Autism Therapists in Gilbert, AZ

Photo of Danielle J Aliotta - Sami's Angels ABA Services, MEd, BCBA, LBA
Sami's Angels ABA Services
MEd, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Sami was diagnosed with autism at 22 months old.
We are here to empower children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families with effective supports to communicate effectively and learn the necessary social and emotional components. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy based on the science of learning and behavior. ABA therapy applies our understanding of how behavior works to real situations. The goal is to increase behaviors that are helpful and decrease behaviors that are harmful or affect learning. Positive reinforcement is one of the main strategies used in ABA.
Sami was diagnosed with autism at 22 months old.
We are here to empower children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families with effective supports to communicate effectively and learn the necessary social and emotional components. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy based on the science of learning and behavior. ABA therapy applies our understanding of how behavior works to real situations. The goal is to increase behaviors that are helpful and decrease behaviors that are harmful or affect learning. Positive reinforcement is one of the main strategies used in ABA.
(480) 530-8085 View (480) 530-8085
Photo of Jacqui Lauko (Johnson), MC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqui Lauko (Johnson)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Unique animal-assisted psychotherapy ($140-245) age 5-50. Specializing in anxiety, ADHD & Autism through fun therapies. I use several experiential techniques including equine-assisted therapy, yoga, somatic experiencing, hypnosis, art therapy, Bemer therapy, sensory therapy & dog-assisted therapy along with IFS-informed equine parts work. I focus on holistic healing to promote a faster process. I have been working with children & adults with behavioral health needs since 2010. I am dedicated to going above & beyond for my clients including attending school meetings and determining the best route of treatment for the client & family.
Unique animal-assisted psychotherapy ($140-245) age 5-50. Specializing in anxiety, ADHD & Autism through fun therapies. I use several experiential techniques including equine-assisted therapy, yoga, somatic experiencing, hypnosis, art therapy, Bemer therapy, sensory therapy & dog-assisted therapy along with IFS-informed equine parts work. I focus on holistic healing to promote a faster process. I have been working with children & adults with behavioral health needs since 2010. I am dedicated to going above & beyond for my clients including attending school meetings and determining the best route of treatment for the client & family.
(480) 376-7767 View (480) 376-7767
Photo of Bethsy Amador, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bethsy Amador
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
I am a Catholic Christian therapist who specializes in Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Trauma. With over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert in your life and my role as your therapist is to gently guide, support and provide you with the tools that you need to overcome the challenges that you face. We all experience struggles in life and finding the right supports is essential to progress and healing. My hope is to be that support for each and every one of my clients.
I am a Catholic Christian therapist who specializes in Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Trauma. With over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert in your life and my role as your therapist is to gently guide, support and provide you with the tools that you need to overcome the challenges that you face. We all experience struggles in life and finding the right supports is essential to progress and healing. My hope is to be that support for each and every one of my clients.
(480) 771-2165 View (480) 771-2165
Photo of Shylo Swanty, MC, LAC, ASDI, Counselor
Shylo Swanty
Counselor, MC, LAC, ASDI
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Waitlist for new clients
Shylo has two children with autism, one with chronic medical health needs, and understands navigating complex systems to locate services for higher needs children.
Shylo understands that seeking counseling services can be overwhelming and therefore prioritizes creating a calm, safe and healing environment where individuals can grow and gain insight. She uses empathetic listening skills, collaboration, and compassionate understanding to develop trust and a healthy therapeutic relationship. Shylo enjoys working with adults who experience OCD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, higher needs parenting and trauma. Shylo’s therapeutic approach is primarily person-centered, integrated with methodologies including ERP, ICBT, DBT, CBT, ACT, and Polyvagal Theory.
Shylo has two children with autism, one with chronic medical health needs, and understands navigating complex systems to locate services for higher needs children.
Shylo understands that seeking counseling services can be overwhelming and therefore prioritizes creating a calm, safe and healing environment where individuals can grow and gain insight. She uses empathetic listening skills, collaboration, and compassionate understanding to develop trust and a healthy therapeutic relationship. Shylo enjoys working with adults who experience OCD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, higher needs parenting and trauma. Shylo’s therapeutic approach is primarily person-centered, integrated with methodologies including ERP, ICBT, DBT, CBT, ACT, and Polyvagal Theory.
(480) 613-8024 View (480) 613-8024
Photo of Rebecca Tunnicliff, MSMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Tunnicliff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85233  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also brings specialized experience in working with children, adults, and their families with autism, ADHD, and challenging behaviors; providing parent training as needed and therapeutic interventions.
I will be accepting new clients starting in September! My desire is to create a safe space where you are able to fully express and experience your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment. I hope that through this journey you become more aligned with your authentic self and experience the freedom to be fully seen. As a collaborative therapist, I will work with you to create a treatment plan that aligns with your unique goals. I work with adults experiencing a variety of issues including neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions.
I also brings specialized experience in working with children, adults, and their families with autism, ADHD, and challenging behaviors; providing parent training as needed and therapeutic interventions.
I will be accepting new clients starting in September! My desire is to create a safe space where you are able to fully express and experience your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgment. I hope that through this journey you become more aligned with your authentic self and experience the freedom to be fully seen. As a collaborative therapist, I will work with you to create a treatment plan that aligns with your unique goals. I work with adults experiencing a variety of issues including neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions.
(623) 283-2794 View (623) 283-2794
Photo of Pamela Bonilla, MS, LPC-S, ITR-CTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Bonilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, ITR-CTS
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Meet Pam, a Certified Trauma Specialist who has been working with children since 1987. Pam's passion is to help families become more securely attached by working with children and adolescents who have trauma, attachment disorders, and autism. With Pam's expertise in trauma using Instinctual Trauma Response, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, and Autplay Therapy for autism, children and their families can experience the highest level of care and support.
Meet Pam, a Certified Trauma Specialist who has been working with children since 1987. Pam's passion is to help families become more securely attached by working with children and adolescents who have trauma, attachment disorders, and autism. With Pam's expertise in trauma using Instinctual Trauma Response, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, and Autplay Therapy for autism, children and their families can experience the highest level of care and support.
(480) 420-7514 View (480) 420-7514
Photo of Jeremy Gwizdalski, LAC, Counselor
Jeremy Gwizdalski
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
I am a licensed therapist who provides a safe nurturing environment for children and adolescents. I focus on topics such as life adjustment, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, life transitions, ADHD, autism spectrum and neurodivergent individuals, and attachment issues. I specializes in ADHD and Autism spectrum disorders, childhood attachment issues which tend to impede emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual growth. I also have an extensive background in assisting individuals with spectrum disorders.
I am a licensed therapist who provides a safe nurturing environment for children and adolescents. I focus on topics such as life adjustment, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, life transitions, ADHD, autism spectrum and neurodivergent individuals, and attachment issues. I specializes in ADHD and Autism spectrum disorders, childhood attachment issues which tend to impede emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual growth. I also have an extensive background in assisting individuals with spectrum disorders.
(480) 525-9735 View (480) 525-9735
Photo of Maria Blahut, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maria Blahut
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85297
Are your children displaying challenges with emotions, relating to others or adjusting to a school environment? Difficulty regulating emotions and impulsive behaviors can negatively affect the way we interact with others, causing difficulties in building those relationships we need to thrive. I primarily work with children and teens with an emphasis on Autism, development delays, ADHD and anxiety and the impact on daily functioning and fully enjoying life. I have seen how trauma negatively affects normal childhood development and have been trained in EMDR for children to help free them from a burden and pain they don’t understand.
Are your children displaying challenges with emotions, relating to others or adjusting to a school environment? Difficulty regulating emotions and impulsive behaviors can negatively affect the way we interact with others, causing difficulties in building those relationships we need to thrive. I primarily work with children and teens with an emphasis on Autism, development delays, ADHD and anxiety and the impact on daily functioning and fully enjoying life. I have seen how trauma negatively affects normal childhood development and have been trained in EMDR for children to help free them from a burden and pain they don’t understand.
(480) 608-9687 View (480) 608-9687
Photo of Tamara Woodard, LCSW, ADHD-CS, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Woodard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADHD-CS, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85233
Tamara has helped 1000+ children, young adults, & couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, meltdowns, shutting down, low self-esteem, & symptoms related to ADHD, autism or neurodivergence.
Are you the parent who understands that your child needs more than a bandaid approach or a one-size-fits-all solution? Are outbursts, panic attacks, or shutting down preventing your child from truly thriving? Perhaps you are an adult struggling with social anxiety or depression that gets in the way of you living your best life. Tamara offers diagnostic autism evaluations as well as individual, family, & group counseling for ages 12 months to young adults. She will help with, not only overcoming the immediate challenges of today, but making changes that will lead to thriving for the future.
Tamara has helped 1000+ children, young adults, & couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, meltdowns, shutting down, low self-esteem, & symptoms related to ADHD, autism or neurodivergence.
Are you the parent who understands that your child needs more than a bandaid approach or a one-size-fits-all solution? Are outbursts, panic attacks, or shutting down preventing your child from truly thriving? Perhaps you are an adult struggling with social anxiety or depression that gets in the way of you living your best life. Tamara offers diagnostic autism evaluations as well as individual, family, & group counseling for ages 12 months to young adults. She will help with, not only overcoming the immediate challenges of today, but making changes that will lead to thriving for the future.
(928) 599-7931 View (928) 599-7931
Photo of Luke Bigler, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Luke Bigler
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Welcome to Pinnacle Psychology: The Pinnacle of Mental Health Services in The East Valley! I specialize in individual therapy for adolescents and adults. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, marital and relationships issues, trauma, addiction, skills building (such as boundary setting and assertive communication), and co-dependency. I also offer psychological and diagnostic assessments for children and adults with ADHD, Autism, Specific Learning Disabilities, cognitive concerns, family law issues, and many others. If you or a loved one need an assessment for work, disability claim, or a school IEP/ 504 plan I can help.
Welcome to Pinnacle Psychology: The Pinnacle of Mental Health Services in The East Valley! I specialize in individual therapy for adolescents and adults. Areas of focus include anxiety, depression, marital and relationships issues, trauma, addiction, skills building (such as boundary setting and assertive communication), and co-dependency. I also offer psychological and diagnostic assessments for children and adults with ADHD, Autism, Specific Learning Disabilities, cognitive concerns, family law issues, and many others. If you or a loved one need an assessment for work, disability claim, or a school IEP/ 504 plan I can help.
(480) 613-3374 View (480) 613-3374
Photo of Megan K Viall, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan K Viall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85234  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals managing lives touched with mood and anxiety disorders, including depression and bipolar; grief; domestic violence (offenders and victims); physical, emotional and sexual abuse; custody issues; family reunification; marriage/relationship hurdles; problem sexual behavior; borderline personality disorder/characteristics; PTSD; ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other sensory disorders; death and dying; caretaking of ill and aging family members; and life change events, i.e. anything that is a positive change, but also brings with it fear, doubt and lots of unknowns.
I have experience working with individuals managing lives touched with mood and anxiety disorders, including depression and bipolar; grief; domestic violence (offenders and victims); physical, emotional and sexual abuse; custody issues; family reunification; marriage/relationship hurdles; problem sexual behavior; borderline personality disorder/characteristics; PTSD; ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other sensory disorders; death and dying; caretaking of ill and aging family members; and life change events, i.e. anything that is a positive change, but also brings with it fear, doubt and lots of unknowns.
(480) 680-9286 View (480) 680-9286
Photo of Andrea Montoya, PhD, Psychologist
Andrea Montoya
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
Common presenting issues include: ADHD, disruptive behavior disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and autism spectrum disorders.
Education & Clinical Experience: An Arizona native, Dr. Montoya graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University with a degree in Psychology. She earned her doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Colorado State University. Dr. Montoya completed her APA-accredited internship at the University of Utah Neuropsychiatric Institute (UNI) in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she specialized in child and adolescent clinical psychology.
Common presenting issues include: ADHD, disruptive behavior disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and autism spectrum disorders.
Education & Clinical Experience: An Arizona native, Dr. Montoya graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University with a degree in Psychology. She earned her doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Colorado State University. Dr. Montoya completed her APA-accredited internship at the University of Utah Neuropsychiatric Institute (UNI) in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she specialized in child and adolescent clinical psychology.
(480) 680-8532 View (480) 680-8532
Photo of Heather L Berger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather L Berger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85295
Do you have an ADHD or Autism (formerly Asperger's) diagnosis? If not do you think you may be Autistic or have ADHD? Being neurodivergent myself, I am here to help neurodivergent (ND) folks find their way in this neurotypical (NT)world.
Hypnosis now offered ! Do you need help but can't or don't know how to ask for it? Do you feel like you are drowning, struggling, and unmotivated? Do you not recognize yourself anymore? Do you miss the person you used to be? If you're here and reading this, you know that it's ok to need help. But, chances are you are usually the one to do everything for everyone else. You may even be reading this now in hopes to find help for a loved one. Does it seem like help doesn't exist or at least not for you or you're loved one? I am here to help, and have been helping people find their way for over two decades.
Do you have an ADHD or Autism (formerly Asperger's) diagnosis? If not do you think you may be Autistic or have ADHD? Being neurodivergent myself, I am here to help neurodivergent (ND) folks find their way in this neurotypical (NT)world.
Hypnosis now offered ! Do you need help but can't or don't know how to ask for it? Do you feel like you are drowning, struggling, and unmotivated? Do you not recognize yourself anymore? Do you miss the person you used to be? If you're here and reading this, you know that it's ok to need help. But, chances are you are usually the one to do everything for everyone else. You may even be reading this now in hopes to find help for a loved one. Does it seem like help doesn't exist or at least not for you or you're loved one? I am here to help, and have been helping people find their way for over two decades.
(480) 530-8395 View (480) 530-8395
Photo of Jordynn Gocklin, LMSW
Jordynn Gocklin
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
I have experience with many matters such as trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, and autism.
Hello! I’m so happy to be here to guide you through this journey. My goals are to advocate for others, validate others’ experiences and build a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients to guide my clients through their healing journey. Every story is different, and every individual has different needs. My passion is to help my clients feel comfortable, safe, and heard as we work together to identify issues, emotions, traumas, beliefs, thoughts, needs, strengths and limitations that we can collaboratively work on to address with personalized and specific treatment plans. I strive to be an empathic guide through this journey.
I have experience with many matters such as trauma, depression, anxiety, stress management, and autism.
Hello! I’m so happy to be here to guide you through this journey. My goals are to advocate for others, validate others’ experiences and build a trusting therapeutic relationship with my clients to guide my clients through their healing journey. Every story is different, and every individual has different needs. My passion is to help my clients feel comfortable, safe, and heard as we work together to identify issues, emotions, traumas, beliefs, thoughts, needs, strengths and limitations that we can collaboratively work on to address with personalized and specific treatment plans. I strive to be an empathic guide through this journey.
(928) 628-7980 x710 View (928) 628-7980 x710
Photo of Gabrielle R DeLong, MA, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabrielle R DeLong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
Hi! My name is Gabby. Picking a therapist can be overwhelming, so I will do my best to tell you about what you can expect if you choose me. I have expertise working with trauma, eating disorders, faith, depression, anxiety, relational conflict, and low self-esteem. I also have experience with clients impacted by neurosocial disorders (ie Autism). My goal in therapy is to walk alongside my clients through past and present difficulties in order to help them experience growth, healing, and freedom. I support and challenge my clients to be their best and most authentic selves, and would love a chance to offer that care to you as well.
Hi! My name is Gabby. Picking a therapist can be overwhelming, so I will do my best to tell you about what you can expect if you choose me. I have expertise working with trauma, eating disorders, faith, depression, anxiety, relational conflict, and low self-esteem. I also have experience with clients impacted by neurosocial disorders (ie Autism). My goal in therapy is to walk alongside my clients through past and present difficulties in order to help them experience growth, healing, and freedom. I support and challenge my clients to be their best and most authentic selves, and would love a chance to offer that care to you as well.
(480) 605-3257 View (480) 605-3257
Photo of Tony Rusch, PhD, Psychologist
Tony Rusch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
I have extensive experience working with adults as well as families of children and adolescents that exhibit emotional and behavioral concerns, including the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, academic underachievement, OCD, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, screen addiction, entitlement, low self-esteem, substance use disorders, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) as well as stress management for student athletes. I emphasize using evidence-based methods that have scientific backing and I engage in a collaborative process with my clients while respecting their values.
I have extensive experience working with adults as well as families of children and adolescents that exhibit emotional and behavioral concerns, including the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, academic underachievement, OCD, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, screen addiction, entitlement, low self-esteem, substance use disorders, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) as well as stress management for student athletes. I emphasize using evidence-based methods that have scientific backing and I engage in a collaborative process with my clients while respecting their values.
(602) 492-3146 View (602) 492-3146
Photo of Dr. Sharon Perugini, PhD, EdS, Psychologist
Dr. Sharon Perugini
Psychologist, PhD, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Are you worried about your infant, toddler, or preschooler’s development? Is your little one having trouble making friends and playing? Are you looking for an autism assessment?
Are you worried about your infant, toddler, or preschooler’s development? Is your little one having trouble making friends and playing? Are you looking for an autism assessment?
(480) 605-0413 View (480) 605-0413
Photo of Julie Roberts, MA, Counselor
Julie Roberts
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85297
I connect to foster deep transformative experiences by understanding brains adapt for both functional and dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors. Adaptive survival processes are explored and resolved via EMDR to reduce the impact of past onto the present. Treatment explores brain/body stress response systems to learn to trigger steady not stress. My background in biology and psychology allows valid comprehensive research to guide treatment, using technology such as HRV biofeedback and EEG neurofeedback in addition to psychotherapy. Specialized treatment is offered for neurodivergent folk as I am also a certified Autism ASD clinician.
I connect to foster deep transformative experiences by understanding brains adapt for both functional and dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors. Adaptive survival processes are explored and resolved via EMDR to reduce the impact of past onto the present. Treatment explores brain/body stress response systems to learn to trigger steady not stress. My background in biology and psychology allows valid comprehensive research to guide treatment, using technology such as HRV biofeedback and EEG neurofeedback in addition to psychotherapy. Specialized treatment is offered for neurodivergent folk as I am also a certified Autism ASD clinician.
(480) 405-0757 View (480) 405-0757
Photo of Michael Volrich - Arizona Neuropsychology Centers, PsyD, Psychologist
Arizona Neuropsychology Centers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Our practice focuses on the evaluation of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Giftedness, Specific Learning Disorders, and other neurobehavioral differences.
Notice: Dr. Volrich does not currently provide therapeutic services. He is only completing evaluations at this time. I am a licensed psychologist at Arizona Neuropsychology Centers who specializes in neuropsychological, developmental, and psychoeducational evaluations. I’ve developed an extensive knowledge-base for evaluating neurodevelopmental disorders under the previous training of two well known neuropsychologists in the valley, Dr. John Mather and Dr. Paul Beljan. Our practice participates in developing accommodations and modifications needed to aid clients in maximizing their academic, occupational, and social functioning.
Our practice focuses on the evaluation of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Giftedness, Specific Learning Disorders, and other neurobehavioral differences.
Notice: Dr. Volrich does not currently provide therapeutic services. He is only completing evaluations at this time. I am a licensed psychologist at Arizona Neuropsychology Centers who specializes in neuropsychological, developmental, and psychoeducational evaluations. I’ve developed an extensive knowledge-base for evaluating neurodevelopmental disorders under the previous training of two well known neuropsychologists in the valley, Dr. John Mather and Dr. Paul Beljan. Our practice participates in developing accommodations and modifications needed to aid clients in maximizing their academic, occupational, and social functioning.
(480) 613-3179 View (480) 613-3179
Photo of Jenny Lynn Whipple, LAC, Counselor
Jenny Lynn Whipple
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85234
I have specialized training and experience working with families and individuals affected by developmental disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
It might seem impossible but, you can learn to love yourself. I provide a rich environment for learning and exploration of what is important to you so you can refocus your life and move forward with intention. Through counseling, you can learn to cooperate with your mind and body. With more than three decades in the fields of special education, parenting education, and mental health, I work with individuals, couples, and families to identify their specific needs and provide education to support progress toward their personal goals.
I have specialized training and experience working with families and individuals affected by developmental disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
It might seem impossible but, you can learn to love yourself. I provide a rich environment for learning and exploration of what is important to you so you can refocus your life and move forward with intention. Through counseling, you can learn to cooperate with your mind and body. With more than three decades in the fields of special education, parenting education, and mental health, I work with individuals, couples, and families to identify their specific needs and provide education to support progress toward their personal goals.
(602) 834-4458 View (602) 834-4458
1
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.