Autism Therapists in Murphy, TX

Photo of George Andrew Hillis - Hillis Counseling, PLLC, MRC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hillis Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Murphy, TX 75094
Hello, my name is Andrew and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor who provides individual and group therapy in Rockwall and Plano. My aim is to help others improve their anxiety and stress management, coping skills, emotional control/processing, executive functioning, social skills, communication in relationships and more. I specialize in treatment for ASD, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Adjustment Disorders and other diagnoses across various ages (adult, young adult, teenage).
Hello, my name is Andrew and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor who provides individual and group therapy in Rockwall and Plano. My aim is to help others improve their anxiety and stress management, coping skills, emotional control/processing, executive functioning, social skills, communication in relationships and more. I specialize in treatment for ASD, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Adjustment Disorders and other diagnoses across various ages (adult, young adult, teenage).
(214) 256-1153 View (214) 256-1153
Photo of Kim Dee Reynolds, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Dee Reynolds
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Murphy, TX 75094
My approach to therapy is using an emotionally focused therapy. EFCT helps people step out of negative patterns and helps to create a new sense of loving connection. 86 percent of couples report feeling happier in their relationships after completing EFT couple therapy. Studies of EFT have shown a 75% long-lasting success rate.
My approach to therapy is using an emotionally focused therapy. EFCT helps people step out of negative patterns and helps to create a new sense of loving connection. 86 percent of couples report feeling happier in their relationships after completing EFT couple therapy. Studies of EFT have shown a 75% long-lasting success rate.
(214) 390-9643 View (214) 390-9643
Photo of Vanessa Gill - Counseling Center of North Texas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Center of North Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Murphy, TX 75094
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
(469) 275-4107 View (469) 275-4107
Photo of Brandi Garza - Ellie Mental Health of Wylie Texas, LCSW, LMFT, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellie Mental Health of Wylie Texas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Murphy, TX 75094
Ellie Mental Health in Wylie, Texas isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
Ellie Mental Health in Wylie, Texas isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
(972) 778-6860 View (972) 778-6860

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Savannah Pham, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Savannah Pham
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
I also have experience in conducting psychological assessment of learning concerns, attention difficulties, and autism spectrum disorder.
I am a Licensed Psychological Associate at Upside Therapy who is currently accepting new clients. I enjoy and have experience working with adults and adolescents. I value a collaborative and holistic approach that considers all aspects of a client's identity and life (e.g., current stressors, ethnic identity). I utilize evidenced-based treatments that include cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, multicultural, and person-centered strategies to help each client better manage their symptoms and engage more fully in their lives.
I also have experience in conducting psychological assessment of learning concerns, attention difficulties, and autism spectrum disorder.
I am a Licensed Psychological Associate at Upside Therapy who is currently accepting new clients. I enjoy and have experience working with adults and adolescents. I value a collaborative and holistic approach that considers all aspects of a client's identity and life (e.g., current stressors, ethnic identity). I utilize evidenced-based treatments that include cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, multicultural, and person-centered strategies to help each client better manage their symptoms and engage more fully in their lives.
(469) 253-8965 View (469) 253-8965
Photo of Cynthia A. Orrego - Bright Leaf Therapy and Assessment, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist
Bright Leaf Therapy and Assessment
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074
She specializes in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Bright Leaf Therapy and Assessment is a private practice in Plano, Texas that offers psychological services to children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Cynthia Orrego, founder of Bright Leaf Therapy and Assessment, has over 14 years experience in the field of clinical and school psychology. She earned a doctorate degree from Texas A & M University in 2002 and completed her internship training at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She worked for the Houston Independent School District and Spring Branch Independent School District before working in private practice.
She specializes in the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Bright Leaf Therapy and Assessment is a private practice in Plano, Texas that offers psychological services to children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Cynthia Orrego, founder of Bright Leaf Therapy and Assessment, has over 14 years experience in the field of clinical and school psychology. She earned a doctorate degree from Texas A & M University in 2002 and completed her internship training at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. She worked for the Houston Independent School District and Spring Branch Independent School District before working in private practice.
(972) 525-5787 View (972) 525-5787
Photo of Rachel Oppenheimer, PsyD, LSSP, Psychologist
Rachel Oppenheimer
Psychologist, PsyD, LSSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075  (Online Only)
I have experience and enjoy working with individuals impacted by autism spectrum and executive functioning disorders. My aim is to help clients with social skills, self-esteem, insight, perspective taking, and increased quality of life. I use evidence based techniques along with warmth, empathy, and a collaborative and strengths based approach.
I have experience and enjoy working with individuals impacted by autism spectrum and executive functioning disorders. My aim is to help clients with social skills, self-esteem, insight, perspective taking, and increased quality of life. I use evidence based techniques along with warmth, empathy, and a collaborative and strengths based approach.
(469) 481-1341 View (469) 481-1341
Photo of Shannon Cotter, ThM, MA, LPC, Counselor
Shannon Cotter
Counselor, ThM, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013  (Online Only)
I am a Christian Counselor who brings extensive expertise in working with people dealing with conflicts in relationships, singleness, spouses of addicts, abusive relationships, grief/loss, anger management, adolescents, aging, trauma, and high functioning Autism.
I encourage a genuine attitude with self, other people and God in order to have authentic relationships. I use a respectful, direct and collaborative approach in my sessions and believe that interpersonal relationships are a key factor in successfully navigating life. Transitions and challenges can offer us an opportunity to find greater understanding of purpose, more meaningful relationships, and increased confidence and personal gratification. I understand how difficult the process of counseling can be, but I also know the rewards that come from true healing.
I am a Christian Counselor who brings extensive expertise in working with people dealing with conflicts in relationships, singleness, spouses of addicts, abusive relationships, grief/loss, anger management, adolescents, aging, trauma, and high functioning Autism.
I encourage a genuine attitude with self, other people and God in order to have authentic relationships. I use a respectful, direct and collaborative approach in my sessions and believe that interpersonal relationships are a key factor in successfully navigating life. Transitions and challenges can offer us an opportunity to find greater understanding of purpose, more meaningful relationships, and increased confidence and personal gratification. I understand how difficult the process of counseling can be, but I also know the rewards that come from true healing.
(469) 972-3835 View (469) 972-3835
Photo of Kristen Belloni, PhD, LP, LSSP, Psychologist
Kristen Belloni
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LSSP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75025
Dr. Belloni's focus is on providing individuals thorough psychological and neuropsychological evaluations to drive treatment plans for emotional and behavioral improvement. Dr. Belloni works with individuals of all ages throughout the lifespan and those experiencing psychological and behavioral health difficulties. She is experienced in conducting hundreds of Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, neuropsychological, bariatric and pre-operative pain assessments, Veterans compensation and pension, foster/adoptive children, Child Protective Services, and other psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults.
Dr. Belloni's focus is on providing individuals thorough psychological and neuropsychological evaluations to drive treatment plans for emotional and behavioral improvement. Dr. Belloni works with individuals of all ages throughout the lifespan and those experiencing psychological and behavioral health difficulties. She is experienced in conducting hundreds of Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, neuropsychological, bariatric and pre-operative pain assessments, Veterans compensation and pension, foster/adoptive children, Child Protective Services, and other psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults.
(214) 427-8687 View (214) 427-8687
Photo of Jeanine Roddy - Frisco Feeding & Speech Therapy, MA, CCC, SLP
Frisco Feeding & Speech Therapy
MA, CCC, SLP
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
Executive Functioning; ADHD; Pragmatic Social Skills; Fluency & Stuttering; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Oral Motor Feeding; Behavioral Feeding Challenges; Social Skills Therapy; Speech Therapy; Feeding Therapy; Dyslexia Services.
Jeanine Roddy, M.A., CCC-SLP., has successfully practiced speech therapy, feeding therapy and communication skills training for over 12 years. Jeanine and our certified SLP's are focused on the evaluation and treatment of preschool and school age children with executive functioning issues related to ADHD, speech and language impairments, feeding disorders, and social skills training. If you are interested in reading about what parents say about Jeanine and our speech therapists you can check our Google reviews or click here: https://goo.gl/maps/h8YkBaj3XMN2
Executive Functioning; ADHD; Pragmatic Social Skills; Fluency & Stuttering; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Oral Motor Feeding; Behavioral Feeding Challenges; Social Skills Therapy; Speech Therapy; Feeding Therapy; Dyslexia Services.
Jeanine Roddy, M.A., CCC-SLP., has successfully practiced speech therapy, feeding therapy and communication skills training for over 12 years. Jeanine and our certified SLP's are focused on the evaluation and treatment of preschool and school age children with executive functioning issues related to ADHD, speech and language impairments, feeding disorders, and social skills training. If you are interested in reading about what parents say about Jeanine and our speech therapists you can check our Google reviews or click here: https://goo.gl/maps/h8YkBaj3XMN2
(469) 629-7299 View (469) 629-7299
Photo of Carrie Davidson - The Center Testing and Assessments, PsyD, LP, MSSW, Psychologist
The Center Testing and Assessments
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, MSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
Worried your child may have ADHD? Autism? Feel your child may have learning differences that make school more difficult? Ever thought that there was something going on with your child or teen that you just could not put a finger on? An assessment may be the answer.
The Center testing team is highly qualified and experienced, specializing in various areas of mental health and education to ensure you receive accurate diagnoses and an effective treatment plan. They have a deep understanding of the latest assessment tools and techniques to provide accurate and reliable results. Our therapists offer personalized treatment plans that cater to each client's unique needs and goals. Using a client-centered approach empowers clients to take an active role in their treatment. We work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for overcoming their challenges and achieving their goals.
Worried your child may have ADHD? Autism? Feel your child may have learning differences that make school more difficult? Ever thought that there was something going on with your child or teen that you just could not put a finger on? An assessment may be the answer.
The Center testing team is highly qualified and experienced, specializing in various areas of mental health and education to ensure you receive accurate diagnoses and an effective treatment plan. They have a deep understanding of the latest assessment tools and techniques to provide accurate and reliable results. Our therapists offer personalized treatment plans that cater to each client's unique needs and goals. Using a client-centered approach empowers clients to take an active role in their treatment. We work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies for overcoming their challenges and achieving their goals.
(214) 997-6775 View (214) 997-6775
Photo of Amanda Logan Hoppe, PhD, LPA, BCBA-D, Psychological Associate
Amanda Logan Hoppe
Psychological Associate, PhD, LPA, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75013
Dr. Hoppe specializes in autism spectrum disorder and ADHD diagnostic evaluations with children and adolescents. She individualizes her evaluations based on each family’s specific needs and takes a behavior-driven approach to the assessment process. Logan is also a doctoral level behavior analyst and has extensive clinical (11+ years) and research experience in the assessment and treatment of autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents.
Dr. Hoppe specializes in autism spectrum disorder and ADHD diagnostic evaluations with children and adolescents. She individualizes her evaluations based on each family’s specific needs and takes a behavior-driven approach to the assessment process. Logan is also a doctoral level behavior analyst and has extensive clinical (11+ years) and research experience in the assessment and treatment of autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents.
(972) 736-9917 View (972) 736-9917
Photo of Tracy Merino, PsyD, HSP, Psychologist
Tracy Merino
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75025  (Online Only)
I work with children, adolescents, and adults in crisis, focusing on a wide spectrum of issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, anger, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and behavioral problems.
Only telehealth at this time. I aim to help clients learn skills that will help them manage their emotions, effectively cope with distress, and develop healthier relationships. I also enjoy helping parents and families' support loved ones through validation, limit-setting, and emotional regulation skills. I emphasize a warm, non-judgmental approach to client care, helping clients reach practical, concrete solutions to complex problems. I believe every individual has the potential to achieve success within his/her personal, professional and relationship life.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults in crisis, focusing on a wide spectrum of issues such as low self-esteem, anxiety, anger, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and behavioral problems.
Only telehealth at this time. I aim to help clients learn skills that will help them manage their emotions, effectively cope with distress, and develop healthier relationships. I also enjoy helping parents and families' support loved ones through validation, limit-setting, and emotional regulation skills. I emphasize a warm, non-judgmental approach to client care, helping clients reach practical, concrete solutions to complex problems. I believe every individual has the potential to achieve success within his/her personal, professional and relationship life.
(972) 362-6697 View (972) 362-6697
Photo of Angela Mitchell - Center for Psychological Services, PLLC, Psychologist
Center for Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
CFPS offers psychological (Autism, ADHD, mood disorders), neuropsychological, pre-surgical, and psycho-educational testing; counseling services; as well as professional consultation to individuals, families, school districts, and other mental health and medical professionals. Please browse through our website - www.cfpsonline.com - to become familiar with the services we provide and the staff members who provide those services.
CFPS offers psychological (Autism, ADHD, mood disorders), neuropsychological, pre-surgical, and psycho-educational testing; counseling services; as well as professional consultation to individuals, families, school districts, and other mental health and medical professionals. Please browse through our website - www.cfpsonline.com - to become familiar with the services we provide and the staff members who provide those services.
(972) 332-3805 View (972) 332-3805
Photo of Emily Bogaev, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Bogaev
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75036
I specialize in helping children and teens with anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, life transitions, behavioral concerns, and family connection.
Is your child exhibiting defiant behaviors or having trouble with transitions? Is your teenager struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you at a loss for how to help your child or how to address unwanted behaviors? Are the changes your family is facing more than you can handle by yourself? Navigating life's hills and valleys can be hard, but you and your family don't have to do it alone. Let me help you and your family by providing safe place for healing and change to begin.
I specialize in helping children and teens with anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, life transitions, behavioral concerns, and family connection.
Is your child exhibiting defiant behaviors or having trouble with transitions? Is your teenager struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you at a loss for how to help your child or how to address unwanted behaviors? Are the changes your family is facing more than you can handle by yourself? Navigating life's hills and valleys can be hard, but you and your family don't have to do it alone. Let me help you and your family by providing safe place for healing and change to begin.
(972) 413-8027 View (972) 413-8027
Photo of Preston Ivey, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Preston Ivey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75094
I specialize in working with neurodiversity - I work with clients for issues related to: autism, anxiety, OCD, fears/phobias, LGBTQ identity.
I’m passionate about working with children, adolescents, and families to reach goals for positive growth. I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with children and adolescents, and I work closely with families to help parents understand how to better support their child. I am trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), an evidence-based treatment program for parents of children with anxiety and OCD. I have additional experience through BTTI (Behavioral Therapist Training Institute; International OCD Foundation), an intensive training course in Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD.
I specialize in working with neurodiversity - I work with clients for issues related to: autism, anxiety, OCD, fears/phobias, LGBTQ identity.
I’m passionate about working with children, adolescents, and families to reach goals for positive growth. I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with children and adolescents, and I work closely with families to help parents understand how to better support their child. I am trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), an evidence-based treatment program for parents of children with anxiety and OCD. I have additional experience through BTTI (Behavioral Therapist Training Institute; International OCD Foundation), an intensive training course in Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD.
(972) 843-7635 View (972) 843-7635
Photo of Charleen Wilder, PsyD, Psychologist
Charleen Wilder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
I am also experienced in conducting psychological assessment of autism, personality disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention difficulties, learning concerns, and intellectual disabilities for children and adults.
I specialize and enjoy working with neurodiverse adolescents and adults that have challenges or identities related to autism, anxiety, ADHD, and the LGTBQ community. I lead groups for transgender youth and for parents of transgender people. I value a holistic, collaborative approach that takes into consideration every aspect of the client’s life (e.g., medical history, religion/spirituality, psycho-social stressors, family dynamics). I utilize evidenced-based treatments that include cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and interpersonal strategies to help each individual better manage their symptoms.
I am also experienced in conducting psychological assessment of autism, personality disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, attention difficulties, learning concerns, and intellectual disabilities for children and adults.
I specialize and enjoy working with neurodiverse adolescents and adults that have challenges or identities related to autism, anxiety, ADHD, and the LGTBQ community. I lead groups for transgender youth and for parents of transgender people. I value a holistic, collaborative approach that takes into consideration every aspect of the client’s life (e.g., medical history, religion/spirituality, psycho-social stressors, family dynamics). I utilize evidenced-based treatments that include cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and interpersonal strategies to help each individual better manage their symptoms.
(469) 457-4394 View (469) 457-4394
Photo of Christopher Smith, PhD, Psychologist
Christopher Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087  (Online Only)
Small wait list for new clients. Autism Advantage is an innovative telehealth practice devoted to working with adults with autism spectrum conditions to understand their unique personality advantages and use their gifts to overcome challenges. We believe autism spectrum conditions are neurological differences to be understood and appreciated. Countless historic and current innovators have been or likely would have been diagnosed with autism spectrum conditions. Many successful people with these conditions believe it gives them unique advantages to problem solve they can use to overcome challenges.
Small wait list for new clients. Autism Advantage is an innovative telehealth practice devoted to working with adults with autism spectrum conditions to understand their unique personality advantages and use their gifts to overcome challenges. We believe autism spectrum conditions are neurological differences to be understood and appreciated. Countless historic and current innovators have been or likely would have been diagnosed with autism spectrum conditions. Many successful people with these conditions believe it gives them unique advantages to problem solve they can use to overcome challenges.
(469) 940-7450 View (469) 940-7450
Photo of Lauren Roth Certified Autism Specialist, MS, LPC, NCC, CAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Roth Certified Autism Specialist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
I believe in Temple Grandin's declaration, "I am different, not less." As a Certified Autism Specialist, I enjoy working with those who are neurodivergent thinkers, have Autism, ADHD, OCD, PDD, or learning differences, or who share traits with neurodivergent thinkers. My Texas-based therapy practice aims for you to feel supported, respected, and guided to find wellness and growth in your life. Are you wanting to improve your relationships, or share with others your truest self? I'd love to help. In addition to in-person, you can meet with me via telehealth throughout the states of Texas and Minnesota.
I believe in Temple Grandin's declaration, "I am different, not less." As a Certified Autism Specialist, I enjoy working with those who are neurodivergent thinkers, have Autism, ADHD, OCD, PDD, or learning differences, or who share traits with neurodivergent thinkers. My Texas-based therapy practice aims for you to feel supported, respected, and guided to find wellness and growth in your life. Are you wanting to improve your relationships, or share with others your truest self? I'd love to help. In addition to in-person, you can meet with me via telehealth throughout the states of Texas and Minnesota.
(214) 206-4661 View (214) 206-4661
Photo of Sam Peters, LPC, LSC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sam Peters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75082
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, and I'm taking on new clients. I have over 20 years experience and I love to work with children and families, and my specialties include children learning differences, including ADHD, Autism, 2e, Dyslexia and other neurodivergences. I also do general counseling for adults and teens. I love to help kids develop skills that will help them lead a successful, independent life. If you'd like to talk more, please feel free to contact me. I also love working with schools, teachers and churches to help them develop effective strategies for working with children with special needs.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, and I'm taking on new clients. I have over 20 years experience and I love to work with children and families, and my specialties include children learning differences, including ADHD, Autism, 2e, Dyslexia and other neurodivergences. I also do general counseling for adults and teens. I love to help kids develop skills that will help them lead a successful, independent life. If you'd like to talk more, please feel free to contact me. I also love working with schools, teachers and churches to help them develop effective strategies for working with children with special needs.
(214) 761-6347 View (214) 761-6347

See more therapy options for Murphy

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.