Autism Therapists in Houston, TX
![Photo of Leah Newlove Clionsky - Thriving Child Center, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40136388-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
We also offer Gold Standard Autism Testing and ADHD Testing in our clinic.
Watching your child struggle is very hard and causes parents to feel alone and helpless. Parents ask themselves, "How will this person help my child? Will things get better?" Doctors at the Thriving Child Center are licensed psychologists who specialize in helping children, adolescents, and their families with treatments that really work and are supported by science and research. We will guide you through the process of finding out what is wrong, making a treatment plan to address your specific concerns, and using a treatment that works and is tailored to help your family.
We also offer Gold Standard Autism Testing and ADHD Testing in our clinic.
Watching your child struggle is very hard and causes parents to feel alone and helpless. Parents ask themselves, "How will this person help my child? Will things get better?" Doctors at the Thriving Child Center are licensed psychologists who specialize in helping children, adolescents, and their families with treatments that really work and are supported by science and research. We will guide you through the process of finding out what is wrong, making a treatment plan to address your specific concerns, and using a treatment that works and is tailored to help your family.
![Photo of Melissa Fasteau, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28a05790-e6e8-4e86-b2b2-fcc0f16f075e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you desire freedom from obsessive thoughts? Are you trapped in a loop of worries, feel anxious, or find yourself stuck repeating behaviors that prevent you from living your best life? Recovery is possible. I am a licensed psychologist specialized in evidence-based treatments for OCD and related disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and body-focused repetitive behaviors. I have expertise in evidence-based treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and comprehensive behavioral model (ComB). I treat adolescents, adults and those with autism spectrum disorder.
Do you desire freedom from obsessive thoughts? Are you trapped in a loop of worries, feel anxious, or find yourself stuck repeating behaviors that prevent you from living your best life? Recovery is possible. I am a licensed psychologist specialized in evidence-based treatments for OCD and related disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and body-focused repetitive behaviors. I have expertise in evidence-based treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and comprehensive behavioral model (ComB). I treat adolescents, adults and those with autism spectrum disorder.
![Photo of Jenny Ferguson Rohde, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61e3f90f-7844-4f3d-a7c4-625a718794f3/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that building a respectful, trusting relationship with my clients is critical to a successful therapeutic process. I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to change and grow in their personal life. I have worked with individuals with neurological differences such as autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders. Most recently I worked with young adults to support the transition into adulthood including issues with school, relationships, stress, anxiety, depression, social skills, communication and self-esteem. I provide a safe, comfortable place for my clients to be vulnerable and transparent.
I believe that building a respectful, trusting relationship with my clients is critical to a successful therapeutic process. I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to change and grow in their personal life. I have worked with individuals with neurological differences such as autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders. Most recently I worked with young adults to support the transition into adulthood including issues with school, relationships, stress, anxiety, depression, social skills, communication and self-esteem. I provide a safe, comfortable place for my clients to be vulnerable and transparent.
![Photo of Theodor Napp, LPC-A, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c10b539-878a-488d-859a-f57ae107ff53/1/320x400.jpeg)
Theodor Napp
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , LPC-A, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77008
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate (LPC-A) under the supervision of Stephanie Michelle Taylor (LPC-S), working at Elite Medical Wellness-West. I am passionate about working with individuals 16 and up. My areas of focus include helping clients work through Trauma, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Grief, Autism Issues, and Life Situations. I hope to guide and support you on the path to achieving your goals and helping to create a healthy lifestyle through understanding and accepting your life experiences.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate (LPC-A) under the supervision of Stephanie Michelle Taylor (LPC-S), working at Elite Medical Wellness-West. I am passionate about working with individuals 16 and up. My areas of focus include helping clients work through Trauma, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Grief, Autism Issues, and Life Situations. I hope to guide and support you on the path to achieving your goals and helping to create a healthy lifestyle through understanding and accepting your life experiences.
![Photo of Jessica H. Smith, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b59c0f6-d2b5-4222-b998-6e23ceb369b6/2/320x400.png)
Jessica H. Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77018
The world can be a tough place for neurodivergent folks. ADHD, autism, chronic illness, trauma, disability and mental health struggles can sometimes make meeting your own basic, everyday needs feel exhausting. Keeping up with the responsibilities and demands of life might leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, ashamed, lonely or embarrassed. Other people don't seem to understand why it's so hard for you and sometimes neither do you! You have so many strengths, but it feels like they're buried under layers of self-doubt, frustration and burnout. You're not broken. Your needs are different. You deserve support. We SO get it.
The world can be a tough place for neurodivergent folks. ADHD, autism, chronic illness, trauma, disability and mental health struggles can sometimes make meeting your own basic, everyday needs feel exhausting. Keeping up with the responsibilities and demands of life might leave you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, ashamed, lonely or embarrassed. Other people don't seem to understand why it's so hard for you and sometimes neither do you! You have so many strengths, but it feels like they're buried under layers of self-doubt, frustration and burnout. You're not broken. Your needs are different. You deserve support. We SO get it.
![Photo of Glenn Scott Harrell, MEd, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29fdb76a-a4f5-4a32-b6ef-de29af5d8557/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a specialist in behavior analytic therapy, my ideal client is an individual living with Autism or ADHD. They may face challenges in communication, social interaction, and maintaining focus. Their needs often include structured support to develop coping strategies, enhance life skills, and improve behavioral responses. Their goals revolve around achieving greater independence, fostering meaningful relationships, and excelling in academic or professional environments. They seek therapy to navigate their unique challenges, embrace their strengths, and lead a fulfilling life.
As a specialist in behavior analytic therapy, my ideal client is an individual living with Autism or ADHD. They may face challenges in communication, social interaction, and maintaining focus. Their needs often include structured support to develop coping strategies, enhance life skills, and improve behavioral responses. Their goals revolve around achieving greater independence, fostering meaningful relationships, and excelling in academic or professional environments. They seek therapy to navigate their unique challenges, embrace their strengths, and lead a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Veronica Agyapomaa, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb1be19f-cac8-4db5-8974-b284776f5fc1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Agyapomaa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77056
Do you feel overwhelmed by what life has thrown your way? Expressing our thoughts and emotions aloud are powerful steps toward gaining perspective. I specialize and have experience in working with children (aged 10+), families, couples, and individuals navigating complex life transitions such as school, death, divorce, IVF, miscarriage, chronic illnesses, and grief. In my sessions with couples and families, we work to fostering new ways to relate to each other. I also work with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, assisting families or working individually towards bonding, understanding, and strengths-based growth.
Do you feel overwhelmed by what life has thrown your way? Expressing our thoughts and emotions aloud are powerful steps toward gaining perspective. I specialize and have experience in working with children (aged 10+), families, couples, and individuals navigating complex life transitions such as school, death, divorce, IVF, miscarriage, chronic illnesses, and grief. In my sessions with couples and families, we work to fostering new ways to relate to each other. I also work with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, assisting families or working individually towards bonding, understanding, and strengths-based growth.
![Photo of Jill Foley Torres, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6b7584f-4d93-445d-abdb-990c59887973/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Clients. Foley Torres Dr. Torres offers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychological Evaluations. She also provides supervision for interns/post-doctoral students . Dr. Torres is accustomed to treating clients with mental health disorders such as Trichotillomania, gender dysphoria, OCD, Panic Disorder, Depression, and other serious mental health struggles. Dr. Torres has a special interest in helping preteens, teens and adults on the autism spectrum. Her clinic is open to people of any nationality, race religion, gender and sexual orientation. Saturday appointments are available. Call 832-705-0912 for an appt.
Now Accepting New Clients. Foley Torres Dr. Torres offers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychological Evaluations. She also provides supervision for interns/post-doctoral students . Dr. Torres is accustomed to treating clients with mental health disorders such as Trichotillomania, gender dysphoria, OCD, Panic Disorder, Depression, and other serious mental health struggles. Dr. Torres has a special interest in helping preteens, teens and adults on the autism spectrum. Her clinic is open to people of any nationality, race religion, gender and sexual orientation. Saturday appointments are available. Call 832-705-0912 for an appt.
![Photo of Daniel K Sanders, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a10b5c0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We provide testing and assessments for learning disabilities, autism, mental Heath issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
We are a group of license professional counselors and psychologist dedicated to providing our clients with quality psychological services including individual psychotherapy for children, teens and adults. Your success and happiness is our goal. Because we have several clinicians we can find the right therapist for you. In addition we provide a variety of psychological testing and assessment.
We provide testing and assessments for learning disabilities, autism, mental Heath issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
We are a group of license professional counselors and psychologist dedicated to providing our clients with quality psychological services including individual psychotherapy for children, teens and adults. Your success and happiness is our goal. Because we have several clinicians we can find the right therapist for you. In addition we provide a variety of psychological testing and assessment.
![Photo of Jennifer Tucker - Morgan's Helping Hands, MS, LPC, ACAS, CASDCS, AAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8400a879-6403-47b6-a0c8-c45083d81352/3/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan's Helping Hands
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACAS, CASDCS, AAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77095
“I should know how to do this. Everyone else seems to fit in”. Living with Autism is so much more complex than it seems. Whether it's in a store or at a school you’ve become hyper aware that you just don’t know what to do. “Am I saying the right things”? What if they misunderstand me”? Desperately wanting to make a connection, but not knowing how. Feeling overwhelmed because there is so much happening. Not knowing who to talk to or which particular words to use. Nerves leaving you frozen. Your confidence is shot and it's clear that you really need help from someone who can help make a plan.
“I should know how to do this. Everyone else seems to fit in”. Living with Autism is so much more complex than it seems. Whether it's in a store or at a school you’ve become hyper aware that you just don’t know what to do. “Am I saying the right things”? What if they misunderstand me”? Desperately wanting to make a connection, but not knowing how. Feeling overwhelmed because there is so much happening. Not knowing who to talk to or which particular words to use. Nerves leaving you frozen. Your confidence is shot and it's clear that you really need help from someone who can help make a plan.
![Photo of Jamie M Schneider, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/753b12db-e7d7-426e-8def-eae28c196db3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie M Schneider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
I enjoy helping children and teens that are struggling with aspects of life such as learning differences, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, peer conflict, trauma, shame, and lack of self-worth. Are you a parent with complicated feelings surrounding parenting and wonder what will work for your child's specific needs? I can help you figure figure it out. Maybe you are curious about expanding your family through adoption. My life’s passion is helping individuals through these passages in life.
I enjoy helping children and teens that are struggling with aspects of life such as learning differences, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, peer conflict, trauma, shame, and lack of self-worth. Are you a parent with complicated feelings surrounding parenting and wonder what will work for your child's specific needs? I can help you figure figure it out. Maybe you are curious about expanding your family through adoption. My life’s passion is helping individuals through these passages in life.
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![Photo of Mi Nguyen, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18dda9bf-4369-4e73-af56-4511071e58c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Experience a fresh and caring approach to therapy with someone who truly understands and supports you. As a therapist dedicated to helping children, teens, and families, I am here to listen and make sure everyone feels heard. I have several years of experience working with children, especially those with autism, and I’m passionate about helping them communicate better. I also support people dealing with anxiety, depression, and grief, helping them navigate their feelings and find their inner strength.
Experience a fresh and caring approach to therapy with someone who truly understands and supports you. As a therapist dedicated to helping children, teens, and families, I am here to listen and make sure everyone feels heard. I have several years of experience working with children, especially those with autism, and I’m passionate about helping them communicate better. I also support people dealing with anxiety, depression, and grief, helping them navigate their feelings and find their inner strength.
![Photo of LaKeshia Y Wells, MS, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6dee7001-3150-4836-9bc0-d24fe8376919/1/320x400.jpeg)
LaKeshia Y Wells
Board Certified Behavior Analyst, MS, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77025
Waitlist for new clients
In 2021, the CDC reported that 1 in 44 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. This number had been on the rise for years, and with it the demand for quality autism therapy services. Parents of children with autism are seeking services that will help their children thrive more through increased independence, communication, living skills, and improved advocacy. Early intervention can improve learning, communication and social skills, as well as underlying brain development, so parents need these services as soon as possible.
In 2021, the CDC reported that 1 in 44 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. This number had been on the rise for years, and with it the demand for quality autism therapy services. Parents of children with autism are seeking services that will help their children thrive more through increased independence, communication, living skills, and improved advocacy. Early intervention can improve learning, communication and social skills, as well as underlying brain development, so parents need these services as soon as possible.
![Photo of Sarah Scott, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a393c0-d91a-471f-98b8-8e89b22906f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in helping clients with ADHD, learning differences, or an autism spectrum disorder overcome current challenges and plan for success though talk therapy and personalized behavioral interventions.
Mental health is defined as the ability to love, and the ability to work; to be able to have stable and emotionally fulfilling relationships, to take care of your daily needs, and to be able to use your time creatively and productively. I offer person-centered counseling that focuses on helping clients understand their thoughts and feelings in order to change their behavior. I also specialize in Executive Function Coaching. Young people are often bright and capable, but overwhelmed by frustration, anxiety, or inattention. EFC teaches techniques to stay focused, plan ahead, get organized, make decisions, and follow through.
I specialize in helping clients with ADHD, learning differences, or an autism spectrum disorder overcome current challenges and plan for success though talk therapy and personalized behavioral interventions.
Mental health is defined as the ability to love, and the ability to work; to be able to have stable and emotionally fulfilling relationships, to take care of your daily needs, and to be able to use your time creatively and productively. I offer person-centered counseling that focuses on helping clients understand their thoughts and feelings in order to change their behavior. I also specialize in Executive Function Coaching. Young people are often bright and capable, but overwhelmed by frustration, anxiety, or inattention. EFC teaches techniques to stay focused, plan ahead, get organized, make decisions, and follow through.
![Photo of Gina Evans - Total Wellness Assessment & Counseling Center, PhD, LPA, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94c0e6cc-16bf-47cb-a741-fec758499f4c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Total Wellness Assessment & Counseling Center
Psychologist, PhD, LPA, LPC, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77098
We offer individual, family and group counseling and psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for: ADHD, Autism.
Our treatment approach is based on over 20 years of providing testing and treatment services. In every case, our primary treatment goal is to help clients develop the necessary skills to improve health, academic performance, day-to-day functioning and sense of well-being and self-efficacy. We make accessing our services easy by having two convenient locations, evening and weekend hours, and providing virtual and in office services (3801 Kirby Dr. Suite 311 Houston, TX 77098 and 8820 Will Clayton Parkway Suite A Humble, TX 77338).
We offer individual, family and group counseling and psychological and neuropsychological evaluations for: ADHD, Autism.
Our treatment approach is based on over 20 years of providing testing and treatment services. In every case, our primary treatment goal is to help clients develop the necessary skills to improve health, academic performance, day-to-day functioning and sense of well-being and self-efficacy. We make accessing our services easy by having two convenient locations, evening and weekend hours, and providing virtual and in office services (3801 Kirby Dr. Suite 311 Houston, TX 77098 and 8820 Will Clayton Parkway Suite A Humble, TX 77338).
![Photo of Alton Bozeman, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460e4dbd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I've worked with a variety of patients and consider my specialties to be: psychotherapy with adolescents and young adults; psychological testing including cognitive testing; autism and ADHD assessments; and working with individuals on the autism spectrum who are high functioning.
As an experienced psychologist, I've come to believe that change is most likely to happen when a client and therapist can form a strong therapeutic alliance. Throughout my career, I've seen such alliances produce remarkable results for patients and their families.
I've worked with a variety of patients and consider my specialties to be: psychotherapy with adolescents and young adults; psychological testing including cognitive testing; autism and ADHD assessments; and working with individuals on the autism spectrum who are high functioning.
As an experienced psychologist, I've come to believe that change is most likely to happen when a client and therapist can form a strong therapeutic alliance. Throughout my career, I've seen such alliances produce remarkable results for patients and their families.
![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 Kari Conyers-Brink, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4844d728-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kari Conyers-Brink
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
I have been working in counseling since 2000. I provide individual and family therapy to those having difficulty with depression, anxiety, Autism, anger, ADHD/ADD, trauma, parenting, relationship and family issues.
I have been working in counseling since 2000. I provide individual and family therapy to those having difficulty with depression, anxiety, Autism, anger, ADHD/ADD, trauma, parenting, relationship and family issues.
![Photo of Dana Kelly, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/451fd08c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My services include psychological and psycho-educational assessment for children and adolescents. This can include assessment for psychological concerns, such as hyperactivity, inattention, anxiety, depression, and Autism. Assessment for psycho-educational concerns involves intellectual testing (or IQ), which examines cognitive processes, as well as achievement testing to investigate reading, writing, and math. Through Psycho-educational testing we can investigate academic concerns, such as learning problems and dyslexia, as well as developmental concerns, such as intellectual and developmental disabilities. We offer counseling too
My services include psychological and psycho-educational assessment for children and adolescents. This can include assessment for psychological concerns, such as hyperactivity, inattention, anxiety, depression, and Autism. Assessment for psycho-educational concerns involves intellectual testing (or IQ), which examines cognitive processes, as well as achievement testing to investigate reading, writing, and math. Through Psycho-educational testing we can investigate academic concerns, such as learning problems and dyslexia, as well as developmental concerns, such as intellectual and developmental disabilities. We offer counseling too
![Photo of Jill Hazlip-Freeman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488db2f4-9dd7-45c4-9a94-1e9ecfd8adff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Hazlip-Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Waitlist for new clients
Autism/ADD/ASD Specialty focus & training- As a mother to an autistic son, I am passionate about working with ASD (& neuro-typical) teens & adults to assist in creating behavioral, social & future goals.
Self pay only- Telehealth/Video or Phone or in person sessions (in Beaumont TX) 8 & up TX residents- My counseling approach is caring, understanding, client focused, & solution based. Your needs and goals should be the driving force of your therapy sessions. Beginning therapy is a big step in committing to getting better! Services offered: Individual teen/adult counseling, marriage, LGBTQ+, Autism/ADD/Anxiety/Depression, ADD & autism evaluations ages 8 and up, and weight loss consults. NO insurance accepted, self pay only. Superbills can be given for reimbursement. Sliding scale and pre pay discounts offered, ask if you qualify!
Autism/ADD/ASD Specialty focus & training- As a mother to an autistic son, I am passionate about working with ASD (& neuro-typical) teens & adults to assist in creating behavioral, social & future goals.
Self pay only- Telehealth/Video or Phone or in person sessions (in Beaumont TX) 8 & up TX residents- My counseling approach is caring, understanding, client focused, & solution based. Your needs and goals should be the driving force of your therapy sessions. Beginning therapy is a big step in committing to getting better! Services offered: Individual teen/adult counseling, marriage, LGBTQ+, Autism/ADD/Anxiety/Depression, ADD & autism evaluations ages 8 and up, and weight loss consults. NO insurance accepted, self pay only. Superbills can be given for reimbursement. Sliding scale and pre pay discounts offered, ask if you qualify!
See more therapy options for Houston
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Houston
- Bellaire
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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.