Autism Therapists in Plano, TX

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 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 W Beth Rule, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
W Beth Rule
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I have been fortunate to work with many clients coping with ADHD and Autism, and many who are exploring gender and sexual identity.
Are you ready for change? Whether you are frustrated with a lack of direction and motivation, or you are struggling with healing from betrayal or trauma, we can work together to find a path forward. I believe deeply in our ability to grow and learn at every stage of our lives, and I provide guidance, support, education, and hope for the journey.
I have been fortunate to work with many clients coping with ADHD and Autism, and many who are exploring gender and sexual identity.
Are you ready for change? Whether you are frustrated with a lack of direction and motivation, or you are struggling with healing from betrayal or trauma, we can work together to find a path forward. I believe deeply in our ability to grow and learn at every stage of our lives, and I provide guidance, support, education, and hope for the journey.
(940) 373-5730 View (940) 373-5730
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 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 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 Bonny Stewart - Bloom Child Psychology, PLLC, PsyD, MEd, RPT-S, Psychologist
Bloom Child Psychology, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
She specializes in diagnostic evaluations for autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, dyslexia/learning disorders, and anxiety/depression.
Dr. Bonny Stewart is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Specialist in School Psychologist, and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. She has advanced specialization working with children and families. Her passion is to help parents find answers and understanding to help their child succeed at home, school, and in all aspects of their lives.
She specializes in diagnostic evaluations for autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, dyslexia/learning disorders, and anxiety/depression.
Dr. Bonny Stewart is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Specialist in School Psychologist, and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. She has advanced specialization working with children and families. Her passion is to help parents find answers and understanding to help their child succeed at home, school, and in all aspects of their lives.
(469) 457-4197 View (469) 457-4197
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 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 Coffey - Behavior Network, Inc., PhD, BCBA-D, CBIS, NADD-CC, LBA
Behavior Network, Inc.
PhD, BCBA-D, CBIS, NADD-CC, LBA
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024
Behavior Network, Inc. was founded on the principle of providing effective evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) practices for individuals across the lifespan from children to adults. Our clients typically come to us with severe behaviors; they may have a diagnosis that includes Autism, Aspergers, Intellectual Disability or Mental Illness.
Behavior Network, Inc. was founded on the principle of providing effective evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) practices for individuals across the lifespan from children to adults. Our clients typically come to us with severe behaviors; they may have a diagnosis that includes Autism, Aspergers, Intellectual Disability or Mental Illness.
(469) 713-1758 View (469) 713-1758
Photo of Michelle Kandalaft - Spectra Therapies + Evaluations, PhD, PLLC, Psychologist
Spectra Therapies + Evaluations
Psychologist, PhD, PLLC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I am passionate about working with individuals with High Functioning Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and PDD-NOS to achieve increased social skills, insight, social thinking, and quality of life. I also work with individuals that are not on the spectrum, specifically anxious and depressive disorders. My clinic, Spectra Therapies + Evaluations, has a team of psychologists (PhD, PsyD), counselors (LPC), and interns that provide various evaluations, therapies, and advocacies. My team and I provide evaluations for ages 20 months through late adulthood. We specialize in autism evaluations.
I am passionate about working with individuals with High Functioning Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, and PDD-NOS to achieve increased social skills, insight, social thinking, and quality of life. I also work with individuals that are not on the spectrum, specifically anxious and depressive disorders. My clinic, Spectra Therapies + Evaluations, has a team of psychologists (PhD, PsyD), counselors (LPC), and interns that provide various evaluations, therapies, and advocacies. My team and I provide evaluations for ages 20 months through late adulthood. We specialize in autism evaluations.
(972) 441-7742 View (972) 441-7742
Photo of Barry G Grossman, PhD, LSSP, Psychologist
Barry G Grossman
Psychologist, PhD, LSSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum has been my life’s work. I own a private practice that focuses on providing counseling and comprehensive evaluation of autism. I have an emphasis on working with females on the spectrum. I also write books, textbooks, journal articles, and speak internationally on improving identification and services. You can learn more about my work here: https://www.zigguratgroup.com/pages/ziggurat
Working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum has been my life’s work. I own a private practice that focuses on providing counseling and comprehensive evaluation of autism. I have an emphasis on working with females on the spectrum. I also write books, textbooks, journal articles, and speak internationally on improving identification and services. You can learn more about my work here: https://www.zigguratgroup.com/pages/ziggurat
(469) 382-1487 View (469) 382-1487
Photo of Shannon Cotter, ThM, MA, LPC, Counselor
Shannon Cotter
Counselor, ThM, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75023  (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 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 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 Daralyn A. Plains, PhD, Psychologist
Daralyn A. Plains
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074
The following services are available: Consultation, School Readiness Assessments, ADHD Evaluations, Evaluations for Dyslexia, Psychoeducational Evaluations, Evaluations for Disturbances in Mood and Behavior, Autism Evaluations, and Preoperative Psychological Evaluations.
My mission is to optimize the educational and life experiences of children, adolescents, and young adults. Optimization is pursued by becoming familiarized with each client's unique emotional, behavioral, and learning profile through assessments which identify patterns of strengths as well as areas which are in need of improvement. Behavioral, emotional, and cognitive functioning is assessed within the context of environmental, social and physiological factors and conditions. The ultimate goal is to instill hope and confidence in my clients and provide them with the information needed to advocate for their well-being.
The following services are available: Consultation, School Readiness Assessments, ADHD Evaluations, Evaluations for Dyslexia, Psychoeducational Evaluations, Evaluations for Disturbances in Mood and Behavior, Autism Evaluations, and Preoperative Psychological Evaluations.
My mission is to optimize the educational and life experiences of children, adolescents, and young adults. Optimization is pursued by becoming familiarized with each client's unique emotional, behavioral, and learning profile through assessments which identify patterns of strengths as well as areas which are in need of improvement. Behavioral, emotional, and cognitive functioning is assessed within the context of environmental, social and physiological factors and conditions. The ultimate goal is to instill hope and confidence in my clients and provide them with the information needed to advocate for their well-being.
(469) 275-4770 View (469) 275-4770
Photo of Cynthia Meagan Finefrock - Balanced Life Solutions, MS, LPCA
Balanced Life Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Cindy! I love to help people find their spark and believe in themselves! My work focuses on young adults and late adolescents seeking to understand and accept who they are. I specialize in assisting with a variety of human experiences, including Autism Spectrum Condition, ADHD, disability, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and spirituality. In therapy, I collaborate with you on implementing practical strategies to navigate your unique brain, relationships, and life circumstances. We can use existential counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, mood management, exposure treatment, or even dream work!
Hi, my name is Cindy! I love to help people find their spark and believe in themselves! My work focuses on young adults and late adolescents seeking to understand and accept who they are. I specialize in assisting with a variety of human experiences, including Autism Spectrum Condition, ADHD, disability, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and spirituality. In therapy, I collaborate with you on implementing practical strategies to navigate your unique brain, relationships, and life circumstances. We can use existential counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, mood management, exposure treatment, or even dream work!
(214) 319-8496 View (214) 319-8496
Photo of Christy L Lewis, PsyD, LCSW-S, BCN, BCB, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christy L Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW-S, BCN, BCB
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I counsel individuals of all ages, and have extensive experience utilizing Peripheral Biofeedback and Neurofeedback as a treatment modality with individuals suffering with anxiety, ADHD, autism, frustration/anger, and behavioral issues.
Are you wondering if there is a safe, fun, and non-invasive therapy to help with your child's social, emotional, and behavioral needs? I work with children, teens, & adults with anxiety or attentional issues, and offer both bio/neurofeedback training and interactive metronome training. I also administer and analyze QEEG's. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have counseled for a combined 17 years in several clinical and medical settings and have a strong background in career/life coaching. I am also Board Certified in Biofeedback and Neurofeedback through BCIA, the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance organization.
I counsel individuals of all ages, and have extensive experience utilizing Peripheral Biofeedback and Neurofeedback as a treatment modality with individuals suffering with anxiety, ADHD, autism, frustration/anger, and behavioral issues.
Are you wondering if there is a safe, fun, and non-invasive therapy to help with your child's social, emotional, and behavioral needs? I work with children, teens, & adults with anxiety or attentional issues, and offer both bio/neurofeedback training and interactive metronome training. I also administer and analyze QEEG's. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have counseled for a combined 17 years in several clinical and medical settings and have a strong background in career/life coaching. I am also Board Certified in Biofeedback and Neurofeedback through BCIA, the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance organization.
(214) 307-8367 View (214) 307-8367
Photo of James Beasley - Aletheia Therapy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Beasley - Aletheia Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074
Neurodivergence includes ADHD traits and Autism Spectrum experiences.
Does something feel off in your relationships? Do you feel stuck in thought patterns? Do your reactions seem to be more in control of you than you are of them? I can help. I believe authenticity with empathy creates space that allows healing and self-compassion to exist.
Neurodivergence includes ADHD traits and Autism Spectrum experiences.
Does something feel off in your relationships? Do you feel stuck in thought patterns? Do your reactions seem to be more in control of you than you are of them? I can help. I believe authenticity with empathy creates space that allows healing and self-compassion to exist.
(972) 891-3125 View (972) 891-3125
Amanda Estep
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
My objective is to help clients who are looking to help themselves find their version of wellbeing. By utilizing client-centered support, knowledge, resources, tools, and guidance, I work to help clients experience control over their lives and the power to defeat whatever obstacle they may encounter. I want clients to feel supported in the most wholesome way possible and want to ensure that each individual feels his/her/their needs are heard. I enjoy working with individuals with disabilities, LGBTQ+, autism, adverse childhood experiences, ADHD, oppositional defiance disorder, and trauma.
My objective is to help clients who are looking to help themselves find their version of wellbeing. By utilizing client-centered support, knowledge, resources, tools, and guidance, I work to help clients experience control over their lives and the power to defeat whatever obstacle they may encounter. I want clients to feel supported in the most wholesome way possible and want to ensure that each individual feels his/her/their needs are heard. I enjoy working with individuals with disabilities, LGBTQ+, autism, adverse childhood experiences, ADHD, oppositional defiance disorder, and trauma.
(469) 649-8439 View (469) 649-8439
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.