Autism Therapists in Weatherford, TX
![Photo of Sara Reeves, MEd, LPC-A, LCDC-I](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/678e8156-e3f4-42a4-b316-afd98d051c78/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Reeves
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC-A, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Weatherford, TX 76085
My interventions are tailored to your unique strengths and challenges, fostering personal growth while addressing common struggles associated with autism.
Accepting new clients (June '24). My passion is working with autistic individuals or those that love someone with ASD. I strive to be a safe and understanding space where your neurodiversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated. If you are grappling with challenges related to neurodivergence & seek practical strategies to navigate these aspects of daily life more effectively I would love to help you! Therapy for autism is more than a support system, it's a catalyst for growth, resilience, and embracing the unique journey of being neurodivergent. Supervised by Laura Wright, LPC-S.
My interventions are tailored to your unique strengths and challenges, fostering personal growth while addressing common struggles associated with autism.
Accepting new clients (June '24). My passion is working with autistic individuals or those that love someone with ASD. I strive to be a safe and understanding space where your neurodiversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated. If you are grappling with challenges related to neurodivergence & seek practical strategies to navigate these aspects of daily life more effectively I would love to help you! Therapy for autism is more than a support system, it's a catalyst for growth, resilience, and embracing the unique journey of being neurodivergent. Supervised by Laura Wright, LPC-S.
![Photo of Crystal George, MS, CRC, LPC, CVE, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78dced36-30e0-417f-b46a-e2c957ed4795/2/320x400.jpeg)
Crystal George
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC, CVE
Verified Verified
Weatherford, TX 76086 (Online Only)
Welcome! I want to be upfront, I’m different from other therapists. I believe the type of support provided should be guided by the client and am open to supporting you on your terms. I understand the need to walk and talk, curse, and sometimes toss an object against the wall, etc, all to release frustration. I’m here to support you and offer a consistent safe space. I enjoy working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD and those with Autism Spectrum Disorder. If you’ve made it this far, let’s schedule a time to chat! I have next day appointments available.
Welcome! I want to be upfront, I’m different from other therapists. I believe the type of support provided should be guided by the client and am open to supporting you on your terms. I understand the need to walk and talk, curse, and sometimes toss an object against the wall, etc, all to release frustration. I’m here to support you and offer a consistent safe space. I enjoy working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD and those with Autism Spectrum Disorder. If you’ve made it this far, let’s schedule a time to chat! I have next day appointments available.
![Photo of Melissa Jones, MEd, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31cb079e-4d1e-4336-a6c3-4ab930dd675e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weatherford, TX 76085
Are you at a loss with your child's anxiety or behaviors? Is your child or teen struggling with a traumatic event or difficulty at school? Let us help unlock their full potential again. I provide interactive therapy for children ages 4+, teens, and parents. My specialties are behavior concerns, trauma, foster care/adoption, autism, anxiety, dysregulation disorders, and life transitions such as new siblings, divorce and changes within the home. I utilize play therapy, sand tray therapy, somatic techniques, EMDR, LENS Neurofeedback and hands on resources to engage clients in developmentally appropriate ways.
Are you at a loss with your child's anxiety or behaviors? Is your child or teen struggling with a traumatic event or difficulty at school? Let us help unlock their full potential again. I provide interactive therapy for children ages 4+, teens, and parents. My specialties are behavior concerns, trauma, foster care/adoption, autism, anxiety, dysregulation disorders, and life transitions such as new siblings, divorce and changes within the home. I utilize play therapy, sand tray therapy, somatic techniques, EMDR, LENS Neurofeedback and hands on resources to engage clients in developmentally appropriate ways.
![Photo of Janet O'Donnell, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43a4a118-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Child Psychologist that provides psychological testing to children and adolescents ages 4-18 years. I provide neuropsychological, developmental, and educational assessments to help clarify your child's strengths and weaknesses. I can provide recommendations and remediation resources. I can help clarify attention issues, learning challenges, emotional and/or disruptive behaviors, and I assess for Autism. I work with comorbid and complex diagnostic cases.
I am a Child Psychologist that provides psychological testing to children and adolescents ages 4-18 years. I provide neuropsychological, developmental, and educational assessments to help clarify your child's strengths and weaknesses. I can provide recommendations and remediation resources. I can help clarify attention issues, learning challenges, emotional and/or disruptive behaviors, and I assess for Autism. I work with comorbid and complex diagnostic cases.
![Photo of Treichae Holmes, MS, BCBA, LBA, CD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f3aaa34-c062-4899-9a52-118bf3515832/2/320x400.jpeg)
We serve caregivers, employers, and educators of individuals with neurodiverse needs through evidence-based coaching and training. My specific area of expertise is in helping parents meet the unique needs of their children through evidence-based practices that put the needs of their learners first. I have over 12 years of experience in the field of special education, and behavior analysis and utilize knowledge of the science, and lived experiences as a black woman with ASD and ADHD to help individuals navigate the needs of their loved ones. Additionally, I am a birth and postpartum doula.
We serve caregivers, employers, and educators of individuals with neurodiverse needs through evidence-based coaching and training. My specific area of expertise is in helping parents meet the unique needs of their children through evidence-based practices that put the needs of their learners first. I have over 12 years of experience in the field of special education, and behavior analysis and utilize knowledge of the science, and lived experiences as a black woman with ASD and ADHD to help individuals navigate the needs of their loved ones. Additionally, I am a birth and postpartum doula.
![Photo of Trisha Leigh McAda, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68b51831-0799-4240-94e2-b98b5e6ea0c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in children, adolescents, families, and couples. I am married with two adult girls and a husband of 28 years. Please know this doesn't make me an expert on teens, children, or marriage. However, it does give me insight and life experiences along with my training to help clients in these life stages. I enjoy working with clients to navigate life-stage changes within family systems. I enjoy working with teens, preteens, and children as young as 4 years old. I have 16 years of experience in teaching and an additional 8 years in youth and children's ministry. I also work with couples in pre-marital and marital counseling.
I specialize in children, adolescents, families, and couples. I am married with two adult girls and a husband of 28 years. Please know this doesn't make me an expert on teens, children, or marriage. However, it does give me insight and life experiences along with my training to help clients in these life stages. I enjoy working with clients to navigate life-stage changes within family systems. I enjoy working with teens, preteens, and children as young as 4 years old. I have 16 years of experience in teaching and an additional 8 years in youth and children's ministry. I also work with couples in pre-marital and marital counseling.
![Photo of Rachel Diane Rouse, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48e9cd8e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Diane Rouse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Weatherford, TX 76086
Making the decision to contact a therapist is not always easy. There may be fear of judgment or of the unknown. I applaud those who take the first step to seek help for issues they are struggling with. Anxiety, depression and self-harm, to name a few, have become such common struggles in our society. Therapy can be a place to explore your life, take a look at your experiences and build skills to help improve your future. Sometimes, everyone needs help weeding through those difficult times when things can become confusing or overwhelming. My goal is to walk with clients through this process and toward their goals.
Making the decision to contact a therapist is not always easy. There may be fear of judgment or of the unknown. I applaud those who take the first step to seek help for issues they are struggling with. Anxiety, depression and self-harm, to name a few, have become such common struggles in our society. Therapy can be a place to explore your life, take a look at your experiences and build skills to help improve your future. Sometimes, everyone needs help weeding through those difficult times when things can become confusing or overwhelming. My goal is to walk with clients through this process and toward their goals.
![Photo of Suzanne Rudolph, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1fd197a-fbc8-4023-8d8e-65021359d825/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne Rudolph
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weatherford, TX 76086
Need to talk? Trouble sleeping? Can't seem to relax? Feeling "not good enough?" Sometimes, you might feel overwhelmed and unprepared to meet the goals you have set for yourself, or perhaps you are feeling aimless in pursuing a better life. Maybe you have been told that you are not living up to your potential, or it seems like everyone else "has it together" and you feel lost.
Need to talk? Trouble sleeping? Can't seem to relax? Feeling "not good enough?" Sometimes, you might feel overwhelmed and unprepared to meet the goals you have set for yourself, or perhaps you are feeling aimless in pursuing a better life. Maybe you have been told that you are not living up to your potential, or it seems like everyone else "has it together" and you feel lost.
![Photo of Charlena Priddy, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45fab9e6-ebbd-4190-b776-627aa74b6071/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlena Priddy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Weatherford, TX 76086
I am an independently Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT) who integrates Christian faith with professional mental health training and skills. It is important to me to provide quality, professional counseling services that honors God and the value and dignity of each of my clients. I love working with women, children, adolescents, and families. I began my counseling career in 2017. Prior to counseling, I taught 3rd and 4th grade in a public school. As a counselor, I have worked in non-profits, private practices, foster care settings, and in public schools.
I am an independently Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT) who integrates Christian faith with professional mental health training and skills. It is important to me to provide quality, professional counseling services that honors God and the value and dignity of each of my clients. I love working with women, children, adolescents, and families. I began my counseling career in 2017. Prior to counseling, I taught 3rd and 4th grade in a public school. As a counselor, I have worked in non-profits, private practices, foster care settings, and in public schools.
![Photo of New Leaf Services Llc - New Leaf Services, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4235b06d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At New Leaf Services, LLC we offer a wide variety of therapy and specialties. We offer individual, family, and couples counseling. Specialty treatment is available in Trauma, Abuse, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Grief Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Health Issues, and Animal Assisted Therapy. For counselors, we offer CEU training, administrative services, billing, credentialing, and general bookkeeping.
At New Leaf Services, LLC we offer a wide variety of therapy and specialties. We offer individual, family, and couples counseling. Specialty treatment is available in Trauma, Abuse, PTSD, Substance Abuse, Grief Counseling, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Health Issues, and Animal Assisted Therapy. For counselors, we offer CEU training, administrative services, billing, credentialing, and general bookkeeping.
![Photo of Lisa Garrett Farhat, MEd, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/916c0b03-6071-42d5-b76c-0deac3a3fe90/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa Garrett Farhat
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weatherford, TX 76086
Finding the right person to help your child, teen or family can be a difficult process. You are looking for someone with the appropriate training that will be a good fit. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist. I specialize in working with children ages 3-17 and their families.
Common concerns include anger, developmental delays, ADD/ADHD, ODD, depression, divorce, grief, abuse, anxiety and social/school issues. I strive to create an environment where children feel safe and accepted so that they may cope, heal and grow.
Finding the right person to help your child, teen or family can be a difficult process. You are looking for someone with the appropriate training that will be a good fit. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist. I specialize in working with children ages 3-17 and their families.
Common concerns include anger, developmental delays, ADD/ADHD, ODD, depression, divorce, grief, abuse, anxiety and social/school issues. I strive to create an environment where children feel safe and accepted so that they may cope, heal and grow.
![Photo of Debbie Thornton-McGrath, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0676928-7afd-42c1-be25-e4545db2fe1b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Debbie Thornton-McGrath
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Weatherford, TX 76087
Let's "find the calm" in the "chaos" together. Rediscovery your intuitive self in the challenges of the stress we face.
Let's "find the calm" in the "chaos" together. Rediscovery your intuitive self in the challenges of the stress we face.
![Photo of Darla Johnson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57e7320c-3573-4c6f-9f5f-d8de92e1f980/4/320x400.jpeg)
Darla Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weatherford, TX 76086
Sometimes all the pieces just do not seem to fit. Asking for help can be difficult, even overwhelming. But, reaching out is the most courageous first step, a step that can literally change the trajectory of your life. I offer a safe, non-judgmental place for you to be heard, to explore all the pieces, and to sort through your thoughts and feelings. I recognize you as the expert on your own life and consider it an honor to walk with you through your story.
Sometimes all the pieces just do not seem to fit. Asking for help can be difficult, even overwhelming. But, reaching out is the most courageous first step, a step that can literally change the trajectory of your life. I offer a safe, non-judgmental place for you to be heard, to explore all the pieces, and to sort through your thoughts and feelings. I recognize you as the expert on your own life and consider it an honor to walk with you through your story.
![Photo of Rachael Halcomb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1e85156-7f7b-456a-a102-044519c86013/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m Rachael, a compassionate and dedicated clinical social worker with experience addressing a wide range of mental health concerns for individuals aged 5 and above. I specialize in self-harming behaviors, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, I have experience working with ADHD, mood disorders, anger management, self-esteem issues, family conflicts, and behavioral challenges. I offer a supportive and understanding environment where clients can safely explore their emotions, navigate challenges, and achieve their goals. I am accepting new clients in person and virtual!
I’m Rachael, a compassionate and dedicated clinical social worker with experience addressing a wide range of mental health concerns for individuals aged 5 and above. I specialize in self-harming behaviors, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, I have experience working with ADHD, mood disorders, anger management, self-esteem issues, family conflicts, and behavioral challenges. I offer a supportive and understanding environment where clients can safely explore their emotions, navigate challenges, and achieve their goals. I am accepting new clients in person and virtual!
![Photo of Natasha Faucher, MS, LPC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be04b8c6-38f7-46b4-bd3d-698504ad3896/1/320x400.jpeg)
It was a busy day at the office when the call came from your son’s school. It’s become a semi-regular occurrence, but your heart sinks as you lift the receiver to find out what he’s done this time. Another fight, another tantrum, more disruptive behavior. You love your child, but sometimes you picture how much easier life would be if he didn’t have these issues. You know he’s struggling but you don’t know how to help him. You’ve tried reading books, listening to podcasts, talking to teachers and counselors – but it’s no use. Things just keep getting worse. You’re terrified that if something doesn’t change soon, it may be too late.
It was a busy day at the office when the call came from your son’s school. It’s become a semi-regular occurrence, but your heart sinks as you lift the receiver to find out what he’s done this time. Another fight, another tantrum, more disruptive behavior. You love your child, but sometimes you picture how much easier life would be if he didn’t have these issues. You know he’s struggling but you don’t know how to help him. You’ve tried reading books, listening to podcasts, talking to teachers and counselors – but it’s no use. Things just keep getting worse. You’re terrified that if something doesn’t change soon, it may be too late.
![Photo of Kaitlin Emily Blackwell - Brazos Counseling - Kaitlin Blackwell, MS LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccb62674-6ad5-4b49-aeae-8aeee6b0e11a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brazos Counseling - Kaitlin Blackwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weatherford, TX 76086
Not accepting new clients
As your therapist I provide a safe, comfortable environment for you to express and explore your emotions, stress and trauma. I focus on what is right with you, help you improve resilience, and provide tools and strategies to help you achieve your goals. You will also learn strategies to help build your confidence, improve communication, set boundaries and manage anxiety and depression. My counseling services are culture and trauma sensitive and based in Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy and Play Therapy (adolescents).
As your therapist I provide a safe, comfortable environment for you to express and explore your emotions, stress and trauma. I focus on what is right with you, help you improve resilience, and provide tools and strategies to help you achieve your goals. You will also learn strategies to help build your confidence, improve communication, set boundaries and manage anxiety and depression. My counseling services are culture and trauma sensitive and based in Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy and Play Therapy (adolescents).
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Angela Farmer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/378710de-6115-4b12-8d53-9c5160350064/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Farmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Millsap, TX 76066 (Online Only)
I am Angela Farmer, a licensed psychologist with five years of clinical experience. I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults going into adulthood or early into adulthood. My therapeutic goals focus on people who are facing Anger Management, Coping Skills, Codependency, Depression, and Anxiety. The modalities I enjoy using are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Rational Emotive Behavior (REBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Reality Therapy. My life has not been the easiest, and I feel that helps me to help my clients where they are at that moment.
I am Angela Farmer, a licensed psychologist with five years of clinical experience. I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults going into adulthood or early into adulthood. My therapeutic goals focus on people who are facing Anger Management, Coping Skills, Codependency, Depression, and Anxiety. The modalities I enjoy using are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Rational Emotive Behavior (REBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Reality Therapy. My life has not been the easiest, and I feel that helps me to help my clients where they are at that moment.
![Photo of Erin Scarth, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33ccb1e5-7114-41a5-88d2-4e59ef3f1538/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Erin Scarth, a Licensed Psychologist with over 22 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Minors, and Preteens with Adolescents/Teens, Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, Depression, and Dissociative Disorders. I also have a history of working with individuals who have disabilities or are caring for individuals with disabilities. I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Culturally Sensitive, and Strength-Based therapies during treatment. I believe that developing a therapeutic relationship is the most essential step in the process.
My name is Dr. Erin Scarth, a Licensed Psychologist with over 22 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Minors, and Preteens with Adolescents/Teens, Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, Depression, and Dissociative Disorders. I also have a history of working with individuals who have disabilities or are caring for individuals with disabilities. I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Culturally Sensitive, and Strength-Based therapies during treatment. I believe that developing a therapeutic relationship is the most essential step in the process.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Kelsey Austin-Wright, MS, LMFT, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96b8f71b-4da8-4bcd-b108-6a8192084fd8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Austin-Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Corsicana, TX 75110 (Online Only)
My specialties include Gottman-informed couples work, expertise in working with individuals diagnosed with autism, grief work for children and adults, and therapeutic intervention for addiction.
Feeling out of control, lost, or hopeless? Working with a therapist can empower you to take back your sense of security and well-being for yourself, your relationship, or your family. I'm honored for the opportunity to walk along side you as you navigate these challenges and strive for growth. I'll use my knowledge, experience, and therapeutic interventions to guide you through this chapter of life. Together we will develop a plan to help you achieve relief and healing.
My specialties include Gottman-informed couples work, expertise in working with individuals diagnosed with autism, grief work for children and adults, and therapeutic intervention for addiction.
Feeling out of control, lost, or hopeless? Working with a therapist can empower you to take back your sense of security and well-being for yourself, your relationship, or your family. I'm honored for the opportunity to walk along side you as you navigate these challenges and strive for growth. I'll use my knowledge, experience, and therapeutic interventions to guide you through this chapter of life. Together we will develop a plan to help you achieve relief and healing.
![Photo of Micholyn Gayoso, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/102518d0-c129-4fcc-8a2d-8a5f6d7d248b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gayoso has extensive experience in a variety of Evaluations, testing for: Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Mood/Personality Disturbance, Psychiatric Diagnostic Considerations, Developmental Delays, & Neuropsychological functioning.
Dr. Gayoso is a licensed psychologist who earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Texas School of Professional Psychology. Her overall experience includes clinical training in private practice, juvenile & adult correction, & within the school systems. She focuses on conducting neuropsychological, psychological, & educational assessments to assist with differential diagnosis & treatment plan preparation. She is a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist & has a passion for helping families obtain a comprehensive understanding of the functional needs associated with various neurodiverse conditions.
Gayoso has extensive experience in a variety of Evaluations, testing for: Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Mood/Personality Disturbance, Psychiatric Diagnostic Considerations, Developmental Delays, & Neuropsychological functioning.
Dr. Gayoso is a licensed psychologist who earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Texas School of Professional Psychology. Her overall experience includes clinical training in private practice, juvenile & adult correction, & within the school systems. She focuses on conducting neuropsychological, psychological, & educational assessments to assist with differential diagnosis & treatment plan preparation. She is a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist & has a passion for helping families obtain a comprehensive understanding of the functional needs associated with various neurodiverse conditions.
See more therapy options for Weatherford
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Weatherford
- Aledo
- Benbrook
- Burleson
- Crowley
- Fort Worth
- Granbury
- Hurst
- Keller
- North Richland Hills
- Roanoke
- Saginaw
- Willow Park
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.