Autism Therapists in Trophy Club, TX
![Photo of Jacqueline Jayde Young, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4087d4ba-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Jayde Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Trophy Club, TX 76262 (Online Only)
I have experience working with children, teens, and adults along with extensive work with children and teens diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families.
My approach to counseling is through a Person Centered lens, this means I trust you are the expert on yourself and I work to see the world as you view it. By building a strong working relationship it is my goal to help you sort out things that have you feeling off. I plan to help you feel more comfortable with yourself, to help you live your most genuine life. I have a passion working with those struggling with transitions and those who are in need in any manner and at any age. Please feel free to email me or book directly with me on My Website!
I have experience working with children, teens, and adults along with extensive work with children and teens diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families.
My approach to counseling is through a Person Centered lens, this means I trust you are the expert on yourself and I work to see the world as you view it. By building a strong working relationship it is my goal to help you sort out things that have you feeling off. I plan to help you feel more comfortable with yourself, to help you live your most genuine life. I have a passion working with those struggling with transitions and those who are in need in any manner and at any age. Please feel free to email me or book directly with me on My Website!
![Photo of Ray Austin, PsyD, BCBA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49b28ee7-cc8e-41a1-b8e4-98082578c116/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you having trouble understanding your child’s behavior and emotions? Are you feeling as though you have tried everything to help them, but nothing is working? There are solutions, and I believe we can work together to find them. I provide psychological/neuropsychological evaluations and therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults (Ages 2-21) with developmental disabilities and related conditions including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, intellectual disability, disruptive behavior, and neurological issues such as acquired brain injury. I also treat children and teens who are suffering from depression and anxiety.
Are you having trouble understanding your child’s behavior and emotions? Are you feeling as though you have tried everything to help them, but nothing is working? There are solutions, and I believe we can work together to find them. I provide psychological/neuropsychological evaluations and therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults (Ages 2-21) with developmental disabilities and related conditions including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, intellectual disability, disruptive behavior, and neurological issues such as acquired brain injury. I also treat children and teens who are suffering from depression and anxiety.
![Photo of Elizabeth Wilson, LMFT TX, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/daf62fc5-08f9-4b50-a878-546fb9349e67/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Hispanic and Bilingual Spanish/English Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. As a therapist my desire and passion is to help Individuals and families heal, reconnect, and restore their relationships to change this generation one family at a time. I strongly believe that when the family is able to provide comfort, care, and is emotionally available in times of need to his own members, each person is closer to live healthy and successful relationships in life.
I am Hispanic and Bilingual Spanish/English Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. As a therapist my desire and passion is to help Individuals and families heal, reconnect, and restore their relationships to change this generation one family at a time. I strongly believe that when the family is able to provide comfort, care, and is emotionally available in times of need to his own members, each person is closer to live healthy and successful relationships in life.
![Photo of Dr. Michael Messina - Dr. Messina & Associates, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3759035-b740-40a6-b829-e7cc844a0c59/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Messina & Associates provides cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychiatry and telepsychiatry services, and psychological testing to children, adolescents, and adults in Flower Mound and Southlake, TX.
Dr. Messina & Associates provides cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychiatry and telepsychiatry services, and psychological testing to children, adolescents, and adults in Flower Mound and Southlake, TX.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dericka L Young, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/197f376a-a4f4-403e-bece-2171020577f8/5/320x400.jpeg)
Dericka L Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76131 (Online Only)
I believe that your ADHD/Autism is a part of you but doesn't define you.
Are you tired of feeling like you're constantly struggling to keep up with the demands of daily life? Do you find it challenging to stay focused and organized, no matter how hard you try? Do you find your frustration tolerance gets lower and lower with each day? Let's talk about it! Navigating the day-to-day stressors can be daunting! Understanding the unique characteristics of your brain and how it functions is crucial in navigating various aspects of your life. Through education, self-awareness, and professional guidance, you can learn to work with your brain's intricacies and develop coping strategies that suit your needs.
I believe that your ADHD/Autism is a part of you but doesn't define you.
Are you tired of feeling like you're constantly struggling to keep up with the demands of daily life? Do you find it challenging to stay focused and organized, no matter how hard you try? Do you find your frustration tolerance gets lower and lower with each day? Let's talk about it! Navigating the day-to-day stressors can be daunting! Understanding the unique characteristics of your brain and how it functions is crucial in navigating various aspects of your life. Through education, self-awareness, and professional guidance, you can learn to work with your brain's intricacies and develop coping strategies that suit your needs.
![Photo of Samantha Ricks, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af99081c-13b9-45c7-afc9-9fddd1fd72e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Ricks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75022
Samantha enjoys working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. Samantha wants to empower children and families to explore and express their emotions and equip them with skills to utilize in their daily lives. Samantha has gained research and clinical experience working with children with neurodevelopment disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. Along with equipping children with emotional skills, Samantha utilizes various activities that support the development of social and executive functioning skills in session.
Samantha enjoys working with children, adolescents, young adults, and their families. Samantha wants to empower children and families to explore and express their emotions and equip them with skills to utilize in their daily lives. Samantha has gained research and clinical experience working with children with neurodevelopment disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD. Along with equipping children with emotional skills, Samantha utilizes various activities that support the development of social and executive functioning skills in session.
![Photo of Jennifer Williams - Spectrus Psychological - Testing & Assessment, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48c98ebb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Spectrus Psychological - Testing & Assessment
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Argyle, TX 76226
Our group provides comprehensive neuropsychological, psychological, and psychoeducational testing and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults for presenting concerns, including : Autism in adults and children, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral / Conduct Problems, Cognitive Functioning & Neurocognitive Disorder Screening, Communication Disorders, Learning Disorders, Mood Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Psychosis, Personality Disorders, Relationship Problems, and Traumatic Stress. We are committed to patient satisfaction and will make efforts to assist patients with questions/concerns.
Our group provides comprehensive neuropsychological, psychological, and psychoeducational testing and therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults for presenting concerns, including : Autism in adults and children, ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral / Conduct Problems, Cognitive Functioning & Neurocognitive Disorder Screening, Communication Disorders, Learning Disorders, Mood Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Psychosis, Personality Disorders, Relationship Problems, and Traumatic Stress. We are committed to patient satisfaction and will make efforts to assist patients with questions/concerns.
![Photo of Dr. Rozemarijn (Rosie) Staal - Ardent Psychological Services, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47540d00-5f70-431c-9b7e-64f680133ca6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Common reasons for referral include ADHD, autism, intellectual disability, academic concerns, mood disorders, and behavior problems at home or at school.
Dr. Rozemarijn (Rosie) Staal is a warm and caring clinical psychologist who has been trained to use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy to help individuals improve their overall emotional well-being. In clinical practice, Dr. Staal focuses on delivering evidence-based treatments, and she has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of emotional and behavioral concerns, in inpatient, residential, and outpatient settings.
Common reasons for referral include ADHD, autism, intellectual disability, academic concerns, mood disorders, and behavior problems at home or at school.
Dr. Rozemarijn (Rosie) Staal is a warm and caring clinical psychologist who has been trained to use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy to help individuals improve their overall emotional well-being. In clinical practice, Dr. Staal focuses on delivering evidence-based treatments, and she has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a wide variety of emotional and behavioral concerns, in inpatient, residential, and outpatient settings.
![Photo of University Park Counseling Testing Center Pllc - University Park Counseling & Testing Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/303f7d08-d604-4fd2-9152-5f4d047c8bee/1/320x400.png)
University Park Counseling & Testing Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75028
At UPC, we have Certified Autism Specialists who have extensive training and experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
Are you ready to start living your life to its fullest potential? At UPC, you will find caring and genuine support for you and your family. Our hope is that you'll find a fresh perspective and learn more effective and efficient ways of coping with what life brings your way. Many of our clients discover renewed self-confidence, serenity, balance, and wellness. Relationships and work performance improve with this new outlook on life. You are given the tools you need to build and maintain a fulfilling life, along with a deeper sense of your life's meaning and purpose.
At UPC, we have Certified Autism Specialists who have extensive training and experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
Are you ready to start living your life to its fullest potential? At UPC, you will find caring and genuine support for you and your family. Our hope is that you'll find a fresh perspective and learn more effective and efficient ways of coping with what life brings your way. Many of our clients discover renewed self-confidence, serenity, balance, and wellness. Relationships and work performance improve with this new outlook on life. You are given the tools you need to build and maintain a fulfilling life, along with a deeper sense of your life's meaning and purpose.
![Photo of Sam Peters, LPC, LSC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eca35b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sam Peters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lewisville, TX 75022
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.
![Photo of John M. Wesenberg, MS, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/035f5955-181c-47c0-9e3c-ffc95c58a0ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide supportive care to individuals struggling with anxiety related disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Are you or a loved one struggling to live a fulfilled life? Is it difficult to navigate the stress of everyday routines, or are your intrusive thoughts holding you back? These feelings can be exhausting, and it is easy to lose your sense of self. Unfortunately, most people learn to avoid the things that cause anxiety and stress, and they fall into a pattern of unhelpful behavior. This can lead to distancing yourself from meaningful relationships and feelings of shame and unhappiness.
I provide supportive care to individuals struggling with anxiety related disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Are you or a loved one struggling to live a fulfilled life? Is it difficult to navigate the stress of everyday routines, or are your intrusive thoughts holding you back? These feelings can be exhausting, and it is easy to lose your sense of self. Unfortunately, most people learn to avoid the things that cause anxiety and stress, and they fall into a pattern of unhelpful behavior. This can lead to distancing yourself from meaningful relationships and feelings of shame and unhappiness.
![Photo of Cassandra Holt Kimbell, MSEd, LPCC-S, NCC, EMDR, CIT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00ee52b6-1eb9-4e01-aa9f-379221b6ed85/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cassandra Holt Kimbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S, NCC, EMDR, CIT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
Everyone deserves to feel balanced and deserves to have a safe space to let go and share. Nobody should ever feel alone or always have to be “the strong one”. I use an eclectic model- combining pieces of CBT, SFBT, EMDR and Mindfulness-Based Practices and customize them to fit the person in front of me. I am listening, taking it all in, and deciding which pieces may be of most help to you and your life. I specialize in working with creatives and neurodivergent humans. I go above and beyond to provide the best care for my clients free of judgement. (Only scheduling EMDR intensives and Autism/ADHD Assessments, or group signups).
Everyone deserves to feel balanced and deserves to have a safe space to let go and share. Nobody should ever feel alone or always have to be “the strong one”. I use an eclectic model- combining pieces of CBT, SFBT, EMDR and Mindfulness-Based Practices and customize them to fit the person in front of me. I am listening, taking it all in, and deciding which pieces may be of most help to you and your life. I specialize in working with creatives and neurodivergent humans. I go above and beyond to provide the best care for my clients free of judgement. (Only scheduling EMDR intensives and Autism/ADHD Assessments, or group signups).
![Photo of Scott Hickman - Texas Autism Assessment & Advocacy Group, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8033ca2d-ad96-49e4-add8-108f97847dbc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Due to the complexity of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Texas Autism Assessment and Advocacy Group feels that a multidisciplinary approach to assessment is imperative in determining an appropriate and accurate diagnosis. In our practice, each evaluation is conducted by a Licensed Psychology Associate with over 15 years experience as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology, along with a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist. The knowledge and expertise of each discipline allows for a unique and collaborative approach to assessment in order to address the varied aspects of functioning affected and to determine an appropriate diagnosis.
Due to the complexity of Autism Spectrum Disorders, Texas Autism Assessment and Advocacy Group feels that a multidisciplinary approach to assessment is imperative in determining an appropriate and accurate diagnosis. In our practice, each evaluation is conducted by a Licensed Psychology Associate with over 15 years experience as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology, along with a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist. The knowledge and expertise of each discipline allows for a unique and collaborative approach to assessment in order to address the varied aspects of functioning affected and to determine an appropriate diagnosis.
![Photo of Jenna Mack - SkyLife Wellness, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, EMDR-Ce, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dd70ca8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
SkyLife Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, RPT-S, EMDR-Ce
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092
We are dedicated to helping you or your family whether it's Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression or trauma.
We believe that counseling provides an avenue in which individuals and families can grow through self-discovery, self-awareness, gaining confidence, development of skills and creating meaningful and authentic relationships. Asking for help takes courage and by just calling you are one step closer to self-improvement. We have many years of experience counseling children, adolescents, adults and families. We specialize in neurodivergent individuals and their families. We use a variety of treatment methods that are flexible to your needs. Parent coaching for parents of neurodivergent children is offered. We work with all ages!
We are dedicated to helping you or your family whether it's Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression or trauma.
We believe that counseling provides an avenue in which individuals and families can grow through self-discovery, self-awareness, gaining confidence, development of skills and creating meaningful and authentic relationships. Asking for help takes courage and by just calling you are one step closer to self-improvement. We have many years of experience counseling children, adolescents, adults and families. We specialize in neurodivergent individuals and their families. We use a variety of treatment methods that are flexible to your needs. Parent coaching for parents of neurodivergent children is offered. We work with all ages!
![Photo of Dreyton Kendall Wyatt, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11580dbd-9df1-4a0d-81f5-6be528234f60/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have 6 years of experience working with children on the Autism spectrum in clinical ABA settings.
My goal as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is to help others live with themselves and relate with others as we are intended to-with health and function, not with illness and dysfunction. To do this, I utilize approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) integrated with biblical truth to help explore thoughts, feelings, and choices in a compassionate and empathetic way. I believe that while we are responsible for these, we also need grace and patience as we face the challenges to change.
I have 6 years of experience working with children on the Autism spectrum in clinical ABA settings.
My goal as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is to help others live with themselves and relate with others as we are intended to-with health and function, not with illness and dysfunction. To do this, I utilize approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) integrated with biblical truth to help explore thoughts, feelings, and choices in a compassionate and empathetic way. I believe that while we are responsible for these, we also need grace and patience as we face the challenges to change.
![Photo of Jordan Sawyer, MEd, LCDC-I, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af67c8b9-ee38-401f-b664-23a3c133202b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Sawyer
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LCDC-I, NCC
Verified Verified
Southlake, TX 76092
I truly enjoy working with children, adolescents, young adults, and individuals facing challenges like depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and those on the autism spectrum.
I understand that seeking counseling can feel intimidating, and I admire the courage it takes to take that first step. Whether you are a child, adolescent, young adult, or anyone feeling overwhelmed by your emotions and behaviors, I'm here to offer a compassionate and understanding space where you can express yourself without fear of judgment. Together, we’ll work on understanding your emotions and behaviors, building coping strategies, and boosting your self-esteem to improve your overall mental health.
I truly enjoy working with children, adolescents, young adults, and individuals facing challenges like depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and those on the autism spectrum.
I understand that seeking counseling can feel intimidating, and I admire the courage it takes to take that first step. Whether you are a child, adolescent, young adult, or anyone feeling overwhelmed by your emotions and behaviors, I'm here to offer a compassionate and understanding space where you can express yourself without fear of judgment. Together, we’ll work on understanding your emotions and behaviors, building coping strategies, and boosting your self-esteem to improve your overall mental health.
![Photo of Stacy Marshall, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de2573ba-72e8-40c9-9073-011d65cab903/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kate Jones](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83da2e17-8e77-4f40-8c44-8a45e1feb7a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Richland Hills, TX 76182
My specialty is in neurodivergent-affirming (ADHD and Autism specifically) practice, which means we accept how your brain works and work with it. I see teens and adults, and my clients typically come to me because there is something in their life they are unhappy with. Change comes with time and work, and this journey is worth it! If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, feelings of being less-than, frustration at your previous experiences, or simply want to find a new way of living, we can do that together.
My specialty is in neurodivergent-affirming (ADHD and Autism specifically) practice, which means we accept how your brain works and work with it. I see teens and adults, and my clients typically come to me because there is something in their life they are unhappy with. Change comes with time and work, and this journey is worth it! If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, feelings of being less-than, frustration at your previous experiences, or simply want to find a new way of living, we can do that together.
![Photo of Apree Clicque - Assessments by Dallas Therapeutic Services, PsyD, LPC, LCDC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e47c6287-cb6f-4a53-ac4b-8dee7773f86e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Assessments by Dallas Therapeutic Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051
To assess for Autism, we administer the ADOS-2 and ADI-R.
Psychological testing is a method of gathering and analyzing individualized data in order to better understand an individual’s personality, including diagnostic criteria and how the brain functions across a variety of tasks, such as attention or problem solving. Currently, DTS is able to offer in-depth diagnosis testing (including ADHD testing) as well as Autism testing, learning disorders, and IQ testing. The cost varies for each testing, starting at $1500. While we are in network with insurance (Aetna, BCBS, Cigna and Tricare), they do not always cover the cost of testing.
To assess for Autism, we administer the ADOS-2 and ADI-R.
Psychological testing is a method of gathering and analyzing individualized data in order to better understand an individual’s personality, including diagnostic criteria and how the brain functions across a variety of tasks, such as attention or problem solving. Currently, DTS is able to offer in-depth diagnosis testing (including ADHD testing) as well as Autism testing, learning disorders, and IQ testing. The cost varies for each testing, starting at $1500. While we are in network with insurance (Aetna, BCBS, Cigna and Tricare), they do not always cover the cost of testing.
![Photo of Emily Angus, PhD, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b1eaf3-8e63-4c64-93aa-38468c1ab6aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have a doctoral degree in Counseling with specialties in play therapy and psychoeducational assessment evaluating Autism, ADHD, and more.
I believe counseling is beneficial for individuals of all ages who are looking for support in reaching personal goals. I work to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment to help clients feel safe enough to engage in self-exploration of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to achieve change. I strive to understand each person’s unique story in order to help facilitate happiness and feelings of success.
I have a doctoral degree in Counseling with specialties in play therapy and psychoeducational assessment evaluating Autism, ADHD, and more.
I believe counseling is beneficial for individuals of all ages who are looking for support in reaching personal goals. I work to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment to help clients feel safe enough to engage in self-exploration of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to achieve change. I strive to understand each person’s unique story in order to help facilitate happiness and feelings of success.
See more therapy options for Trophy Club
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Trophy Club
- Argyle
- Bedford
- Colleyville
- Flower Mound
- Grapevine
- Highland Village
- Hurst
- Keller
- Lewisville
- Roanoke
- Southlake
- Westlake
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.