you. It's a bump in the road, a pit-stop to learn from. It takes a village and I am here to be a part of your village. My scope of competence is in trauma, postpartum, attachment, family conflict, anxiety, school/work related problems, parent education, parent-child conflict, divorce, co-parenting and depression. Don't let the pain and struggle of your present situation keep you from living your truth. I am licensed in Tennessee, Texas, California and Virginia. Offering in-person therapy in Tennessee and virtual to Tennessee, California, Texas and Virginia.
Your current situation does not define you. It's a bump in the road, a pit-stop to learn from. It takes a village and I am here to be a part of your village. My scope of competence is in trauma, postpartum, attachment, family conflict, anxiety, school/work related problems, parent education, parent-child conflict, divorce, co-parenting and depression. Don't let the pain and struggle of your present situation keep you from living your truth. I am licensed in Tennessee, Texas, California and Virginia. Offering in-person therapy in Tennessee and virtual to Tennessee, California, Texas and Virginia.
![Photo of Alex Lewis, MHSP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3fba870-0ed6-4d8d-9e49-790c903aff0b/8/320x400.jpeg)
I have a passion for helping people overcome difficult life struggles. My work is centered on you (individual, couple, or family unit) and all that matters in your world. I will assist in developing constructive coping skills with utilization of CBT-based therapy alongside existential practices that are uniquely tailored to you.
I have a passion for helping people overcome difficult life struggles. My work is centered on you (individual, couple, or family unit) and all that matters in your world. I will assist in developing constructive coping skills with utilization of CBT-based therapy alongside existential practices that are uniquely tailored to you.
![Photo of Kelsey Maloney-Steiner, MSc, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4900909f-3857-4235-9efd-11df72cc90c3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Maloney-Steiner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Kelsey works with individuals, adolescents, and adults. She believes that we live in stories. It is through relationships, conversations, and stories that we create meaning in life. By examining the stories we tell ourselves, re-authoring them, and externalizing problems, then we can construct new and liberating stories. In counseling, Kelsey uses narrative therapy to engage with clients in the stories of their lives. She focuses on building an atmosphere of curiosity, respect, and transparency. She believes individuals matter, bearing witness to stories matters, and that individuals have strengths and the power to change.
Kelsey works with individuals, adolescents, and adults. She believes that we live in stories. It is through relationships, conversations, and stories that we create meaning in life. By examining the stories we tell ourselves, re-authoring them, and externalizing problems, then we can construct new and liberating stories. In counseling, Kelsey uses narrative therapy to engage with clients in the stories of their lives. She focuses on building an atmosphere of curiosity, respect, and transparency. She believes individuals matter, bearing witness to stories matters, and that individuals have strengths and the power to change.
![Photo of Rachael Voelker - Sunny Path Counseling, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0e90d15-73c3-4543-a7d7-205c9cdefc5a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rachael Voelker - Sunny Path Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
Rachael finds herself using Solution Focused and Behavioral Therapy due to the rapid results and retention of new skills. She believes that Mental Health should be treated the same as one who goes to the Medical Doctor for an illness, we want results, and that is what she wants to give you. Of course, all treatments are not the same and some bumps in the road take longer to repair. Rachael is willing and able to adjust her Therapeutic skills to meet your needs and is willing to walk right beside you as you heal, no matter how long it takes.
Rachael finds herself using Solution Focused and Behavioral Therapy due to the rapid results and retention of new skills. She believes that Mental Health should be treated the same as one who goes to the Medical Doctor for an illness, we want results, and that is what she wants to give you. Of course, all treatments are not the same and some bumps in the road take longer to repair. Rachael is willing and able to adjust her Therapeutic skills to meet your needs and is willing to walk right beside you as you heal, no matter how long it takes.
![Photo of Katherine Barteck - Willow & Arbor, PLLC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4adfa40-1c44-482c-8ea6-c756c938c27c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Willow & Arbor, PLLC is a group therapy practice serving the Tri-Cities, TN area in person and via telehealth. Our providers recognize that there are no 'one-size fits all' treatment options. We are focused on meeting you where you are and co-creating change with you. We focus on creating a context of privacy, empathy, and insight where our clients are fully seen and heard. We treat children, teens, and adults and provide individual, family, and couples sessions.
Willow & Arbor, PLLC is a group therapy practice serving the Tri-Cities, TN area in person and via telehealth. Our providers recognize that there are no 'one-size fits all' treatment options. We are focused on meeting you where you are and co-creating change with you. We focus on creating a context of privacy, empathy, and insight where our clients are fully seen and heard. We treat children, teens, and adults and provide individual, family, and couples sessions.
![Photo of Lee S Sinnott - Oak Grove Therapy, LPC, MHSP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fb403c6-c6b6-4a46-b9aa-db6b5e4154d0/1/320x400.png)
Oak Grove Therapy
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601 (Online Only)
Lee Sinnott, LPC-MHSP and Jill Sinnott, LCSW work with a wide variety of people. Lee and Jill are passionate about helping their clients and those around them to find their personal power and developing skills to live a life of their own, creating their lives with their goals and dreams.
Lee Sinnott, LPC-MHSP and Jill Sinnott, LCSW work with a wide variety of people. Lee and Jill are passionate about helping their clients and those around them to find their personal power and developing skills to live a life of their own, creating their lives with their goals and dreams.
![Photo of Katherine Combs, MA, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18d2a91d-ff5b-467a-87c9-5d41e84ea61b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katherine Combs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604 (Online Only)
I am licensed to work with those in the state of Tennessee, USA. I have over 20 years experience working in the mental health field, 12 of those years specifically working as a therapist. My experience consists of helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, mood disorders, anxiety, & depression. I also have taught parenting classes, which allowed me to help parents in their relationship with their children.
I am licensed to work with those in the state of Tennessee, USA. I have over 20 years experience working in the mental health field, 12 of those years specifically working as a therapist. My experience consists of helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, mood disorders, anxiety, & depression. I also have taught parenting classes, which allowed me to help parents in their relationship with their children.
![Photo of Christopher Lee Belcher, LPC, RPT-S, CFT-I, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a73dbb9-5e95-4588-bb22-fd9719c7bce0/2/320x400.png)
Christopher Lee Belcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S, CFT-I
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601 (Online Only)
You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation - Plato
You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation - Plato
![Photo of Caitlin Meadows, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e49aa99e-8f91-473b-9ec2-0d5ac83de483/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caitlin Meadows
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
Not accepting new clients
My therapeutic approach is deeply relational, understanding that each person's path to healing is unique. I work collaboratively with clients to process life, build a stronger mind/body connection, and connect with their authentic Self. I’ve worked with a variety of populations with my experience in community mental health, but feel passionate about working with trauma, dissociation, attachment, life transitions, grief, self exploration, neurodivergence, men’s issues, LGBTQ+, people pleasing, and boundaries. I honor the lived experience of all individuals as intersectional feminism and social justice are intrinsic to my values.
My therapeutic approach is deeply relational, understanding that each person's path to healing is unique. I work collaboratively with clients to process life, build a stronger mind/body connection, and connect with their authentic Self. I’ve worked with a variety of populations with my experience in community mental health, but feel passionate about working with trauma, dissociation, attachment, life transitions, grief, self exploration, neurodivergence, men’s issues, LGBTQ+, people pleasing, and boundaries. I honor the lived experience of all individuals as intersectional feminism and social justice are intrinsic to my values.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Charlene Mullins Heck, MFT-I, ABS, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5031646b-b97f-4882-a96e-c2b09f68435f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charlene Mullins Heck
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I, ABS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Whether it be anxiety, depression, Infant loss, grief and loss, Autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, body dysmorphia, or anything in between.
I once read a social media post that said," If you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel, I will sit with you in the dark." Life happens and not always in a positive way. Even good days can be stressful. I do not promise to "fix you," but I do promise to help you heal and get back to life as it was meant to be. Some days, you don't feel like talking, that is okay, we can sit and do whatever you need. Everyone heals differently. What is important is that you heal your way and know you are not alone. It is important to love yourself so that others can also love you.
Whether it be anxiety, depression, Infant loss, grief and loss, Autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, body dysmorphia, or anything in between.
I once read a social media post that said," If you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel, I will sit with you in the dark." Life happens and not always in a positive way. Even good days can be stressful. I do not promise to "fix you," but I do promise to help you heal and get back to life as it was meant to be. Some days, you don't feel like talking, that is okay, we can sit and do whatever you need. Everyone heals differently. What is important is that you heal your way and know you are not alone. It is important to love yourself so that others can also love you.
![Photo of Virginia McClurg, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c15e739-8ec0-4bc3-9991-8392809e7fd2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also have experience in providing therapy for children, including those with autism spectrum disorder.
Navigating parenting and the challenges that come with it can be overwhelming, nerve-racking, and sometimes frustrating, especially if you have concerns regarding your child's development. You are not the only person who feels that way! Psychological evaluation can often be the first step in helping your child. Finding the root of the problem and taking appropriate steps can be a game changer for the well-being of your child, as well as yourself.
I also have experience in providing therapy for children, including those with autism spectrum disorder.
Navigating parenting and the challenges that come with it can be overwhelming, nerve-racking, and sometimes frustrating, especially if you have concerns regarding your child's development. You are not the only person who feels that way! Psychological evaluation can often be the first step in helping your child. Finding the root of the problem and taking appropriate steps can be a game changer for the well-being of your child, as well as yourself.
![Photo of W. Wyatt Lee Stephens, MS, NCC, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc0b0374-5802-42e8-b9ce-f9e50176c3d3/1/320x400.jpeg)
W. Wyatt Lee Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powell, TN 37849
Are you struggling with symptoms of Autism, ADHD, or a Processing Disorder? Is this causing chaos in your life and you need help feeling more in control? I am able to help with processing these struggles and find everyday solutions, develop skills, and offer support and validation.
I understand how frustrating it is to be forgetful, feel scattered, to be constantly exhausted, and feel unproductive. My clients struggle with processing issues, and struggle to live in a world that is not designed for those that are neuro-divergent, and I am able to help turn those feelings around!
Are you struggling with symptoms of Autism, ADHD, or a Processing Disorder? Is this causing chaos in your life and you need help feeling more in control? I am able to help with processing these struggles and find everyday solutions, develop skills, and offer support and validation.
I understand how frustrating it is to be forgetful, feel scattered, to be constantly exhausted, and feel unproductive. My clients struggle with processing issues, and struggle to live in a world that is not designed for those that are neuro-divergent, and I am able to help turn those feelings around!
![Photo of Korrie Xavier, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b63c30e7-a147-4f2e-ae4e-ce9162fcc99e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Korrie Xavier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37950 (Online Only)
I work well with people navigating neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, etc.
I view therapy (and the world) through an intersectional, social justice, trauma- and attachment-informed lens. I believe that a diagnosis does not define who people are, have been, or will become and I prefer to work collaboratively to determine what works best in regard to the therapeutic process. My approach is informed by a variety of philosophies and models including Internal Family Systems, somatic practices, and Buddhist/mindfulness philosophy. I provide psychoeducation and support for building resilience, learning effective communication, understanding emotions, and being fully present and embodied.
I work well with people navigating neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, etc.
I view therapy (and the world) through an intersectional, social justice, trauma- and attachment-informed lens. I believe that a diagnosis does not define who people are, have been, or will become and I prefer to work collaboratively to determine what works best in regard to the therapeutic process. My approach is informed by a variety of philosophies and models including Internal Family Systems, somatic practices, and Buddhist/mindfulness philosophy. I provide psychoeducation and support for building resilience, learning effective communication, understanding emotions, and being fully present and embodied.
![Photo of Jenee Justice Tate, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b72aaddf-444e-43ad-8b19-d39e38ac3828/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you're wondering about ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, or looking for more information about your child's unique brain, I'm here to help.
There is no greater pain than watching your child struggle. You've read the blogs, asked your doctor, consulted with friends, but you feel no closer to understanding what is going on or how to help. You need answers and you need a roadmap to stop the suffering and get things back on track. I'm here to guide you through the darkness and uncover what your child needs to achieve their true potential. My unique approach involves identifying your child's strengths in addition to their areas of vulnerability so you know exactly what they need to thrive.
Whether you're wondering about ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, or looking for more information about your child's unique brain, I'm here to help.
There is no greater pain than watching your child struggle. You've read the blogs, asked your doctor, consulted with friends, but you feel no closer to understanding what is going on or how to help. You need answers and you need a roadmap to stop the suffering and get things back on track. I'm here to guide you through the darkness and uncover what your child needs to achieve their true potential. My unique approach involves identifying your child's strengths in addition to their areas of vulnerability so you know exactly what they need to thrive.
![Photo of Charles E. Galyon, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/480f5c08-add0-4570-b4ce-e5b53f99edd0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Charles E. Galyon
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in evaluation and treatment of childhood disorders and behavior, including: Aggression, Defiance, Anxiety, Learning Disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia), Autism Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger's Disorder), ADHD, OCD, Tic Disorders, and Tourette's Syndrome.
I currently have a long waitlist! I understand the concern and confusion that parents may have when their child experiences difficulties in school, home, or elsewhere. I believe in working together with parents to help their children. I take time to get to know my clients so I can offer the most appropriate, individualized care for them. I trained in educational and behavioral psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. In addition to direct treatment services, I am able to provide evaluations with extensive reports to aid in treatment planning.
I specialize in evaluation and treatment of childhood disorders and behavior, including: Aggression, Defiance, Anxiety, Learning Disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia), Autism Spectrum Disorders (including Asperger's Disorder), ADHD, OCD, Tic Disorders, and Tourette's Syndrome.
I currently have a long waitlist! I understand the concern and confusion that parents may have when their child experiences difficulties in school, home, or elsewhere. I believe in working together with parents to help their children. I take time to get to know my clients so I can offer the most appropriate, individualized care for them. I trained in educational and behavioral psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. In addition to direct treatment services, I am able to provide evaluations with extensive reports to aid in treatment planning.
![Photo of Kate Kleinfelter, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0c628c6-7db2-45bb-b739-f553d86e14af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi – my name is Dr. Kleinfelter (or “Dr. K.”). I am a clinical psychologist who has worked with teenagers and families for over 30 years. I mainly serve ages 11 to 25 (and their families) )who struggle w/ depression, anxiety, trauma, & school avoidance. But I also see adults with identity or phase of life concerns, including senior citizens. My primary specialty areas are Autism Level 1 (Neuro-divergent), LGBTQI+ and gender affirming care (including letters if needed). I stay updated on research & use "what works," so that you can feel better as soon as possible. References upon request.
Hi – my name is Dr. Kleinfelter (or “Dr. K.”). I am a clinical psychologist who has worked with teenagers and families for over 30 years. I mainly serve ages 11 to 25 (and their families) )who struggle w/ depression, anxiety, trauma, & school avoidance. But I also see adults with identity or phase of life concerns, including senior citizens. My primary specialty areas are Autism Level 1 (Neuro-divergent), LGBTQI+ and gender affirming care (including letters if needed). I stay updated on research & use "what works," so that you can feel better as soon as possible. References upon request.
![Photo of Heather Webb, MEd, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a715882f-fdf3-4795-b937-2615f83fca49/3/320x400.jpeg)
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*** I welcome adults, teenagers, children, and couples. I have 21 years experience in the Mental Health field and always continue to learn how to best help a variety of populations. I have experience in and am able to treat people who have Anxiety, Depression, on the Autism Spectrum,Bi-polar, ADHD, OCD, Addictions, Phobias, ODD, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders and low self-esteem.
***ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS*** I welcome adults, teenagers, children, and couples. I have 21 years experience in the Mental Health field and always continue to learn how to best help a variety of populations. I have experience in and am able to treat people who have Anxiety, Depression, on the Autism Spectrum,Bi-polar, ADHD, OCD, Addictions, Phobias, ODD, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders and low self-esteem.
![Photo of Jessica Baddorf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/137437d7-dff0-4754-97fb-583c2d59f032/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Baddorf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
I particularly enjoy working with people who are in STEM fields, the Neurodivergent Population (ADHD, Autism), school teachers or professors, and young adults.
** Accepting new clients with a waiting list ** My super power is listening and synthesizing information to help you find clarity about something that you are struggling with. We can work on a wide array of problems regarding yourself and your world. Ideally, therapy is a place for you to problem solve about things and identify helpful interventions that you can put into practice. But it can also be a place for you to talk about what can’t be solved.
I particularly enjoy working with people who are in STEM fields, the Neurodivergent Population (ADHD, Autism), school teachers or professors, and young adults.
** Accepting new clients with a waiting list ** My super power is listening and synthesizing information to help you find clarity about something that you are struggling with. We can work on a wide array of problems regarding yourself and your world. Ideally, therapy is a place for you to problem solve about things and identify helpful interventions that you can put into practice. But it can also be a place for you to talk about what can’t be solved.
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See More TherapistsAutism 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.