Autism Therapists in Austin, TX
![Photo of Katie Worrell - Topaz ABA, MA, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e715ed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Topaz ABA provides behavior therapy and autism services to children and adolescents throughout the Austin and surrounding areas. We provide services in the home, in the community, or via telehealth.
Topaz ABA provides behavior therapy and autism services to children and adolescents throughout the Austin and surrounding areas. We provide services in the home, in the community, or via telehealth.
![Photo of Tammi Schrager, LCSW, CCBT, LSOTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66dda6b6-e26c-4a71-8552-a8bd71e4a9cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Therapist and have been providing mental health services for 30 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, Couples, Groups, Families and address ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, LGBTQ Identity, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-traumatic stress. Hope is a big part of why l am in this field. During my education in Chicago, and all work I have done since, I have had intensive internships and work involving people of all backgrounds and diverse cultures. Hope builds strong connections and healthier communities.
I am a Therapist and have been providing mental health services for 30 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, Couples, Groups, Families and address ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, LGBTQ Identity, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-traumatic stress. Hope is a big part of why l am in this field. During my education in Chicago, and all work I have done since, I have had intensive internships and work involving people of all backgrounds and diverse cultures. Hope builds strong connections and healthier communities.
![Photo of Jamila Cheikh, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac934392-b46b-4a2c-aa91-2ae35e28f9f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a dedicated and compassionate BCBA, advocating for my clients in every capacity. I consider my strengths to be teaching functional communication and decreasing behaviors of concern for individuals with autism. An official autism diagnosis is needed to accept insurance.
I am a dedicated and compassionate BCBA, advocating for my clients in every capacity. I consider my strengths to be teaching functional communication and decreasing behaviors of concern for individuals with autism. An official autism diagnosis is needed to accept insurance.
![Photo of Katrina Balangue, MS, CCC-SLP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5994da43-3f7d-472e-94c7-b1011b742b4d/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Tryumph Speech Therapy, I proudly treat children, teens & adults with developmental delays or special needs including neurodivergent clients with autism, intellectual/learning disabilities, ADHD, etc.
At Tryumph Speech Therapy, my ideal client is someone who wants to know the underlying cause or the "why" behind their challenges in communication. They are curious, determined & hardworking. They want to better understand their strengths/weaknesses and develop strategies to successfully convey their everyday wants, needs & desires. My ideal client values a holistic approach, collaboration & functional therapy. Lastly, my ideal client values my expertise but understands that my goal is to empower them by providing the necessary education and resources so that they can make informed decisions about their unique communication needs.
At Tryumph Speech Therapy, I proudly treat children, teens & adults with developmental delays or special needs including neurodivergent clients with autism, intellectual/learning disabilities, ADHD, etc.
At Tryumph Speech Therapy, my ideal client is someone who wants to know the underlying cause or the "why" behind their challenges in communication. They are curious, determined & hardworking. They want to better understand their strengths/weaknesses and develop strategies to successfully convey their everyday wants, needs & desires. My ideal client values a holistic approach, collaboration & functional therapy. Lastly, my ideal client values my expertise but understands that my goal is to empower them by providing the necessary education and resources so that they can make informed decisions about their unique communication needs.
![Photo of Lisa Lasater - Spectrum Social and Recreation Services, PhD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, BCBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9167b6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Spectrum Social and Recreation Services
Psychologist, PhD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78757
If you or someone you love struggles with anxiety, emotional regulation, poor social skills, parenting challenges, life transitions, family issues, or independent living then we can help. Our therapists specialize in providing collaborative solutions for individuals with social communication and anxiety challenges. Spectrum therapists are especially tuned to the needs of persons diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Asperger's Syndrome, ADHD, Giftedness and Non-Verbal Learning Disorder (NVLD). Spectrum therapists apply solutions-based therapy techniques to create the best possible experience for our clients and help you meet your therapeutic goals.
If you or someone you love struggles with anxiety, emotional regulation, poor social skills, parenting challenges, life transitions, family issues, or independent living then we can help. Our therapists specialize in providing collaborative solutions for individuals with social communication and anxiety challenges. Spectrum therapists are especially tuned to the needs of persons diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Asperger's Syndrome, ADHD, Giftedness and Non-Verbal Learning Disorder (NVLD). Spectrum therapists apply solutions-based therapy techniques to create the best possible experience for our clients and help you meet your therapeutic goals.
![Photo of Kayla Freeman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb05eeb5-ed73-4603-a8fe-b0e63ed0618e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about working with neurodivergent folks (Autism, ADHD, OCD et al). I also frequently work with couples and polycules, as well as individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and/or nerdy creatives. When working with couples and relationships, I'm passionate about facilitating improved communication to resolve a recurring area of friction, cultivating awareness of unhelpful patterns so we can break them, and deepening the friendship and intimacy in the relationship. I frequently work with relationships where one or more partner is neurodivergent. I also offer online therapy groups for ADHD and Autistic folks.
I am passionate about working with neurodivergent folks (Autism, ADHD, OCD et al). I also frequently work with couples and polycules, as well as individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ and/or nerdy creatives. When working with couples and relationships, I'm passionate about facilitating improved communication to resolve a recurring area of friction, cultivating awareness of unhelpful patterns so we can break them, and deepening the friendship and intimacy in the relationship. I frequently work with relationships where one or more partner is neurodivergent. I also offer online therapy groups for ADHD and Autistic folks.
![Photo of Shawna S West, LPC, NCC, ASDI, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5abded53-0f1e-45f8-be30-1c78a9c8d9e6/1/320x400.png)
I support diversified clientele, specialize in working with children with Autism, and I provide a challenge based modality known as Therapeutic Rock Climbing.
I primarily work with parents seeking support for their young child, adolescent, or teen. Presenting issues range from mild toileting concerns, to stress and anxiety, social skills, coping strategies, building emotional vocabulary, trauma processing, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation and self harm, LGBTQIA+, and support for neurodivergent and neurodiverse children and children with learning differences.
I support diversified clientele, specialize in working with children with Autism, and I provide a challenge based modality known as Therapeutic Rock Climbing.
I primarily work with parents seeking support for their young child, adolescent, or teen. Presenting issues range from mild toileting concerns, to stress and anxiety, social skills, coping strategies, building emotional vocabulary, trauma processing, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation and self harm, LGBTQIA+, and support for neurodivergent and neurodiverse children and children with learning differences.
![Photo of Krista Delgado, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5854d3b2-d610-43f1-8880-a6c497212a7d/1/320x400.png)
Krista Delgado
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701 (Online Only)
I specialize in providing therapy for adolescents and adults with ADHD and/or autism. My approach is rooted in understanding and addressing the unique challenges of neurodivergence, particularly in relation to unmet needs that often go unrecognized but profoundly impact well-being. These unmet needs may stem from differences in communication, social interaction, sensory processing, or executive functioning - and may show up as challenges in school, work settings, in relationships, or during parenting. In therapy, we explore these unmet needs with empathy and a commitment to fostering understanding and growth.
I specialize in providing therapy for adolescents and adults with ADHD and/or autism. My approach is rooted in understanding and addressing the unique challenges of neurodivergence, particularly in relation to unmet needs that often go unrecognized but profoundly impact well-being. These unmet needs may stem from differences in communication, social interaction, sensory processing, or executive functioning - and may show up as challenges in school, work settings, in relationships, or during parenting. In therapy, we explore these unmet needs with empathy and a commitment to fostering understanding and growth.
![Photo of Matthew John Francis, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb04e0ad-b78e-44ae-83d3-2e6e8f20b277/2/320x400.jpeg)
I received my Master of Arts in Clinical Art Therapy from Whitecliffe College in Auckland, New Zealand in 2015 following my Bachelor’s education at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. My clinical experience began in 2012 as a student therapist working with youth on the Autism Spectrum. This work soon developed into working with individuals, couples, families, and groups of all ages facing a wide variety of challenges across public and private healthcare settings.
I received my Master of Arts in Clinical Art Therapy from Whitecliffe College in Auckland, New Zealand in 2015 following my Bachelor’s education at Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. My clinical experience began in 2012 as a student therapist working with youth on the Autism Spectrum. This work soon developed into working with individuals, couples, families, and groups of all ages facing a wide variety of challenges across public and private healthcare settings.
![Photo of Christie Wilke, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6b2f366-6d35-4f9a-b36a-84be19ca15ae/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christie works with children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her specialties include phobias, selective mutism, autism, and dealing with traumatic experiences, as well as anxiety, depression and other emotional issues.
Christie works with children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her specialties include phobias, selective mutism, autism, and dealing with traumatic experiences, as well as anxiety, depression and other emotional issues.
![Photo of Stacy Marshall, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de2573ba-72e8-40c9-9073-011d65cab903/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include depression and anxiety, trauma, family conflict, Autism and ADHD, BPD, and working with queer, trans, and nonbinary clients.
I believe that each person is the expert on themselves and their experiences, and my role is to be a supportive guide throughout the healing process. I always want our work together to be a collaborative process, so we will structure our time together around your goals. This is your space, and you get to decide how it looks. Some clients are looking to stay near the surface, and work on coping skills and solutions to daily life problems. Others want to explore further into their own past or their inner world.
My specialties include depression and anxiety, trauma, family conflict, Autism and ADHD, BPD, and working with queer, trans, and nonbinary clients.
I believe that each person is the expert on themselves and their experiences, and my role is to be a supportive guide throughout the healing process. I always want our work together to be a collaborative process, so we will structure our time together around your goals. This is your space, and you get to decide how it looks. Some clients are looking to stay near the surface, and work on coping skills and solutions to daily life problems. Others want to explore further into their own past or their inner world.
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![Photo of Tina Anderson - Full Spectrum Healing PLLC, OTR, Occupational Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a3ad5fb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
28 year old Eliza, is the mother of 3. At 8 weeks postpartum, she is feeling overwhelmed. Her 4 year old was diagnosed with autism, and doesn’t dress or eat independently. This bright child is prone to meltdown or run-off in public places, and just when it’s time to go somewhere. His aversion to food, movement and clothing are sensitivities she experiences to a lessor degree. She’s exhausted, and needs to return to work soon. She’s concerned about the leaking of urine and pressure she feels in her pelvis. Jim, her husband wants their intimacy back, but she’s not ready. She wants to restore balance and ease to her life, and her body.
28 year old Eliza, is the mother of 3. At 8 weeks postpartum, she is feeling overwhelmed. Her 4 year old was diagnosed with autism, and doesn’t dress or eat independently. This bright child is prone to meltdown or run-off in public places, and just when it’s time to go somewhere. His aversion to food, movement and clothing are sensitivities she experiences to a lessor degree. She’s exhausted, and needs to return to work soon. She’s concerned about the leaking of urine and pressure she feels in her pelvis. Jim, her husband wants their intimacy back, but she’s not ready. She wants to restore balance and ease to her life, and her body.
![Photo of Jennifer J Liotino, MA, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9488343-7f6e-4755-aa49-0d71b8faa617/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer J Liotino
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705 (Online Only)
As a therapist, I enjoy working with a variety of clients. With over 21 years of experience, my expertise to a more eclectic approach, including CBT, attachment based therapy, trauma focused therapy, and emotionally focused therapy. I enjoy working with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, life transition, attachment, self-esteem, family issues, Adult Children of Alcoholics, grief/loss, and autism.
As a therapist, I enjoy working with a variety of clients. With over 21 years of experience, my expertise to a more eclectic approach, including CBT, attachment based therapy, trauma focused therapy, and emotionally focused therapy. I enjoy working with trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, life transition, attachment, self-esteem, family issues, Adult Children of Alcoholics, grief/loss, and autism.
![Photo of Christopher DeFranco, LPCC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74a0ce6f-7686-4b6a-a9a0-44479cbaa62b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher DeFranco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705 (Online Only)
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
![Photo of Dr. Melissa Case-Vincent, PsyD, LSSP, HSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae7c553b-bd82-4dd3-95fb-aa0a526fe29d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Areas of Assessment Specialization: Psychological and psychoeducational evaluations of children, adolescents, and adults; Complex learning and processing problems (dyslexia and other learning difficulties); Executive functioning, attention, and memory skills; Autism Spectrum Disorders/Pervasive Developmental Disorders/Asperger's Syndrome ADD/ADHD.
My approach to therapy is interpersonal and collaborative. I strive to develop a strong therapeutic alliance that will allow us to achieve your treatment goals. I have a strong interest in multicultural issues and working with diverse populations. For me, diversity not only consists of race or ethnicity but also consists of sexual orientation, gender, socioeconomic status, religious affiliation, age, and a myriad of other characteristics that make an individual unique. I integrate your personal history (narrative) and solution-focused goals to develop a treatment plan in order to facilitate growth and change you wish to see in your life.
Areas of Assessment Specialization: Psychological and psychoeducational evaluations of children, adolescents, and adults; Complex learning and processing problems (dyslexia and other learning difficulties); Executive functioning, attention, and memory skills; Autism Spectrum Disorders/Pervasive Developmental Disorders/Asperger's Syndrome ADD/ADHD.
My approach to therapy is interpersonal and collaborative. I strive to develop a strong therapeutic alliance that will allow us to achieve your treatment goals. I have a strong interest in multicultural issues and working with diverse populations. For me, diversity not only consists of race or ethnicity but also consists of sexual orientation, gender, socioeconomic status, religious affiliation, age, and a myriad of other characteristics that make an individual unique. I integrate your personal history (narrative) and solution-focused goals to develop a treatment plan in order to facilitate growth and change you wish to see in your life.
![Photo of Logan Williamson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1c49a97-0c8a-43e6-a33d-170ac4d86602/1/320x400.jpeg)
Logan Williamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 73301 (Online Only)
You are looking for someone with the 3 E's. Education, Experience, and Empathy. We all want to become a better version of ourselves, and desire to walk that journey with someone who is best prepared. Over the last 18 years I have helped individuals and families with a wide range of issues, and have developed specialties in ADHD, Anxiety management, Depression and Autism. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems theory, while adding an understanding of neuropsychological functioning to help my clients. These methods have been clinically proven and are evidence based treatments.
You are looking for someone with the 3 E's. Education, Experience, and Empathy. We all want to become a better version of ourselves, and desire to walk that journey with someone who is best prepared. Over the last 18 years I have helped individuals and families with a wide range of issues, and have developed specialties in ADHD, Anxiety management, Depression and Autism. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems theory, while adding an understanding of neuropsychological functioning to help my clients. These methods have been clinically proven and are evidence based treatments.
![Photo of Jess Pliszka - Adult Female Autism-Adhd Specialist, LPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d0f393c-9ecc-48d4-aa7f-968542532f32/1/320x400.png)
Jess Pliszka - Adult Female Autism-Adhd Specialist
LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746 (Online Only)
Are you a high-achieving woman questioning Autism or ADHD? Beyond your success, do you struggle with your self-identity and feel different than others? Do feel socially awkward and experience sensory concerns? You are hardworking and goal-oriented, but often feel overwhelmed to the point of having a meltdown. You strive to put your needs first, but struggle with perfectionism, self-limiting beliefs, and imposter syndrome. People don't take your concerns seriously because of your success. Feeling out of control is exhausting, but we will help you discover your authentic self, accommodate your needs, and validate your experience.
Are you a high-achieving woman questioning Autism or ADHD? Beyond your success, do you struggle with your self-identity and feel different than others? Do feel socially awkward and experience sensory concerns? You are hardworking and goal-oriented, but often feel overwhelmed to the point of having a meltdown. You strive to put your needs first, but struggle with perfectionism, self-limiting beliefs, and imposter syndrome. People don't take your concerns seriously because of your success. Feeling out of control is exhausting, but we will help you discover your authentic self, accommodate your needs, and validate your experience.
![Photo of Elizabeth Vargas, PhD, LPC, LCMHC, RPT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5afc9d9e-5973-470c-ae96-b806e0c1a0cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Play Therapist and a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist that has worked with individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism as well as supporting the family unit.
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or confused? Have you tried counseling before but didn't find it helpful or you didn't feel that your therapist was a match? Are you anxious about what the counseling process will look like or nervous about sharing your story? I understand how hard the counseling journey can feel. I enjoy working with clients that need support with autism, ADHD, anxiety, grief, trauma, crisis interventions, independent living skills, OCD, bipolar, major life transitions, and eating disorders. I support clients with reaching their goals, helping them find the power within, and to move towards who they want to be.
I am a Registered Play Therapist and a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist that has worked with individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism as well as supporting the family unit.
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or confused? Have you tried counseling before but didn't find it helpful or you didn't feel that your therapist was a match? Are you anxious about what the counseling process will look like or nervous about sharing your story? I understand how hard the counseling journey can feel. I enjoy working with clients that need support with autism, ADHD, anxiety, grief, trauma, crisis interventions, independent living skills, OCD, bipolar, major life transitions, and eating disorders. I support clients with reaching their goals, helping them find the power within, and to move towards who they want to be.
![Photo of Heather L Trimmer; Aka Payton - Autistic Working for Autistics, MS, LPC, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a12ecbfa-c341-4536-8be9-286a8bf3ccf3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Autistic Working for Autistics
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 73301
Autism is lifelong, it doesn't go away after high school graduation.
Autistic working for Autistics. I'm an autistic adult specializing in the field of autism. Life transitions for Autistic adults can be very difficult and scary. As you know or are discovering, support after high school and beyond is difficult to find. If you are seeking a therapist who understands and can relate to the complexities of ASD, please contact me. I also can provide diagnosis services for adults suspecting to be autistic. If you're unsure if individual therapy is for you; I also provide groups and offer life coaching in USA & internationally.
Autism is lifelong, it doesn't go away after high school graduation.
Autistic working for Autistics. I'm an autistic adult specializing in the field of autism. Life transitions for Autistic adults can be very difficult and scary. As you know or are discovering, support after high school and beyond is difficult to find. If you are seeking a therapist who understands and can relate to the complexities of ASD, please contact me. I also can provide diagnosis services for adults suspecting to be autistic. If you're unsure if individual therapy is for you; I also provide groups and offer life coaching in USA & internationally.
![Photo of Dejai Nelson-Parten, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aefcb586-3c70-4c9a-ac93-e61bd61aab5a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dejai Nelson-Parten
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78702
Supervised by Christina Watts-Figueroa, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S. I strive to be authentic and human in session with my clients to promote a safe environment. After working 5 years in the field of ABA therapy I took on counseling as I saw a greater need for parents and adults in dealing with an Autism diagnosis. I heavily focus on experiential processing in session with all clients to engage with the deeper emotions. I also strive to work with the communities I have been apart of such as military, LGBTQ+, and mixed race background. I look forward to meeting you.
Supervised by Christina Watts-Figueroa, MA, LMFT-S, LPC-S, RPT-S. I strive to be authentic and human in session with my clients to promote a safe environment. After working 5 years in the field of ABA therapy I took on counseling as I saw a greater need for parents and adults in dealing with an Autism diagnosis. I heavily focus on experiential processing in session with all clients to engage with the deeper emotions. I also strive to work with the communities I have been apart of such as military, LGBTQ+, and mixed race background. I look forward to meeting you.
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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.