Autism Therapists in Portsmouth City County, VA
![Photo of Bridget Marnien Richardson, MA , LE](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d856763b-55f1-4f6b-abfc-ecd5ac4778ea/1/320x400.png)
I work with children of all ages. I know when working with children it takes a unique approach to get a child to talk about difficult issues in their life. Children are very observant individuals that are impacted by their environment and relationships. I am familiar with childhood issues like anxiety, ADHD, Autism (ASD), depression, trauma and abuse. I was a special education teacher for 10 years and have worked with children who had behavior issues or learning disabilities that were impacting their school performance. A child’s self esteem, sense of identity, and confidence is influenced by everything around them.
I work with children of all ages. I know when working with children it takes a unique approach to get a child to talk about difficult issues in their life. Children are very observant individuals that are impacted by their environment and relationships. I am familiar with childhood issues like anxiety, ADHD, Autism (ASD), depression, trauma and abuse. I was a special education teacher for 10 years and have worked with children who had behavior issues or learning disabilities that were impacting their school performance. A child’s self esteem, sense of identity, and confidence is influenced by everything around them.
![Photo of Laura Michelle Samalya, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a7e8055-0e37-4017-b50f-ea6b0f6e6ceb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I have a passion for supporting neurodiverse individuals of all ages and families seeking acceptance and understanding. I have a personal connection to this journey as well. I am what some may call, 'neuro-spicy' myself. It is this unique blend of experience and expertise that sets me apart and allows me to truly connect with my clients on a profound level. Life can be tough, and sometimes, all we need is a little empathy, humor, and realism to navigate its complexities. That is where Shooting Star Counseling comes in!
Welcome! I have a passion for supporting neurodiverse individuals of all ages and families seeking acceptance and understanding. I have a personal connection to this journey as well. I am what some may call, 'neuro-spicy' myself. It is this unique blend of experience and expertise that sets me apart and allows me to truly connect with my clients on a profound level. Life can be tough, and sometimes, all we need is a little empathy, humor, and realism to navigate its complexities. That is where Shooting Star Counseling comes in!
![Photo of Rachel Micheletti, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c687245f-1b01-4aa5-a16b-5a6dc4520f67/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Micheletti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, VA 23701
Have you been searching for a change, a way to feel and give love authentically, or a path to your most favorite self? Maybe you have not been sure where to look or who to ask. But here you are! As a clinician, my passion and purpose is to incorporate dance, performance, beauty, and counseling into a holistic experience for reclamation of my clients’ bodies and spirits.
Have you been searching for a change, a way to feel and give love authentically, or a path to your most favorite self? Maybe you have not been sure where to look or who to ask. But here you are! As a clinician, my passion and purpose is to incorporate dance, performance, beauty, and counseling into a holistic experience for reclamation of my clients’ bodies and spirits.
![Photo of Tamara Coleman - Healing Journey Center for Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/336c0310-6de3-4d03-89de-71a271a8cc14/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healing Journey Center for Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, VA 23704
My ideal client is a person struggling with depression, anxiety, or PTSD. They want to improve their quality of life, to live life more fully and authentically. They are open to mindfulness-based therapy and interventions.
My ideal client is a person struggling with depression, anxiety, or PTSD. They want to improve their quality of life, to live life more fully and authentically. They are open to mindfulness-based therapy and interventions.
![Photo of Lateacia Sessoms, LPC, RPT, CASC, BS-HSP, CSTOP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b918146d-4482-419d-a5e5-d0ea15baea3b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lateacia Sessoms
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, CASC, BS-HSP, CSTOP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, VA 23704
Lateacia strives to bring an effective blend of experiences, empowerment, education, encouragement and support in order to maximize outcomes and provide genuine healing and wholeness to individuals, marriages and families. Lateacia’s approach to counseling is centered on the therapeutic alliance. She places a strong value on co-creating an environment where individuals feel safe, connected, supported, and encouraged to become the best versions of themselves. Lateacia is totally committed to the individuals that she serves and believes that there is great value and importance in human connections.
Lateacia strives to bring an effective blend of experiences, empowerment, education, encouragement and support in order to maximize outcomes and provide genuine healing and wholeness to individuals, marriages and families. Lateacia’s approach to counseling is centered on the therapeutic alliance. She places a strong value on co-creating an environment where individuals feel safe, connected, supported, and encouraged to become the best versions of themselves. Lateacia is totally committed to the individuals that she serves and believes that there is great value and importance in human connections.
![Photo of Stacy Coward - UOM Counseling Center, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9975fc83-083e-451d-b1db-5696a3e2f472/2/320x400.jpeg)
Join our Preceptorship and Internship programs and benefit from our mental health wellness programs. We support individuals seeking tools for recovery and personal growth. Our team is committed to providing tailored resources, guidance, and support to help you achieve your goals. Take the first step towards a brighter future and let us help you take many more. At times, we may feel stuck in life and unsure of how to progress towards the person we want to become. We understand that change, growth, development, and stability are crucial for achieving our goals. However, it's not always easy to know where to start or how to get there.
Join our Preceptorship and Internship programs and benefit from our mental health wellness programs. We support individuals seeking tools for recovery and personal growth. Our team is committed to providing tailored resources, guidance, and support to help you achieve your goals. Take the first step towards a brighter future and let us help you take many more. At times, we may feel stuck in life and unsure of how to progress towards the person we want to become. We understand that change, growth, development, and stability are crucial for achieving our goals. However, it's not always easy to know where to start or how to get there.
![Photo of Catherine J. Mills, PsyD, LCP, CCTP, CAADC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ec1fb88-ff85-4238-b84f-999afcb724fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine J. Mills
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, CCTP, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portsmouth, VA 23704
Experiencing trauma can be life-changing. I specialize in helping to process the traumatic event and help you meet your personal goals. I also conduct brief Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapy, Interpersonal Therapy and Substance Abuse Counseling Services.
Experiencing trauma can be life-changing. I specialize in helping to process the traumatic event and help you meet your personal goals. I also conduct brief Cognitive-Behavioral Psychotherapy, Interpersonal Therapy and Substance Abuse Counseling Services.
![Photo of Sheronda Farrow, PhD, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e2a666-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sheronda Farrow
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, VA 23705 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for helping and a quest for healing; understanding that recovery to wellness is a journey that you must take, with myself as a willing guide. It's my pleasure to assist you in discovering the tools you already possess to be successful on this journey. I've provided counseling and psychological testing services to children, adults, and families for 13 years. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, family/relationship issues, and anger management. Testing services include cognitive, achievement, and personality assessment. I also provide consultation, education, and training within the community.
I have a passion for helping and a quest for healing; understanding that recovery to wellness is a journey that you must take, with myself as a willing guide. It's my pleasure to assist you in discovering the tools you already possess to be successful on this journey. I've provided counseling and psychological testing services to children, adults, and families for 13 years. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, family/relationship issues, and anger management. Testing services include cognitive, achievement, and personality assessment. I also provide consultation, education, and training within the community.
![Photo of Lena S Kessler - Kessler Psychological, LLC, PhD, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43cab760-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kessler Psychological, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, VA 23708
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that everyone is capable of improving their life circumstances with guided work, and that all should be free from suffering. I evaluate and treat life satisfaction and interpersonal problems, as well as diagnosable mental illnesses. I offer individual, couple, family, and group psychotherapy. I am empathetic, warm, and non-judgmental with appropriate professional boundaries, and use a variety of perspectives and techniques to help clients meet their goals. I do not discriminate on any basis. Dr. Kohn and I are working off a waitlist at this time.
I believe that everyone is capable of improving their life circumstances with guided work, and that all should be free from suffering. I evaluate and treat life satisfaction and interpersonal problems, as well as diagnosable mental illnesses. I offer individual, couple, family, and group psychotherapy. I am empathetic, warm, and non-judgmental with appropriate professional boundaries, and use a variety of perspectives and techniques to help clients meet their goals. I do not discriminate on any basis. Dr. Kohn and I are working off a waitlist at this time.
![Photo of Sarah-Kate Hawkins, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efbe3047-c92f-4889-aa43-646c00e276e1/1/320x400.png)
Sarah-Kate Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, VA 23701 (Online Only)
Sarah-Kate Hawkins is a highly motivated, creative and versatile Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 30 years of experience working successfully with teens, adults, families, and couples. She specializes in assisting those with anxiety, behavioral issues, attachment-based issues, low self-esteem, parenting difficulties, academic issues, chronic stress, sexuality-based concerns, family conflict, and much more. Sarah-Kate earned her Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration from Walden University.
Sarah-Kate Hawkins is a highly motivated, creative and versatile Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 30 years of experience working successfully with teens, adults, families, and couples. She specializes in assisting those with anxiety, behavioral issues, attachment-based issues, low self-esteem, parenting difficulties, academic issues, chronic stress, sexuality-based concerns, family conflict, and much more. Sarah-Kate earned her Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration from Walden University.
![Photo of Charnetta Rochelle Waters, LPC-S, CYMHS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f0c8da9-cf1f-4018-b447-ee2248549d25/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charnetta Rochelle Waters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CYMHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portsmouth, VA 23704
Waitlist for new clients
I am now accepting DAY-TIME clients! Be the child you wished would change the world”. My philosophy is that by fostering change in the younger versions of society, then we can influence real change. Welcome to Heart-Led Counseling and Consulting, where I take great pride in working with people, especially children, teenagers, and adolescents. The child in us all is not my focus, but the aspects of the child, the carefree voice, the ability to live out loud, love out loud, and heal out loud before life’s challenges silenced our voices.
I am now accepting DAY-TIME clients! Be the child you wished would change the world”. My philosophy is that by fostering change in the younger versions of society, then we can influence real change. Welcome to Heart-Led Counseling and Consulting, where I take great pride in working with people, especially children, teenagers, and adolescents. The child in us all is not my focus, but the aspects of the child, the carefree voice, the ability to live out loud, love out loud, and heal out loud before life’s challenges silenced our voices.
15 Second Videos
Laura Michelle Samalya
Rachel Micheletti
UOM Counseling Center
Sarah-Kate Hawkins
![Photo of Jennifer Morgan, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4936aaec-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, VA 23704
Not accepting new clients
Life presents all of us with challenges, both big and small, and sometimes those challenges can be overwhelming and difficult to manage. I believe that every person has the power to overcome these challenges. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment to help guide, support, and empower clients in making changes to live the life that best meets their needs. My approaches include psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, positive psychology, and mindfulness. However, I can cater treatment to meet each individual's needs.
Life presents all of us with challenges, both big and small, and sometimes those challenges can be overwhelming and difficult to manage. I believe that every person has the power to overcome these challenges. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment to help guide, support, and empower clients in making changes to live the life that best meets their needs. My approaches include psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, positive psychology, and mindfulness. However, I can cater treatment to meet each individual's needs.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Joseph Cannon Farrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40e0e4ce-226b-47ee-b2ca-1a8ce3ac778f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph Cannon Farrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hampton, VA 23666
Concerned about your son with ADHD or Autism falling behind? Maybe your daughter's anxiety or depressive symptoms have you worried and what you've tried hasn't helped. Perhaps you ARE the child and you're seeking help, or maybe you're a parent with more questions than answers and desperately need some support. There are so many assaults on our mental health day to day that life can sometimes get the best of us and leave us feeling a bit hopeless or lost...especially now with the added strain of COVID-19 and social distancing.
Concerned about your son with ADHD or Autism falling behind? Maybe your daughter's anxiety or depressive symptoms have you worried and what you've tried hasn't helped. Perhaps you ARE the child and you're seeking help, or maybe you're a parent with more questions than answers and desperately need some support. There are so many assaults on our mental health day to day that life can sometimes get the best of us and leave us feeling a bit hopeless or lost...especially now with the added strain of COVID-19 and social distancing.
![Photo of Joseph Robert Daly - Daly Therapeutic Services, EdD, LPC, ASDCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/338fe8c2-0671-43d9-ab71-b4a38d0fd1bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Daly Therapeutic Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225
Waitlist for new clients
I was diagnosed with Autism at age 32 and take my knowledge and experience to work through the numerous feelings and unique experience of late diagnosed neurodivergence.
I'm Dr. Joe Daly. I treat clients of all ages experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma. I've worked in the mental health field since 2008. I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist whose passion is working with neurodiverse clients of all ages. Whether you have been diagnosed with Autism/Aspergers or ADHD, or suspect you could be, I can help "make sense" of your experience. After just a few sessions with me, you will learn to recognize your triggers and gain an understanding of your mental health struggles.
I was diagnosed with Autism at age 32 and take my knowledge and experience to work through the numerous feelings and unique experience of late diagnosed neurodivergence.
I'm Dr. Joe Daly. I treat clients of all ages experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma. I've worked in the mental health field since 2008. I am a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist whose passion is working with neurodiverse clients of all ages. Whether you have been diagnosed with Autism/Aspergers or ADHD, or suspect you could be, I can help "make sense" of your experience. After just a few sessions with me, you will learn to recognize your triggers and gain an understanding of your mental health struggles.
![Photo of Christina Calkins, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77e50acd-e471-4881-a6c3-e47dbe665dda/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Calkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
*Immediate availability* I help children, teens, adults, and families by providing the opportunity to be heard and accepted. I specialize in individuals with behavioral issues, parenting concerns, anxiety, depression, communication problems, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I desire to join others on their journey to discover the skills, confidence, and personal strengths needed for desired change and the establishment of healthy and effective relationships. I aim to establish personal well-being through improving one's ability to cope.
*Immediate availability* I help children, teens, adults, and families by providing the opportunity to be heard and accepted. I specialize in individuals with behavioral issues, parenting concerns, anxiety, depression, communication problems, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I desire to join others on their journey to discover the skills, confidence, and personal strengths needed for desired change and the establishment of healthy and effective relationships. I aim to establish personal well-being through improving one's ability to cope.
![Photo of Karen Bailey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cee60698-52a0-45c0-8716-259d9fdd87c9/3/320x400.jpeg)
My strengths and passions include being compassionate, being an advocate for my clients, creative/artistic and enjoys a good sense of humor while motivating her clients to wholeness. It is a privilege to help you along in you journey. I have worked in the field for 23 years , I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD, autism, grief and loss, childhood trauma, attachment, developmental issues, women issues, intellectual disabilities.
My strengths and passions include being compassionate, being an advocate for my clients, creative/artistic and enjoys a good sense of humor while motivating her clients to wholeness. It is a privilege to help you along in you journey. I have worked in the field for 23 years , I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD, autism, grief and loss, childhood trauma, attachment, developmental issues, women issues, intellectual disabilities.
![Photo of Amanda Caffey - Winds of Hope Christian Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aabe29d3-6dcc-43e7-a82f-c98564a48974/2/320x400.jpeg)
Winds of Hope Christian Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23188 (Online Only)
Are you seeking grace, understanding, and support? Winds of Hope Christian Counseling (WHCC) offers faith-based mental health services to individuals across the life span, which include individuals with developmental and behavioral/emotional needs (ADHD/ADD, Autism), anxiety, depression, parenting, aging, life transitions, family caregiver support, and grief/loss. My name is Amanda Caffey, and I'm the face of WHCC. The values of WHCC embody my passion for helping others. I truly believe the Lord works through my compassion and empathy for others.
Are you seeking grace, understanding, and support? Winds of Hope Christian Counseling (WHCC) offers faith-based mental health services to individuals across the life span, which include individuals with developmental and behavioral/emotional needs (ADHD/ADD, Autism), anxiety, depression, parenting, aging, life transitions, family caregiver support, and grief/loss. My name is Amanda Caffey, and I'm the face of WHCC. The values of WHCC embody my passion for helping others. I truly believe the Lord works through my compassion and empathy for others.
![Photo of Zhavon Shay Malone @ Deep Connections Counseling, MEd, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0eccdce-72a8-4752-9b40-bbd3e57945a7/2/320x400.png)
Zhavon Shay Malone @ Deep Connections Counseling
LPC Intern, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23507
I specialize in working with neurodivergent families including but not limited to: ADHD, Autism, and anxiety/depression.
Currently waitlisted until Sept 2024 You may be looking for someone to help you better understand yourself and your behaviors or to build better relationships with your loved ones. With a background in mental health and special education, I am uniquely positioned to support you in achieving your goals. My passion is helping my clients learn to feel good about who they are and the direction their life is headed. I help adults, youth, and families transition from confusion and misunderstanding to clarity and healthy relationships.
I specialize in working with neurodivergent families including but not limited to: ADHD, Autism, and anxiety/depression.
Currently waitlisted until Sept 2024 You may be looking for someone to help you better understand yourself and your behaviors or to build better relationships with your loved ones. With a background in mental health and special education, I am uniquely positioned to support you in achieving your goals. My passion is helping my clients learn to feel good about who they are and the direction their life is headed. I help adults, youth, and families transition from confusion and misunderstanding to clarity and healthy relationships.
![Photo of Sasha Baier, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7135262-c616-44eb-a576-f4a3d250faf8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sasha Baier
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (Online Only)
I have 25+ years providing counseling to individuals with PTSD, trauma disorders, adjustment disorders, attachment disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning disorders and developmental disabilities (with specific training in autism spectrum disorder).
Life can be challenging in general, but during these times of COVID we are finding that life is throwing us more curveballs than usual. In counseling, my objective is to provide support, encouragement and guidance to address life's challenges. Overall, the ultimate goal is for you to be energized and mobilized to experience a happier and more fulfilling life. In 2003, I graduated with a Masters in Counseling Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University with a multi-disciplinary subspecialty in Developmental Disabilities through the VA-LEND program. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2009.
I have 25+ years providing counseling to individuals with PTSD, trauma disorders, adjustment disorders, attachment disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, learning disorders and developmental disabilities (with specific training in autism spectrum disorder).
Life can be challenging in general, but during these times of COVID we are finding that life is throwing us more curveballs than usual. In counseling, my objective is to provide support, encouragement and guidance to address life's challenges. Overall, the ultimate goal is for you to be energized and mobilized to experience a happier and more fulfilling life. In 2003, I graduated with a Masters in Counseling Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University with a multi-disciplinary subspecialty in Developmental Disabilities through the VA-LEND program. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2009.
![Photo of Aundrea Collebrusco, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88f0ab1a-2d08-4a0e-b310-f39e77bc4499/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aundrea Collebrusco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (Online Only)
Welcome to Psychology Today! You've taken a huge step being here today, and I'm sure you're wondering where to begin. My name is Aundrea and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over eight years of experience providing therapy services. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families with an array of needs such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, relationship support and specializing in Autism/IDD services.
Welcome to Psychology Today! You've taken a huge step being here today, and I'm sure you're wondering where to begin. My name is Aundrea and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over eight years of experience providing therapy services. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families with an array of needs such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, relationship support and specializing in Autism/IDD services.
See more therapy options for Portsmouth City County
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.