Autism Therapists in Madison, TN
![Photo of Carlin Giles Healing Pastures Llc, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0c216d4-a4b3-4686-bd60-bcfd7d695f15/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carlin Giles Healing Pastures Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
When life is challenging, we tend to look for support to assist us along the way. We want to be part of that support team for you. Bringing over fifteen years of experience and different treatment approaches, we can discover a path towards healthier living. We work with all ages and will meet you where you are on your path. Healing Pastures incorporates a team approach described by Equine Assisted Growth And Learning. This approach gives clients opportunities to form safe connection skills, in order to overcome their own struggles in their relationships.
When life is challenging, we tend to look for support to assist us along the way. We want to be part of that support team for you. Bringing over fifteen years of experience and different treatment approaches, we can discover a path towards healthier living. We work with all ages and will meet you where you are on your path. Healing Pastures incorporates a team approach described by Equine Assisted Growth And Learning. This approach gives clients opportunities to form safe connection skills, in order to overcome their own struggles in their relationships.
![Photo of Sara Balter, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a91267b-2684-4765-b7ba-3428ce4c116f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a business professional caught in the whirlwind of balancing work and personal life? Feeling the weight of stress, conflicts, and impostor syndrome? I understand. You need support tailored to your challenges: managing workplace stress, improving relationships, and finding balance. Let's work together to find coping strategies, strengthen connections, and reclaim fulfillment. Trust in my HR background and compassionate approach to guide you toward thriving in both your professional and personal spheres. With specialized training in supporting diverse needs, I'm here to help you navigate this journey and unlock your potential.
Are you a business professional caught in the whirlwind of balancing work and personal life? Feeling the weight of stress, conflicts, and impostor syndrome? I understand. You need support tailored to your challenges: managing workplace stress, improving relationships, and finding balance. Let's work together to find coping strategies, strengthen connections, and reclaim fulfillment. Trust in my HR background and compassionate approach to guide you toward thriving in both your professional and personal spheres. With specialized training in supporting diverse needs, I'm here to help you navigate this journey and unlock your potential.
![Photo of Kaylyn Landry, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43a95610-f8c2-4557-b356-7255eb405415/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome, I’m glad you're here! After working in various mental healthcare roles for over 5 years, I provide a safe, judgment-free space for you to process any challenges you're facing. My desire is to support you with openness, acceptance, and curiosity while we work to discover your true self and what is preventing you from thriving. Through self-compassion, we can make changes to create peace and balance in your life, no matter where you're at on your journey!
Welcome, I’m glad you're here! After working in various mental healthcare roles for over 5 years, I provide a safe, judgment-free space for you to process any challenges you're facing. My desire is to support you with openness, acceptance, and curiosity while we work to discover your true self and what is preventing you from thriving. Through self-compassion, we can make changes to create peace and balance in your life, no matter where you're at on your journey!
![Photo of Jillian Locke, MS, LPCMHSP, (T), Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8a4e614-4924-4876-a17a-fedff49930bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jillian Locke
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPCMHSP, (T)
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
Growth, depth, and hope can come when others walk alongside you- we are not meant to do this alone. My desire is to create this experience for those who are needing help because I know how valuable and necessary it is to have someone supporting you along the way. Through an intentional & collaborative relationship, I aim to be a tool and resource to help shine light where you are experiencing darkness by tailoring to your specific needs and goals.
Growth, depth, and hope can come when others walk alongside you- we are not meant to do this alone. My desire is to create this experience for those who are needing help because I know how valuable and necessary it is to have someone supporting you along the way. Through an intentional & collaborative relationship, I aim to be a tool and resource to help shine light where you are experiencing darkness by tailoring to your specific needs and goals.
![Photo of Sarah Broyles Ledbetter, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1432be62-a360-484c-b925-538d8afaa627/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Broyles Ledbetter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
My clients often refer to what I call 'blurry trauma,' early attachment experiences that were less than affirming but so ingrained, the client often doesn't recall outstanding events. They may not even remember much about their childhood at all. That kind of trauma leads to addiction, confusing, disorganized or unfulfilling relationships, and difficulty harnessing the resources needed to navigate change so the client can create their most authentic life and relationships. I use present moment, present location resources such as the client's own strengths, passions, and ability to make creative decisions to facilitate safe change.
My clients often refer to what I call 'blurry trauma,' early attachment experiences that were less than affirming but so ingrained, the client often doesn't recall outstanding events. They may not even remember much about their childhood at all. That kind of trauma leads to addiction, confusing, disorganized or unfulfilling relationships, and difficulty harnessing the resources needed to navigate change so the client can create their most authentic life and relationships. I use present moment, present location resources such as the client's own strengths, passions, and ability to make creative decisions to facilitate safe change.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Taylor Borck - Taylor Borck Counseling, MMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd3286a9-7573-4b1b-8016-50a57927d97b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Borck Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37210
I work with neurodivergent teens and adults (Autism and ADHD) as well was a wide range of clients who have experienced trauma, issues in their family dynamic, communication, peer groups, self-esteem, and relationships. I am most passionate about working with individuals as they explore the deep parts of themselves and uncover new insights. Many of my clients work to improve relationships, gain tools and strategies for day to day struggles, and explore, process, and find healing from past traumas and old wounds.
I work with neurodivergent teens and adults (Autism and ADHD) as well was a wide range of clients who have experienced trauma, issues in their family dynamic, communication, peer groups, self-esteem, and relationships. I am most passionate about working with individuals as they explore the deep parts of themselves and uncover new insights. Many of my clients work to improve relationships, gain tools and strategies for day to day struggles, and explore, process, and find healing from past traumas and old wounds.
![Photo of Teryl Fleming, MEd, NCC, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b439fde7-0c4c-4d0d-b1d5-d66bbc10c501/2/320x400.jpeg)
Teryl Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hendersonville, TN 37075
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I work with Adults and teens. I offer a creative, integrative,compassionate approach. I work with adults who are navigating life's everyday challenges and transitions (e.g., Anxiety/Depression, Self-worth, Career issues, Grief, Parenthood, Relationship issues Marriage/ Divorce and much more. I also, offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy) for Adults EMDR is not only used for PTSD but an array of clinical problems that can have positive life changing results. I work with teens to help with self esteem, social anxiety, ADHD, Autism and other concerns.
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I work with Adults and teens. I offer a creative, integrative,compassionate approach. I work with adults who are navigating life's everyday challenges and transitions (e.g., Anxiety/Depression, Self-worth, Career issues, Grief, Parenthood, Relationship issues Marriage/ Divorce and much more. I also, offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy) for Adults EMDR is not only used for PTSD but an array of clinical problems that can have positive life changing results. I work with teens to help with self esteem, social anxiety, ADHD, Autism and other concerns.
![Photo of Skye Clark, LPC, MHSP, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a0cb8f3-2f8e-459f-a128-52bef2e3ef70/2/320x400.jpeg)
Skye Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, CPC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212 (Online Only)
I work with autism in adults, individuals with trauma history, individuals in the music industry, and the LBGTQI+ community.
Accepting new virtual clients in Tennessee and Maine! You can have a life full of abundance, peace, and joy, in fact, you deserve it! Life may be more overwhelming than you could ever imagine. I get it! We will work together to identify sources of stress, difficult emotions, & limiting thoughts and behavior patterns in order to develop resources for more satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy in your life. My goal is to be deeply present with your experiences in order to help you become more expansive, self- aware, confident, and validated so that you can find your path that leads to your most authentic self.
I work with autism in adults, individuals with trauma history, individuals in the music industry, and the LBGTQI+ community.
Accepting new virtual clients in Tennessee and Maine! You can have a life full of abundance, peace, and joy, in fact, you deserve it! Life may be more overwhelming than you could ever imagine. I get it! We will work together to identify sources of stress, difficult emotions, & limiting thoughts and behavior patterns in order to develop resources for more satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy in your life. My goal is to be deeply present with your experiences in order to help you become more expansive, self- aware, confident, and validated so that you can find your path that leads to your most authentic self.
![Photo of Heather Joppich - Zephyr Care Mental Health, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52f752a0-a875-4114-bccf-1fc05b094226/1/320x400.png)
Zephyr Care specializes in neurodiversity-affirming assessments for autism, ADHD, and mental health for adults and children. We have immediate openings for appointments and can see people in TN and most other states. We specialize in high masking autism and understand the unique presentations of autistic women/girls as well as profiles like pathological demand avoidance (PDA). Our evaluations are comprehensive and consider all possible mental health diagnoses - this is what sets our evaluations apart from others who offer psychological testing testing!
Zephyr Care specializes in neurodiversity-affirming assessments for autism, ADHD, and mental health for adults and children. We have immediate openings for appointments and can see people in TN and most other states. We specialize in high masking autism and understand the unique presentations of autistic women/girls as well as profiles like pathological demand avoidance (PDA). Our evaluations are comprehensive and consider all possible mental health diagnoses - this is what sets our evaluations apart from others who offer psychological testing testing!
![Photo of Katherine Price - Nashville Psychological Assessment and Learning, PhD, NCSP, HSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d59cd8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nashville Psychological Assessment and Learning
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, HSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206
We specialize in comprehensive psychoeducational assessments of children, adolescents, and adults. We have expertise in the diagnosis of autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities, developmental delays, intellectual giftedness, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), behavioral disorders, and emotional disturbances that are likely to impact educational and daily functioning. We also offer social skills groups for children and adolescents, as well as educational consultation to assist parents with navigating special education and accommodations offered within the public and private school settings.
We specialize in comprehensive psychoeducational assessments of children, adolescents, and adults. We have expertise in the diagnosis of autism, dyslexia, learning disabilities, developmental delays, intellectual giftedness, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), behavioral disorders, and emotional disturbances that are likely to impact educational and daily functioning. We also offer social skills groups for children and adolescents, as well as educational consultation to assist parents with navigating special education and accommodations offered within the public and private school settings.
![Photo of Nick Barajas, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edb01e22-d13f-44fe-abbd-e2a0d1f31b82/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nick Barajas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206 (Online Only)
( ( ( Availability for neurodivergent coaching or mental health therapy. Looking for recently diagnosed/self-diagnosed Autistic/ADHD teens or adults ) ) ) I am a neurodivergent coach and therapist. This means that I am neurodivergent, but also that I work exclusively with neurodivergent people, from a neurodivergent perspective. Neurodivergent means "a brain that diverges from the norm," I use it to refer collectively to Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia – brains that are not ill or broken, but fundamentally wired differently than the average person. If this describes you, then you've come to the right place.
( ( ( Availability for neurodivergent coaching or mental health therapy. Looking for recently diagnosed/self-diagnosed Autistic/ADHD teens or adults ) ) ) I am a neurodivergent coach and therapist. This means that I am neurodivergent, but also that I work exclusively with neurodivergent people, from a neurodivergent perspective. Neurodivergent means "a brain that diverges from the norm," I use it to refer collectively to Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia – brains that are not ill or broken, but fundamentally wired differently than the average person. If this describes you, then you've come to the right place.
![Photo of Dian R Bridges - ABA Bridges, LLC, MA, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/534be89c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
ABA Bridges provides behavior therapy for individuals suffering from symptoms of Autism, ADHD and related disorders. We provide Board Certified therapist with a proven track record in assisting families and schools in Behavior Techniques and interventions. ABA is the number one recommended treatment for Autism and ADHD. Services include consultation, assessment, treatment and parent/staff training.
ABA Bridges provides behavior therapy for individuals suffering from symptoms of Autism, ADHD and related disorders. We provide Board Certified therapist with a proven track record in assisting families and schools in Behavior Techniques and interventions. ABA is the number one recommended treatment for Autism and ADHD. Services include consultation, assessment, treatment and parent/staff training.
![Photo of Dr. Tina M. Boni, PsyD, LPC, LBS, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95b7c6a6-ddd0-4f3b-b349-22a50863b5b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tina M. Boni
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LBS
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, TN 37075
Need help with managing your ADHD symptoms, Autism, Anxiety? Finding a treatment provider that truly understands your needs and finding practical solutions does not need to be an additional stressor. I have over 30 years of experience treating children, adults and families and truly believe that therapy is for everyone! Book your first appointment with me by clicking on the "My Website" link on the right or calling today and let's get started on your journey!
Need help with managing your ADHD symptoms, Autism, Anxiety? Finding a treatment provider that truly understands your needs and finding practical solutions does not need to be an additional stressor. I have over 30 years of experience treating children, adults and families and truly believe that therapy is for everyone! Book your first appointment with me by clicking on the "My Website" link on the right or calling today and let's get started on your journey!
![Photo of Dr. Heather Joppich, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c9ccb99-45f5-4983-8ac7-41feff8ffd48/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a specialist in neurodiversity including testing for ADHD and autism.
I specialize in neurodiversity-affirming assessments for autism, ADHD and mental health for children and adults. Clients often come to me seeking testing for the first time or as a second opinion after feeling misunderstood by other clinicians. I strive to create a comfortable environment where you feel validated and understood. My goal is to understand more about your unique lived experience and neurodivergence, get you the right diagnosis, and help you get connected with the resources that you need.
I am a specialist in neurodiversity including testing for ADHD and autism.
I specialize in neurodiversity-affirming assessments for autism, ADHD and mental health for children and adults. Clients often come to me seeking testing for the first time or as a second opinion after feeling misunderstood by other clinicians. I strive to create a comfortable environment where you feel validated and understood. My goal is to understand more about your unique lived experience and neurodivergence, get you the right diagnosis, and help you get connected with the resources that you need.
![Photo of Claire Fajardo Belcher, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f7eac15-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Claire Fajardo Belcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37214
I work with adults and teenagers experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, complex PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bi-polar, Emotional Disturbance, Reactive Attachment Disorder and addiction. Additionally, I have an extensive background history working with teenagers and adults diagnosed with Asperger's and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I work with adults and teenagers experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, complex PTSD, Schizophrenia, Bi-polar, Emotional Disturbance, Reactive Attachment Disorder and addiction. Additionally, I have an extensive background history working with teenagers and adults diagnosed with Asperger's and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
![Photo of Frank C Batson - Nashville BrainCore Therapy, DC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47d17821-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nashville BrainCore provides a unique, drugless, painless, noninvasive approach to treating brainwave dysregulation associated with symptoms of many neurological-based conditions like Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Memory Loss, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Panic Attacks, Autism, Post-Stroke, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Traumatic Brain Injury (e.g. Concussions), and many more. The relaxing and therapeutic treatment involves our Neurofeedback Practitioner, first, identifying the brainwave dysregulation with a noninvasive and painless brainwave analysis, and then determining a proper treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.
Nashville BrainCore provides a unique, drugless, painless, noninvasive approach to treating brainwave dysregulation associated with symptoms of many neurological-based conditions like Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Memory Loss, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Panic Attacks, Autism, Post-Stroke, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Traumatic Brain Injury (e.g. Concussions), and many more. The relaxing and therapeutic treatment involves our Neurofeedback Practitioner, first, identifying the brainwave dysregulation with a noninvasive and painless brainwave analysis, and then determining a proper treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.
![Photo of Mary Cullen Servodidio, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c091bc67-2081-4f03-903c-4b6f3801f3dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Cullen Servodidio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I enjoy helping support people with trauma, ADHD and Autism, mood disorders, life transitions, and family-of-origin issues.
I am so pumped that you're here! I know what it feels like to seek out a new therapist, and I don’t take for granted the courage and vulnerability it takes for you to share these parts of yourself. My goal is to create a pathway to help you reveal your authentic self. We do this by examining what’s been conditioned and impressed upon you while also identifying what feels true and authentic to who you are. I approach this work first and foremost with compassion, curiosity, open-mindedness, and authenticity. I believe there is room for pain and humor in therapy. I promise to keep it real with you and to share some laughs, too!
I enjoy helping support people with trauma, ADHD and Autism, mood disorders, life transitions, and family-of-origin issues.
I am so pumped that you're here! I know what it feels like to seek out a new therapist, and I don’t take for granted the courage and vulnerability it takes for you to share these parts of yourself. My goal is to create a pathway to help you reveal your authentic self. We do this by examining what’s been conditioned and impressed upon you while also identifying what feels true and authentic to who you are. I approach this work first and foremost with compassion, curiosity, open-mindedness, and authenticity. I believe there is room for pain and humor in therapy. I promise to keep it real with you and to share some laughs, too!
![Photo of Barbara Grant, MMFT, CAS, NDCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/345c7445-b13c-4cc5-aae7-a5731c092ab4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Autism/ADHD relationship coaching. Neurodiverse relationships are hard... Undiagnosed autism and ADHD affects many couples who have been married and struggling for years.. I have personal and professional experience with ASD/ADHD marriage and parenting, so I understand the miscommunication and unresolved conflicts that can happen in neurodiverse relationships.
Autism/ADHD relationship coaching. Neurodiverse relationships are hard... Undiagnosed autism and ADHD affects many couples who have been married and struggling for years.. I have personal and professional experience with ASD/ADHD marriage and parenting, so I understand the miscommunication and unresolved conflicts that can happen in neurodiverse relationships.
![Photo of Danielle M McDonough, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3077bee2-9b41-4933-9e41-d8771f929b1b/4/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle M McDonough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216 (Online Only)
I also work with foster and adoptive children, as well as, provide PCIT-ASD to children with Level 1 or 2 autism with behavior challenges and those on a waitlist for autism assessment.
Have the terrible 2's never stopped or gotten worse after your child turned 2.5 yrs? Do you have a young child with more frequent, long, or intense temper tantrums and behavior problems than is expected for the child’s age? Does your child seem to get a thrill out of purposely annoying others, get in trouble regularly at preschool, or react with defiance and aggression to adult requests and limits? Or, is your child so anxious that you are dreading daycare or school drop offs because your child has to be pried off of you? Is your child struggling to adjust to a transition like parents’ divorce, a new sibling, grief, or trauma?
I also work with foster and adoptive children, as well as, provide PCIT-ASD to children with Level 1 or 2 autism with behavior challenges and those on a waitlist for autism assessment.
Have the terrible 2's never stopped or gotten worse after your child turned 2.5 yrs? Do you have a young child with more frequent, long, or intense temper tantrums and behavior problems than is expected for the child’s age? Does your child seem to get a thrill out of purposely annoying others, get in trouble regularly at preschool, or react with defiance and aggression to adult requests and limits? Or, is your child so anxious that you are dreading daycare or school drop offs because your child has to be pried off of you? Is your child struggling to adjust to a transition like parents’ divorce, a new sibling, grief, or trauma?
![Photo of Kelsey MacDonald, EdS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b6f9785-2222-4ff8-8241-9e1ed03d0d52/4/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey MacDonald
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
If you are socially anxious, are neurodivergent (HSP/Highly Sensitive Person, ADHD, Autism) and/or have complex trauma/C-PTSD, you're in the right place.
Are you wondering if EMDR or Brainspotting is a right fit for you? You may find yourself caught in the same repetitive cycles, or maybe you've tried many things before and feel stuck. You may also know there are experiences in your past that are in need of healing. Trying to find the right therapy for you can be so painful and exhausting, and I'm here to help. I help clients get to the root of what they are feeling, manage stress responses in their body, increase skills in navigating relationships with others, and heal their trauma for lasting change through mind and body based therapies like EMDR, IFS, and Brainspotting.
If you are socially anxious, are neurodivergent (HSP/Highly Sensitive Person, ADHD, Autism) and/or have complex trauma/C-PTSD, you're in the right place.
Are you wondering if EMDR or Brainspotting is a right fit for you? You may find yourself caught in the same repetitive cycles, or maybe you've tried many things before and feel stuck. You may also know there are experiences in your past that are in need of healing. Trying to find the right therapy for you can be so painful and exhausting, and I'm here to help. I help clients get to the root of what they are feeling, manage stress responses in their body, increase skills in navigating relationships with others, and heal their trauma for lasting change through mind and body based therapies like EMDR, IFS, and Brainspotting.
See more therapy options for Madison
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Madison
- Antioch
- Berry Hill
- Brentwood
- Franklin
- Gallatin
- Goodlettsville
- Hendersonville
- Hermitage
- Lebanon
- Mount Juliet
- Nashville
- Smyrna
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.