Therapists in Orcas, WA
![Photo of Michell Brockman, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/161aac3d-d1c9-4a3a-b921-02f2ce7b308c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I’m so glad you found your way here. My name is Michell and I am a neurodivergent therapist that understands the struggles of living in a world that has neuronormative expectations. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, those in the LGBTQIA community, people in kink and BDSM communities and those in poly relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and I enjoy using EMDR, parts work and somatic body-focused therapies in our work together to help you find healing and empowerment. I do telehealth only and I am not networked with any insurance but I can offer you a superbill to give to your insurance.
Hello, I’m so glad you found your way here. My name is Michell and I am a neurodivergent therapist that understands the struggles of living in a world that has neuronormative expectations. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, those in the LGBTQIA community, people in kink and BDSM communities and those in poly relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and I enjoy using EMDR, parts work and somatic body-focused therapies in our work together to help you find healing and empowerment. I do telehealth only and I am not networked with any insurance but I can offer you a superbill to give to your insurance.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Natalie Wood, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03d21e48-5a5b-418b-a04e-ac13340b1a8e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
If you’re looking for an individual or couples therapist who is direct, honest, and kind then we are likely a match. I understand tackling anxiety, depression, or those pesky past family issues is complicated. Healing PTSD from sexual trauma or infidelity, exploring your sexuality or gender, and family wounds are all issues continually impacting our human experience. These are things I can help with. Additionally, I am deeply familiar with exploring trans identity both individually and in relationships. I also have intimate understanding of how Disability and Autism can impact your idea of self, safety, and the world around you.
If you’re looking for an individual or couples therapist who is direct, honest, and kind then we are likely a match. I understand tackling anxiety, depression, or those pesky past family issues is complicated. Healing PTSD from sexual trauma or infidelity, exploring your sexuality or gender, and family wounds are all issues continually impacting our human experience. These are things I can help with. Additionally, I am deeply familiar with exploring trans identity both individually and in relationships. I also have intimate understanding of how Disability and Autism can impact your idea of self, safety, and the world around you.
![Photo of Chris G Perry, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d833f2b0-5f0a-434f-a7e6-a50c42ba464a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you overwhelmed by life’s struggles, trauma, relationship or attachment issues? Maybe you have been wondering about autism or ADHD as a something you are experiencing? Do you have questions about gender or sexuality, or a general need to examine where you exist within an increasingly challenging society and how you are impacted by it? These are all issues that I enjoy navigating with my clients as we find a new, securely attached, unmasked, and comfortable way of living freely. If you are hurting and do not know where to start I can help. If you feel that you are at the end, we can find a new beginning.
Are you overwhelmed by life’s struggles, trauma, relationship or attachment issues? Maybe you have been wondering about autism or ADHD as a something you are experiencing? Do you have questions about gender or sexuality, or a general need to examine where you exist within an increasingly challenging society and how you are impacted by it? These are all issues that I enjoy navigating with my clients as we find a new, securely attached, unmasked, and comfortable way of living freely. If you are hurting and do not know where to start I can help. If you feel that you are at the end, we can find a new beginning.
![Photo of Tara Hollander - Tara Hollander, MSW, ACSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c90faab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tara Hollander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98407
I have worked with children who struggle with divorce, other losses, learning problems including ADD, Autism, environmental deficits, gender issues, family conflict, and abuse.
I am a LICSW with a focus on psychotherapy with adults, children and families. I have been a practitioner for 48 years, in private practice for 12 1/2 years and had been a psychotherapist for 26 years in the Behavioral Health Department at Group Health. While there, in addition to a general caseload that included Medicare patients, I ran a Children's Therapy Group, served on a county-wide child abuse oversight committee, co-chaired an inter-disciplinary case consultation team, and managed an intern program.
I have worked with children who struggle with divorce, other losses, learning problems including ADD, Autism, environmental deficits, gender issues, family conflict, and abuse.
I am a LICSW with a focus on psychotherapy with adults, children and families. I have been a practitioner for 48 years, in private practice for 12 1/2 years and had been a psychotherapist for 26 years in the Behavioral Health Department at Group Health. While there, in addition to a general caseload that included Medicare patients, I ran a Children's Therapy Group, served on a county-wide child abuse oversight committee, co-chaired an inter-disciplinary case consultation team, and managed an intern program.
![Photo of David Parks, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da5a1422-7c46-4d0a-9311-0d3c071ebcf1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Many of us feel out of step with others around us. Difficulties with completing tasks and organization lead to struggles and frustration in relationships. Difficulty with social skills and anxiety make it hard to reach out to others for friendship or dating. Some of us feel shame and isolation from ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodiversity. Our unique hobbies or interests keep us out of step. Shame keeps us from exploring who we are in friendships, dating, and sexually. People often do not see us. We feel alone. This manifests as depression, anxiety, and difficulty regulating our emotions.
Many of us feel out of step with others around us. Difficulties with completing tasks and organization lead to struggles and frustration in relationships. Difficulty with social skills and anxiety make it hard to reach out to others for friendship or dating. Some of us feel shame and isolation from ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodiversity. Our unique hobbies or interests keep us out of step. Shame keeps us from exploring who we are in friendships, dating, and sexually. People often do not see us. We feel alone. This manifests as depression, anxiety, and difficulty regulating our emotions.
![Photo of Vidya M Subramanian - Kids and Family Counseling PLLC., MS, MA, LMHC, BCBA, MHP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e349134-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kids and Family Counseling PLLC.
Counselor, MS, MA, LMHC, BCBA, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duvall, WA 98019
Empowering children, teens and adults to overcome challenges in their everyday life and help them rediscover their strengths and interpersonal competencies is the focus of my practice. Are you or someone you know, experiencing lack of motivation, facing friendship and self worth challenges, are defiant, aggressive, anxious, depressed, moody and lonely? Is your family in crisis? If so, do give me a call. People come to me for help with mood/ anxiety issues, Autism, ADHD, Anger problems, depression, OCD, PTSD , stress., multicultural and relational issues, social skills support and behavioral, parenting and school based challenges.
Empowering children, teens and adults to overcome challenges in their everyday life and help them rediscover their strengths and interpersonal competencies is the focus of my practice. Are you or someone you know, experiencing lack of motivation, facing friendship and self worth challenges, are defiant, aggressive, anxious, depressed, moody and lonely? Is your family in crisis? If so, do give me a call. People come to me for help with mood/ anxiety issues, Autism, ADHD, Anger problems, depression, OCD, PTSD , stress., multicultural and relational issues, social skills support and behavioral, parenting and school based challenges.
![Photo of Linda Smith, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/537a2abf-7822-4854-9260-8fe6fffe82b0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you an adult suspecting neurodivergence? Did you slip through the cracks as a child, never receiving a diagnosis for Autism or ADHD? Have you been masking your Autism or ADHD symptoms since childhood? You're not alone. I specialize in Autism and ADHD assessments for adults who were not diagnosed as children. I provide a safe environment for you to explore your neurodivergent identity. I have a deep commitment to neurodivergent-affirming care and increasing access to Autism evaluations for adults.
Are you an adult suspecting neurodivergence? Did you slip through the cracks as a child, never receiving a diagnosis for Autism or ADHD? Have you been masking your Autism or ADHD symptoms since childhood? You're not alone. I specialize in Autism and ADHD assessments for adults who were not diagnosed as children. I provide a safe environment for you to explore your neurodivergent identity. I have a deep commitment to neurodivergent-affirming care and increasing access to Autism evaluations for adults.
![Photo of Rya Daley, MS-CMHC, LMHCA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d62f77f-d407-46a7-8222-2255ec5c1f88/1/320x400.png)
Rya Daley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS-CMHC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I’m here to offer support and advocacy for individuals navigating PTSD, trauma, and neurodivergence. My approach blends psychoeducation and psychotherapy to provide a comprehensive path to your goals. With specialized training under an experienced and licensed trauma and autism counselor, I bring a deep understanding of trauma recovery and neurodiverse needs to my practice. I’m dedicated to working collaboratively with you, offering support, and advocating for you on your unique journey.
I’m here to offer support and advocacy for individuals navigating PTSD, trauma, and neurodivergence. My approach blends psychoeducation and psychotherapy to provide a comprehensive path to your goals. With specialized training under an experienced and licensed trauma and autism counselor, I bring a deep understanding of trauma recovery and neurodiverse needs to my practice. I’m dedicated to working collaboratively with you, offering support, and advocating for you on your unique journey.
![Photo of Chris Rebholz, PsyD, ASOTP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8221bb9c-0a9e-4315-91ca-522630f020dc/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have particular expertise in helping people in full-time professional jobs, particularly adults on the autism spectrum.
Accepting new therapy patients - Are you a working professional that needs a therapist that understands your unique stresses? One that understands first hand the pressures of laboring under tight deadlines - or the frustrations of working hard but not getting promoted – and who understands the difficulties of achieving a work / life balance? If so, we would probably work well together. I am a psychologist with an undergraduate engineering degree. I was a staff member and a manager of large teams in Fortune 100 companies for 15 years before changing professions.
I have particular expertise in helping people in full-time professional jobs, particularly adults on the autism spectrum.
Accepting new therapy patients - Are you a working professional that needs a therapist that understands your unique stresses? One that understands first hand the pressures of laboring under tight deadlines - or the frustrations of working hard but not getting promoted – and who understands the difficulties of achieving a work / life balance? If so, we would probably work well together. I am a psychologist with an undergraduate engineering degree. I was a staff member and a manager of large teams in Fortune 100 companies for 15 years before changing professions.
![Photo of Kassandrea E Manuele, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e03bd162-b307-4402-afe4-102f1a395b21/1/320x400.jpeg)
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
![Photo of Jeanette Ashworth, MS, NCC, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8acfdec3-84ce-4702-b679-303e1c383e80/2/320x400.jpeg)
Autism, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Life purpose and meaning, Happiness, Life transitions, Parenting, Caregiver Stress, Adolescence, Women's issues, Pandemic stress, Intellectual disabilities, Chronic Illness, Disabilities, Trauma/PTSD, Mental Illness, School/ Higher Ed.
Do you want to feel deeply listened to and understood, experience stress reduction, more hope and happiness, overcome fears or challenges, find greater meaning, purpose? Compassionate, respectful care for Individuals, Parents, Families: Life Transitions, ADHD, Autism, IDD, Anxiety, and more. I am opening up a few slots in March and am reaching out to my waiting list (many may have found other therapists) so get in touch if also interested.
Autism, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Life purpose and meaning, Happiness, Life transitions, Parenting, Caregiver Stress, Adolescence, Women's issues, Pandemic stress, Intellectual disabilities, Chronic Illness, Disabilities, Trauma/PTSD, Mental Illness, School/ Higher Ed.
Do you want to feel deeply listened to and understood, experience stress reduction, more hope and happiness, overcome fears or challenges, find greater meaning, purpose? Compassionate, respectful care for Individuals, Parents, Families: Life Transitions, ADHD, Autism, IDD, Anxiety, and more. I am opening up a few slots in March and am reaching out to my waiting list (many may have found other therapists) so get in touch if also interested.
![Photo of Emily Hossler - Eastside Mental Health Solutions, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6adc88f0-b85e-4c45-9dd9-2a17c13da198/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eastside Mental Health Solutions
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
If you or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed with the challenges of autism, know that you are not alone.
Are you someone who is looking to improve their daily functioning and overall quality of life? Are you seeking help with communication, social interaction, and emotional regulation? You may be struggling with anxiety or depression, difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, or finding a fulfilling career. My goal is to work collaboratively with my clients to develop strategies and tools to help them better navigate the world around them and achieve their individual goals. By creating a safe and supportive environment, I aim to empower my clients to become more confident, independent, and fulfilled individuals.
If you or a loved one are feeling overwhelmed with the challenges of autism, know that you are not alone.
Are you someone who is looking to improve their daily functioning and overall quality of life? Are you seeking help with communication, social interaction, and emotional regulation? You may be struggling with anxiety or depression, difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, or finding a fulfilling career. My goal is to work collaboratively with my clients to develop strategies and tools to help them better navigate the world around them and achieve their individual goals. By creating a safe and supportive environment, I aim to empower my clients to become more confident, independent, and fulfilled individuals.
![Photo of Douglas Chandler - Counseling Centers of North Puget Sound, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4960ea80-e9c2-447c-835e-c3dc90f1d247/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling Centers of North Puget Sound
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Snohomish, WA 98290
We work with issues of mood, anxiety, attention, behavior, family, trauma, autism, and more.
NOTE: We accept new appointment requests only through our confidential online portal: www.bit.ly/newcounseling. We work with individuals, couples, and families, all ages, and can work with a broad range of issues. We are committed to fostering an environment of safety and respect for people of all beliefs, backgrounds, abilities and lifestyles. We achieve our mission by offering affordable, best practice, behavioral science and faith-integrative offerings. No specific faith practice is required to receive services with us.
We work with issues of mood, anxiety, attention, behavior, family, trauma, autism, and more.
NOTE: We accept new appointment requests only through our confidential online portal: www.bit.ly/newcounseling. We work with individuals, couples, and families, all ages, and can work with a broad range of issues. We are committed to fostering an environment of safety and respect for people of all beliefs, backgrounds, abilities and lifestyles. We achieve our mission by offering affordable, best practice, behavioral science and faith-integrative offerings. No specific faith practice is required to receive services with us.
![Photo of Holly Bahnick, MAEd, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcd944a4-3eef-488b-b492-faffaf6240a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Holly’s clinical focus includes neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, IDD), trauma (including domestic violence, victims of violent crimes, and systemic trauma), anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and LGBTQIA+.
Holly Bahnick is a licensed mental health counselor working with adults of all ages on an individual basis. Holly received their undergraduate degree in Public Health from Central Washington University. After taking time away from school to work and volunteer, Holly returned to school to earn a Master’s degree in Community Counseling from Seattle University. Holly spent the next five years providing therapy to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who had co-occurring mental health diagnoses. For the following 1.
Holly’s clinical focus includes neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, IDD), trauma (including domestic violence, victims of violent crimes, and systemic trauma), anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and LGBTQIA+.
Holly Bahnick is a licensed mental health counselor working with adults of all ages on an individual basis. Holly received their undergraduate degree in Public Health from Central Washington University. After taking time away from school to work and volunteer, Holly returned to school to earn a Master’s degree in Community Counseling from Seattle University. Holly spent the next five years providing therapy to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who had co-occurring mental health diagnoses. For the following 1.
![Photo of Ashley McAllister, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07c3d092-2194-437c-a032-8b9a8c927c48/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley McAllister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
8/24: Current openings! Reconnect with yourself, your relationships, and the things that light you up. My specialty areas include complex trauma recovery, family of origin issues, people pleasing, chronic illness, diabetes, neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, etc) and unlearning diet culture. My approach is centered within an anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and liberatory perspective. I am neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
8/24: Current openings! Reconnect with yourself, your relationships, and the things that light you up. My specialty areas include complex trauma recovery, family of origin issues, people pleasing, chronic illness, diabetes, neurodivergence (ADHD, autism, etc) and unlearning diet culture. My approach is centered within an anti-oppressive, anti-racist, and liberatory perspective. I am neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
![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 Stacie McLean - Stacie McLean, LMHC, PLLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca8ab5ba-3c5a-4aff-ae38-19887523634e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Virtual Walk-In Times: CLOSED today, Next: 11/2. Are you stressed and having difficulty getting along with your family or spouse? Can't get your partner into counseling but you need relationship help? Do you suspect you might have a mood disorder like bipolar? Are you haunted by trauma you can't shake? Are you struggling with abandonment fears and even self-inflicted violence? Are you living with adult autism or ADHD or other neurodiversity, or trying to manage a neurodiverse relationship? To get started, I offer free 15-minute consultations by phone or video. Email for consults or visit my website to schedule!
Virtual Walk-In Times: CLOSED today, Next: 11/2. Are you stressed and having difficulty getting along with your family or spouse? Can't get your partner into counseling but you need relationship help? Do you suspect you might have a mood disorder like bipolar? Are you haunted by trauma you can't shake? Are you struggling with abandonment fears and even self-inflicted violence? Are you living with adult autism or ADHD or other neurodiversity, or trying to manage a neurodiverse relationship? To get started, I offer free 15-minute consultations by phone or video. Email for consults or visit my website to schedule!
![Photo of Matthew Monroe, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f36ab404-17b6-431f-bb39-e13be597eb84/2/320x400.png)
Matthew Monroe
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping individuals and couples with ADHD, high-functioning autism, Nice Guy & Nice Gal Syndrome, codependency, addiction, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, and grief. If you feel stuck and want to create new patterns in your life, let's talk. We can schedule a free 15-minute consult video call to chat about what you're looking for in therapy and to see if we'd be a good fit.
I specialize in helping individuals and couples with ADHD, high-functioning autism, Nice Guy & Nice Gal Syndrome, codependency, addiction, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, and grief. If you feel stuck and want to create new patterns in your life, let's talk. We can schedule a free 15-minute consult video call to chat about what you're looking for in therapy and to see if we'd be a good fit.
![Photo of Kelly K Brown, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a0b362-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Dr. Brown. My office is located in Fircrest, WA between Tacoma and University Place. I'm so glad you've decided to begin this journey of self-discovery and healing. I use a client-centered approach, collaborating with the client to develop self-awareness, healthy coping skills, and healing. I have specialized training from The Center for Multicultural Training in Psychology and can work with any issue related to diverse identities, sexuality, and relationships. I use EMDR in my practice, a technique helpful in working with trauma.
Hello, my name is Dr. Brown. My office is located in Fircrest, WA between Tacoma and University Place. I'm so glad you've decided to begin this journey of self-discovery and healing. I use a client-centered approach, collaborating with the client to develop self-awareness, healthy coping skills, and healing. I have specialized training from The Center for Multicultural Training in Psychology and can work with any issue related to diverse identities, sexuality, and relationships. I use EMDR in my practice, a technique helpful in working with trauma.
![Photo of Christine Joo - Christine Joo, EdD. PLLC, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ae5e4f7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Joo, EdD. PLLC
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052
Waitlist for new clients
Currently accepting new clients ONLY for Testing & Evaluation. As a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience, I offer therapy with compassion, warmth, genuine empathy, and unconditional acceptance. Throughout my career, I have supported individuals facing diverse challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, and more. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, with a focus on establishing trusting and empowering relationships with each client. I integrate various techniques into my practice, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, the Gottman approach, and Lifespan Integration.
Currently accepting new clients ONLY for Testing & Evaluation. As a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience, I offer therapy with compassion, warmth, genuine empathy, and unconditional acceptance. Throughout my career, I have supported individuals facing diverse challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, phobias, and more. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, with a focus on establishing trusting and empowering relationships with each client. I integrate various techniques into my practice, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, the Gottman approach, and Lifespan Integration.
See more therapy options for Orcas
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.