Autism Therapists in Oak Harbor, WA
![Photo of Rachel D Wagner - Blue Water Behavior Consulting, MS, LBA, BCBA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d973083-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) that specializes in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Services can take place at our office, in your home, or at your child's school or daycare. I develop an individualized treatment plan for each person I serve in order to help them reach their full potential. Some of the skills ABA is highly effective in teaching include functional communication, strategies to reduce challenging behavior, social skills, activities of daily living, gross and fine motor skills, and cognitive skills/academics.
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) that specializes in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Services can take place at our office, in your home, or at your child's school or daycare. I develop an individualized treatment plan for each person I serve in order to help them reach their full potential. Some of the skills ABA is highly effective in teaching include functional communication, strategies to reduce challenging behavior, social skills, activities of daily living, gross and fine motor skills, and cognitive skills/academics.
![Photo of Mirilani Dale - Lighthouse Behavioral Health, PLLC, MA , LMHC, CMHS, MFTA, CAMS II, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51ebd00d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lighthouse Behavioral Health, PLLC
Counselor, MA , LMHC, CMHS, MFTA, CAMS II
Verified Verified
Oak Harbor, WA 98277
Waitlist for new clients
I started working as a mental health practitioner with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Behaviorism.
I like working with all age groups, from young children to adults, because people are precious and deserve support through life issues. I want clients to feel comfortable as they work to understand and achieve their mental health and life goals.
I started working as a mental health practitioner with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Behaviorism.
I like working with all age groups, from young children to adults, because people are precious and deserve support through life issues. I want clients to feel comfortable as they work to understand and achieve their mental health and life goals.
![Photo of Laura Davenport, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ef3ef27-6e59-4b35-9699-dbf94e04f359/1/320x400.jpeg)
Struggling with your child’s behavior? Feeling overwhelmed by your child's emotions? Wondering who will understand your situation? You are not alone! Plaeful Counseling is here to help. My name is Laura Davenport and I am a LMHCA specializing in play based mental health counseling for children ages 3-12 and families. My specific areas of interest include young children ages 3-7, and neurodivergent individuals (ADHD, Autism etc.)
Struggling with your child’s behavior? Feeling overwhelmed by your child's emotions? Wondering who will understand your situation? You are not alone! Plaeful Counseling is here to help. My name is Laura Davenport and I am a LMHCA specializing in play based mental health counseling for children ages 3-12 and families. My specific areas of interest include young children ages 3-7, and neurodivergent individuals (ADHD, Autism etc.)
![Photo of Gregory Robert Rolnick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2812a1e4-36f7-438d-a07b-23b72cdacc3e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gregory Robert Rolnick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oak Harbor, WA 98277
Waitlist for new clients
What kind of life do you want? Is it important to have truthful and clear communication, loving relationships, and successful work? Whatever your traumas, losses, and fears have been, there are ways to work through and let go of the past, enjoy the present, and create hope for the future. Skills are available to handle grief, anger, depression, guilt, procrastination, and resentment while maintaining the connection to those we care for and love. Good self-esteem is produced when through positive intention and careful attention we meet our challenges and difficulties to the best of our ability and live a meaningful life.
What kind of life do you want? Is it important to have truthful and clear communication, loving relationships, and successful work? Whatever your traumas, losses, and fears have been, there are ways to work through and let go of the past, enjoy the present, and create hope for the future. Skills are available to handle grief, anger, depression, guilt, procrastination, and resentment while maintaining the connection to those we care for and love. Good self-esteem is produced when through positive intention and careful attention we meet our challenges and difficulties to the best of our ability and live a meaningful life.
![Photo of Shaun Heitzman, MS, LCPC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42467e94-9643-493a-b470-40cabe713817/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm passionate about helping individuals and families harness their strengths and motivations to create positive change in their lives. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I've developed a unique approach that blends various therapeutic methods, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed practices, and existential therapy. Whether you're dealing with ADHD, PTSD, mood and behavior disorders, or anxiety, I'm here to support you on your journey towards healing. Let's connect and work together to achieve your goals and find a brighter path forward.
I'm passionate about helping individuals and families harness their strengths and motivations to create positive change in their lives. With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I've developed a unique approach that blends various therapeutic methods, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed practices, and existential therapy. Whether you're dealing with ADHD, PTSD, mood and behavior disorders, or anxiety, I'm here to support you on your journey towards healing. Let's connect and work together to achieve your goals and find a brighter path forward.
![Photo of Katie King, MEd, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fbcd383-560e-4009-9aab-43b900555f46/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate at Anacortes Psych & Wellness and a Licensed School Counselor with 8 years of experience in behavioral skills programs in comprehensive high schools. I'm truly passionate about working with and supporting teens (13+) and adults as they clarify goals and discover unique pathways to helping them find their authentic selves. My clinical expertise includes anxiety, depression, self-esteem, school-related issues, the LGBTQIA+ community, ADHD, trauma, and life transitions, and interpersonal relationships.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate at Anacortes Psych & Wellness and a Licensed School Counselor with 8 years of experience in behavioral skills programs in comprehensive high schools. I'm truly passionate about working with and supporting teens (13+) and adults as they clarify goals and discover unique pathways to helping them find their authentic selves. My clinical expertise includes anxiety, depression, self-esteem, school-related issues, the LGBTQIA+ community, ADHD, trauma, and life transitions, and interpersonal relationships.
![Photo of Paula L Casey, LMFT, CMHS, AT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ce3cad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Paula L Casey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHS, AT
Verified Verified
Oak Harbor, WA 98277
Not accepting new clients
Paula, is a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Child Mental Health Specialist,Art Therapist and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist. with graduate degree in Psychology and BA in Biology and Psychology. Paula has trained extensively in complex trauma, childhood neurodevelopment, attachment, developmental trauma, parent/child interactionalTherapy (PCIT), and generational trauma. As a Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, she helps identify and support the development of healing intentions and ongoing integration of insights gained through the sacred journey.
Paula, is a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Child Mental Health Specialist,Art Therapist and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapist. with graduate degree in Psychology and BA in Biology and Psychology. Paula has trained extensively in complex trauma, childhood neurodevelopment, attachment, developmental trauma, parent/child interactionalTherapy (PCIT), and generational trauma. As a Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, she helps identify and support the development of healing intentions and ongoing integration of insights gained through the sacred journey.
![Photo of Aaron R. Burdge, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e0728a1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My personal philosophy of human nature is optimistic, hopeful, and empowering. Human beings are the world's most valuable resource. We can be powerful agents for good and for self-improvement if we choose to engage in the work necessary to realize our potential. My ability to perceive the thoughts and feelings of my clients assists me in helping clients to make significant, positive changes in their lives.
My personal philosophy of human nature is optimistic, hopeful, and empowering. Human beings are the world's most valuable resource. We can be powerful agents for good and for self-improvement if we choose to engage in the work necessary to realize our potential. My ability to perceive the thoughts and feelings of my clients assists me in helping clients to make significant, positive changes in their lives.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Mendy McLean-Stone, MEd, MA, LMHC, BCN, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c54ace7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mendy McLean-Stone
Counselor, MEd, MA, LMHC, BCN
Verified Verified
Coupeville, WA 98239
Waitlist for new clients
As a life-long learner, occasional artist, career educator and mental health therapist, I believe that becoming a "whole" self is the ultimate creative activity! I believe Mental Health is about healing, developing resilience and finding balance, by allowing the self to grow and change in response to life experience. There are many pathways to healing and developing healthy balance, and I would be honored to support you in finding yours. Using games, art, journaling and a variety of activities, I can provide support that is positive, growth oriented and focused on your personal strengths.
As a life-long learner, occasional artist, career educator and mental health therapist, I believe that becoming a "whole" self is the ultimate creative activity! I believe Mental Health is about healing, developing resilience and finding balance, by allowing the self to grow and change in response to life experience. There are many pathways to healing and developing healthy balance, and I would be honored to support you in finding yours. Using games, art, journaling and a variety of activities, I can provide support that is positive, growth oriented and focused on your personal strengths.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Katelynn Saunders-Kosta, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c65801bf-dfb7-411f-8d55-7962a747e2fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katelynn Saunders-Kosta
Mental Health Counselor , LMHC
Verified Verified
Spanaway, WA 98387 (Online Only)
As a dedicated telehealth provider specializing in mental health, I focus on helping clients manage Anxiety, ADHD, and high-functioning Autism.
As a mother of three and a wife, I have firsthand experience with family dynamics and ADHD, which informs my empathetic and personalized approach. I understand the complexities of balancing personal and professional life, and I am here to support you through this journey. As a licensed therapist specializing in DBT, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate emotional challenges and build a life worth living. DBT is an evidence-based approach that combines CBT techniques with mindfulness practices, designed to address intense emotions, relationship difficulties, and behaviors that interfere with a fulfilling life.
As a dedicated telehealth provider specializing in mental health, I focus on helping clients manage Anxiety, ADHD, and high-functioning Autism.
As a mother of three and a wife, I have firsthand experience with family dynamics and ADHD, which informs my empathetic and personalized approach. I understand the complexities of balancing personal and professional life, and I am here to support you through this journey. As a licensed therapist specializing in DBT, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate emotional challenges and build a life worth living. DBT is an evidence-based approach that combines CBT techniques with mindfulness practices, designed to address intense emotions, relationship difficulties, and behaviors that interfere with a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Shana Huizenga, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/812eb511-e1cf-47e2-9d25-37e730d3d03a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome! I am a licensed therapist who specializes in working with kids, teens and adults who have been diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Stress, Burnout, Social Skills, School Performance, Developmental Delays, and Parent Training. I also assist clients in developing important Life Skills that enable them to reach their full potential. With a background in Behavioral Psychology, I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors by identifying their values.
Hello and welcome! I am a licensed therapist who specializes in working with kids, teens and adults who have been diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem, Stress, Burnout, Social Skills, School Performance, Developmental Delays, and Parent Training. I also assist clients in developing important Life Skills that enable them to reach their full potential. With a background in Behavioral Psychology, I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help my clients gain a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors by identifying their values.
![Photo of Whitney Erickson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3881cdf-12c3-4b05-b881-ad71cb93e0d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whitney Erickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98032
Waitlist for new clients
I am specialized in: eating disorders, substance abuse, addiction, codependency, anger, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, autism, sensory processing disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-injury, self-harm, suicidal ideation. I have worked in inpatient, residential, or day treatment levels of care for almost 16 years with a variety of populations and have vast knowledge and expertise in being able to provide safety and support for those in need. You can expect to be pushed and challenged and find your way to healing and creating a pathway forward. You can also find me at whitneyericksoncounseling.com
I am specialized in: eating disorders, substance abuse, addiction, codependency, anger, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, autism, sensory processing disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, parent/child conflict, mood disorders, self-injury, self-harm, suicidal ideation. I have worked in inpatient, residential, or day treatment levels of care for almost 16 years with a variety of populations and have vast knowledge and expertise in being able to provide safety and support for those in need. You can expect to be pushed and challenged and find your way to healing and creating a pathway forward. You can also find me at whitneyericksoncounseling.com
![Photo of Nicole Myers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7468306-a897-4e1d-b98e-69702b761ffc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Myers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
I am a neurodiversity affirming therapist and I specialize working with neurodivergent clients (Autism/ADHD) and related difficulties. I have a special interest in relationship and social difficulties and how masking and rejection sensitivity impacts mental health. Issues I work with are: anxiety, depression, social anxiety, perfectionism, relationship issues and trauma, problems at school or work (motivation, attention, and interpersonal problems). I use an individualized approach based on my client's needs, using evidence based approaches: CBT, Mindfulness, ACT, family systems, self-compassion, Social Support, and DBT-informed.
I am a neurodiversity affirming therapist and I specialize working with neurodivergent clients (Autism/ADHD) and related difficulties. I have a special interest in relationship and social difficulties and how masking and rejection sensitivity impacts mental health. Issues I work with are: anxiety, depression, social anxiety, perfectionism, relationship issues and trauma, problems at school or work (motivation, attention, and interpersonal problems). I use an individualized approach based on my client's needs, using evidence based approaches: CBT, Mindfulness, ACT, family systems, self-compassion, Social Support, and DBT-informed.
![Photo of Angela D'Elia, MS, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d670db0-6eea-4296-bc96-cd1add753e00/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a neurodiversity-affirming therapist, I use an integrative and holistic approach to therapy. Incorporating multiple trauma-informed modalities that work best for my clients yet focusing on and highlighting strengths-based, client-centered approaches. I work with clients identifying as neurodivergent, ADHD, Autism, as well as clients experiencing anxiety, and depression. I practice trauma-informed care, focusing on the individual, their goals, and their voice-leading treatment plans and incorporating a growth and solution-focused mindset. I believe in utilizing a collaborative approach to help clients achieve their goals.
As a neurodiversity-affirming therapist, I use an integrative and holistic approach to therapy. Incorporating multiple trauma-informed modalities that work best for my clients yet focusing on and highlighting strengths-based, client-centered approaches. I work with clients identifying as neurodivergent, ADHD, Autism, as well as clients experiencing anxiety, and depression. I practice trauma-informed care, focusing on the individual, their goals, and their voice-leading treatment plans and incorporating a growth and solution-focused mindset. I believe in utilizing a collaborative approach to help clients achieve their goals.
![Photo of Mollie Yates, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ef08702f-5a83-4402-93bd-d06bc758cb25/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mollie Yates
Occupational Therapist, OTR/L
Verified Verified
Lake Forest Park, WA 98155 (Online Only)
Occupational therapists study in a medical setting, so have exposure to neurobiology that is vital to understanding and treating neurodivergence (ADHD and autism spectrum disorders) and sensory processing differences.
As an occupational therapist, I am specially qualified to help clients with mental health challenges and neurodivergence live their lives to the fullest. From the beginning of treatment, we will work together to formulate goals that are meaningful to you and to select personalized strategies backed by evidence to work towards those goals. I am passionate about clients rediscovering their strengths and learning new ones. While the process of growth and change can be painful and take a lot of work, my clients find hope and renewal in the journey.
Occupational therapists study in a medical setting, so have exposure to neurobiology that is vital to understanding and treating neurodivergence (ADHD and autism spectrum disorders) and sensory processing differences.
As an occupational therapist, I am specially qualified to help clients with mental health challenges and neurodivergence live their lives to the fullest. From the beginning of treatment, we will work together to formulate goals that are meaningful to you and to select personalized strategies backed by evidence to work towards those goals. I am passionate about clients rediscovering their strengths and learning new ones. While the process of growth and change can be painful and take a lot of work, my clients find hope and renewal in the journey.
![Photo of Seth Hanke, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80a679ba-f917-441b-840b-66f5ab9ce7f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with clients who want to explore their life experiences. Stepping into therapy is an acknowledgement that something isn't adding up to what you want it to be, and my passion is helping you on your journey to become who you want to be. I work with individuals aged 10 and up on issues such as depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, ADHD, autism, relationship struggles, family conflict, school struggles, existential issues, or adjustment problems. Ultimately, whatever your goal is in therapy is my goal as well. There is nothing more fulfilling to me than seeing you meet your goals and growing towards who you want to be.
I enjoy working with clients who want to explore their life experiences. Stepping into therapy is an acknowledgement that something isn't adding up to what you want it to be, and my passion is helping you on your journey to become who you want to be. I work with individuals aged 10 and up on issues such as depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, ADHD, autism, relationship struggles, family conflict, school struggles, existential issues, or adjustment problems. Ultimately, whatever your goal is in therapy is my goal as well. There is nothing more fulfilling to me than seeing you meet your goals and growing towards who you want to be.
![Photo of Grace Hamlow, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87ac34a5-48ed-45ab-affa-d41e48ce05a0/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a holistic, trauma-informed therapist, working with adult individuals to address symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, various forms of trauma, interpersonal issues, substance use and abuse, and with individuals who are on the autism spectrum and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I use a Narrative framework, in addition to CBT and DBT when clinically appropriate. I focus on the client’s relationship to their experiences, strengths, and issues/symptoms. In addition to our depth-work, I provide coping skills and activities based on your needs and to reduce distressful symptoms.
I am a holistic, trauma-informed therapist, working with adult individuals to address symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, various forms of trauma, interpersonal issues, substance use and abuse, and with individuals who are on the autism spectrum and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I use a Narrative framework, in addition to CBT and DBT when clinically appropriate. I focus on the client’s relationship to their experiences, strengths, and issues/symptoms. In addition to our depth-work, I provide coping skills and activities based on your needs and to reduce distressful symptoms.
![Photo of Kristi E Content, MA, LMHCA, CGE, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/536813d4-998b-494e-933f-a192fa657e71/2/320x400.png)
Kristi E Content
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, CGE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling due to Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Autism, the impacts of Trauma? Is worry making it difficult to concentrate? You don't have to suffer alone; fear doesn't need to make decisions for you any longer. Coping strategies that help us brace through the most difficult of times can be destructive to goals and relationships if used long-term. Together we can identify these stuck points, find hope in new strategies that match your current needs and values, and open the door to more meaningful experiences and relationships.
Are you struggling due to Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Autism, the impacts of Trauma? Is worry making it difficult to concentrate? You don't have to suffer alone; fear doesn't need to make decisions for you any longer. Coping strategies that help us brace through the most difficult of times can be destructive to goals and relationships if used long-term. Together we can identify these stuck points, find hope in new strategies that match your current needs and values, and open the door to more meaningful experiences and relationships.
![Photo of Elizabeth Holland, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40928f93-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I perform evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Specific Learning Disorders (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), giftedness, school admissions, and documentation for accommodations testing.
Dr. Holland specializes in comprehensive psychological assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 4-24). Evaluations are tailored for your child and focus on both areas of strengths and difficulties. Currently, scheduling evaluations in the Seattle/Bellevue area in Fall 2024. Please go to my website for more information (fees, types of services offered, background, prospective client form): www.fidalgopsychology.com
I perform evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Specific Learning Disorders (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), giftedness, school admissions, and documentation for accommodations testing.
Dr. Holland specializes in comprehensive psychological assessments for children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 4-24). Evaluations are tailored for your child and focus on both areas of strengths and difficulties. Currently, scheduling evaluations in the Seattle/Bellevue area in Fall 2024. Please go to my website for more information (fees, types of services offered, background, prospective client form): www.fidalgopsychology.com
![Photo of Ellen Soukup-Landeau, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec606fe5-751b-4d76-b052-3c1a1f5373b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer evaluations (autism, ADHD, IQ testing, diagnostics), therapy, and parent coaching.
My personal caseload is currently full. However, I am accepting new patients to work with my doctoral level student supervisees, at a lower cost per session. We work with a wide range of clients across the lifespan, with a specialty in neurodiversity, children, and adolescents. I use a person-centered and s approach in therapy and assessment. I can support you with individual growth and wellness, parenting challenges, and self-discovery. If you are curious about how your or your child's mind works, how you can see change and growth in your life, or how you can live a life in line with your personal values, I can help.
I offer evaluations (autism, ADHD, IQ testing, diagnostics), therapy, and parent coaching.
My personal caseload is currently full. However, I am accepting new patients to work with my doctoral level student supervisees, at a lower cost per session. We work with a wide range of clients across the lifespan, with a specialty in neurodiversity, children, and adolescents. I use a person-centered and s approach in therapy and assessment. I can support you with individual growth and wellness, parenting challenges, and self-discovery. If you are curious about how your or your child's mind works, how you can see change and growth in your life, or how you can live a life in line with your personal values, I can help.
See more therapy options for Oak Harbor
Nearby Autism Therapists Searches for Oak Harbor
- Anacortes
- Arlington
- Bellingham
- Coupeville
- Everett
- Ferndale
- Lake Stevens
- Langley
- Marysville
- Mount Vernon
- Mukilteo
- Port Townsend
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.