Therapists in Wills Point, TX
![Photo of Roberto Guerrero - Valor Therapy, PLLC, MS, NCC, LPC, LCDC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b335c95a-f469-4279-9043-d7a8bd19eacc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Valor Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, LCDC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Wills Point, TX 75169 (Online Only)
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over nine years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
My name is Roberto "Robert" Guerrero, I am a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, and CCTP, National Certified Counselor (NCC) and BC-TMH provider. I have over nine years of experience in the field of mental health and chemical dependency, and currently operate a private counseling practice exclusively online near Dallas, Texas. I primarily work with young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, career issues, relationship and marriage problems, and other life challenges. I also offer consulting services for business professionals.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Chandler Odom, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1097269-9b44-497a-8949-f4f755bb6f63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chandler is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and has worked as a mental health counselor in settings such as inpatient hospitals, community centers, foster care system, and private practice. Chandler specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Autism, ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Self Esteem, Stress, Gender & Identity issues, Grief, Loss, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Relationship Issues, and Foster Care Transitions. She specializes in working with kids, teens, and young adults.
Chandler is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and has worked as a mental health counselor in settings such as inpatient hospitals, community centers, foster care system, and private practice. Chandler specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Autism, ADD/ADHD, Trauma, Self Esteem, Stress, Gender & Identity issues, Grief, Loss, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, Relationship Issues, and Foster Care Transitions. She specializes in working with kids, teens, and young adults.
![Photo of Kate Stark - PEACE Psychology Center, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24c03eb3-5b8a-4785-92a3-f9e81cf1c635/2/320x400.png)
We have psychologists and licensed counselors who specialize in anxiety disorders, autism, ADHD, life adjustment, stress, mood disorders, grief, and family relationships.
PEACE Psychology Center has experienced providers for therapy and psychological evaluations. Most of our providers are in network with some insurance panels. Our master’s and doctorate level providers come from various backgrounds with work experiences in the school, hospital, community mental health, and universities. We support individuals and families across the lifespan.
We have psychologists and licensed counselors who specialize in anxiety disorders, autism, ADHD, life adjustment, stress, mood disorders, grief, and family relationships.
PEACE Psychology Center has experienced providers for therapy and psychological evaluations. Most of our providers are in network with some insurance panels. Our master’s and doctorate level providers come from various backgrounds with work experiences in the school, hospital, community mental health, and universities. We support individuals and families across the lifespan.
![Photo of Tracie J Owens - Center for Neuroperformance & Counseling, LPC, BCN, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50691bed-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Center for Neuroperformance & Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCN, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Flower Mound, TX 75022
We have an extensive background working with individuals with autism.
Our mission is to provide affordable services to individuals with intellectual disabilities or mental health issues to help them reduce barriers that keep them from fulfilling their educational, social, or vocational goals. The CNC (Center for Neuroperformance & Counseling) is a Flower Mound based non-profit providing the means for individuals to manage these issues through counseling, group therapy and neurofeedback services. (Please call or text directly to 214.286.6034)
We have an extensive background working with individuals with autism.
Our mission is to provide affordable services to individuals with intellectual disabilities or mental health issues to help them reduce barriers that keep them from fulfilling their educational, social, or vocational goals. The CNC (Center for Neuroperformance & Counseling) is a Flower Mound based non-profit providing the means for individuals to manage these issues through counseling, group therapy and neurofeedback services. (Please call or text directly to 214.286.6034)
![Photo of Nicky Richardson, MS, NCC, LPC, RPT™, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d4592c3-5d7c-43a9-8cfb-bbf42c87b62e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicky Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, RPT™
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
Waitlist for new clients
I believe every person has a unique way of looking at the world, and sometimes we all need a little help finding a common language to connect with others. We all strive for something, and my goal as a counselor is to help you figure out what is working for you and replace what no longer serves you. Although I can provide resources and a new perspective, I believe you are the expert on your own story. I tailor my treatment style to your individual needs and aim to populate your coping skills "toolbox" with the tools that work best for you as we work toward your goals.
I believe every person has a unique way of looking at the world, and sometimes we all need a little help finding a common language to connect with others. We all strive for something, and my goal as a counselor is to help you figure out what is working for you and replace what no longer serves you. Although I can provide resources and a new perspective, I believe you are the expert on your own story. I tailor my treatment style to your individual needs and aim to populate your coping skills "toolbox" with the tools that work best for you as we work toward your goals.
![Photo of Vic A Doster - BPOQe, Doster & Hoffman Therapy and Consultation, LCSW, LCDC, LMSW, LCSW-S, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56fa2f8c-8d39-4367-b7d8-2e536e6ffec1/1/320x400.jpeg)
BPOQe, Doster & Hoffman Therapy and Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, LMSW, LCSW-S, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75238 (Online Only)
High regards to you as you consider starting the journey of working towards becoming your best self. We are a team of pro-Black, spiritually aware, LGBTQ+ competent and affirming, down to earth therapists. We engage our clients in a holistic and person-centered approach, and value collaboration in the therapy space. Come as you are and we will meet you where you are at. Prioritizing your mental health, or even figuring out what that means can be super daunting. Our goal is to assist you in that process, in whatever way we can within our scope of practice.
High regards to you as you consider starting the journey of working towards becoming your best self. We are a team of pro-Black, spiritually aware, LGBTQ+ competent and affirming, down to earth therapists. We engage our clients in a holistic and person-centered approach, and value collaboration in the therapy space. Come as you are and we will meet you where you are at. Prioritizing your mental health, or even figuring out what that means can be super daunting. Our goal is to assist you in that process, in whatever way we can within our scope of practice.
![Photo of Awstin Gregg - Connections Wellness Group, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, PhD, MD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bfe7dc1-8ab8-441c-93a8-1985fa8a1b5f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Connections Wellness Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, PhD, MD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Denton, TX 76210
We are a GROUP practice of psychiatrists and counselors with the goal of being (1) easily accessible, (2) affordable, and (3) profoundly competent. Our psychiatrists and therapists are accepting new clients and we can typically provide new patient appointments in a matter of hours, not weeks or months. Our team is made up of Harvard students, college professors, international speakers, and advanced trained fully licensed practitioners. We offer a profoundly talented team with over 150+ years of combined experience, without losing a single ounce of individualized compassion, care, and genuine love for what we do every day.
We are a GROUP practice of psychiatrists and counselors with the goal of being (1) easily accessible, (2) affordable, and (3) profoundly competent. Our psychiatrists and therapists are accepting new clients and we can typically provide new patient appointments in a matter of hours, not weeks or months. Our team is made up of Harvard students, college professors, international speakers, and advanced trained fully licensed practitioners. We offer a profoundly talented team with over 150+ years of combined experience, without losing a single ounce of individualized compassion, care, and genuine love for what we do every day.
![Photo of David Ha - Counseling at Cornerstone, LMFT, MMFT, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437268e7-0d4e-424e-b847-18f0ee312202/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling at Cornerstone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Welcome and thank you for exploring my profile! The process of therapy begins with hearing your story and the things you are struggling with. I hope to provide a non-judgmental, safe place where counseling care is contextualized to meet your needs. I believe that what we do flows from who we are. And when we experience various traumas/stressors in our life, we can internalize them and believe unhealthy narratives about ourself and the world. While learning coping skills/practical tools are important, I have learned that working through the core/root issues are where long-lasting healing takes place.
Welcome and thank you for exploring my profile! The process of therapy begins with hearing your story and the things you are struggling with. I hope to provide a non-judgmental, safe place where counseling care is contextualized to meet your needs. I believe that what we do flows from who we are. And when we experience various traumas/stressors in our life, we can internalize them and believe unhealthy narratives about ourself and the world. While learning coping skills/practical tools are important, I have learned that working through the core/root issues are where long-lasting healing takes place.
![Photo of River Tu, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c8c2193-1a1c-4105-bdeb-48ae7400a6e1/3/320x400.jpeg)
River Tu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75248 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you need a helping hand in moving through trauma or someone to help you in your relationships – you have come to the right place. Sometimes it can be very difficult to get “unstuck” and move towards a life you want when you must keep parts of yourself hidden. You are free to be yourself here. This is a place for you to bravely play out all your pieces to see the whole picture. We’ll explore the landscape of your mind, identify the roadblocks, and equip you with practical skills to facilitate growth and healing.
Whether you need a helping hand in moving through trauma or someone to help you in your relationships – you have come to the right place. Sometimes it can be very difficult to get “unstuck” and move towards a life you want when you must keep parts of yourself hidden. You are free to be yourself here. This is a place for you to bravely play out all your pieces to see the whole picture. We’ll explore the landscape of your mind, identify the roadblocks, and equip you with practical skills to facilitate growth and healing.
![Photo of Oliver Gutierrez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7bebc71-68bf-4292-be02-dee7521bf1b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Oliver Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254 (Online Only)
Hello! Hola! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Texas. I provide therapy in English and Spanish. I received my Masters degree from the University of Texas at El Paso and have been practicing therapy for approximately 4 years. I serve adults and older people that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, psychosis, and LGBTQI+ challenges. I also worked with adolescents and their families for approximately 6 years.
Hello! Hola! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Texas. I provide therapy in English and Spanish. I received my Masters degree from the University of Texas at El Paso and have been practicing therapy for approximately 4 years. I serve adults and older people that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar, psychosis, and LGBTQI+ challenges. I also worked with adolescents and their families for approximately 6 years.
![Photo of Anthony Bean - Geek Therapeutics, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c23834b4-38b7-4b5b-acc1-9fec2426e574/1/320x400.jpeg)
Geeks, by traditional definition, are passionate about anthologies and characters from a variety of fictional, fantasy, and virtual formats that are sometimes niche or unpopular, creating feelings of relatedness towards avatar experiences in an often lonely life. . However, with the rise of popular media over the past several years, (e.g. Big Bang Theory, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Marvel’s Avengers, Anime, etc.) self-identification as a “geek” or “nerd” has become more mainstream. We practice this type of therapy and welcome you to come and grow through the practice of Geek Therapy
Geeks, by traditional definition, are passionate about anthologies and characters from a variety of fictional, fantasy, and virtual formats that are sometimes niche or unpopular, creating feelings of relatedness towards avatar experiences in an often lonely life. . However, with the rise of popular media over the past several years, (e.g. Big Bang Theory, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Marvel’s Avengers, Anime, etc.) self-identification as a “geek” or “nerd” has become more mainstream. We practice this type of therapy and welcome you to come and grow through the practice of Geek Therapy
![Photo of Megan M Shelton, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4528e73f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Children and adolescents often struggle with the same difficult feelings and emotions that adults do, but they have limited ways of expressing themselves. Similarly, parents can find themselves at a loss to reach their child, often leading to stress, anxiety, and disconnection. I have spent years working with children, teens, and their families in order to create healthy coping skills and foster healing, growth, and connection. I am passionate about helping children reach their full potential in a safe environment to explore their thoughts and feelings and develop necessary skills to thrive.
Children and adolescents often struggle with the same difficult feelings and emotions that adults do, but they have limited ways of expressing themselves. Similarly, parents can find themselves at a loss to reach their child, often leading to stress, anxiety, and disconnection. I have spent years working with children, teens, and their families in order to create healthy coping skills and foster healing, growth, and connection. I am passionate about helping children reach their full potential in a safe environment to explore their thoughts and feelings and develop necessary skills to thrive.
![Photo of Jessie Tirrell, LCSW-S, BAS, TBRI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/260b501c-02af-4b63-bcd2-57dd29350a84/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessie Tirrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, BAS, TBRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hurst, TX 76053
Are you feeling stuck and ready to live like you again? Is the voice in your head that you are never enough getting too loud? I help anxious hurting people who might know how to function through their pain but know they need to heal to live their best life. Living with anxiety can be crippling. If your anxiety runs the show you know you miss out on friends, family, and unlocking your potential. When your trauma defines who you are safety is always out of reach. If you have been longing for a safe space to unload your burdens and learn new ways to cope the time is never going to be perfect but it can be now. You can be better.
Are you feeling stuck and ready to live like you again? Is the voice in your head that you are never enough getting too loud? I help anxious hurting people who might know how to function through their pain but know they need to heal to live their best life. Living with anxiety can be crippling. If your anxiety runs the show you know you miss out on friends, family, and unlocking your potential. When your trauma defines who you are safety is always out of reach. If you have been longing for a safe space to unload your burdens and learn new ways to cope the time is never going to be perfect but it can be now. You can be better.
![Photo of Brett Bauer, LMHC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cb66a8b-f582-4bbc-80e2-ad38705ee724/2/320x400.jpeg)
Finding the right therapist is a challenging task, you want to find someone who is going to challenge and support you. If you are looking for someone who is calm, relaxed, and non-judgemental, then I would be an ideal person for you. I currently am accepting people who are ages 16-120 and have a wide range of skills working with a variety of difficulties. I have many years of experience supporting people with managing their Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Difficulties, Mens issues, Woman's issues, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Teens, and Adults.
Finding the right therapist is a challenging task, you want to find someone who is going to challenge and support you. If you are looking for someone who is calm, relaxed, and non-judgemental, then I would be an ideal person for you. I currently am accepting people who are ages 16-120 and have a wide range of skills working with a variety of difficulties. I have many years of experience supporting people with managing their Depression, Anxiety, Relationship Difficulties, Mens issues, Woman's issues, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Teens, and Adults.
![Photo of Rhonda Johnson - Center for Counseling and Family Relationships, LPC-S, LMFT-S, RPT-S, CEAP, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cef7c0c3-0cdf-424c-84be-a33762cfc4cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Center for Counseling and Family Relationships
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC-S, LMFT-S, RPT-S, CEAP, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76137
Our Mission is that lasting change can happen by providing: Support on life’s journey, an Opportunity to heal, and Sifting of values during decisions (S.O.S). Our core values are: Healing – Providing counseling to help resolve issues impacting your life and the lives of your family members Empowering - Giving you tools and resources to build healthy relationships on a firm foundation Connecting – Strengthening relationships for children, adults, couples, and families with God and each other
Our Mission is that lasting change can happen by providing: Support on life’s journey, an Opportunity to heal, and Sifting of values during decisions (S.O.S). Our core values are: Healing – Providing counseling to help resolve issues impacting your life and the lives of your family members Empowering - Giving you tools and resources to build healthy relationships on a firm foundation Connecting – Strengthening relationships for children, adults, couples, and families with God and each other
![Photo of Farrah Bonnot, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f004531b-4acd-495e-ac37-ab7d2b428b97/2/320x400.jpeg)
Farrah Bonnot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denton, TX 76210 (Online Only)
Do you worry your experiences, preferences, or orientation make the search for a mental health professional difficult? Are there times or situations where you'd like a helping hand, but feel overwhelmed about explaining your background to someone who may not understand? I know what that feels like. My passion lies in helping survivors of trauma and I am deeply invested in serving LGBTQIA+, polyam, consensual non-monogamy (ENM), kink, and all sexual minority communities. I am also sex work allied and provide non-judgmental support for individuals who are, or have been in the sex industry.
Do you worry your experiences, preferences, or orientation make the search for a mental health professional difficult? Are there times or situations where you'd like a helping hand, but feel overwhelmed about explaining your background to someone who may not understand? I know what that feels like. My passion lies in helping survivors of trauma and I am deeply invested in serving LGBTQIA+, polyam, consensual non-monogamy (ENM), kink, and all sexual minority communities. I am also sex work allied and provide non-judgmental support for individuals who are, or have been in the sex industry.
![Photo of Vanessa Gill - Counseling Center of North Texas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd06129-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling Center of North Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wylie, TX 75098
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
![Photo of Megan Hedges, LPC, MA, ATR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fc4095e-7fb0-4239-8cc4-fad9b0c98245/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of searching for support only to find more barriers and judgement? Are you seeking a place of peace with a professional who can help you and your loved ones hold the heavy burden of what has happened to you? Have you tried forms of therapy that you heard were the "Gold Standard" and found they didn't work for you as expected? Sometimes our experiences are so heavy and cause us so much pain that it can be difficult to keep going. I offer you and your loved ones a safe place where your hope can be renewed and solutions can be found.
Are you tired of searching for support only to find more barriers and judgement? Are you seeking a place of peace with a professional who can help you and your loved ones hold the heavy burden of what has happened to you? Have you tried forms of therapy that you heard were the "Gold Standard" and found they didn't work for you as expected? Sometimes our experiences are so heavy and cause us so much pain that it can be difficult to keep going. I offer you and your loved ones a safe place where your hope can be renewed and solutions can be found.
![Photo of Carrie Davidson - The Center, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50b3d6ac-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Center provides comprehensive and compassionate mental health care for individuals of all ages. Our team of 35+ experienced therapists specializes in working with children, teens, and adults, and we are dedicated to helping our clients improve their overall well-being. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health issues, we are here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. Our evidence-based therapy approaches are tailored to meet your unique needs and goals, and we offer a safe and supportive environment to help you find your way through the difficulties that life may bring.
The Center provides comprehensive and compassionate mental health care for individuals of all ages. Our team of 35+ experienced therapists specializes in working with children, teens, and adults, and we are dedicated to helping our clients improve their overall well-being. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health issues, we are here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. Our evidence-based therapy approaches are tailored to meet your unique needs and goals, and we offer a safe and supportive environment to help you find your way through the difficulties that life may bring.
![Photo of Caroline Kaplan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ffa1c16-09d9-451e-824e-02b744f85fab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Kaplan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75218 (Online Only)
I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and trauma in kids, tweens, teens, and adults. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, and compassionate approach to counseling. I have been in private practice for two years. Previously, I worked as a teacher and school counselor. I worked with children who had dyslexia, dysgraphia, and learning disabilities. I am aware of the ins and outs of schools, and I can advocate for you or your child in the school setting. I also provide parenting support. It is an honor to accompany others as they cultivate a relationship with themselves, while navigating the complexities and joys of life.
I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and trauma in kids, tweens, teens, and adults. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, and compassionate approach to counseling. I have been in private practice for two years. Previously, I worked as a teacher and school counselor. I worked with children who had dyslexia, dysgraphia, and learning disabilities. I am aware of the ins and outs of schools, and I can advocate for you or your child in the school setting. I also provide parenting support. It is an honor to accompany others as they cultivate a relationship with themselves, while navigating the complexities and joys of life.
See more therapy options for Wills Point
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.