Autism Therapists in Mountlake Terrace, WA
![Photo of Samantha Love, M Ed, ACAS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02988505-dfaa-4f5f-83b4-50593c74ab8c/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a dedicated special education advocate and autism assessment specialist, my mission is to empower children and their families by providing accurate evaluations, tailored support, and expert guidance throughout their educational journey.
My clients are families of children with special needs who seek understanding, support, and guidance in navigating the complex and often overwhelming world of special education and autism evaluations. They desire accurate assessments and a clear diagnosis to better comprehend their child's unique needs, strengths, and challenges. Their ultimate goal is to ensure their child receives the appropriate support, services, and accommodations tailored to their specific requirements, fostering their growth academically, socially, and emotionally.
As a dedicated special education advocate and autism assessment specialist, my mission is to empower children and their families by providing accurate evaluations, tailored support, and expert guidance throughout their educational journey.
My clients are families of children with special needs who seek understanding, support, and guidance in navigating the complex and often overwhelming world of special education and autism evaluations. They desire accurate assessments and a clear diagnosis to better comprehend their child's unique needs, strengths, and challenges. Their ultimate goal is to ensure their child receives the appropriate support, services, and accommodations tailored to their specific requirements, fostering their growth academically, socially, and emotionally.
![Photo of Brittany Parton - Brittany Parton, PLLC, MS, MHP, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3e1f152-e56c-45d4-8b2c-e373a789f505/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Parton, PLLC
Counselor, MS, MHP, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in addressing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, grief, trauma, and relationship issues.
Welcome to my practice! I'm dedicated to providing a nurturing and secure environment where you can embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing. My approach is rooted in the understanding of neuroscience and the Polyvagal Theory, offering insights into how our nervous system responds to trauma and stress. Through the lens of EMDR/ART (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, I specialize in addressing complex trauma, ADHD, Autism, grief, depression, and anxiety. My mission is to empower you with the tools and understanding needed to navigate life's challenges and cultivate resilience within yourself.
I have extensive experience in addressing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, grief, trauma, and relationship issues.
Welcome to my practice! I'm dedicated to providing a nurturing and secure environment where you can embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing. My approach is rooted in the understanding of neuroscience and the Polyvagal Theory, offering insights into how our nervous system responds to trauma and stress. Through the lens of EMDR/ART (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, I specialize in addressing complex trauma, ADHD, Autism, grief, depression, and anxiety. My mission is to empower you with the tools and understanding needed to navigate life's challenges and cultivate resilience within yourself.
![Photo of Ruth Szollosy - Ruth PS Therapy, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e3f32e5-6366-464d-99c4-c3109a2d06fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ruth PS Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Online Only)
Hi! 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.
Hi! 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.
![Photo of Aliisa Breisch, PsyD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f4de4bf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Over the years I have had the privilege to help individuals and families dealing with a range of problems, including trauma, grief and loss, addiction, mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem and identity issues, and relationship difficulties, to name I few. I also provide psychological assessments for children and adolescents. I particularly specialize in assessing for Autism, learning and intellectual disabilities, and general diagnostic clarification.
Over the years I have had the privilege to help individuals and families dealing with a range of problems, including trauma, grief and loss, addiction, mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem and identity issues, and relationship difficulties, to name I few. I also provide psychological assessments for children and adolescents. I particularly specialize in assessing for Autism, learning and intellectual disabilities, and general diagnostic clarification.
![Photo of Adam Johns, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4439ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Johns
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Online Only)
I currently have openings. I specialize in working with neurodiverse kids and adults, with geeks, gamers, and professionals in the tech industry in both individual and family therapy. If you're struggling in your relationships with your partner/family members, feeling anxious or worn down and you're not sure why, I can help. We can work together to find the tools and strength that you need to create positive change. For many of my clients I focus on help with social skill growth, anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and communication. Telehealth services in WA & in-person services in the Mountlake Terrace area.
I currently have openings. I specialize in working with neurodiverse kids and adults, with geeks, gamers, and professionals in the tech industry in both individual and family therapy. If you're struggling in your relationships with your partner/family members, feeling anxious or worn down and you're not sure why, I can help. We can work together to find the tools and strength that you need to create positive change. For many of my clients I focus on help with social skill growth, anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and communication. Telehealth services in WA & in-person services in the Mountlake Terrace area.
![Photo of Christine Rose Magnuson, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6573cc97-2bb1-4287-a351-7d1383fea5aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Rose Magnuson
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Online Only)
I am currently expanding my practice and accepting new clients most days of the week including weekends. I encourage people to tell me what they need from me, whether that is just to listen to their concerns or help them come up with solutions to their problems when they want help. I believe that everyone deserves to have the opportunity to have the life that they want to live whatever that looks like for them. I tailor my approach to each individual client based on their needs.
I am currently expanding my practice and accepting new clients most days of the week including weekends. I encourage people to tell me what they need from me, whether that is just to listen to their concerns or help them come up with solutions to their problems when they want help. I believe that everyone deserves to have the opportunity to have the life that they want to live whatever that looks like for them. I tailor my approach to each individual client based on their needs.
![Photo of Carron C Cherrie - Dr. Carron C Cherrie APRN, PMHCNS, PLLC, PhD, APRN, PMHCNS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f065812-2b65-4ffa-875c-03dfc67cdb7e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Carron C Cherrie APRN, PMHCNS, PLLC
PhD, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Online Only)
Holistic Behavioral Health is a Telehealth psychiatry practice. I chose this platform because it is convenient, flexible and provides greater access to mental health care. I partner with my clients to address their unique behavioral health challenges and lived experience. I promote development of healthy living strategies to manage present life stressors and heal past life trauma. A holistic approach integrates all aspects of health and integrates overall health status within the context lived experience. We live in a dynamic environment. I am here to offer you a helping hand to improve your health and wellbeing.
Holistic Behavioral Health is a Telehealth psychiatry practice. I chose this platform because it is convenient, flexible and provides greater access to mental health care. I partner with my clients to address their unique behavioral health challenges and lived experience. I promote development of healthy living strategies to manage present life stressors and heal past life trauma. A holistic approach integrates all aspects of health and integrates overall health status within the context lived experience. We live in a dynamic environment. I am here to offer you a helping hand to improve your health and wellbeing.
![Photo of Junae Lynette Ilimaleota, MA, MHP, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c949c52d-e02c-4294-939e-1bb731fe69b7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Junae Lynette Ilimaleota
Counselor, MA, MHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Online Only)
Emotions can be both wonderful and scary. Feeling alone in a crowd, or feeling crowded when alone, can happen to anyone. We may ask ourselves: "What am I afraid of?", "Why am I angry?", "Why did I just do that?", or "Why is this happening?" We may also tell ourselves, "I don't deserve this.", "I always mess things up.", or "No one can help me." If you can relate to these types of questions or statements, I may be able to help.
Emotions can be both wonderful and scary. Feeling alone in a crowd, or feeling crowded when alone, can happen to anyone. We may ask ourselves: "What am I afraid of?", "Why am I angry?", "Why did I just do that?", or "Why is this happening?" We may also tell ourselves, "I don't deserve this.", "I always mess things up.", or "No one can help me." If you can relate to these types of questions or statements, I may be able to help.
![Photo of Deborah Jean Magnuson, MS, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/935d409b-603e-47be-81a0-c9c30970e2ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Jean Magnuson
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients mornings and early afternoons most weekdays. My ideal clients are those who have felt excluded or judged because of their gender, illness status, diversity, sexual orientation, or religion. I believe everyone has the right to live their individual best lives, regardless of barriers they may face.
I am accepting new clients mornings and early afternoons most weekdays. My ideal clients are those who have felt excluded or judged because of their gender, illness status, diversity, sexual orientation, or religion. I believe everyone has the right to live their individual best lives, regardless of barriers they may face.
![Photo of Amber Saldivar - Amber Saldivar Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c13d0217-4d2a-4e6c-9bdc-cc5b7c7850bb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Saldivar Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Are you struggling with challenges that feel insurmountable? Are you feeling alone and need a trusted guide on your healing journey? Because I've walked on a healing journey of my own for the past 2 decades, I know the difficulties and rewards of this path. I see you as the expert on yourself, and my role as one who comes alongside to journey with you: to listen, to notice your strengths, and to help you leverage them to face your challenges. It would be an honor to work with you to help you create a future for yourself in which you are thriving: free to fully employ your talents and live out your purpose in this world.
Are you struggling with challenges that feel insurmountable? Are you feeling alone and need a trusted guide on your healing journey? Because I've walked on a healing journey of my own for the past 2 decades, I know the difficulties and rewards of this path. I see you as the expert on yourself, and my role as one who comes alongside to journey with you: to listen, to notice your strengths, and to help you leverage them to face your challenges. It would be an honor to work with you to help you create a future for yourself in which you are thriving: free to fully employ your talents and live out your purpose in this world.
![Photo of Nicole Nagle, MS, LMHCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b6ea39d-9265-4e52-aae0-5b054bf5d684/1/320x400.png)
Being a human can be hard work! Day-to-day challenges can range from the simply annoying to the downright overwhelming. By providing a safe and supportive environment, I help clients find answers, expand their perspectives, and build healthy habits. Using a mixture of assessment and therapeutic intervention, I am committed to assisting you in achieving your best life… and who knows, maybe we’ll have a little fun along the way!
Being a human can be hard work! Day-to-day challenges can range from the simply annoying to the downright overwhelming. By providing a safe and supportive environment, I help clients find answers, expand their perspectives, and build healthy habits. Using a mixture of assessment and therapeutic intervention, I am committed to assisting you in achieving your best life… and who knows, maybe we’ll have a little fun along the way!
![Photo of Micaela Leavell, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbc74657-353d-49d7-a762-01c1d1186bb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Micaela Leavell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Micaela is a passionate, empathetic therapist whose approach is based in collaboration, humor, and the therapeutic relationship. As a multi-racial, cis-gender woman, and AuDHD human, Micaela strives to utilize her privilege to advocate for changes in oppressive systems while also understanding the difficulties one can face. Micaela understands the importance of tackling the intersectional identities of those with whom she works. She strives to practice therapy in a compassionate manner and to practice critical self-awareness, through eliciting feedback throughout the therapeutic process.
Micaela is a passionate, empathetic therapist whose approach is based in collaboration, humor, and the therapeutic relationship. As a multi-racial, cis-gender woman, and AuDHD human, Micaela strives to utilize her privilege to advocate for changes in oppressive systems while also understanding the difficulties one can face. Micaela understands the importance of tackling the intersectional identities of those with whom she works. She strives to practice therapy in a compassionate manner and to practice critical self-awareness, through eliciting feedback throughout the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Carrie Lipp, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5de37472-0894-4532-bb5f-0131bdce5d23/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults who struggle to fit the mold of what's expected for them - by the people in their lives, by dominant cultural narratives, or by their own internal messaging. There are so many stories of who we are "supposed" to be - it can be overwhelming and disheartening to be met with struggle everywhere you turn and to not feel like you're living your most authentic life. While I welcome clients of many different backgrounds, I have particular experience working with clients experiencing chronic illness & pain, anxiety & depression, low self-worth, indecision, and disconnection from others.
I work with adults who struggle to fit the mold of what's expected for them - by the people in their lives, by dominant cultural narratives, or by their own internal messaging. There are so many stories of who we are "supposed" to be - it can be overwhelming and disheartening to be met with struggle everywhere you turn and to not feel like you're living your most authentic life. While I welcome clients of many different backgrounds, I have particular experience working with clients experiencing chronic illness & pain, anxiety & depression, low self-worth, indecision, and disconnection from others.
![Photo of Coral L Blankinship, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/207bc609-d81d-4733-817c-cbcf4227f438/1/320x400.jpeg)
Coral L Blankinship
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Are you feeling not right in your body or as if you don’t belong to the gender you were assigned at birth? Are you afraid to come out to someone you love? Did your partner or spouse tell you he/she/they are transgender and you are left with confusion and fear? Are you a parent of a child who came out to you and identifies as LBGTQIA and you don’t know how to process your feelings or take a deeper look within? Do you use substances and feel stigmatized by being called an “addict” with no hope for support? Do you use substances and are not ready to stop, but want someone to talk to that will accept you where you are at?
Are you feeling not right in your body or as if you don’t belong to the gender you were assigned at birth? Are you afraid to come out to someone you love? Did your partner or spouse tell you he/she/they are transgender and you are left with confusion and fear? Are you a parent of a child who came out to you and identifies as LBGTQIA and you don’t know how to process your feelings or take a deeper look within? Do you use substances and feel stigmatized by being called an “addict” with no hope for support? Do you use substances and are not ready to stop, but want someone to talk to that will accept you where you are at?
![Photo of Brian J Telleria, LMHC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a39e3f8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brian J Telleria
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Waitlist for new clients
Finding one’s self can be trying and often feels circular and defeating. Many people find themselves feeling as though they are continuing the same patterns to little avail. I believe that most of our behaviors serve a purpose for better, or for worse. By gaining greater understanding into our patterns, we are able to gain flexibility in how we approach life’s trials and tribulations. Through an authentic and warm relationship, I believe individuals can find ways of approaching their difficulties with confidence. Whether situational or organic, I therapeutically address most difficulties you, or someone you care for, may possess.
Finding one’s self can be trying and often feels circular and defeating. Many people find themselves feeling as though they are continuing the same patterns to little avail. I believe that most of our behaviors serve a purpose for better, or for worse. By gaining greater understanding into our patterns, we are able to gain flexibility in how we approach life’s trials and tribulations. Through an authentic and warm relationship, I believe individuals can find ways of approaching their difficulties with confidence. Whether situational or organic, I therapeutically address most difficulties you, or someone you care for, may possess.
![Photo of Aly Sobo, MA, IMH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33b400ea-5b05-459f-a135-ad55ac244022/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aly Sobo
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, IMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
Hello, and welcome to Healing Path Counseling. Helping people live a better life is my passion. I believe we can work together to overcome the many challenges life brings your way. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a loss in life or setting boundaries? Maybe you feel that aspects of your life are in need of a change or could be better? Now more than ever people are feeling overwhelmed. Seeking help is a great place to begin. I have worked with a variety of clients who are dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD and Panic Disorder. I have years of experience with kids, adolescents, adults, and couples.
Hello, and welcome to Healing Path Counseling. Helping people live a better life is my passion. I believe we can work together to overcome the many challenges life brings your way. Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, a loss in life or setting boundaries? Maybe you feel that aspects of your life are in need of a change or could be better? Now more than ever people are feeling overwhelmed. Seeking help is a great place to begin. I have worked with a variety of clients who are dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD and Panic Disorder. I have years of experience with kids, adolescents, adults, and couples.
![Photo of Ann Robinson - Wild Sky Clinical Services, MSW, LSWAIC, LMHCA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af8092af-6241-43b0-95f4-ac86714dfb24/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wild Sky Clinical Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Online Only)
Does everyone else seem to have it together, while you’re still trying to figure life out? Have you always had issues with tasks or social situations? Many people who think differently have trouble going with the flow of everyone else. I’ve worked with many clients who’ve struggled with concentration, relationship skills, managing emotions, and more. I specialize in working with vulnerable groups, such as people who are neurodivergent, and parents who are in difficult situations with a struggling child or their own toxic relationship. I have experience working with ADHD, ASD, TBI, parenting training, and more.
Does everyone else seem to have it together, while you’re still trying to figure life out? Have you always had issues with tasks or social situations? Many people who think differently have trouble going with the flow of everyone else. I’ve worked with many clients who’ve struggled with concentration, relationship skills, managing emotions, and more. I specialize in working with vulnerable groups, such as people who are neurodivergent, and parents who are in difficult situations with a struggling child or their own toxic relationship. I have experience working with ADHD, ASD, TBI, parenting training, and more.
![Photo of LaTasha B Frazier - Symp Way Counseling, LPCA, LMHCA, AADC, CS, SAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48d10cc9-92e8-4b68-8018-dbf5b6aeca5c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Symp Way Counseling
Counselor, LPCA, LMHCA, AADC, CS, SAP
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Online Only)
Stimulating Yielded Masterful Persistence (SYMP) Whether you feel overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or that life has become dull and uninspiring, our mission is to support you in working toward your goals. We will work together to build new skills and begin to uncover what has kept you feeling stuck. It may be that you are unsatisfied in the way you've been managing your life and relationships and wondering if a new approach would be helpful. Our services include counseling for a range of mental health concerns, including substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, anger management, and grief counseling.
Stimulating Yielded Masterful Persistence (SYMP) Whether you feel overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or that life has become dull and uninspiring, our mission is to support you in working toward your goals. We will work together to build new skills and begin to uncover what has kept you feeling stuck. It may be that you are unsatisfied in the way you've been managing your life and relationships and wondering if a new approach would be helpful. Our services include counseling for a range of mental health concerns, including substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, anger management, and grief counseling.
![Photo of Joy Meek, LICSW, MSW, CDPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b19e013e-f0ee-4212-81c2-53b3dab59540/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joy Meek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, CDPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Online Only)
The goal of treatment is to provide outpatient mental health services, which eliminate or substantially reduce communication and/or social/ cultural barriers. My treatment encourages the involvement of natural support systems available to individuals and families. The goal is the client should live in the community as least restrictively as possible an environment, with minimal Dependance on public safety and acute care resources. To enable patients to establish or maintain appropriate residences and or to advert crisis and re-hospitalization or more restrictive levels of care. The client has the right to refuse treatment.
The goal of treatment is to provide outpatient mental health services, which eliminate or substantially reduce communication and/or social/ cultural barriers. My treatment encourages the involvement of natural support systems available to individuals and families. The goal is the client should live in the community as least restrictively as possible an environment, with minimal Dependance on public safety and acute care resources. To enable patients to establish or maintain appropriate residences and or to advert crisis and re-hospitalization or more restrictive levels of care. The client has the right to refuse treatment.
![Photo of Swati Gupta, MS, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8203a737-fd51-4773-838e-23d04a78df89/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed mental health clinician with over 4 years of experience, I specialize in working with teens and adults. I am a bilingual therapist who had the privilege to work with clients from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Currently, I offer virtual therapy and support for a wide range of mental health challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, identity crisis, OCD, trauma, personality disorders, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, and more. By providing a safe and non-judgmental space, I strive to meet my clients where they are in the present moment, allowing us to work collaboratively towards their goals.
I am a licensed mental health clinician with over 4 years of experience, I specialize in working with teens and adults. I am a bilingual therapist who had the privilege to work with clients from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Currently, I offer virtual therapy and support for a wide range of mental health challenges, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, identity crisis, OCD, trauma, personality disorders, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, and more. By providing a safe and non-judgmental space, I strive to meet my clients where they are in the present moment, allowing us to work collaboratively towards their goals.
See more therapy options for Mountlake Terrace
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Mountlake Terrace
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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.