Autism Therapists in Orem, UT

Photo of Karen Fairchild, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Fairchild
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84097
Waitlist for new clients
I am dedicated to helping individuals and families find the peace and balance in life that we are all seeking. I have over 20 years experience working with individuals and families with Autism and other disabilities, including early intervention and behavioral strategies. I love to help parents and married couples rediscover themselves and their relationship. I love to help in the process of brainstorming effective parenting choices for "tricky" children of all ages. Typical challenges include stress, grief, anxiety, depression, self-worth, and self-acceptance. I also have experience helping with healing from trauma and abuse.
I am dedicated to helping individuals and families find the peace and balance in life that we are all seeking. I have over 20 years experience working with individuals and families with Autism and other disabilities, including early intervention and behavioral strategies. I love to help parents and married couples rediscover themselves and their relationship. I love to help in the process of brainstorming effective parenting choices for "tricky" children of all ages. Typical challenges include stress, grief, anxiety, depression, self-worth, and self-acceptance. I also have experience helping with healing from trauma and abuse.
(801) 675-4846 View (801) 675-4846
Photo of Julie Chacon, LCSW, ADHD-CC, ASD-CS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Chacon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADHD-CC, ASD-CS
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
In addition to providing therapy I have specialized training to provide assessments and diagnosis for ADHD (all types) and specialize in assessing for autism spectrum disorder in older children, teens and adults.
Together, we will explore your innate capabilities. Through collaborative therapy, I'm here to assist you in taking an active role in your own growth, development, and healing. Along the way, you'll develop clearer communication skills, fostering more effective connections with yourself and those around you. My approach integrates solution focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy modalities, ensuring a personalized and enriching therapeutic journey. I specialize in Solution Focus Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
In addition to providing therapy I have specialized training to provide assessments and diagnosis for ADHD (all types) and specialize in assessing for autism spectrum disorder in older children, teens and adults.
Together, we will explore your innate capabilities. Through collaborative therapy, I'm here to assist you in taking an active role in your own growth, development, and healing. Along the way, you'll develop clearer communication skills, fostering more effective connections with yourself and those around you. My approach integrates solution focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy modalities, ensuring a personalized and enriching therapeutic journey. I specialize in Solution Focus Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(385) 364-3918 View (385) 364-3918
Photo of Nancy Coca, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Coca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84058
I specialize in working with clients on the autism spectrum as well as clients struggling with anxiety, depression, and identity.
It's my privilege to guide you through the complexities and challenges that life presents. My commitment lies in being there for you during your most vulnerable moments, offering support and understanding to help you overcome adversity. My approach centers on cultivating skills that not only enable you to confront life's hurdles but also to thrive, leading a life filled with health and happiness. Together, we'll embark on a journey towards empowerment and well-being
I specialize in working with clients on the autism spectrum as well as clients struggling with anxiety, depression, and identity.
It's my privilege to guide you through the complexities and challenges that life presents. My commitment lies in being there for you during your most vulnerable moments, offering support and understanding to help you overcome adversity. My approach centers on cultivating skills that not only enable you to confront life's hurdles but also to thrive, leading a life filled with health and happiness. Together, we'll embark on a journey towards empowerment and well-being
(435) 282-8086 View (435) 282-8086
Photo of Rebecca Ochsenhirt, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Ochsenhirt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
I specialize in ADHD and Autism for lifestyle and relational concerns.
I serve a variety of clients. However, many come in wanting to talk about specific diagnoses like anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, or Autism. Others want to talk about emotional regulation, becoming more in-tune with their body, and relationships. You may want to soundboard your thoughts to be more organized, or you would like another perspective on what you are addressing. I am here to sit with you as you decide on your needs and goals.
I specialize in ADHD and Autism for lifestyle and relational concerns.
I serve a variety of clients. However, many come in wanting to talk about specific diagnoses like anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, or Autism. Others want to talk about emotional regulation, becoming more in-tune with their body, and relationships. You may want to soundboard your thoughts to be more organized, or you would like another perspective on what you are addressing. I am here to sit with you as you decide on your needs and goals.
(385) 406-3726 View (385) 406-3726
Photo of Stephen Sommers, LPC, CMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephen Sommers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
I have experience working with Teens with ADHD, and Autism, as well as Depression, Anxiety, Eating Didorders and Behavioral Issues.
I have extensive experience working with children and families and excel meeting children and teens where they are at, no matter the area of difficulty or how layered their problems are. I offer parent education and support in a non-judgmental and caring manner. I use a variety of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, family system dynamics, attachment theory, and play therapy.
I have experience working with Teens with ADHD, and Autism, as well as Depression, Anxiety, Eating Didorders and Behavioral Issues.
I have extensive experience working with children and families and excel meeting children and teens where they are at, no matter the area of difficulty or how layered their problems are. I offer parent education and support in a non-judgmental and caring manner. I use a variety of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, family system dynamics, attachment theory, and play therapy.
(801) 616-8819 View (801) 616-8819
Photo of Sarah Heuser, CSW
Sarah Heuser
Social Worker, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
I will never claim to be an expert in anything, but I have lived and clinical experience with autism, the LGBTQ+ community, and faith transitions.
My ideal client is willing to talk about and feel their feelings and the way they affect their lives. Not all of my clients can talk about their feelings quite yet, or even identify them. That’s okay. Some are absolutely terrified to acknowledge or address feelings, and that’s okay too. It’s only when clients are unwilling that I personally run into a wall with my work.
I will never claim to be an expert in anything, but I have lived and clinical experience with autism, the LGBTQ+ community, and faith transitions.
My ideal client is willing to talk about and feel their feelings and the way they affect their lives. Not all of my clients can talk about their feelings quite yet, or even identify them. That’s okay. Some are absolutely terrified to acknowledge or address feelings, and that’s okay too. It’s only when clients are unwilling that I personally run into a wall with my work.
(385) 438-7703 View (385) 438-7703
Photo of Laurel Smith, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurel Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
As a therapist at Scenic View Clinic, a significant portion of clients I work with are on the autism spectrum and/or managing other neurodiversities. In conjunction with these specializations, I am affirming of LGBTQ+ clients, and bring expertise working with clients with intellectual disabilities, chronic illness including diabetes, and dual diagnoses.
As a therapist at Scenic View Clinic, a significant portion of clients I work with are on the autism spectrum and/or managing other neurodiversities. In conjunction with these specializations, I am affirming of LGBTQ+ clients, and bring expertise working with clients with intellectual disabilities, chronic illness including diabetes, and dual diagnoses.
(385) 213-8469 View (385) 213-8469
Photo of Jason Lefrandt, PhD, Psychologist
Jason Lefrandt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
I worked as the ADHD specialist at BYU's Accessibility Center and underwent training to become a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist.
Hello there! I am a licensed psychologist experienced in conducting several different evaluations. Evaluations I provide include testing for ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, psychiatric/psychological conditions (e.g., ODD, OCD, PTSD/trauma, anxiety-related, depressive disorders, personality disorders, etc.) and learning disabilities for those seeking accommodations for exams, schooling, and social security benefits. I am also experienced in pre-police employment, pre-mission, and pre-surgery. I am known for being very thorough in my evaluations and give specific, evidence-based feedback and resources in my follow up sessions.
I worked as the ADHD specialist at BYU's Accessibility Center and underwent training to become a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist.
Hello there! I am a licensed psychologist experienced in conducting several different evaluations. Evaluations I provide include testing for ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, psychiatric/psychological conditions (e.g., ODD, OCD, PTSD/trauma, anxiety-related, depressive disorders, personality disorders, etc.) and learning disabilities for those seeking accommodations for exams, schooling, and social security benefits. I am also experienced in pre-police employment, pre-mission, and pre-surgery. I am known for being very thorough in my evaluations and give specific, evidence-based feedback and resources in my follow up sessions.
(801) 203-3910 View (801) 203-3910
Photo of Adam Thompson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84058
I use Neurofeedback to treat diverse emotional, psychological, and cognitive problems such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, brain injury, learning disorders, PTSD, sleep disorders, and addiction.
The human mind can get stuck in negative emotions, beliefs, and other patterns which make it feel impossible to move forward in life. I specialize in interventions (particularly EMDR, ACT, and BWRT) that enable the mind to let release old patterns quickly and often permanently. I specialize in treating trauma and anxiety. But these same interventions work wonders with addictions, depression, and other serious problems.
I use Neurofeedback to treat diverse emotional, psychological, and cognitive problems such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, brain injury, learning disorders, PTSD, sleep disorders, and addiction.
The human mind can get stuck in negative emotions, beliefs, and other patterns which make it feel impossible to move forward in life. I specialize in interventions (particularly EMDR, ACT, and BWRT) that enable the mind to let release old patterns quickly and often permanently. I specialize in treating trauma and anxiety. But these same interventions work wonders with addictions, depression, and other serious problems.
(801) 921-4640 View (801) 921-4640
Photo of Rob Dindinger (Utah Valley Psychology), PhD, Psychologist
Rob Dindinger (Utah Valley Psychology)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84097
I am an expert at helping adults who have autism, anxiety, depression, OCD, and/or couples issues. I help individuals regain control of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to improve their ability to function and gain satisfaction from the many environments (home, school, work, community) in which they interact with. I have worked hard to be competent in many modalities of therapy to fit my clients needs. My clients would say I am easy to get along with and have a good sense of humor. I am the owner of Utah Valley Psychology and have worked hard to make UVP a safe, healing, and supportive environment for all.
I am an expert at helping adults who have autism, anxiety, depression, OCD, and/or couples issues. I help individuals regain control of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to improve their ability to function and gain satisfaction from the many environments (home, school, work, community) in which they interact with. I have worked hard to be competent in many modalities of therapy to fit my clients needs. My clients would say I am easy to get along with and have a good sense of humor. I am the owner of Utah Valley Psychology and have worked hard to make UVP a safe, healing, and supportive environment for all.
(385) 469-0820 View (385) 469-0820
Photo of Madison Knight, MA, ACMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madison Knight
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ACMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we need a little extra support to navigate through difficult times. I am passionate about helping people navigate through difficult times in their lives and finding ways to overcome obstacles. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported. A significant portion of my career has been helping clients with behavior modification and treating symptoms of substance use, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma responses. I also have experience with clients with autism and those who have experienced domestic violence.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we need a little extra support to navigate through difficult times. I am passionate about helping people navigate through difficult times in their lives and finding ways to overcome obstacles. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported. A significant portion of my career has been helping clients with behavior modification and treating symptoms of substance use, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma responses. I also have experience with clients with autism and those who have experienced domestic violence.
(385) 469-1148 View (385) 469-1148
Photo of Jon Voigt - Jon Voigt Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jon Voigt Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84097  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also treat ADHD, Borderline, addictions, issues of gender and sexuality, ASD ( Autism), DID ("multiple personality"), and psychosis.
Hello. I've been working in mental health for the past 20+ years, with experience in most mental/emotional/relational health conditions. I very much enjoy and value working with my clients. I believe that client-therapist fit and clinical expertise are both essential. I work to constantly deepen my understanding of human psychology and the healing process. I specialize in EMDR, IFS, and Prolonged Exposure for treating PTSD, complex trauma, and anxiety conditions. I also specialize in DBT, and have a published book called "Mindfulness and DBT skills for improving Focus, Relationships, Emotion Management, & Distress Tolerance."
I also treat ADHD, Borderline, addictions, issues of gender and sexuality, ASD ( Autism), DID ("multiple personality"), and psychosis.
Hello. I've been working in mental health for the past 20+ years, with experience in most mental/emotional/relational health conditions. I very much enjoy and value working with my clients. I believe that client-therapist fit and clinical expertise are both essential. I work to constantly deepen my understanding of human psychology and the healing process. I specialize in EMDR, IFS, and Prolonged Exposure for treating PTSD, complex trauma, and anxiety conditions. I also specialize in DBT, and have a published book called "Mindfulness and DBT skills for improving Focus, Relationships, Emotion Management, & Distress Tolerance."
(385) 243-7680 View (385) 243-7680
Photo of Tina Kurrels, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Tina Kurrels
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84097
ADHD and autism run in my family and I have studied these areas extensively.
Yo hablo Espanol. I am passionate about helping people heal from abusive relationships. Whether you are still in this relationship or not, my goal is to help you overcome the pain that you are in, and reclaim your life. I also help people that feel like they’ve lost everything (due to divorce, betrayal, financial ruin, etc.). It can be devastating, overwhelming, even frightening to see your world turn upside down. I can help you to grieve and to find your way in order to start over.
ADHD and autism run in my family and I have studied these areas extensively.
Yo hablo Espanol. I am passionate about helping people heal from abusive relationships. Whether you are still in this relationship or not, my goal is to help you overcome the pain that you are in, and reclaim your life. I also help people that feel like they’ve lost everything (due to divorce, betrayal, financial ruin, etc.). It can be devastating, overwhelming, even frightening to see your world turn upside down. I can help you to grieve and to find your way in order to start over.
(801) 877-1582 View (801) 877-1582
Photo of Courtney Ahroon, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Courtney Ahroon
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
My focus includes helping couples, where one or both partners have Autism, ADHD, or other neurologically diverse conditions, navigate the unique challenges these bring to a relationship.
There is nothing more painful than being in a relationship, but feeling totally alone. “It shouldn’t be this way” you tell yourself. You’re lonely, and it scares you. You never saw the relationship going this way. You used to be really happy. Really in love. Somewhere a long the way, things changed. You find yourself thinking, “How did we get here?” Relationships are hard. I know it may feel hopeless that things will ever be the same. I help couples and individuals whose past experiences with trauma, infidelity, childhood wounds, and sexual issues prevent them from having the fulfilled and satisfying relationships they long for.
My focus includes helping couples, where one or both partners have Autism, ADHD, or other neurologically diverse conditions, navigate the unique challenges these bring to a relationship.
There is nothing more painful than being in a relationship, but feeling totally alone. “It shouldn’t be this way” you tell yourself. You’re lonely, and it scares you. You never saw the relationship going this way. You used to be really happy. Really in love. Somewhere a long the way, things changed. You find yourself thinking, “How did we get here?” Relationships are hard. I know it may feel hopeless that things will ever be the same. I help couples and individuals whose past experiences with trauma, infidelity, childhood wounds, and sexual issues prevent them from having the fulfilled and satisfying relationships they long for.
(385) 462-6906 View (385) 462-6906
Photo of David Scott Briggs, EdS, MA, Counselor
David Scott Briggs
Counselor, EdS, MA
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84097
With extensive experience and training in CBT and DBT, I can help you better cope with a range of problems, from ADHD and autism to anxiety and depression.
As a school-based professional for over 14 years, I work primarily with children, adolescents and young adults with everything from anxiety, anger, trauma and depression to ADHD, Autism and ODD. I have extensive testing experience having worked in the schools and in private practice. I provide testing for cognitive, academic, personality, social, emotional, behavioral, and adaptive deficits and commonly for autism, ADHD and executive dysfunction. My therapy approach is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy with elements of mindfulness and acceptance.
With extensive experience and training in CBT and DBT, I can help you better cope with a range of problems, from ADHD and autism to anxiety and depression.
As a school-based professional for over 14 years, I work primarily with children, adolescents and young adults with everything from anxiety, anger, trauma and depression to ADHD, Autism and ODD. I have extensive testing experience having worked in the schools and in private practice. I provide testing for cognitive, academic, personality, social, emotional, behavioral, and adaptive deficits and commonly for autism, ADHD and executive dysfunction. My therapy approach is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy with elements of mindfulness and acceptance.
(385) 481-7996 View (385) 481-7996
Photo of Shannon Brodie, MFTI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shannon Brodie
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFTI
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84097
I've worked as a coach for teens with autism and other neurological challenges at the Heritage RTC in Orem, where I helped with social skills, engagement, emotion regulation, and individualized goals.
I have a passion for helping people feel comfortable and hopeful. Organizing and understanding your thoughts and troubles is an intimidating task. No matter your concerns or struggles, together we will curate motivating goals and learn skills to work toward them.
I've worked as a coach for teens with autism and other neurological challenges at the Heritage RTC in Orem, where I helped with social skills, engagement, emotion regulation, and individualized goals.
I have a passion for helping people feel comfortable and hopeful. Organizing and understanding your thoughts and troubles is an intimidating task. No matter your concerns or struggles, together we will curate motivating goals and learn skills to work toward them.
(385) 786-8868 View (385) 786-8868
Photo of Mason Christensen, MSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mason Christensen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84097
I specialize in helping individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Anxiety and Depression.
Every person deserves to feel safe. I enjoy providing a safe and comfortable space for people to find their strength to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. I am passionate about using the tools and knowledge that I have been given to support people through their challenges and towards their goals. I enjoy using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness techniques. Safety and trust are crucial to vulnerability, which is necessary for the growth process. I strive to provide safety and trust in sessions to support people in their personal growth.
I specialize in helping individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Anxiety and Depression.
Every person deserves to feel safe. I enjoy providing a safe and comfortable space for people to find their strength to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. I am passionate about using the tools and knowledge that I have been given to support people through their challenges and towards their goals. I enjoy using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness techniques. Safety and trust are crucial to vulnerability, which is necessary for the growth process. I strive to provide safety and trust in sessions to support people in their personal growth.
(801) 751-6565 View (801) 751-6565
Photo of Elise Teerlink, ACMHC, EdS, Counselor
Elise Teerlink
Counselor, ACMHC, EdS
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with families of children with disabilities, prenatal and postpartum mothers, and those who have experienced betrayal trauma. I also work with anxiety, depression, autism, trauma, addiction, grief, and adjustment issues. I use evidence-based techniques and a collaborative and integrated approach to tailor my therapy to each individual's unique situations, learning preferences, and goals.
I enjoy working with families of children with disabilities, prenatal and postpartum mothers, and those who have experienced betrayal trauma. I also work with anxiety, depression, autism, trauma, addiction, grief, and adjustment issues. I use evidence-based techniques and a collaborative and integrated approach to tailor my therapy to each individual's unique situations, learning preferences, and goals.
(801) 692-7947 View (801) 692-7947
Photo of Emily Pressler, LCSW-I, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily Pressler
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orem, UT 84057
Everyone can benefit from therapy and I am here to provide a safe place for you, your child, or your family! I believe in creating a nurturing and playful environment where young minds can explore their emotions, build resilience, and prepare for whatever life throws at them. I specialize in working with children and adolescents dealing with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation and self harm, behavioral challenges, trauma, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. Your child will know immediately that this is a safe place for them to express themselves and learn to cope with the challenges they are facing.
Everyone can benefit from therapy and I am here to provide a safe place for you, your child, or your family! I believe in creating a nurturing and playful environment where young minds can explore their emotions, build resilience, and prepare for whatever life throws at them. I specialize in working with children and adolescents dealing with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation and self harm, behavioral challenges, trauma, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorders. Your child will know immediately that this is a safe place for them to express themselves and learn to cope with the challenges they are facing.
(385) 993-4364 View (385) 993-4364
Photo of Jennifer Morrill - Utah Psychological Associates, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Utah Psychological Associates, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Orem, UT 84057
Utah Psychological Associates provides mental health services to adolescents, adults and couples. Our therapists have experience with a variety of presenting problems, including behavior problems, depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, OCD, autism spectrum disorders, relationship problems, addictions, LGBT issues, career counseling, and many others. Additionally, we have psychologists that specialize in performing psychological evaluations for a variety of purposes such as learning disabilities, autism spectrum diagnosis, psychological diagnostic clarification, and court-ordered evaluations.
Utah Psychological Associates provides mental health services to adolescents, adults and couples. Our therapists have experience with a variety of presenting problems, including behavior problems, depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, OCD, autism spectrum disorders, relationship problems, addictions, LGBT issues, career counseling, and many others. Additionally, we have psychologists that specialize in performing psychological evaluations for a variety of purposes such as learning disabilities, autism spectrum diagnosis, psychological diagnostic clarification, and court-ordered evaluations.
(801) 691-7427 View (801) 691-7427
1
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.