Autism Therapists in Sunnyvale, TX

Photo of Mary Ali Cooper, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Ali Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, TX 75182
I believe every person has value and deserves to live a healthy and fulfilling life. Engaging in a therapeutic relationship can be beneficial in assisting you to reach the goals and desires you have for your life. I believe you are capable of not only addressing some of the tough things that brought you here, but thriving in a life you love. It would be an honor to walk alongside you on your journey.
I believe every person has value and deserves to live a healthy and fulfilling life. Engaging in a therapeutic relationship can be beneficial in assisting you to reach the goals and desires you have for your life. I believe you are capable of not only addressing some of the tough things that brought you here, but thriving in a life you love. It would be an honor to walk alongside you on your journey.
(469) 960-5604 View (469) 960-5604

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tabitha Jones - Get Out Of Your Head Therapy Texas, MSW, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Get Out Of Your Head Therapy Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Balch Springs, TX 75180  (Online Only)
Tabitha decided to go into social work and counseling because she wanted to help people learn how to become the best versions of themselves. Tabitha has experience and passion working with individuals who are adjusting to major life changes such as birth of a child, becoming an empty nester, job changes, changes in marital status, etc. She has experience with helping clients learn to cope and thrive with mood disorders including anxiety, depression, and bi-polar diagnoses. Tabitha also works with patients experiencing disordered eating as well as adults and teens with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Tabitha decided to go into social work and counseling because she wanted to help people learn how to become the best versions of themselves. Tabitha has experience and passion working with individuals who are adjusting to major life changes such as birth of a child, becoming an empty nester, job changes, changes in marital status, etc. She has experience with helping clients learn to cope and thrive with mood disorders including anxiety, depression, and bi-polar diagnoses. Tabitha also works with patients experiencing disordered eating as well as adults and teens with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(859) 376-1831 View (859) 376-1831
Photo of Elizabeth Vargas, PhD, LPC, LCMHC, RPT
Elizabeth Vargas
PhD, LPC, LCMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75238  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Play Therapist and a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist that has worked with individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism as well as supporting the family unit.
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or confused? Have you tried counseling before but didn't find it helpful or you didn't feel that your therapist was a match? Are you anxious about what the counseling process will look like or nervous about sharing your story? I understand how hard the counseling journey can feel. I enjoy working with clients that need support with autism, ADHD, anxiety, grief, trauma, crisis interventions, independent living skills, OCD, bipolar, major life transitions, and eating disorders. I support clients with reaching their goals, helping them find the power within, and to move towards who they want to be.
I am a Registered Play Therapist and a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist that has worked with individuals of all ages diagnosed with Autism as well as supporting the family unit.
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or confused? Have you tried counseling before but didn't find it helpful or you didn't feel that your therapist was a match? Are you anxious about what the counseling process will look like or nervous about sharing your story? I understand how hard the counseling journey can feel. I enjoy working with clients that need support with autism, ADHD, anxiety, grief, trauma, crisis interventions, independent living skills, OCD, bipolar, major life transitions, and eating disorders. I support clients with reaching their goals, helping them find the power within, and to move towards who they want to be.
(603) 506-6663 View (603) 506-6663
Photo of Stacy Marshall, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacy Marshall
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75227  (Online Only)
My specialties include depression and anxiety, trauma, family conflict, Autism and ADHD, BPD, and working with queer, trans, and nonbinary clients.
I believe that each person is the expert on themselves and their experiences, and my role is to be a supportive guide throughout the healing process. I always want our work together to be a collaborative process, so we will structure our time together around your goals. This is your space, and you get to decide how it looks. Some clients are looking to stay near the surface, and work on coping skills and solutions to daily life problems. Others want to explore further into their own past or their inner world..
My specialties include depression and anxiety, trauma, family conflict, Autism and ADHD, BPD, and working with queer, trans, and nonbinary clients.
I believe that each person is the expert on themselves and their experiences, and my role is to be a supportive guide throughout the healing process. I always want our work together to be a collaborative process, so we will structure our time together around your goals. This is your space, and you get to decide how it looks. Some clients are looking to stay near the surface, and work on coping skills and solutions to daily life problems. Others want to explore further into their own past or their inner world..
(737) 232-7468 View (737) 232-7468
Photo of Chanley Dollgener, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chanley Dollgener
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75228  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, social anxiety, relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, Autism, survivors of trauma, and those who are members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Thank you for taking the time to see if there is someone out there to help you through this difficult time and invest in your mental health. I offer a safe, warm, affirming, and collaborative environment when working with my clients. I offer a person-centered approach to therapy, helping clients focus on who they are, determine who they want to be, and help them navigate how to achieve that goal in a healthy and safe way. I also utilize CBT techniques and positive psychology principles such as positive self-talk, highlighting your strengths, finding your identity and empathy building.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, social anxiety, relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, Autism, survivors of trauma, and those who are members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Thank you for taking the time to see if there is someone out there to help you through this difficult time and invest in your mental health. I offer a safe, warm, affirming, and collaborative environment when working with my clients. I offer a person-centered approach to therapy, helping clients focus on who they are, determine who they want to be, and help them navigate how to achieve that goal in a healthy and safe way. I also utilize CBT techniques and positive psychology principles such as positive self-talk, highlighting your strengths, finding your identity and empathy building.
(214) 833-9459 View (214) 833-9459
Photo of Kwahera Spears - Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Landry Therapy Group - Rockwall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032
Now offering evaluations (ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Behavioral Issues, Intellectual Abilities, Trauma, Learning Differences, & Mood Disorders.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
Now offering evaluations (ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Behavioral Issues, Intellectual Abilities, Trauma, Learning Differences, & Mood Disorders.
*TAKING NEW CLIENTS* Our goal as therapists is to form a bond of trust and commitment with our clients. With the proper support and guidance in their lives, we believe people have an inherent ability to persevere through any struggle with which they are confronted. Jerianne specializes in working with adults, individuals, couples, families, depression self harm/suicidal ideation, and LGBTQ. We help clients cope with life's daily struggles and/or issues resulting from trauma and conflict and to cultivate a healthier style of living to ensure future well-being.
(469) 423-8596 View (469) 423-8596
Photo of Alecia Peters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alecia Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garland, TX 75043
I specialize in working with children with symptoms of ADHD, Anxiety, and high functioning Autism.
Are you an exhausted parent? Does your child have frequent “melt downs”? Have you tried numerous methods, but nothing seems to help your child calm down? It is important for you to have someone in your life who can empathize with you and support you and your child. You are not alone. I am here to partner with you and assist you with teaching your child ways to control his or her emotions and to learn healthy coping skills. By using Play Therapy, your child will feel more empowered, increased self-esteem, and become more self-sufficient. I believe you are the expert, yet I will help you to identify strengths and gifts.
I specialize in working with children with symptoms of ADHD, Anxiety, and high functioning Autism.
Are you an exhausted parent? Does your child have frequent “melt downs”? Have you tried numerous methods, but nothing seems to help your child calm down? It is important for you to have someone in your life who can empathize with you and support you and your child. You are not alone. I am here to partner with you and assist you with teaching your child ways to control his or her emotions and to learn healthy coping skills. By using Play Therapy, your child will feel more empowered, increased self-esteem, and become more self-sufficient. I believe you are the expert, yet I will help you to identify strengths and gifts.
(469) 632-1782 View (469) 632-1782
Photo of Andrew Simmons, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
These include: depression and anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, autism, adjustment disorders, self-worth, self-harm, issues communicating, affairs, porn addictions and marriage & family counseling.
Andrew is now accepting clients! Realizing you could use help doesn’t make you broken, it makes you human. A person who can benefit from counseling realizes that if they could have fixed a problem on their own, they would have done it by now. They realize that they could benefit from having a professional listen and help them better tell and re-frame their story. This person believes that they are committed to make needed change to become the best version of themselves. A person who benefits from counseling is there because they want to be and they fully buy-in to the process. Start simply and simply start by reaching out now!
These include: depression and anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, autism, adjustment disorders, self-worth, self-harm, issues communicating, affairs, porn addictions and marriage & family counseling.
Andrew is now accepting clients! Realizing you could use help doesn’t make you broken, it makes you human. A person who can benefit from counseling realizes that if they could have fixed a problem on their own, they would have done it by now. They realize that they could benefit from having a professional listen and help them better tell and re-frame their story. This person believes that they are committed to make needed change to become the best version of themselves. A person who benefits from counseling is there because they want to be and they fully buy-in to the process. Start simply and simply start by reaching out now!
(469) 393-7036 View (469) 393-7036
Photo of Anabel Meyer, PhD, LP, LSSP, LBA, BCBA, NCSP, Psychologist
Anabel Meyer
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LSSP, LBA, BCBA, NCSP
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75238  (Online Only)
I specialize in evaluating and treating children, adolescents, and young adults facing a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, and learning differences.
My goal is to provide clients with a safe and supportive environment to help foster resilience, growth, and well-being. I draw on evidence-based practices to collaborate with clients and empower them to develop effective coping strategies. I utilize a culturally responsive approach in my practice to ensure I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the diverse needs of clients.
I specialize in evaluating and treating children, adolescents, and young adults facing a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, and learning differences.
My goal is to provide clients with a safe and supportive environment to help foster resilience, growth, and well-being. I draw on evidence-based practices to collaborate with clients and empower them to develop effective coping strategies. I utilize a culturally responsive approach in my practice to ensure I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the diverse needs of clients.
(469) 972-4185 View (469) 972-4185
Photo of Shanna Roberson, LPC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanna Roberson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75227  (Online Only)
My specialties include depression and anxiety, trauma, Autism and ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and brief grief therapy.
Welcome! My name is Shanna Roberson; I am a licensed counselor and a certified clinical trauma professional. Modalities I often use in my practice include, but are not limited to, client-centered, cognitive-behavior, and solution-focused. Still, I delve into other diverse practical skill-based approaches to create the best treatment plans. I believe in empowering one another and that we all need support to manage daily life challenges. I aim to build on a collaborative process with you and create time together that fits your needs and life goals.
My specialties include depression and anxiety, trauma, Autism and ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and brief grief therapy.
Welcome! My name is Shanna Roberson; I am a licensed counselor and a certified clinical trauma professional. Modalities I often use in my practice include, but are not limited to, client-centered, cognitive-behavior, and solution-focused. Still, I delve into other diverse practical skill-based approaches to create the best treatment plans. I believe in empowering one another and that we all need support to manage daily life challenges. I aim to build on a collaborative process with you and create time together that fits your needs and life goals.
(469) 765-3388 View (469) 765-3388
Photo of Andrew Simmons - Elevate Counseling Group, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elevate Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75087
These include: depression/anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, autism, adjustment disorders, self-worth, self-harm, issues communicating, affairs, porn addictions, marriage & family counseling and EMDR.
Elevate is now accepting clients! Realizing you could use help does not make you broken, it makes you human. The perfect candidate for counseling realizes that if they could have fixed a problem on their own, they would have done it by now. They realize that they could benefit from having a professional listen and help them better tell and re-frame their story. This person believes they are committed to make needed change to become the best version of themselves. A person who most benefits from counseling is there because they want to be and they fully buy-in to the process. Start simply and simply start by reaching out today!
These include: depression/anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, autism, adjustment disorders, self-worth, self-harm, issues communicating, affairs, porn addictions, marriage & family counseling and EMDR.
Elevate is now accepting clients! Realizing you could use help does not make you broken, it makes you human. The perfect candidate for counseling realizes that if they could have fixed a problem on their own, they would have done it by now. They realize that they could benefit from having a professional listen and help them better tell and re-frame their story. This person believes they are committed to make needed change to become the best version of themselves. A person who most benefits from counseling is there because they want to be and they fully buy-in to the process. Start simply and simply start by reaching out today!
(214) 271-4417 View (214) 271-4417
Photo of Cynthia Dominguez, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Dominguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75217  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, family and relationships, identity, LGBTQ+, trauma, social skills, ADHD/ADD, Autism, ODD, ED, and coping skills.
Hello, my name is Cynthia Dominguez, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in state of Texas and have been practicing for 3 years. I am also a first-generation Mexican-American. My experiences lead me to become a counselor to support and help people of all ages in navigating their own mental health/life journey.
I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, grief, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, family and relationships, identity, LGBTQ+, trauma, social skills, ADHD/ADD, Autism, ODD, ED, and coping skills.
Hello, my name is Cynthia Dominguez, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in state of Texas and have been practicing for 3 years. I am also a first-generation Mexican-American. My experiences lead me to become a counselor to support and help people of all ages in navigating their own mental health/life journey.
(469) 746-4799 View (469) 746-4799
Photo of Jennifer Thompson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
When working with children, I have a specific focus on treating ADHD, behavioral issues, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Conduct Disorder, coping with divorce and family changes, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I specialize in treating sexual, emotional, physical, and psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, anxiety, depression, anger issues, and mood disorders. My training allows me to work with children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, and adults. I also have experience in treating grief, helping individuals adjust to major life changes, and addressing relationship stressors.
When working with children, I have a specific focus on treating ADHD, behavioral issues, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Conduct Disorder, coping with divorce and family changes, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I specialize in treating sexual, emotional, physical, and psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, anxiety, depression, anger issues, and mood disorders. My training allows me to work with children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, and adults. I also have experience in treating grief, helping individuals adjust to major life changes, and addressing relationship stressors.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Levi Armstrong, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist
Levi Armstrong
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockwall, TX 75032
Dr. Levi Armstrong is a doctoral-level, clinical neuropsychologist who specializes in testing and treatment for children (ages 3+), adolescents, and adults suffering from diseases and illnesses affecting the brain. Common diagnoses evaluated for include ADHD or ADD, autism or Asperger's, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and dementia. With a down-to-earth attitude and a genuine desire to be as clinically helpful as possible, our compassionate clinical staff believe that each patient is much more than a diagnosis and that testing should always be a therapeutic process.
Dr. Levi Armstrong is a doctoral-level, clinical neuropsychologist who specializes in testing and treatment for children (ages 3+), adolescents, and adults suffering from diseases and illnesses affecting the brain. Common diagnoses evaluated for include ADHD or ADD, autism or Asperger's, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and dementia. With a down-to-earth attitude and a genuine desire to be as clinically helpful as possible, our compassionate clinical staff believe that each patient is much more than a diagnosis and that testing should always be a therapeutic process.
(972) 442-0605 View (972) 442-0605
Photo of Dawn Waldron Nelson, LCSW-S, ACSW, SAP, CART, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Waldron Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, ACSW, SAP, CART
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Forney, TX 75126
I work with individuals, couples, groups, and families regarding anxiety, anger, autism, depression, grief, stress, serious illness, and crisis management.
I have 25 years of psychotherapy experience successfully helping people improve their lives. Talking about problems can be difficult, however, sharing concerns with an objective, professional therapist enables you to understand and overcome challenges. I treat you with respect, understanding, and confidentiality, and provide exceptional services in a comfortable and non-judgmental environment. I have a wide variety of professional experience with children, teens, and adults, in both short and long-term therapy, dealing with a broad spectrum of problems. In addition, I provide diagnostic assessments and consultations.
I work with individuals, couples, groups, and families regarding anxiety, anger, autism, depression, grief, stress, serious illness, and crisis management.
I have 25 years of psychotherapy experience successfully helping people improve their lives. Talking about problems can be difficult, however, sharing concerns with an objective, professional therapist enables you to understand and overcome challenges. I treat you with respect, understanding, and confidentiality, and provide exceptional services in a comfortable and non-judgmental environment. I have a wide variety of professional experience with children, teens, and adults, in both short and long-term therapy, dealing with a broad spectrum of problems. In addition, I provide diagnostic assessments and consultations.
(972) 684-5962 View (972) 684-5962
Photo of Elizabeth McConnell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth McConnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Forney, TX 75126
I am now accepting NEW clients. Are you too busy to try to piece things together that you've seen on social media? Do you want something to work NOW? Are you feeling emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed or frustrated? Do you feel out of control? I help parents with: toddler tantrums; bonding after adoption; blended families; divorce; adolescent/teen self-esteem, anger, and self-harming; sibling conflict; grief; ADHD and other behavioral problems. I'm Elizabeth and I specialize in parent coaching of children and adolescents. If you are looking for a therapist who can help you grow your skills as a parent - I am here for you.
I am now accepting NEW clients. Are you too busy to try to piece things together that you've seen on social media? Do you want something to work NOW? Are you feeling emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed or frustrated? Do you feel out of control? I help parents with: toddler tantrums; bonding after adoption; blended families; divorce; adolescent/teen self-esteem, anger, and self-harming; sibling conflict; grief; ADHD and other behavioral problems. I'm Elizabeth and I specialize in parent coaching of children and adolescents. If you are looking for a therapist who can help you grow your skills as a parent - I am here for you.
(469) 489-3784 View (469) 489-3784
Photo of Brandi Freeman-Potter - Texas ABA & Child Development Services, MEd, BCBA, LBA
Texas ABA & Child Development Services
MEd, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Garland, TX 75041
Texas ABA & Child Development Services is a company founded on the principles of compassion and empathy and centers our practice on establishing emotional, psychological and social well-being for our clients and families. Our client population consists of children, adolescents and teens. We offer individual, group and parent counseling services that are tailored to meet each family’s unique needs.
Texas ABA & Child Development Services is a company founded on the principles of compassion and empathy and centers our practice on establishing emotional, psychological and social well-being for our clients and families. Our client population consists of children, adolescents and teens. We offer individual, group and parent counseling services that are tailored to meet each family’s unique needs.
(972) 694-6351 View (972) 694-6351
Photo of Cle'tse Searle, M Ed, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cle'tse Searle
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garland, TX 75043
Each day you hoped for change, waited for a breakthrough, or some reassurance, letting you know “I got this.” You want to move forward, but are feeling stuck. You are ready to try something new to quiet the inner chaos that has consumed you and a desire for peace brought you here.
Each day you hoped for change, waited for a breakthrough, or some reassurance, letting you know “I got this.” You want to move forward, but are feeling stuck. You are ready to try something new to quiet the inner chaos that has consumed you and a desire for peace brought you here.
(972) 449-9628 View (972) 449-9628
Photo of Charity Maashe-Mengueme - ABA Vibe Ltd Company, BCBA, LBA, IBA
ABA Vibe Ltd Company
BCBA, LBA, IBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150
At ABA Vibe, we firmly believe that effective treatment and progress can only be achieved when the “family”, that is, all stakeholders (parents or guardians, caregivers, teachers, and therapists) come together and take ownership of the treatment program and wholeheartedly collaborate and participate in the process.
At ABA Vibe, we firmly believe that effective treatment and progress can only be achieved when the “family”, that is, all stakeholders (parents or guardians, caregivers, teachers, and therapists) come together and take ownership of the treatment program and wholeheartedly collaborate and participate in the process.
(214) 817-2457 View (214) 817-2457
Photo of Michael Leach - Richland Oaks Counseling Center, LP, Psychologist
Richland Oaks Counseling Center
Psychologist, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garland, TX 75041
Richland Oaks Counseling Center (ROCC) is a non-profit clinic with offices in Richardson and McKinney. We offer a full spectrum of services including psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couple, family, and group therapy settings. ROCC also offers a range of psychological testing services including assessments of intelligence, personality, learning disorders and giftedness, ADD/ADHD, Disability and Rehabilitation Service assessments, and assessments to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of other mental health concerns.
Richland Oaks Counseling Center (ROCC) is a non-profit clinic with offices in Richardson and McKinney. We offer a full spectrum of services including psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couple, family, and group therapy settings. ROCC also offers a range of psychological testing services including assessments of intelligence, personality, learning disorders and giftedness, ADD/ADHD, Disability and Rehabilitation Service assessments, and assessments to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of other mental health concerns.
(469) 203-4044 View (469) 203-4044

See more therapy options for Sunnyvale

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.