Autism Therapists in Reston, VA
![Photo of Lindsay Stejskal, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e481d44-4c4e-4d63-a19f-dc9eee3327da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Stejskal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190 (Online Only)
I offer psychotherapy/counseling as well as Adult Autism Assessments.
Hi there! My name is Lindsay and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. I am also a Certified Autism Specialist (IBCCES). I have a Master of Arts in Counseling with an emphasis in professional mental health counseling. I earned this degree through in-person studies. I would describe myself as nurturing, empathetic, and open-minded. I am also a proud wife and mom, which I believe enrich my role as a therapist. I have over 11 years of experience working in the field of mental health and over seven years working with individuals with autism.
I offer psychotherapy/counseling as well as Adult Autism Assessments.
Hi there! My name is Lindsay and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. I am also a Certified Autism Specialist (IBCCES). I have a Master of Arts in Counseling with an emphasis in professional mental health counseling. I earned this degree through in-person studies. I would describe myself as nurturing, empathetic, and open-minded. I am also a proud wife and mom, which I believe enrich my role as a therapist. I have over 11 years of experience working in the field of mental health and over seven years working with individuals with autism.
![Photo of Jessica L Cardwell, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/478b0b3c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Dr. Jessica and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have specialty experience working with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental and neurological disabilities, severe mental illness, and with clients with a history trauma/PTSD, TBI, and long-term illness. I strive to help my clients and their families better understand the nature of their difficulties, and work with them to build the coping skills and a supportive environment needed to thrive in all aspects of life.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jessica and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have specialty experience working with anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental and neurological disabilities, severe mental illness, and with clients with a history trauma/PTSD, TBI, and long-term illness. I strive to help my clients and their families better understand the nature of their difficulties, and work with them to build the coping skills and a supportive environment needed to thrive in all aspects of life.
![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
Reston, VA 20190
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 Stella Benetis-Matta, MEd, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d0d3a13-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stella Benetis-Matta
Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190 (Online Only)
I specialize in ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression and life coping skills and parenting.
Welcome, I look forward to our work together in a warm and supportive environment. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples and families. My expertise and strength is in using an eclectic and holistic approach that is uniquely fitted to your values and lifestyle. I place great emphasis on the potential that you possess to make positive life changes. Together, we will identify the areas that you feel you are struggling in or want to change as I gently challenge and empower you to develop a healthier belief system that includes self advocacy and better boundaries.
I specialize in ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Depression and life coping skills and parenting.
Welcome, I look forward to our work together in a warm and supportive environment. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples and families. My expertise and strength is in using an eclectic and holistic approach that is uniquely fitted to your values and lifestyle. I place great emphasis on the potential that you possess to make positive life changes. Together, we will identify the areas that you feel you are struggling in or want to change as I gently challenge and empower you to develop a healthier belief system that includes self advocacy and better boundaries.
![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 Christine Howard, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ae8bb08-b474-404d-870b-b839b8e1d9f6/3/320x400.jpeg)
If your child is struggling to focus or learn, psychological testing can help you understand what the problem is and what to do next. I specialize in psychological testing for children, teens, and adults with ADHD, learning disorders (such as dyslexia), autism, and mental health conditions. I will help you understand your child’s unique strengths and challenges and give you a roadmap for the most effective strategies and interventions. I frequently work with children who are gifted and twice-exceptional. I also offer IQ testing that can be used as part of the application process for private schools or advanced academic programs.
If your child is struggling to focus or learn, psychological testing can help you understand what the problem is and what to do next. I specialize in psychological testing for children, teens, and adults with ADHD, learning disorders (such as dyslexia), autism, and mental health conditions. I will help you understand your child’s unique strengths and challenges and give you a roadmap for the most effective strategies and interventions. I frequently work with children who are gifted and twice-exceptional. I also offer IQ testing that can be used as part of the application process for private schools or advanced academic programs.
![Photo of Jeffrey S Selman, PsyD, BCBA-D, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b90dc72d-2b42-4a7e-96be-c38c978a1e69/3/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
My name is Dr. Jeff Selman and I am a licensed psychologist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), and a certified school psychologist. I offer evidence-based telepsychology services to individuals across the lifespan and their families. These services include autism screening and assessment, individual and family therapy, parent behavior management training and coaching, and consultation and training for schools and community agencies. My approach is grounded in cognitive behavior therapy and behavior therapy. My sessions tend to be active, goal-oriented, and engaging. I love the work and welcomes complex and challenging cases.
![Photo of Theodore A Hoch, EdD, LPC, LBA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c8ec965-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy and am effective working with people who have anxiety, depression, or trauma issues; with parents and children or adolescents who have difficulty getting along; with people who have personality differences; and with people who have difficulty in relationships with others. I also have many years of experience working with families who have a child or children with autism or another disability. I enjoy helping people to learn to live happier, more productive lives.
I enjoy and am effective working with people who have anxiety, depression, or trauma issues; with parents and children or adolescents who have difficulty getting along; with people who have personality differences; and with people who have difficulty in relationships with others. I also have many years of experience working with families who have a child or children with autism or another disability. I enjoy helping people to learn to live happier, more productive lives.
![Photo of Christopher Johnson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/046e7921-1dc3-43fb-9180-454743120a21/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chris has a strong background in community-based counseling, school and residential settings, as well as an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy background for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder/s.
Chris Johnson is a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. With over five years of experience, Chris specializes in helping individuals navigate through life's challenges with a compassionate and evidence-based approach. He has worked extensively with diverse age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. His clinical expertise spans a wide range of issues such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, ADHD, and grief. Chris believes in the power of vulnerability and disciplined introspection as key elements for healing and personal growth.
Chris has a strong background in community-based counseling, school and residential settings, as well as an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy background for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder/s.
Chris Johnson is a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. With over five years of experience, Chris specializes in helping individuals navigate through life's challenges with a compassionate and evidence-based approach. He has worked extensively with diverse age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. His clinical expertise spans a wide range of issues such as, depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, ADHD, and grief. Chris believes in the power of vulnerability and disciplined introspection as key elements for healing and personal growth.
![Photo of Dan Dinsmoor, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bb1ae6d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in providing psychotherapy and neurofeedback services to patients with OCD, Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, TBI, and migraine headaches. The commonality among these problems is that an understanding of brain functioning can inform the direction of the treatment process. I started my career working with young autistic children. I have always had some autistic patients in my caseload. Currently, I work with adults who are on the spectrum as a particular area of interest in my practice.
I specialize in providing psychotherapy and neurofeedback services to patients with OCD, Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, TBI, and migraine headaches. The commonality among these problems is that an understanding of brain functioning can inform the direction of the treatment process. I started my career working with young autistic children. I have always had some autistic patients in my caseload. Currently, I work with adults who are on the spectrum as a particular area of interest in my practice.
![Photo of Jennifer A Kessler, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1c01b74-25c0-460f-a6ab-3b4d43c8f681/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer A Kessler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20191 (Online Only)
My specialty is working with trauma victims, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Adjustment Disorders, and grief.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. It is my privilige to walk alongside my clients and help them achieve their goals, whatever those goals may be. You don't have to walk through your journey alone.
My specialty is working with trauma victims, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Adjustment Disorders, and grief.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. It is my privilige to walk alongside my clients and help them achieve their goals, whatever those goals may be. You don't have to walk through your journey alone.
15 Second Videos
Lindsay Stejskal
Ashley Patrican
Melanie Kantor
Cody Woodburn at Examined Life Psychotherapy
Jessica L. Jupiter
![Photo of Dr. Sarah E. Jung, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0da0a689-b3cc-4c1b-9bee-6654bcf923cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
I provide psychoeducational assessments for ADHD, Autism or psychiatric disorders for adults.
I provide psychotherapy to clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship issues. I use an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from treatments that are backed by science, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Additionally, I work from a cultural perspective, which means bringing attention to how your background and identities impact your relationship with yourself and others.
I provide psychoeducational assessments for ADHD, Autism or psychiatric disorders for adults.
I provide psychotherapy to clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship issues. I use an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from treatments that are backed by science, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Additionally, I work from a cultural perspective, which means bringing attention to how your background and identities impact your relationship with yourself and others.
![Photo of Amy Gordon, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4876ebf6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Her clinical experience has included working with individuals with learning disabilities, ADHD, autism and other spectrum disorders, head injury, and internationally adopted children.
Dr. Gordon provides comprehensive diagnostic assessments for children, adolescents and adults. Comprehensive neuropsychological testing investigates an individuals strengths and weaknesses in all cognitive domains, including: general ability (IQ), attention, learning and memory, visual-spatial skills and visual-motor organization, language development and auditory processing, executive functioning (e.g., planning and organization, working memory, inhibition), academic skills, and psychological and emotional functioning.
Her clinical experience has included working with individuals with learning disabilities, ADHD, autism and other spectrum disorders, head injury, and internationally adopted children.
Dr. Gordon provides comprehensive diagnostic assessments for children, adolescents and adults. Comprehensive neuropsychological testing investigates an individuals strengths and weaknesses in all cognitive domains, including: general ability (IQ), attention, learning and memory, visual-spatial skills and visual-motor organization, language development and auditory processing, executive functioning (e.g., planning and organization, working memory, inhibition), academic skills, and psychological and emotional functioning.
![Photo of Patrick Nisco, PhD, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be22d73-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nisco has over 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing concerns of ADHD, learning disorders, developmental disorders, Autism and Asperger's, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, addictions, sexual abuse, trauma, anger and stress management, and legal issues.
Dr. Nisco received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology in consortium with Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, and obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Bachelors in Psychology from Loyola College. He has trained at Spring Grove Hospital Center in Catonsville, MD, Patuxent Institution minimal security prison in Sykesville, MD, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Menlo Park, CA, and Veterans Hospitals in Palo Alto, CA and Baltimore, MD. He has also been on staff at various community outpatient mental health centers.
Nisco has over 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing concerns of ADHD, learning disorders, developmental disorders, Autism and Asperger's, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, addictions, sexual abuse, trauma, anger and stress management, and legal issues.
Dr. Nisco received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology in consortium with Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, and obtained his Masters in Clinical Psychology and Bachelors in Psychology from Loyola College. He has trained at Spring Grove Hospital Center in Catonsville, MD, Patuxent Institution minimal security prison in Sykesville, MD, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Menlo Park, CA, and Veterans Hospitals in Palo Alto, CA and Baltimore, MD. He has also been on staff at various community outpatient mental health centers.
![Photo of Luisa Vargas, MA, ATR-BC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cd7421a-e5ef-49be-8e3f-0602ff230f4c/4/320x400.jpeg)
As an art therapist, I believe in the healing process that comes from art-making. I first meet with my client(s) to determine their goals for working together. Then, I engage my client(s) in the creative process. As an Art Therapy, I provide support, encouragement, and a safe space for the creative process to take place. After the artmaking, I encourage my clients to share their experiences and artwork, while I guide them in the process of self-discovery. I have experience working with acculturation, trauma (PTSD), behavioral issues, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), anxiety disorder, stress, and depression.
As an art therapist, I believe in the healing process that comes from art-making. I first meet with my client(s) to determine their goals for working together. Then, I engage my client(s) in the creative process. As an Art Therapy, I provide support, encouragement, and a safe space for the creative process to take place. After the artmaking, I encourage my clients to share their experiences and artwork, while I guide them in the process of self-discovery. I have experience working with acculturation, trauma (PTSD), behavioral issues, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), anxiety disorder, stress, and depression.
![Photo of Ashley Patrican, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49d04732-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Patrican
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20191 (Online Only)
I believe that therapy is about the journey towards self-discovery and joining that person on a quest to seek out the answers they already have within themselves. The ideal client is a person who is open to learning, determined to self-improve and committed to the therapeutic relationship. My experiences with mental health range from: autism, mood disorders, postpartum depression, lyme disease, suicide ideation, gender identity concerns,personality disorders, chronic pain, trauma, behavioral management, social skills training, parent training, psychosis to substance use.. My career background is in schools, crisis stabilization, home-based counseling and working with INOVA.
I believe that therapy is about the journey towards self-discovery and joining that person on a quest to seek out the answers they already have within themselves. The ideal client is a person who is open to learning, determined to self-improve and committed to the therapeutic relationship. My experiences with mental health range from: autism, mood disorders, postpartum depression, lyme disease, suicide ideation, gender identity concerns,personality disorders, chronic pain, trauma, behavioral management, social skills training, parent training, psychosis to substance use.. My career background is in schools, crisis stabilization, home-based counseling and working with INOVA.
![Photo of Desiree L. Vyas, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0c31b57-79a4-4694-ae88-0885e09fbb99/2/320x400.jpeg)
With over a decade of experience, Dr. Vyas specializes in comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations of children and adolescents. She has extensive experience working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., learning disorders, AD/HD, autism), as well as behavioral and social/emotional difficulties. Dr. Vyas trained at Howard University where she studied the field of psychology from a minority perspective, completed an externship at Children’s National Medical Center within the pediatric neuropsychology division, as well as an APA-approved internship at Loudoun County Public Schools.
With over a decade of experience, Dr. Vyas specializes in comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations of children and adolescents. She has extensive experience working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., learning disorders, AD/HD, autism), as well as behavioral and social/emotional difficulties. Dr. Vyas trained at Howard University where she studied the field of psychology from a minority perspective, completed an externship at Children’s National Medical Center within the pediatric neuropsychology division, as well as an APA-approved internship at Loudoun County Public Schools.
![Photo of Gayatri S Mantha, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bda7099-5bc5-43e7-9313-27b9f57ea9ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Testing can address neurodivergence, ADHD, learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, and many other presenting questions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience applying an eclectic and integrative approach to mental wellness. Sounds like buzzwords? I’ll explain. My goal is to understand each client’s constellation of beliefs and values, and then introduce techniques that address their presenting problems in an authentic manner. For some, therapeutic work will connect mental health with spiritual goals while for others, an exploration of past experiences will pave the way for healing. Lastly, I am a proud South Asian-American immigrant woman who integrates cultural humility within my work with individuals of all backgrounds.
Testing can address neurodivergence, ADHD, learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder, and many other presenting questions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience applying an eclectic and integrative approach to mental wellness. Sounds like buzzwords? I’ll explain. My goal is to understand each client’s constellation of beliefs and values, and then introduce techniques that address their presenting problems in an authentic manner. For some, therapeutic work will connect mental health with spiritual goals while for others, an exploration of past experiences will pave the way for healing. Lastly, I am a proud South Asian-American immigrant woman who integrates cultural humility within my work with individuals of all backgrounds.
![Photo of Javeria Muneer, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfda02a1-e09c-4881-b574-81eeb6c4a769/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been counseling and supporting individuals and families from diverse and neurodiverse backgrounds for over nine years. My passion is helping clients navigate their unique challenges with empathy and cultural humility. I provide holistic, person-centered care, tailoring interventions to address specific challenges and strengths and aim to create a supportive environment that promotes empowerment, growth, and well-being. If you're seeking support, and guidance in a non-judgmental space to explore your concerns, I would be honored to work with you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
I have been counseling and supporting individuals and families from diverse and neurodiverse backgrounds for over nine years. My passion is helping clients navigate their unique challenges with empathy and cultural humility. I provide holistic, person-centered care, tailoring interventions to address specific challenges and strengths and aim to create a supportive environment that promotes empowerment, growth, and well-being. If you're seeking support, and guidance in a non-judgmental space to explore your concerns, I would be honored to work with you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
![Photo of Melanie Kantor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ac3bf4a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a gender affirming, queer-friendly therapist who celebrates and affirms neurodiversity. I specialize in working with autistic and ADHD tweens, teens, and young adults. I can help you (or your child) learn to manage anxiety while navigating a world that wasn't built for the way your brain functions. My goal is to help you identify and harness your strengths and quirks to build a life of meaning- one that is driven by your values and goals, not by fear or limitations. I also frequently support clients with chronic illness and/or chronic pain, such as POTS and autoimmune disorders.
I am a gender affirming, queer-friendly therapist who celebrates and affirms neurodiversity. I specialize in working with autistic and ADHD tweens, teens, and young adults. I can help you (or your child) learn to manage anxiety while navigating a world that wasn't built for the way your brain functions. My goal is to help you identify and harness your strengths and quirks to build a life of meaning- one that is driven by your values and goals, not by fear or limitations. I also frequently support clients with chronic illness and/or chronic pain, such as POTS and autoimmune disorders.
See more therapy options for Reston
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Reston
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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.