Autism Therapists in Arlington, VA
![Photo of David Rothman, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8330503b-592b-4331-b09d-6dbdc9298f4c/4/320x400.jpeg)
David Rothman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
struggling with autism masking or acceptance).
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma? Are you looking for more effective ways to manage stress from work and relationships? With a depth of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor, I bring a unique blend of practicality, authenticity, warmth, and humor to my therapeutic approach. I'll work with you develop more insight into your thoughts/feelings/behavior, and help transform that insight into effective action in your everyday life. I'll help you learn a variety of practical, easy-to-use tools to use when you're struggling with your thoughts and/or emotions.
struggling with autism masking or acceptance).
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma? Are you looking for more effective ways to manage stress from work and relationships? With a depth of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor, I bring a unique blend of practicality, authenticity, warmth, and humor to my therapeutic approach. I'll work with you develop more insight into your thoughts/feelings/behavior, and help transform that insight into effective action in your everyday life. I'll help you learn a variety of practical, easy-to-use tools to use when you're struggling with your thoughts and/or emotions.
![Photo of Sharee Haskins, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a272ca3a-3832-49b6-8332-ca179e452991/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sharee Haskins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
Everyone wants to be able to control and manage the things they are going through and experiencing in their life, and at times that can be hard. My counseling style is relaxed and person centered. I am attentive, empathetic, and have a wide range of skills and experience that can be tailored to best support you. I have over 10 years of mental health experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults with a range of diagnosis from Autism to Schizophrenia. Working with children is my passion. I have a good track record working with children and helping them achieve complete independence.
Everyone wants to be able to control and manage the things they are going through and experiencing in their life, and at times that can be hard. My counseling style is relaxed and person centered. I am attentive, empathetic, and have a wide range of skills and experience that can be tailored to best support you. I have over 10 years of mental health experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults with a range of diagnosis from Autism to Schizophrenia. Working with children is my passion. I have a good track record working with children and helping them achieve complete independence.
![Photo of Faby Diallo, MEd, BCBA, LBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f64ff30a-bd92-460e-b0eb-716ffde167b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
My mission is to work with your child to achieve their full potential. I design plans that incorporate the natural environment to develop life skills and unlock your child’s tremendous potential. My approach is rooted in science and driven by daily insight from interacting with your child. As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum and a professional, I have had extensive experience working with children with special needs and training parents. I understand the challenges that your family faces. I believe that parent involvement plays a crucial role in the intervention and I want to give the best support to continue the work.
My mission is to work with your child to achieve their full potential. I design plans that incorporate the natural environment to develop life skills and unlock your child’s tremendous potential. My approach is rooted in science and driven by daily insight from interacting with your child. As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum and a professional, I have had extensive experience working with children with special needs and training parents. I understand the challenges that your family faces. I believe that parent involvement plays a crucial role in the intervention and I want to give the best support to continue the work.
![Photo of Kirsten Ashey, ATR, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8851c4a5-90b9-4b2e-951e-a9c9aee91ae2/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) and Resident in Counseling, working towards becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. I earned in MA in Art Therapy from The George Washington University and my BA in Psychology from Georgia State University. I have spent the past several years working with students in the public schools, specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, neurodiversity, sensory processing concerns and supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. I love working with youth to better understand their thoughts and feelings and believe in the power of art therapy to foster healing, transformation, and wellness.
I am a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) and Resident in Counseling, working towards becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. I earned in MA in Art Therapy from The George Washington University and my BA in Psychology from Georgia State University. I have spent the past several years working with students in the public schools, specializing in anxiety, depression, ADHD, neurodiversity, sensory processing concerns and supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. I love working with youth to better understand their thoughts and feelings and believe in the power of art therapy to foster healing, transformation, and wellness.
![Photo of Kelly Redmon Loo, LCSW, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47b98dc8-cb43-4f9f-99ed-1879d8651adf/2/320x400.png)
Kelly Redmon Loo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22202 (Online Only)
I specialize in doing autism assessments for adults.
Most of my clients come to me in a state of Autistic burnout, although they may not realize what it is at the time. Treating it as depression or anxiety can be counterproductive & only increases burnout symptoms. These clients are also typically seeking a late-diagnosis of ASD and figuring out the best way forward to meet needs that have been masked for years. As a neurodiverse-affirming therapist and diagnostician, I go through the diagnostic process with clients and afterwards we formulate therapeutic goals that are individualized for each person.
I specialize in doing autism assessments for adults.
Most of my clients come to me in a state of Autistic burnout, although they may not realize what it is at the time. Treating it as depression or anxiety can be counterproductive & only increases burnout symptoms. These clients are also typically seeking a late-diagnosis of ASD and figuring out the best way forward to meet needs that have been masked for years. As a neurodiverse-affirming therapist and diagnostician, I go through the diagnostic process with clients and afterwards we formulate therapeutic goals that are individualized for each person.
![Photo of Poppy Regina Bilbra-Jacobs - Poppy R. Bilbra-Jacobs, LPC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ed47fed-b360-46b4-a2fc-cedc23bddadf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Poppy R. Bilbra-Jacobs, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22206 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with over 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Are you struggling to manage your emotions or adjust to changes? Do you want to improve your relationships? We all have times in our lives when we need extra support to cope and succeed. I have worked extensively with a spectrum of people and problems such as depression, bipolar depression, anxiety, trauma including PTSD, bereavement, autism spectrum, and parenting.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with over 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Are you struggling to manage your emotions or adjust to changes? Do you want to improve your relationships? We all have times in our lives when we need extra support to cope and succeed. I have worked extensively with a spectrum of people and problems such as depression, bipolar depression, anxiety, trauma including PTSD, bereavement, autism spectrum, and parenting.
![Photo of Jennifer Fleming Beytin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25b24729-81e5-4255-8ec0-6c4415ac6e29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Fleming Beytin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209
Welcome! My name is Jennifer, and I help neurodivergent adults navigate personal and professional challenges related to ADHD and Autism. Currently, I offer therapy services and diagnostic evaluations to adults in Virginia. My approach is strengths-based, empowering, and neurodiversity-affirming. Whatever difficulties you are facing, we will work together to tap into your strengths, remove the roadblocks that are getting in your way, and build a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.
Welcome! My name is Jennifer, and I help neurodivergent adults navigate personal and professional challenges related to ADHD and Autism. Currently, I offer therapy services and diagnostic evaluations to adults in Virginia. My approach is strengths-based, empowering, and neurodiversity-affirming. Whatever difficulties you are facing, we will work together to tap into your strengths, remove the roadblocks that are getting in your way, and build a life that is meaningful and fulfilling.
![Photo of Lauren Stuart, MEd, MPhil, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/531267af-fa98-43e1-b33b-c1638e0f5c94/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Stuart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MPhil
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
Waitlist for new clients
One’s experience in therapy should be as unique as they are as a person. In working with my clients, I do not use a one-size-fits-all approach because it assumes that one treatment or modality can meet the various needs of different clients. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, autism, trauma, behavioral concerns, intellectual disabilities, life-transitions, self-esteem, disordered eating, parenting, and family dynamics. At the core, I work to create a warm, authentic, and non-judgmental space for my clients as they go through the counseling process.
One’s experience in therapy should be as unique as they are as a person. In working with my clients, I do not use a one-size-fits-all approach because it assumes that one treatment or modality can meet the various needs of different clients. I work with children, adolescents, adults, and families on a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, autism, trauma, behavioral concerns, intellectual disabilities, life-transitions, self-esteem, disordered eating, parenting, and family dynamics. At the core, I work to create a warm, authentic, and non-judgmental space for my clients as they go through the counseling process.
![Photo of Kate Connelly, PhD, LP, HSP-P, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee4c9fb3-9a2a-499e-9a28-e4f1c67720bd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Connelly
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201 (Online Only)
Are you wondering if your are Autistic, AuDHD, or ADHD? Do you know your neurotype but need a safe space to explore burnout recovery, learn more about yourself, or get support? I offer Neurodivergent-affirming assessment and therapy to empower adults of all ages. Neurodivergent-affirming assessment can help you discover if you are Autistic, AuDHD, or ADHD. I specialize working with women, AFAB individuals, and people with non-stereotypical Autism and Neurodivergence. Discovering Autism or ADHD later in adulthood can be a very positive event for many, helping them understand themselves and their life experiences more deeply.
Are you wondering if your are Autistic, AuDHD, or ADHD? Do you know your neurotype but need a safe space to explore burnout recovery, learn more about yourself, or get support? I offer Neurodivergent-affirming assessment and therapy to empower adults of all ages. Neurodivergent-affirming assessment can help you discover if you are Autistic, AuDHD, or ADHD. I specialize working with women, AFAB individuals, and people with non-stereotypical Autism and Neurodivergence. Discovering Autism or ADHD later in adulthood can be a very positive event for many, helping them understand themselves and their life experiences more deeply.
![Photo of Landon Sheriff, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/293160ae-d05d-40e8-9b1d-1c96d9ebe951/3/320x400.jpeg)
Landon Sheriff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia with over a decade of experience with adults and children who are seeking assistance managing: depression, anxiety, life changes, family/relationship issues, autism, urges to self-harm, suicidality, trauma, life dissatisfaction, and adoption/foster care. Therapy isn't meant to be long-term; rather, it is focused on helping you to feel better and function better sooner rather than later. I want to come alongside you and be on your team in order to empower you to reach your goals and to live the best life you can.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia with over a decade of experience with adults and children who are seeking assistance managing: depression, anxiety, life changes, family/relationship issues, autism, urges to self-harm, suicidality, trauma, life dissatisfaction, and adoption/foster care. Therapy isn't meant to be long-term; rather, it is focused on helping you to feel better and function better sooner rather than later. I want to come alongside you and be on your team in order to empower you to reach your goals and to live the best life you can.
![Photo of Dr. Laura Russell, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f008a5a2-22f2-423b-8611-980f081e266c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer evaluations and therapy for individuals who are struggling with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship issues, OCD, insomnia, trauma, and chronic pain. If you are feeling distressed, isolated, or experiencing problems in your relationships I hope I can guide you through these challenging times. My goal as your psychologist would be to help you find your own pathway to healing, balance, and a peace of mind.
I offer evaluations and therapy for individuals who are struggling with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship issues, OCD, insomnia, trauma, and chronic pain. If you are feeling distressed, isolated, or experiencing problems in your relationships I hope I can guide you through these challenging times. My goal as your psychologist would be to help you find your own pathway to healing, balance, and a peace of mind.
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![Photo of Lara A Doyle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c512f9e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Since 1993, I have worked with individuals and families coping with a wide range of social, emotional and psychological stressors. My areas of clinical expertise Include the following: Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Since 1993, I have worked with individuals and families coping with a wide range of social, emotional and psychological stressors. My areas of clinical expertise Include the following: Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic, ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
![Photo of Bridget Kraft, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43c8e6ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bridget Kraft
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22205
Waitlist for new clients
Counseling is amazing. Whether your problem seems simple or more complex, it is a privilege to partner with you through the process. I am 7 years into my private practice working with adults, teens and kids, and I have 13 years experience as an elementary school counselor working with children ages 4-12. The focus of my training and work with clients has included: anger, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, depression, divorce, emotional difficulties, learning disabilities, foster care, grief/loss, OCD, trauma/abuse and more. My clients can expect a safe space to be reflective, vulnerable, heard and appreciated.
Counseling is amazing. Whether your problem seems simple or more complex, it is a privilege to partner with you through the process. I am 7 years into my private practice working with adults, teens and kids, and I have 13 years experience as an elementary school counselor working with children ages 4-12. The focus of my training and work with clients has included: anger, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, depression, divorce, emotional difficulties, learning disabilities, foster care, grief/loss, OCD, trauma/abuse and more. My clients can expect a safe space to be reflective, vulnerable, heard and appreciated.
![Photo of Liza E Koonin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08a49305-6e2d-44cc-8842-3b7fffd58b21/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I currently have a waitlist for new clients. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, Autism/ADHD Spectrum and the adoption triad. I am an EMDR informed therapist and currently working towards EMDR certification. I have experience with supporting individuals with managing anxiety, depression and mood disorders, among other mental health concerns. I enjoy working with people in transitional times in their lives, including college and retirement ages.
Welcome! I currently have a waitlist for new clients. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, Autism/ADHD Spectrum and the adoption triad. I am an EMDR informed therapist and currently working towards EMDR certification. I have experience with supporting individuals with managing anxiety, depression and mood disorders, among other mental health concerns. I enjoy working with people in transitional times in their lives, including college and retirement ages.
![Photo of Christen Fanelli - The Mind Center Llc, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29cd93c2-cc44-4fa8-82f2-498cc8bf42c0/2/320x400.png)
Christen Fanelli - The Mind Center Llc
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22206
With a Doctoral Degree and Certification in School Psychology, I specialize in testing for ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Giftedness, IEP and 504 Plans, special needs, autism, trauma, depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, and more.
Are you ready to get top notch psych-educational evaluations, with no wait time? As a psychologist on The Mind Center's team, I understand the challenges you face when navigating your child's academic and emotional needs. My services are designed to pinpoint your child's strengths and areas of improvement. The mission? To team up with parents, their kids, and schools, creating a dynamic trio that supports every child in becoming their own hero with tailored intervention strategies. Through testing, challenges can turn into triumphs, and question marks into exclamation points. My approach is evidence-based and action-oriented.
With a Doctoral Degree and Certification in School Psychology, I specialize in testing for ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Giftedness, IEP and 504 Plans, special needs, autism, trauma, depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, and more.
Are you ready to get top notch psych-educational evaluations, with no wait time? As a psychologist on The Mind Center's team, I understand the challenges you face when navigating your child's academic and emotional needs. My services are designed to pinpoint your child's strengths and areas of improvement. The mission? To team up with parents, their kids, and schools, creating a dynamic trio that supports every child in becoming their own hero with tailored intervention strategies. Through testing, challenges can turn into triumphs, and question marks into exclamation points. My approach is evidence-based and action-oriented.
![Photo of Jessica Venglarcik, LICSW, LCSW, MSSA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3ba2a04-00f1-4fc8-a044-cc317cbbd23d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Venglarcik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MSSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Waitlist for new clients
I am an expert in the field of Autism and have worked in this population for 15 years.
You can reclaim happiness and peace in your life! I work with teens (11 and up) and adults. I have extensive experience in a number of areas including individuals with Autism, disabled individuals, faith based counseling, depression, anxiety, employment related issues, and general life stressors. The clients I work with are often feeling overwhelmed, and I help them to create space for healing. You are strong, and I'm here to help coach you back to a place of comfort and peace. I promise to provide non judgmental support and encouragement.
I am an expert in the field of Autism and have worked in this population for 15 years.
You can reclaim happiness and peace in your life! I work with teens (11 and up) and adults. I have extensive experience in a number of areas including individuals with Autism, disabled individuals, faith based counseling, depression, anxiety, employment related issues, and general life stressors. The clients I work with are often feeling overwhelmed, and I help them to create space for healing. You are strong, and I'm here to help coach you back to a place of comfort and peace. I promise to provide non judgmental support and encouragement.
![Photo of Kory (Chase) Andreas, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c78f755e-14f9-437a-a3b1-6349e2659c16/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kory (Chase) Andreas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201 (Online Only)
I provide Autism assessments for teens and adults, with a specific focus in the area of Autism in women and gender nonconforming clients.
As a clinical Social Worker for over 18 years, I come from a long line of “colorful,” Neurodivergent brains. I have been drawn to the passionate, the quirky, and the uniquely wired since I can remember. Connection is at the heart of my work with all clients. I believe that the magic behind therapy does not stem from any particular therapeutic modality, but instead from feeling understood and hopeful. I have an extensive background and a passion for working with Autistic clients. I am an AANE Certified Neurodiverse Couples Therapist. Therapy should be a safe place for clients to unmask and work towards positive change.
I provide Autism assessments for teens and adults, with a specific focus in the area of Autism in women and gender nonconforming clients.
As a clinical Social Worker for over 18 years, I come from a long line of “colorful,” Neurodivergent brains. I have been drawn to the passionate, the quirky, and the uniquely wired since I can remember. Connection is at the heart of my work with all clients. I believe that the magic behind therapy does not stem from any particular therapeutic modality, but instead from feeling understood and hopeful. I have an extensive background and a passion for working with Autistic clients. I am an AANE Certified Neurodiverse Couples Therapist. Therapy should be a safe place for clients to unmask and work towards positive change.
![Photo of Carolin Jassem, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f96b2d9-9486-47ab-ba0d-20898fb67d49/1/320x400.jpeg)
I conduct Neuropsychology, Autism, ADHD, and personality testing with great passion and dedication. Through years of experience, I have come to appreciate the immense value of comprehensive evaluations in accurately diagnosing conditions, fostering personal growth, and making informed career decisions. My commitment to this field is fueled by a genuine desire to help individuals better understand themselves and reach their full potential. Together, we can identify patterns that keep you stuck, develop new coping skills, and take steps towards healing and growth.
I conduct Neuropsychology, Autism, ADHD, and personality testing with great passion and dedication. Through years of experience, I have come to appreciate the immense value of comprehensive evaluations in accurately diagnosing conditions, fostering personal growth, and making informed career decisions. My commitment to this field is fueled by a genuine desire to help individuals better understand themselves and reach their full potential. Together, we can identify patterns that keep you stuck, develop new coping skills, and take steps towards healing and growth.
![Photo of Dee Majko, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a2ae709-71bb-4486-94ac-90574e9fe3ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Additionally, I conduct ADHD and Autism evaluations.
Problems are like snowflakes -no two are the same. Each person experiences life and the challenges that pop up in a unique way. As your therapist, I will help you explore, gain insight, search for meaning, and understand yourself.
Additionally, I conduct ADHD and Autism evaluations.
Problems are like snowflakes -no two are the same. Each person experiences life and the challenges that pop up in a unique way. As your therapist, I will help you explore, gain insight, search for meaning, and understand yourself.
![Photo of Dr. Adam Arthur Johnson, EdD, MEd](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3353835a-b779-4d3e-9583-bc9d11e8f536/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is a young adult experiencing challenges in college, or transitioning into college, and has a condition/s that can affect learning such as executive functioning challenges, ADHD, autism, dyslexia, processing disorders (auditory, visual, language), intellectual disability, PTSD and/or 2e as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and/or schizophrenia. Their goals are to achieve their educational objectives, which generally involves completing a college degree, and to experience increased self-esteem, joy, motivation, and student success.
My ideal client is a young adult experiencing challenges in college, or transitioning into college, and has a condition/s that can affect learning such as executive functioning challenges, ADHD, autism, dyslexia, processing disorders (auditory, visual, language), intellectual disability, PTSD and/or 2e as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and/or schizophrenia. Their goals are to achieve their educational objectives, which generally involves completing a college degree, and to experience increased self-esteem, joy, motivation, and student success.
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Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Arlington
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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.