Autism Therapists in Fairfax, VA
![Photo of Brittany Musaffi, PsyD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bb01995-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Types of evaluations I offer include ADHD, learning disabilities (psycho-educational), Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorder and evaluations for other emotional disorders.
I am accepting new patient for telehealth ONLY and am offering video sessions via Doxy.me. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I'm trained Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and play therapy for issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to ADHD, autism spectrum and other behavioral disorders. I also conduct comprehensive psychological evaluations and assessments to help develop a more clear mental health diagnosis. I earned my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and my bachelors from Penn State University.
Types of evaluations I offer include ADHD, learning disabilities (psycho-educational), Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorder and evaluations for other emotional disorders.
I am accepting new patient for telehealth ONLY and am offering video sessions via Doxy.me. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents. I'm trained Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and play therapy for issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to ADHD, autism spectrum and other behavioral disorders. I also conduct comprehensive psychological evaluations and assessments to help develop a more clear mental health diagnosis. I earned my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and my bachelors from Penn State University.
![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.
![Photo of Karla Fife, LCSW, BCBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d05947bc-aaa7-4353-af2c-193c0c8c1813/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karla Fife
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCBA
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adolescents, adolescents transitioning to adulthood, and adults, providing individual therapy, parent coaching, and family support. While I also work with neurotypical individuals, my expertise is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and anyone that experiences neurodivergence. I do a lot of work with ASD teens experiencing social difficulties, anxiety and depression. I have a strong background in ADHD, social anxiety, and families coping with stress and anger challenges. This includes students struggling with transitions to middle, high school or college, and parents needing support with a challenging teen or young adult.
I work with adolescents, adolescents transitioning to adulthood, and adults, providing individual therapy, parent coaching, and family support. While I also work with neurotypical individuals, my expertise is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and anyone that experiences neurodivergence. I do a lot of work with ASD teens experiencing social difficulties, anxiety and depression. I have a strong background in ADHD, social anxiety, and families coping with stress and anger challenges. This includes students struggling with transitions to middle, high school or college, and parents needing support with a challenging teen or young adult.
![Photo of Andre Edgarian, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75886043-dd33-4122-a4b5-02326555a309/2/320x400.jpeg)
Truly effective therapy requires a professional who cares and listens to you. In my sessions, I will make sure you are heard. I will collaborate with you to find real solutions for the issues you are facing and create meaningful change. I will listen to your feedback along the way and will adjust my approach based on what works for you. Through the work we do together, you will gain the tools to create a better life. I specialize in working with clients of all ages who are struggling with ADHD, Autism, and Trauma. I have been trained in play therapy, and work with children with developmental disorders and histories of trauma.
Truly effective therapy requires a professional who cares and listens to you. In my sessions, I will make sure you are heard. I will collaborate with you to find real solutions for the issues you are facing and create meaningful change. I will listen to your feedback along the way and will adjust my approach based on what works for you. Through the work we do together, you will gain the tools to create a better life. I specialize in working with clients of all ages who are struggling with ADHD, Autism, and Trauma. I have been trained in play therapy, and work with children with developmental disorders and histories of trauma.
![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 Kathianne Smith, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7aabf955-903d-4356-a8a6-0f4163ae3dca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathianne Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I specialize in individual and family therapy and couples therapy. I work with children, adolescents, and adults in a LGTBTQ+ affirming environment. I have over 30 years of direct mental health experience and my areas of focus include child and family therapy including play therapy, parenting, trauma, attachment disorder, adoption, autism spectrum disorder, and more.
I specialize in individual and family therapy and couples therapy. I work with children, adolescents, and adults in a LGTBTQ+ affirming environment. I have over 30 years of direct mental health experience and my areas of focus include child and family therapy including play therapy, parenting, trauma, attachment disorder, adoption, autism spectrum disorder, and more.
![Photo of Elisabeth Varkiani, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d441365-fefb-40ce-8326-34dc9af0d937/1/320x400.jpeg)
Varkiani conducts psychological evaluations for ADHD and other attention-related difficulties, autism (both child and adults!) dementia and memory impairment, concussions, traumatic brain injury, learning and language disorders, and other developmental difficulties.
Are you feeling down or stressed? Dr. Varkiani offers a caring, accepting approach to help you navigate through difficulties like depression, anxiety and trauma, relationship problems. and life transitions. She is currently accepting new clients for therapy (adolescents and adults) and for psychological testing (all ages). Please reach out if you would like a consultation; Dr. Varkiani looks forward to meeting you!
Varkiani conducts psychological evaluations for ADHD and other attention-related difficulties, autism (both child and adults!) dementia and memory impairment, concussions, traumatic brain injury, learning and language disorders, and other developmental difficulties.
Are you feeling down or stressed? Dr. Varkiani offers a caring, accepting approach to help you navigate through difficulties like depression, anxiety and trauma, relationship problems. and life transitions. She is currently accepting new clients for therapy (adolescents and adults) and for psychological testing (all ages). Please reach out if you would like a consultation; Dr. Varkiani looks forward to meeting you!
![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
Fairfax, VA 22030
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 Greg Clark, MA-R, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b2a407c-e31a-4d01-83e7-73c406d341e9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer counseling for depression, anxiety, neuro-divergent disorders, such as ADHD, Autism Spectrum, as well as grief and loss, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
If you, you and your partner, or family members are going through a difficult period in your life/lives, I can help guide you in the direction you would like to see a change in. Relationships, work, family, and personal life are all intertwined. If your goals and needs are to achieve a healthy balance between all of them, please let me know. Every individual has different goals. We can work on them together in a non-judgmental therapeutic relationship.
I offer counseling for depression, anxiety, neuro-divergent disorders, such as ADHD, Autism Spectrum, as well as grief and loss, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
If you, you and your partner, or family members are going through a difficult period in your life/lives, I can help guide you in the direction you would like to see a change in. Relationships, work, family, and personal life are all intertwined. If your goals and needs are to achieve a healthy balance between all of them, please let me know. Every individual has different goals. We can work on them together in a non-judgmental therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Liz Mathews-Jolley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8471687f-0193-4396-b90e-ccd7540b435d/4/320x400.jpeg)
Liz Mathews-Jolley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
It may seem that things are overwhelming and somewhat hopeless now. You do have strengths and the ability to make changes. Overcoming hopelessness, anxiety and depression often takes guidance. With my years of experience working with teens, young adults, adults, couples and groups, we will identify your strengths and put a plan in place to use those strengths to navigate life's challenges. My extensive experience includes working with people with neuro-diversity (Autism, ADHD, Intellectual Disabilities) and LGBTQ+ individuals.
It may seem that things are overwhelming and somewhat hopeless now. You do have strengths and the ability to make changes. Overcoming hopelessness, anxiety and depression often takes guidance. With my years of experience working with teens, young adults, adults, couples and groups, we will identify your strengths and put a plan in place to use those strengths to navigate life's challenges. My extensive experience includes working with people with neuro-diversity (Autism, ADHD, Intellectual Disabilities) and LGBTQ+ individuals.
![Photo of Laveena Khanchandani, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fd560f6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Her specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, attachment, & autism spectrum disorders.
Seeking therapy can often be a difficult decision and can create anxiety and ambiguity about what the process will entail. However, Dr. Khanchandani functions from the foundation for a positive experience in therapy which first begins with establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Doing so, can encourage positive growth towards goals. Therapy is facilitated with transparency about what to expect from the process and goals are formulated collaboratively. Interventions are recommended based on individual's goals and needs. Effective and open communication is encouraged about therapeutic process and progress on goals
Her specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, attachment, & autism spectrum disorders.
Seeking therapy can often be a difficult decision and can create anxiety and ambiguity about what the process will entail. However, Dr. Khanchandani functions from the foundation for a positive experience in therapy which first begins with establishing a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Doing so, can encourage positive growth towards goals. Therapy is facilitated with transparency about what to expect from the process and goals are formulated collaboratively. Interventions are recommended based on individual's goals and needs. Effective and open communication is encouraged about therapeutic process and progress on goals
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![Photo of Pamela Powers, MA, CCTP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0acf52bb-9437-4127-9066-f71ae752db3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also have extensive experience in working with individuals with autism.
I am a Certified Complex Trauma Professional Level I and EMDR trained. I have years of experience working with individuals with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, body dysmorphia, substance abuse, and chronic pain/illness. I work with children and adults utilizing my professional and personal experience to create a collaborative and person-centered approach. I utilize cognitive behavior therapy and dialectical behavior therapy to assist others in getting to the root cause of what is creating discord in their life and work towards finding their empowerment. I have worked with diverse populations and have extensive experience.
I also have extensive experience in working with individuals with autism.
I am a Certified Complex Trauma Professional Level I and EMDR trained. I have years of experience working with individuals with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, body dysmorphia, substance abuse, and chronic pain/illness. I work with children and adults utilizing my professional and personal experience to create a collaborative and person-centered approach. I utilize cognitive behavior therapy and dialectical behavior therapy to assist others in getting to the root cause of what is creating discord in their life and work towards finding their empowerment. I have worked with diverse populations and have extensive experience.
![Photo of Grace Song, DMin, QMHP-C, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/538140ff-a65d-419c-9f3d-48b4a7bb2793/2/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of expertise encompass a wide spectrum, including working with children grappling with emotional difficulties, developmental disorders, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Are you in search of a dedicated therapist to support your child's mental and emotional well-being? With over 17 years of invaluable experience in both the education and mental health sectors, I am here to offer my expertise. My professional journey has been characterized by a deep commitment to helping children and families navigate the complexities of emotional and psychological challenges. With a strong academic foundation in child psychology and developmental psychology from graduate schools, complemented by doctoral studies in social work, I bring a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted aspects of human development.
My areas of expertise encompass a wide spectrum, including working with children grappling with emotional difficulties, developmental disorders, and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Are you in search of a dedicated therapist to support your child's mental and emotional well-being? With over 17 years of invaluable experience in both the education and mental health sectors, I am here to offer my expertise. My professional journey has been characterized by a deep commitment to helping children and families navigate the complexities of emotional and psychological challenges. With a strong academic foundation in child psychology and developmental psychology from graduate schools, complemented by doctoral studies in social work, I bring a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted aspects of human development.
![Photo of Dr. Lyne S. Joseph, PsyD, LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0276278-294c-4c72-8c49-0ec29c0be652/1/320x400.jpeg)
Additionally, I provide psychological assessments for individuals questioning if they are experiencing neurological difficulties such as (but not limited to) autism and AD/HD.
Accepting NEW clients! I provide individual therapy for those struggling with a range of issues, including OCD, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and stress. If you are feeling worried, distressed, or just feeling stuck and unsure where to start, I can help guide and support you as we unravel the areas that are tangled and blocking you from reaching your goals. Together we can find your own path towards healing and having a balanced lifestyle.
Additionally, I provide psychological assessments for individuals questioning if they are experiencing neurological difficulties such as (but not limited to) autism and AD/HD.
Accepting NEW clients! I provide individual therapy for those struggling with a range of issues, including OCD, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and stress. If you are feeling worried, distressed, or just feeling stuck and unsure where to start, I can help guide and support you as we unravel the areas that are tangled and blocking you from reaching your goals. Together we can find your own path towards healing and having a balanced lifestyle.
![Photo of Seth Yavit - Art Therapist - Dc And Va, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3acc6261-41bf-4287-995f-d32d7588d99f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seth Yavit - Art Therapist - Dc And Va
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Are you struggling to build or maintain relationships, manage emotions, or adjust to life's challenges? Depression, anxiety, anger, autism, schizophrenia, bipolar, and other disorders can be challenging to face alone. Therapy can help you build coping skills that you can use to overcome your challenges. While trauma can cause great pain in your life, learning the tools to become more positive and more focused can turn those defeats into the very things that build perseverance. I have helped clients of all ages overcome challenges to unlock more fulfilling lives. So reach out, I look forward to helping.
Are you struggling to build or maintain relationships, manage emotions, or adjust to life's challenges? Depression, anxiety, anger, autism, schizophrenia, bipolar, and other disorders can be challenging to face alone. Therapy can help you build coping skills that you can use to overcome your challenges. While trauma can cause great pain in your life, learning the tools to become more positive and more focused can turn those defeats into the very things that build perseverance. I have helped clients of all ages overcome challenges to unlock more fulfilling lives. So reach out, I look forward to helping.
![Photo of Emily Claus, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/453b617a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a license eligible clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults. I'm trained in play and individual therapy for issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to ADHD, autism spectrum and other behavioral disorders. Some of specialties include psychological trauma (sexual/physical abuse, neglect) and LGBT issues. I also conducts psychological evaluations and assessments to help develop a more clear mental health diagnosis. I earned my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and completed her clinical internship at Pennsylvania Counseling Services.
I am a license eligible clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults. I'm trained in play and individual therapy for issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to ADHD, autism spectrum and other behavioral disorders. Some of specialties include psychological trauma (sexual/physical abuse, neglect) and LGBT issues. I also conducts psychological evaluations and assessments to help develop a more clear mental health diagnosis. I earned my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and completed her clinical internship at Pennsylvania Counseling Services.
![Photo of Jennifer Shore - Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7e7cd90-aba3-4d8c-9483-a689e7df4ce2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness (FMHW) provides integrated mental health services to the greater Virginia/Maryland/DC area. We treat a wide range of conditions including but limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, OCD, Adjustment Disorders, Mood Disorders and more. We treat patients ranging in age from 5 to 60. Our practice was founded in 2013 by Dr. Jennifer Shore and now employs over 40 clinical staff including psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, counselors, social workers and doctoral interns.
Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness (FMHW) provides integrated mental health services to the greater Virginia/Maryland/DC area. We treat a wide range of conditions including but limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, OCD, Adjustment Disorders, Mood Disorders and more. We treat patients ranging in age from 5 to 60. Our practice was founded in 2013 by Dr. Jennifer Shore and now employs over 40 clinical staff including psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, counselors, social workers and doctoral interns.
![Photo of Kathryn Stevens, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17b7d85f-facd-4d72-b4d1-d0f1c2cdea3e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also complete assessments for clients with autism and ADHD.
Understanding an individual’s cognitive profile goes beyond getting just one IQ score. Obtaining a comprehensive picture of one’s strengths and weaknesses is the best approach to identify exceptionalities and to understand how one’s abilities are interrelated to executive functioning skills, attentional control, academic achievement profiles, and emotional functioning.
I also complete assessments for clients with autism and ADHD.
Understanding an individual’s cognitive profile goes beyond getting just one IQ score. Obtaining a comprehensive picture of one’s strengths and weaknesses is the best approach to identify exceptionalities and to understand how one’s abilities are interrelated to executive functioning skills, attentional control, academic achievement profiles, and emotional functioning.
![Photo of Deborah O'Brien, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ff040c2a-e840-4ebe-9404-d257a5f554e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
My areas of expertise are ADHD, Anxiety, Anger Management, Divorce Challenges, Autism Spectrum, and Alcohol/Drug Addiction.
Are you or your family going through a tough time? Are behaviors or situations becoming unmanageable? In my office you will find a safe, nonjudgmental response to dealing with the complexities of your life. The aim is to address painful crisis and move toward developing coping strategies to increase peace & the happiness you deserve. My treatment approach is to help with solutions. Individual therapy, play therapy, parent support, and academic consultation is what I provide. In my practice I work with children, adolescents, and adults. There are several therapists in the office who can assist if I am booked.
My areas of expertise are ADHD, Anxiety, Anger Management, Divorce Challenges, Autism Spectrum, and Alcohol/Drug Addiction.
Are you or your family going through a tough time? Are behaviors or situations becoming unmanageable? In my office you will find a safe, nonjudgmental response to dealing with the complexities of your life. The aim is to address painful crisis and move toward developing coping strategies to increase peace & the happiness you deserve. My treatment approach is to help with solutions. Individual therapy, play therapy, parent support, and academic consultation is what I provide. In my practice I work with children, adolescents, and adults. There are several therapists in the office who can assist if I am booked.
![Photo of Beth Oliver, MA, LPC-R, ATR-P](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0f0de4e-31ab-4570-b495-912951de0cc7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in autism, trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, senior adults, and compassion fatigue.
Life can be challenging, and the ruptures we experience can leave us physically, mentally, and spiritually disjointed. When fractures occur, your body may hold stress even when your mind does not remember its origin, often leaving a sense of being stuck or dysregulated. Finding words to express these feelings can be difficult, but with the guidance of a therapist, you can expand your understanding and discernment, helping to move you in a new direction.
I specialize in autism, trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, senior adults, and compassion fatigue.
Life can be challenging, and the ruptures we experience can leave us physically, mentally, and spiritually disjointed. When fractures occur, your body may hold stress even when your mind does not remember its origin, often leaving a sense of being stuck or dysregulated. Finding words to express these feelings can be difficult, but with the guidance of a therapist, you can expand your understanding and discernment, helping to move you in a new direction.
See more therapy options for Fairfax
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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.