Autism Therapists in Auburn, WA

Photo of Emily Ramos, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Auburn, WA 98092
My areas of therapeutic interest include anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood behavioral disorders, ADHD, autism, family communication, and parenting skills/support.
I approach therapy from a strengths-based perspective, focusing on assisting individuals and families to find inner strength and make positive life changes. I work with children, teens, adults, and families, utilizing multiple evidence-based approaches. I will support you in creating an environment to help you feel safe and understood, and work with you in setting goals in the areas that are most important to you. I have training and experience in multiple therapy modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Sand Tray, and other Play therapy Techniques.
My areas of therapeutic interest include anxiety, depression, trauma, childhood behavioral disorders, ADHD, autism, family communication, and parenting skills/support.
I approach therapy from a strengths-based perspective, focusing on assisting individuals and families to find inner strength and make positive life changes. I work with children, teens, adults, and families, utilizing multiple evidence-based approaches. I will support you in creating an environment to help you feel safe and understood, and work with you in setting goals in the areas that are most important to you. I have training and experience in multiple therapy modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Sand Tray, and other Play therapy Techniques.
(253) 447-5591 View (253) 447-5591
Photo of Rebecca R Muirhead, PsyD, Psychologist
Rebecca R Muirhead
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Auburn, WA 98001
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized experience with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism, relationship issues, & the LGBTQ community.
Not Accepting New Clients At This Time. I primarily work with Adolescents & Adults in both individual & family therapy and provide parenting consultations. My approach is rooted in Attachment theory and our therapeutic relationship will be the foundation for effective therapy. We will work as a team to clarify personal goals and purpose, identify unhealthy patterns and nurture your unique strengths. I have over 15 yrs. of clinical experience in a wide variety of settings including schools, community centers, and group practices. Using a mixture of cognitive & reflective approaches, I help clients with a wide range of issues.
I have specialized experience with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism, relationship issues, & the LGBTQ community.
Not Accepting New Clients At This Time. I primarily work with Adolescents & Adults in both individual & family therapy and provide parenting consultations. My approach is rooted in Attachment theory and our therapeutic relationship will be the foundation for effective therapy. We will work as a team to clarify personal goals and purpose, identify unhealthy patterns and nurture your unique strengths. I have over 15 yrs. of clinical experience in a wide variety of settings including schools, community centers, and group practices. Using a mixture of cognitive & reflective approaches, I help clients with a wide range of issues.
(253) 352-4119 View (253) 352-4119
Photo of Dr. Ferlicia Fergusson-Prudent - Prudent Psychological Services, PsyD, LMHC, Psychologist
Prudent Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburn, WA 98002
PPS only provides evaluation services. Counseling is not available. Ferlicia Fergusson-Prudent, PsyD, is the owner and founder of Prudent Psychological Services. She is a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Dr. Fergusson-Prudent earned her Doctorate of Psychology and Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington. She also obtained a Master in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of the Virgin Islands in St. Thomas, USVI.
PPS only provides evaluation services. Counseling is not available. Ferlicia Fergusson-Prudent, PsyD, is the owner and founder of Prudent Psychological Services. She is a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Dr. Fergusson-Prudent earned her Doctorate of Psychology and Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington. She also obtained a Master in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of the Virgin Islands in St. Thomas, USVI.
(253) 434-3825 View (253) 434-3825
Photo of Luisa Bakhoum, LMHCA, Counselor
Luisa Bakhoum
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Auburn, WA 98002  (Online Only)
My lived experience and training merge to create a helpful skillset that has a positive impact on my work. I work with people who are neurodivergent themselves and/ or people who are trying to understand how to best support a loved one who is neurodivergent. In my work with couples and families, my clients are wanting to understand how to navigate different brain types often alongside navigating very different lived experiences, and different social backgrounds.
My lived experience and training merge to create a helpful skillset that has a positive impact on my work. I work with people who are neurodivergent themselves and/ or people who are trying to understand how to best support a loved one who is neurodivergent. In my work with couples and families, my clients are wanting to understand how to navigate different brain types often alongside navigating very different lived experiences, and different social backgrounds.
(253) 242-8422 View (253) 242-8422
Photo of Philena Herfindahl, LMHCA, Counselor
Philena Herfindahl
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Auburn, WA 98002
Sometimes we can find ourselves just surviving- moving through our daily tasks and engaging with others while on autopilot. Much like zoning out while driving, coming to and wondering where the last ten miles or thirty minutes went, we can “come to" and find ourselves behaving toward ourselves and others in automatic, disconnected, and even reactive ways. We all want and need to feel seen and heard. I hope to provide a space to be seen and heard without judgement. .
Sometimes we can find ourselves just surviving- moving through our daily tasks and engaging with others while on autopilot. Much like zoning out while driving, coming to and wondering where the last ten miles or thirty minutes went, we can “come to" and find ourselves behaving toward ourselves and others in automatic, disconnected, and even reactive ways. We all want and need to feel seen and heard. I hope to provide a space to be seen and heard without judgement. .
(253) 993-1658 View (253) 993-1658
Photo of Alayna Daniels - Beth-El Counsel: Alayna Daniels, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Beth-El Counsel: Alayna Daniels
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Auburn, WA 98092
Beth-El Counsel serves children, adolescents, and adults actively seeking support and guidance to navigate through life's challenges and improve their overall well-being! Clients may be facing issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts or other mental health concerns. Beth-El Counsel offers a safe and supportive environment where clients can openly express themselves without judgment and receive effective therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique circumstances. These clients may also require practical tools and strategies to cope with their difficulties and make positive changes in their lives!
Beth-El Counsel serves children, adolescents, and adults actively seeking support and guidance to navigate through life's challenges and improve their overall well-being! Clients may be facing issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts or other mental health concerns. Beth-El Counsel offers a safe and supportive environment where clients can openly express themselves without judgment and receive effective therapeutic interventions tailored to their unique circumstances. These clients may also require practical tools and strategies to cope with their difficulties and make positive changes in their lives!
(253) 319-3793 View (253) 319-3793
Photo of Stevie Long, LCFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Stevie Long
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LCFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Auburn, WA 98002
My number one goal as a therapist is to establish a trusting and respectful relationship with my client(s). Your trust in me is my genuine priority. I work with adolescents (14+), individuals, families and couples. I am a trans and LGBTQIA+ affirming Therapist. I believe that the mind and physical body are intrinsically connected, and that mental health is the loving balance between the two. Finding that balance looks different for every individual and relationship. When you come into this therapeutic space it is my intention to meet you where you're at, not where you think you should be.
My number one goal as a therapist is to establish a trusting and respectful relationship with my client(s). Your trust in me is my genuine priority. I work with adolescents (14+), individuals, families and couples. I am a trans and LGBTQIA+ affirming Therapist. I believe that the mind and physical body are intrinsically connected, and that mental health is the loving balance between the two. Finding that balance looks different for every individual and relationship. When you come into this therapeutic space it is my intention to meet you where you're at, not where you think you should be.
(253) 785-3314 View (253) 785-3314
Photo of Vina Barham, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Vina Barham
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburn, WA 98001  (Online Only)
Change can often be painful & challenging but can also open us up to creating the life we most desire. You’ve made a brave step towards your healing and I am here to support you with the shifts you want to see in your life. I work with individuals, couples and families who are navigating strained relationships, marginalization from oppressive systems, or who are simply looking to feel better. Together, we will create a safe space for you to process your experiences, gather the tools and resources you need to embody the change you want.
Change can often be painful & challenging but can also open us up to creating the life we most desire. You’ve made a brave step towards your healing and I am here to support you with the shifts you want to see in your life. I work with individuals, couples and families who are navigating strained relationships, marginalization from oppressive systems, or who are simply looking to feel better. Together, we will create a safe space for you to process your experiences, gather the tools and resources you need to embody the change you want.
(425) 906-3512 View (425) 906-3512
Photo of Monica Robbins, MS, LMHCA, SUDP, Counselor
Monica Robbins
Counselor, MS, LMHCA, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburn, WA 98002
My name is Monica. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with over 25 years of experience working with youth and adults providing addiction prevention, treatment & recovery services. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. My personal life experiences have inspired me to help others, and I strive to offer a safe, caring space so you can process life's challenges and blessings. I am skilled in treating many issues including, trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, OCD, co-dependency, addiction and recovery, life transitions, parenting, relationships, & grief.
My name is Monica. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with over 25 years of experience working with youth and adults providing addiction prevention, treatment & recovery services. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. My personal life experiences have inspired me to help others, and I strive to offer a safe, caring space so you can process life's challenges and blessings. I am skilled in treating many issues including, trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ASD, OCD, co-dependency, addiction and recovery, life transitions, parenting, relationships, & grief.
View
Photo of Naveed F. Sarikhan, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Naveed F. Sarikhan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Auburn, WA 98023  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
In my practice, I emphasize both change and acceptance, seeking to help you build the life you want to be living. Sometimes when individuals are in therapy, they begin to understand the causes of the problems they are experiencing while continuing to feel stuck. I focus on balancing an understanding of these external influences while supporting you with specific tools to help you to react differently. Often this work begins by focusing on dismantling the disproportionate levels of guilt individuals have internalized which blocks their ability to change.
In my practice, I emphasize both change and acceptance, seeking to help you build the life you want to be living. Sometimes when individuals are in therapy, they begin to understand the causes of the problems they are experiencing while continuing to feel stuck. I focus on balancing an understanding of these external influences while supporting you with specific tools to help you to react differently. Often this work begins by focusing on dismantling the disproportionate levels of guilt individuals have internalized which blocks their ability to change.
(253) 300-1176 View (253) 300-1176

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of April Walter, PsyD, Psychologist
April Walter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98003
At The Center we provide diagnosis, treatment, education/employment assistance and housing assistance for those on the Autism Spectrum.
I specialize in working with individuals and families struggling with Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Learning Disorders and other Neuropsychological or Psychological Issues.
At The Center we provide diagnosis, treatment, education/employment assistance and housing assistance for those on the Autism Spectrum.
I specialize in working with individuals and families struggling with Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Learning Disorders and other Neuropsychological or Psychological Issues.
(206) 466-5649 View (206) 466-5649
Photo of Carly Pascoe, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Carly Pascoe
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98003
I enjoy working with children, teens, young adults, parents, families, and groups. In addition, I also act as a consultant to various schools in the King County area. My education and clinical training is focused on providing treatment and assessment services to children, adults, and families presenting with a diverse range of emotional, medical, and neuro-psychological difficulties. Furthermore, I have worked extensively with children on the autism spectrum for over 15 years. I utilize both a Cognitive Behavioral & Family Systems approach in my clinical work.
I enjoy working with children, teens, young adults, parents, families, and groups. In addition, I also act as a consultant to various schools in the King County area. My education and clinical training is focused on providing treatment and assessment services to children, adults, and families presenting with a diverse range of emotional, medical, and neuro-psychological difficulties. Furthermore, I have worked extensively with children on the autism spectrum for over 15 years. I utilize both a Cognitive Behavioral & Family Systems approach in my clinical work.
(253) 655-0625 View (253) 655-0625
Photo of Megan Gillman, MS, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Gillman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98416  (Online Only)
Many of my clients come to me feeling misunderstood or out of sync with the world around them, often having only recently discovered that they may be neurodivergent or on the autism spectrum. They may also be navigating the complexities of LGBTQIA+ identities, non-traditional relationships, or grappling with the emotional and physical challenges of chronic illness and mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or trauma. Life transitions—whether related to parenthood, relationships, or career—can feel overwhelming, and many struggle to connect with their emotions or communicate their needs.
Many of my clients come to me feeling misunderstood or out of sync with the world around them, often having only recently discovered that they may be neurodivergent or on the autism spectrum. They may also be navigating the complexities of LGBTQIA+ identities, non-traditional relationships, or grappling with the emotional and physical challenges of chronic illness and mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or trauma. Life transitions—whether related to parenthood, relationships, or career—can feel overwhelming, and many struggle to connect with their emotions or communicate their needs.
(360) 284-1785 View (360) 284-1785
Photo of Carrie Sheppard - MindSource Center, LLC, LMHC, MEd, LBAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
MindSource Center, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, MEd, LBAT
Verified Verified
Covington, WA 98042
Welcome to MindSource Center! We're a team of behavioral therapists who are wholeheartedly devoted to serving families whose lives are touched by autism and developmental challenges.
Parenting a child with autism or other developmental delays can be challenging. The usual strategies that work with other children often do not work well at all with a child who struggles with sensory processing differences, anxiety or other issues that go along with neurodevelopment conditions. Expert guidance from our autism specialists can help you feel and be more effective as a parent and fully enjoy your relationship with your child. Our behavioral services (ABA) is designed to accelerate your child's development and build lifelong skills for learning and independence.
Welcome to MindSource Center! We're a team of behavioral therapists who are wholeheartedly devoted to serving families whose lives are touched by autism and developmental challenges.
Parenting a child with autism or other developmental delays can be challenging. The usual strategies that work with other children often do not work well at all with a child who struggles with sensory processing differences, anxiety or other issues that go along with neurodevelopment conditions. Expert guidance from our autism specialists can help you feel and be more effective as a parent and fully enjoy your relationship with your child. Our behavioral services (ABA) is designed to accelerate your child's development and build lifelong skills for learning and independence.
(253) 655-2249 View (253) 655-2249
Photo of Dr. Shelley Barber, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Dr. Shelley Barber
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
I offer comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adults with expertise in diagnosing neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD.
Are you seeking to better understand and support your child's unique needs? Maybe you want to improve your relationships and add "tools to your toolkit." If you're navigating the complexities of neurodevelopmental differences like autism or ADHD - whether for yourself or your child - you've come to the right place. Together, we can explore evidence-based strategies to manage behavioral challenges, support daily routines, and foster independence. In our collaborative work, you'll find a strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming environment where growth is supported with compassion, practical solutions, and humor.
I offer comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adults with expertise in diagnosing neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD.
Are you seeking to better understand and support your child's unique needs? Maybe you want to improve your relationships and add "tools to your toolkit." If you're navigating the complexities of neurodevelopmental differences like autism or ADHD - whether for yourself or your child - you've come to the right place. Together, we can explore evidence-based strategies to manage behavioral challenges, support daily routines, and foster independence. In our collaborative work, you'll find a strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming environment where growth is supported with compassion, practical solutions, and humor.
(360) 564-8466 View (360) 564-8466
Photo of Daniel Figueira, LMHC, NBCC, MS, Counselor
Daniel Figueira
Counselor, LMHC, NBCC, MS
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
I have worked with individuals and families through a variety of challenging situations including marital issues, motivation, anxiety, developmental disabilities and Autism.
I believe that all of us have the ability to be great, but there are challenges that get in the way. My passion is to help you realize who you are and what you can accomplish despite those challenges. I want to motivate and help you to do the work you need to be a better person, spouse, partner, parent, or friend. I know that we all have things going on, my goal is to be there for you through it, good or bad. Building you up or being there through a tough time that's what therapy is for.
I have worked with individuals and families through a variety of challenging situations including marital issues, motivation, anxiety, developmental disabilities and Autism.
I believe that all of us have the ability to be great, but there are challenges that get in the way. My passion is to help you realize who you are and what you can accomplish despite those challenges. I want to motivate and help you to do the work you need to be a better person, spouse, partner, parent, or friend. I know that we all have things going on, my goal is to be there for you through it, good or bad. Building you up or being there through a tough time that's what therapy is for.
(253) 656-0412 View (253) 656-0412
Photo of Julie Barta, PsyD, LEP, NCSP, LMHCA
Julie Barta
Licensed Educational Psychologist, PsyD, LEP, NCSP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98042
Barta is certified in administration of the ADOS-2, known as the "gold-standard" Autism evaluation tool.
Dr. Barta offers evaluation and therapy services for children and adults who are neurodiverse and/or have a trauma history. Her expertise assessing with a neuropsychological lens allows gives a quick "map" to better understand yourself or your child. Her skillsets are perfect for tired parents, parents seeking an initial diagnosis/second opinion, children/adolescents in need of support, or for adults seeking relief or clarity of their own functioning. Her work was acknowledged in 2016 for School Psychologist of the Year.
Barta is certified in administration of the ADOS-2, known as the "gold-standard" Autism evaluation tool.
Dr. Barta offers evaluation and therapy services for children and adults who are neurodiverse and/or have a trauma history. Her expertise assessing with a neuropsychological lens allows gives a quick "map" to better understand yourself or your child. Her skillsets are perfect for tired parents, parents seeking an initial diagnosis/second opinion, children/adolescents in need of support, or for adults seeking relief or clarity of their own functioning. Her work was acknowledged in 2016 for School Psychologist of the Year.
(360) 504-4353 View (360) 504-4353
Photo of Ruth Szollosy - Ruth PS Therapy, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ruth PS Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98401  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Ruth, she/they and I identify as a queer, jewish, latinx individual. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, adolescents and children, family issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioral issues, addiction issues, and have experience with neurodivergent individuals on the autism spectrum. My therapeutic approach is very client-centered. I enjoy meeting people where they are at and finding out what areas of their lives they would like to grow in. Being in therapy for the first time or for the hundredth time can be a challenge. My goal is to alleviate that challenge and help people become the best version of themselves.
Hello! My name is Ruth, she/they and I identify as a queer, jewish, latinx individual. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, adolescents and children, family issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioral issues, addiction issues, and have experience with neurodivergent individuals on the autism spectrum. My therapeutic approach is very client-centered. I enjoy meeting people where they are at and finding out what areas of their lives they would like to grow in. Being in therapy for the first time or for the hundredth time can be a challenge. My goal is to alleviate that challenge and help people become the best version of themselves.
(509) 260-3675 View (509) 260-3675
Photo of Annie Sturtewagen, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Annie Sturtewagen
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
They have experience treating a variety of diagnoses and problems including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, suicidal thoughts, psychotic disorders, trauma, substance use, ADHD, autism, coping with chronic pain, grief, adjustment disorders, and emotional regulation difficulties.
Accepting New Patients In Person and Telehealth children, teens, and couples. She received their master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Northwestern University in June of 2023. Annie's past clinical experience includes working with a variety of clients at a community mental health agency dedicated to reaching underserved populations. Prior to becoming a licensed mental health counselor associate.Annie worked as a board-certified music therapist at a state psychiatric hospital for six years. Annie utilized a variety of expressive arts and therapeutic activities in both individual and group therapy settings.
They have experience treating a variety of diagnoses and problems including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, suicidal thoughts, psychotic disorders, trauma, substance use, ADHD, autism, coping with chronic pain, grief, adjustment disorders, and emotional regulation difficulties.
Accepting New Patients In Person and Telehealth children, teens, and couples. She received their master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at Northwestern University in June of 2023. Annie's past clinical experience includes working with a variety of clients at a community mental health agency dedicated to reaching underserved populations. Prior to becoming a licensed mental health counselor associate.Annie worked as a board-certified music therapist at a state psychiatric hospital for six years. Annie utilized a variety of expressive arts and therapeutic activities in both individual and group therapy settings.
(253) 262-0586 View (253) 262-0586
Photo of Dustin Nicholson, MA, LMHCA, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dustin Nicholson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHCA, CRC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
Counseling is an opportunity for individuals to have an open space to share their story. I work with a variety of age groups including adolescence, teenagers, and adults. I also provide both couples counseling, pre-martial counseling, and individualized counseling. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, Bi-Polar, ADHD/ADD, Autism, Intellectual/Developmental Disability. I use a variety of counseling approaches and understands there is no "one approach fits all." Counseling should be individualized to the individual, their needs, and what they hope to get out of counseling.
Counseling is an opportunity for individuals to have an open space to share their story. I work with a variety of age groups including adolescence, teenagers, and adults. I also provide both couples counseling, pre-martial counseling, and individualized counseling. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, Bi-Polar, ADHD/ADD, Autism, Intellectual/Developmental Disability. I use a variety of counseling approaches and understands there is no "one approach fits all." Counseling should be individualized to the individual, their needs, and what they hope to get out of counseling.
(253) 353-2318 View (253) 353-2318
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.