Autism Therapists in Stanwood, WA

Photo of Amy Schilder, MS, LMHCA, EFMHS, Counselor
Amy Schilder
Counselor, MS, LMHCA, EFMHS
Verified Verified
Stanwood, WA 98292
Welcome to NW Hearts United. Imagine a life where the voice that guides you is the voice of who you truly are. That you trust your sense of knowing and insight to guide you with focus and clarity. Your heart, body, and mind are completely in coherence. I am passionate about supporting your journey to coherence, empowerment, joy, hope and fulfillment. My methods focus on a somatic experiencing, embodied, neuro-experiential lens. My clients report feeling empowered as individuals while also learning to support, collaborate, and find strength in the connection they have with loved ones, peers, and their communities.
Welcome to NW Hearts United. Imagine a life where the voice that guides you is the voice of who you truly are. That you trust your sense of knowing and insight to guide you with focus and clarity. Your heart, body, and mind are completely in coherence. I am passionate about supporting your journey to coherence, empowerment, joy, hope and fulfillment. My methods focus on a somatic experiencing, embodied, neuro-experiential lens. My clients report feeling empowered as individuals while also learning to support, collaborate, and find strength in the connection they have with loved ones, peers, and their communities.
(425) 610-7432 View (425) 610-7432
Photo of Kayla Brooks - Kindred Sparrow Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kindred Sparrow Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Stanwood, WA 98292
Hello, welcome to my practice. I offer mental health services in Washington and California via telehealth. I have been working with youth, adults, and families since 2010. Are you going through a difficult time in your life? Have you had experiences that are impacting your ability to thrive? Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Is your child struggling in school or at home? I want to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and identify more healthy coping skills and communication techniques. I am committed to supporting you and your family in your journey toward well-being and recovery.
Hello, welcome to my practice. I offer mental health services in Washington and California via telehealth. I have been working with youth, adults, and families since 2010. Are you going through a difficult time in your life? Have you had experiences that are impacting your ability to thrive? Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Is your child struggling in school or at home? I want to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and identify more healthy coping skills and communication techniques. I am committed to supporting you and your family in your journey toward well-being and recovery.
(360) 284-1982 View (360) 284-1982

Online Therapists

Photo of Steven Eric Curtis, PhD, NCSP, MSCP, Psychologist
Steven Eric Curtis
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, MSCP
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
, ADHD, Autism Spectrum, and Learning Disorders).
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (Washington State and New Mexico), Nationally Certified School Psychologist, Prescribing Psychologist (New Mexico Only). I am an Affiliate Faculty in the PsyD Clinical Psychology Program at Antioch University, Seattle. My private practice (Lifespan Psychological Services, PS) with a primary location on Bainbridge Island, WA. The secondary location is in Las Cruces, NM. I also am also contracted, as a prescribing psychologist, with the Family Medicine Center at Memorial Medical Center in Las Cruces, NM.
, ADHD, Autism Spectrum, and Learning Disorders).
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (Washington State and New Mexico), Nationally Certified School Psychologist, Prescribing Psychologist (New Mexico Only). I am an Affiliate Faculty in the PsyD Clinical Psychology Program at Antioch University, Seattle. My private practice (Lifespan Psychological Services, PS) with a primary location on Bainbridge Island, WA. The secondary location is in Las Cruces, NM. I also am also contracted, as a prescribing psychologist, with the Family Medicine Center at Memorial Medical Center in Las Cruces, NM.
(206) 900-9575 View (206) 900-9575
Photo of Ginger Ingersoll MacDuff, LMHC, LBA, BCBA, Counselor
Ginger Ingersoll MacDuff
Counselor, LMHC, LBA, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fircrest, WA 98466
Autism Advocacy: Understanding, acceptance, and growth.
Are you seeking compassionate support? Look no further! As a seasoned therapist, I offer individual and family therapy services with a neurodiversity focus. Whether you’re a teen, young adult, or a family in transition, I’m here for you. Let’s navigate life’s challenges together. Autism Support: Families and individuals impacted by autism find a safe space here. I am highly trained and experienced in working with autism. Transition Guidance: Whether it’s adolescence or major life changes (divorce, moving, etc), I’ve got your back. Discover your strengths, embrace your uniqueness, and thrive! Contact me today.
Autism Advocacy: Understanding, acceptance, and growth.
Are you seeking compassionate support? Look no further! As a seasoned therapist, I offer individual and family therapy services with a neurodiversity focus. Whether you’re a teen, young adult, or a family in transition, I’m here for you. Let’s navigate life’s challenges together. Autism Support: Families and individuals impacted by autism find a safe space here. I am highly trained and experienced in working with autism. Transition Guidance: Whether it’s adolescence or major life changes (divorce, moving, etc), I’ve got your back. Discover your strengths, embrace your uniqueness, and thrive! Contact me today.
(253) 215-8804 View (253) 215-8804
Photo of Megan Ann Connell, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Megan Ann Connell
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98134  (Online Only)
Autism in women and girls is finally being recognized and diagnosed though for many the diagnosis comes after years of being socially isolated and having social difficulties.
You never seem to quite fit in. No matter how hard you try it feels as though those around you have some sort of secret code that they all know and use to. As much as you have tried you just can’t crack the code. There are people in your life but you worry they only tolerate you that they will eventually get burned out and leave. You are a passionate person you love theater, reading, crafting, anime, video games, and fantasy. Yet, no one seems as interested in those things as you are. You can find communities on the internet but you still feel lonely. You might have been told that women aren’t autistic but that isn't true.
Autism in women and girls is finally being recognized and diagnosed though for many the diagnosis comes after years of being socially isolated and having social difficulties.
You never seem to quite fit in. No matter how hard you try it feels as though those around you have some sort of secret code that they all know and use to. As much as you have tried you just can’t crack the code. There are people in your life but you worry they only tolerate you that they will eventually get burned out and leave. You are a passionate person you love theater, reading, crafting, anime, video games, and fantasy. Yet, no one seems as interested in those things as you are. You can find communities on the internet but you still feel lonely. You might have been told that women aren’t autistic but that isn't true.
(206) 458-7802 x200 View (206) 458-7802 x200
Photo of Ryan Keith Donovan, LMHC, Counselor
Ryan Keith Donovan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402
I also have experience working with people on the autism spectrum to help address social and communication difficulties.
I often work with individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, and childhood trauma. I believe that change that occurs in therapy comes from forming a safe therapeutic relationship, while increasing your awareness of self, challenging your old beliefs, and establishing appropriate boundaries in relationships with others. I tend to be an active participant in therapy. I ask questions, offer observations, and look for patterns that may help provide a deeper understanding. However, I believe the client is the expert on themselves, and I trust in each individuals unique healing process.
I also have experience working with people on the autism spectrum to help address social and communication difficulties.
I often work with individuals and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, and childhood trauma. I believe that change that occurs in therapy comes from forming a safe therapeutic relationship, while increasing your awareness of self, challenging your old beliefs, and establishing appropriate boundaries in relationships with others. I tend to be an active participant in therapy. I ask questions, offer observations, and look for patterns that may help provide a deeper understanding. However, I believe the client is the expert on themselves, and I trust in each individuals unique healing process.
(253) 993-1467 View (253) 993-1467
Photo of Vidya M Subramanian - Kids and Family Counseling PLLC., MS, MA, LMHC, BCBA, MHP, Counselor
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.
(425) 549-9710 View (425) 549-9710
Photo of Sara Haggard, MA, LBA, BCBA
Sara Haggard
MA, LBA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
With these strategies I help clients and families who have been diagnosed with autism, AD/HD, and other related developmental/behavioral challenges.
I am a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who specializes in working with families for over 10 years. I specialize in behavior management, communication, self-awareness, problem solving as well as emotional regulation. My unique approach to working with clients is based on my clinical training in applied behavior analysis (ABA). I will work with you and your child to identify their strengths and weaknesses while examining learned and conditioned behaviors. I use various evidence-based techniques and strategies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
With these strategies I help clients and families who have been diagnosed with autism, AD/HD, and other related developmental/behavioral challenges.
I am a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who specializes in working with families for over 10 years. I specialize in behavior management, communication, self-awareness, problem solving as well as emotional regulation. My unique approach to working with clients is based on my clinical training in applied behavior analysis (ABA). I will work with you and your child to identify their strengths and weaknesses while examining learned and conditioned behaviors. I use various evidence-based techniques and strategies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(425) 629-8936 View (425) 629-8936
Photo of April Walter, PsyD, Psychologist
April Walter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98003
At The Center we provide diagnosis, treatment, education/employment assistance and housing assistance for those on the Autism Spectrum.
I specialize in working with individuals and families struggling with Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Learning Disorders and other Neuropsychological or Psychological Issues.
At The Center we provide diagnosis, treatment, education/employment assistance and housing assistance for those on the Autism Spectrum.
I specialize in working with individuals and families struggling with Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD/ADD, Learning Disorders and other Neuropsychological or Psychological Issues.
(206) 466-5649 View (206) 466-5649
Photo of Kevin Rodas - Grace MindCare (Ketamine Services)
Grace MindCare (Ketamine Services)
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
From anxiety and depression to PTSD, Autism, and bipolar disorder, we provide expert evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy to help you achieve stability and emotional wellness.
At Grace Mindcare we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care, cutting-edge ketamine therapy infusions to enhance your mental and physical well-being. Our services are designed to provide holistic support, catering to your unique needs with compassion and expertise.
From anxiety and depression to PTSD, Autism, and bipolar disorder, we provide expert evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy to help you achieve stability and emotional wellness.
At Grace Mindcare we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care, cutting-edge ketamine therapy infusions to enhance your mental and physical well-being. Our services are designed to provide holistic support, catering to your unique needs with compassion and expertise.
(206) 984-6038 View (206) 984-6038
Photo of Jamie Knowlton, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jamie Knowlton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
My specialties include family & couple repair, life transitions, LGBTQ+ and non-traditional relational dynamics, parent coaching of young children, teenager support, loss/grief, sexual topics, PTSD, Autism & ADHD.
Accepting clients with Premera or Private Pay only at this time. I specialize in couples & families and I am happy to see individuals as well. We will work to disrupt unwanted patterns, in order to improve your relationships and reduce suffering. I work from varied modalities including Somatic Embodiment and Narrative Therapy. I support skill building and inspiration seeking. You are the experts of your experience, I will help you trust and love yourself and those you care for, from a strengths-based and resiliency lens. With curiosity and compassion, therapy can empower you and help you gain more from life.
My specialties include family & couple repair, life transitions, LGBTQ+ and non-traditional relational dynamics, parent coaching of young children, teenager support, loss/grief, sexual topics, PTSD, Autism & ADHD.
Accepting clients with Premera or Private Pay only at this time. I specialize in couples & families and I am happy to see individuals as well. We will work to disrupt unwanted patterns, in order to improve your relationships and reduce suffering. I work from varied modalities including Somatic Embodiment and Narrative Therapy. I support skill building and inspiration seeking. You are the experts of your experience, I will help you trust and love yourself and those you care for, from a strengths-based and resiliency lens. With curiosity and compassion, therapy can empower you and help you gain more from life.
(206) 539-0707 View (206) 539-0707
Photo of Lisa Galeucia, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Galeucia
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027
I have several years experience working with individuals with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, anxiety, LGBTQ+, and more.
Hi there! I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I am passionate about working collaboratively with children/teens (ages 4+) and their parents to help each move towards growth and understanding of one another. In order to do this, it important to utilize strategies that are effective, compassionate, and respectful of the client's needs. Additionally, there needs to be a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust and compassion. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques depending on the needs of each client.
I have several years experience working with individuals with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, anxiety, LGBTQ+, and more.
Hi there! I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I am passionate about working collaboratively with children/teens (ages 4+) and their parents to help each move towards growth and understanding of one another. In order to do this, it important to utilize strategies that are effective, compassionate, and respectful of the client's needs. Additionally, there needs to be a strong therapeutic relationship built on trust and compassion. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques depending on the needs of each client.
(425) 657-3878 View (425) 657-3878
Photo of Ruth Szollosy - Ruth PS Therapy, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ruth PS Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Ruth, she/they and I identify as a queer, jewish, latinx individual. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, adolescents and children, family issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioral issues, addiction issues, and have experience with neurodivergent individuals on the autism spectrum. My therapeutic approach is very client-centered. I enjoy meeting people where they are at and finding out what areas of their lives they would like to grow in. Being in therapy for the first time or for the hundredth time can be a challenge. My goal is to alleviate that challenge and help people become the best version of themselves.
Hello! My name is Ruth, she/they and I identify as a queer, jewish, latinx individual. I specialize in LGBTQ+ issues, adolescents and children, family issues, anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioral issues, addiction issues, and have experience with neurodivergent individuals on the autism spectrum. My therapeutic approach is very client-centered. I enjoy meeting people where they are at and finding out what areas of their lives they would like to grow in. Being in therapy for the first time or for the hundredth time can be a challenge. My goal is to alleviate that challenge and help people become the best version of themselves.
(509) 260-3675 View (509) 260-3675
Photo of Alecia Harris - All Access Employment and Counseling, MEd, CRC, LMHC, Counselor
All Access Employment and Counseling
Counselor, MEd, CRC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98464  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children as young as five, adolescents, and adults. My focus is with children, youth and adults with ADHD, autism, providing parenting supports, working through trauma, and working with depression and anxiety. I am experienced in providing vocational skills and transition supports to youth after graduating from high school. I use an eclectic approach with a foundation in person-centered therapy. I have certificates in CBT, DBT, Gottman Couple's Couneling, and CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional).
I work with children as young as five, adolescents, and adults. My focus is with children, youth and adults with ADHD, autism, providing parenting supports, working through trauma, and working with depression and anxiety. I am experienced in providing vocational skills and transition supports to youth after graduating from high school. I use an eclectic approach with a foundation in person-centered therapy. I have certificates in CBT, DBT, Gottman Couple's Couneling, and CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional).
(253) 753-2942 View (253) 753-2942
Photo of Laura Davenport, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Laura Davenport
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Langley, WA 98260
Signs that your child may benefit from play therapy include: Irritability, aggression divorce, death of a loved one, defiance, self harming, transitional events, persistent mood changes, excessive worry, social withdrawal, school refusal, clinginess, changes in hygiene, eating or sleep, academic challenges, developmental delays, 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.)
Signs that your child may benefit from play therapy include: Irritability, aggression divorce, death of a loved one, defiance, self harming, transitional events, persistent mood changes, excessive worry, social withdrawal, school refusal, clinginess, changes in hygiene, eating or sleep, academic challenges, developmental delays, 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.)
(360) 382-4333 x2706 View (360) 382-4333 x2706
Photo of Ellen L Walker, PhD, Psychologist
Ellen L Walker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98229  (Online Only)
In private practice in Bellingham since 1991 and in the mental health field since 1986. I provide evaluations to adults throughout Washington State. I have specialized in ADHD since opening my practice. I also enjoy evaluating adults for Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety, with the goal of providing you with clear and helpful answers to your evaluation questions. I am the author of Complete Without Kids: An Insider's Guide To Childfree Living By Choice Or By Chance. 2nd Edition.
In private practice in Bellingham since 1991 and in the mental health field since 1986. I provide evaluations to adults throughout Washington State. I have specialized in ADHD since opening my practice. I also enjoy evaluating adults for Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety, with the goal of providing you with clear and helpful answers to your evaluation questions. I am the author of Complete Without Kids: An Insider's Guide To Childfree Living By Choice Or By Chance. 2nd Edition.
(360) 310-4657 View (360) 310-4657
Photo of Samar Ayyub, LCAISW, MEd, RYT-500, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samar Ayyub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCAISW, MEd, RYT-500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I blend traditional, evidence-based practices with holistic practices, such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga (and a touch of humor!), to guide you on a path toward self-healing and understanding. I specialize in helping you manage feelings of stress, depression, and anxiety. I also provide executive function, self-regulation, and social skills support related to ADHD, autism, and other related challenges. Along with patient care, I work with parents and caretakers of children with disabilities to help them overcome everyday challenges, navigate the intricacies of special education, and discuss how to best support their child.
I blend traditional, evidence-based practices with holistic practices, such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga (and a touch of humor!), to guide you on a path toward self-healing and understanding. I specialize in helping you manage feelings of stress, depression, and anxiety. I also provide executive function, self-regulation, and social skills support related to ADHD, autism, and other related challenges. Along with patient care, I work with parents and caretakers of children with disabilities to help them overcome everyday challenges, navigate the intricacies of special education, and discuss how to best support their child.
(206) 483-0592 View (206) 483-0592
Photo of Dr. Steve Tutty - N. W. Family Psychology, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Steve Tutty - N. W. Family Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
Dr. Tutty provides psychological and neuropsychological evaluations to children and adolescents who may be struggling with ADHD (executive functioning), Autism, Learning Disabilities, Twice Exceptional, Anxiety, Depression, as well as counseling for children affected by high conflict divorce. Dr. Tutty also provides counseling to children and adolescents for these issues (most insurance plans accepted). In addition, Dr. Tutty provides forensic psychological services to adults in need of mental health and parenting evaluations, as well as personal injury evaluations (e.g., TBI), which are not covered by insurance.
Dr. Tutty provides psychological and neuropsychological evaluations to children and adolescents who may be struggling with ADHD (executive functioning), Autism, Learning Disabilities, Twice Exceptional, Anxiety, Depression, as well as counseling for children affected by high conflict divorce. Dr. Tutty also provides counseling to children and adolescents for these issues (most insurance plans accepted). In addition, Dr. Tutty provides forensic psychological services to adults in need of mental health and parenting evaluations, as well as personal injury evaluations (e.g., TBI), which are not covered by insurance.
(360) 208-2713 View (360) 208-2713
Andrew Syvertsen
Counselor, LMHC, BCBA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I provide therapeutic services for adults, adolescents and children. I incorporate aspects of applied behavior analysis, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, psycho-education, and family systems theories. I work with a broad spectrum of people with diverse neurological makeup including but not limited to those diagnosed with developmental disabilities, ADHD, Autism, Depression and Anxiety.
I provide therapeutic services for adults, adolescents and children. I incorporate aspects of applied behavior analysis, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, psycho-education, and family systems theories. I work with a broad spectrum of people with diverse neurological makeup including but not limited to those diagnosed with developmental disabilities, ADHD, Autism, Depression and Anxiety.
View
Photo of Liam Kelly, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liam Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98021
Hi! My name is Liam and I am a master's level associate social worker, serving teens and adults in private practice. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions. I use a person-centered and neurodivergent affirming approach to support my clients in managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). As a type 1 diabetic, I have a keen interest in supporting individuals experiencing life-transitions, adjustment challenges and anxiety related to chronic illness management.
Hi! My name is Liam and I am a master's level associate social worker, serving teens and adults in private practice. I offer both in-person and virtual sessions. I use a person-centered and neurodivergent affirming approach to support my clients in managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). As a type 1 diabetic, I have a keen interest in supporting individuals experiencing life-transitions, adjustment challenges and anxiety related to chronic illness management.
(425) 728-6332 View (425) 728-6332

See more therapy options for Stanwood

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.