Autism Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ

Photo of Anna Bernasconi, LPC, Counselor
Anna Bernasconi
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I have over six years of experience working with teenagers and adults. I specialize in working with clients who have gender identity issues, including transgender, those on the Autism spectrum, ADHD, sex and pornography addiction, Men's issues, family relationship problems, personality disorders, self-harming and suicidal ideation. My therapeutic approaches I use include supportive counseling, person-centered, strengths-based, CBT, DBT and trauma informed. I am a gender affirming therapist.
Accepting New Clients. Welcome! I have over six years of experience working with teenagers and adults. I specialize in working with clients who have gender identity issues, including transgender, those on the Autism spectrum, ADHD, sex and pornography addiction, Men's issues, family relationship problems, personality disorders, self-harming and suicidal ideation. My therapeutic approaches I use include supportive counseling, person-centered, strengths-based, CBT, DBT and trauma informed. I am a gender affirming therapist.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Shelby Rouse, LPC, EMDR , DBT, Counselor
Shelby Rouse
Counselor, LPC, EMDR , DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Hi! My name is Shelby Rouse, LPC, Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist. I am currently accepting new clients. I have experience with children and play therapy. I am also EMDR trained and trauma informed. I have experience in the behavioral health field and specialized in Applied Behavior Analytics with children, adolescents, and young adults on the Autism Spectrum. A solid therapeutic alliance is one of the most important factors in counseling and with the art of listening and collaboratively designing your treatment plan, I look forward to to building one with you.
Hi! My name is Shelby Rouse, LPC, Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist. I am currently accepting new clients. I have experience with children and play therapy. I am also EMDR trained and trauma informed. I have experience in the behavioral health field and specialized in Applied Behavior Analytics with children, adolescents, and young adults on the Autism Spectrum. A solid therapeutic alliance is one of the most important factors in counseling and with the art of listening and collaboratively designing your treatment plan, I look forward to to building one with you.
(480) 245-5573 View (480) 245-5573
Photo of Debra Davis - Davis Psychology, Education, & Behavior Solutions, PhD, Psychologist
Davis Psychology, Education, & Behavior Solutions
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Dr. Debra Davis utilizes evidence-based diagnostic and treatment practices and specializes in psycho-educational evaluations; learning disabilities; functional behavior assessments; applied behavior analysis; cognitive behavior and behavior therapy; parent consultation and training; teacher consultation; ADHD; autism; developmental disabilities; and parenting of children experiencing chronic illness or divorce.
Dr. Debra Davis utilizes evidence-based diagnostic and treatment practices and specializes in psycho-educational evaluations; learning disabilities; functional behavior assessments; applied behavior analysis; cognitive behavior and behavior therapy; parent consultation and training; teacher consultation; ADHD; autism; developmental disabilities; and parenting of children experiencing chronic illness or divorce.
(480) 467-5498 View (480) 467-5498
Photo of Stephen Sommers, LPC, CMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephen Sommers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I have experience working with Teens with ADHD, and Autism, as well as Depression, Anxiety, Eating Didorders and Behavioral Issues.
I have extensive experience working with children and families and excel meeting children and teens where they are at, no matter the area of difficulty or how layered their problems are. I offer parent education and support in a non-judgmental and caring manner. I use a variety of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, family system dynamics, attachment theory, and play therapy.
I have experience working with Teens with ADHD, and Autism, as well as Depression, Anxiety, Eating Didorders and Behavioral Issues.
I have extensive experience working with children and families and excel meeting children and teens where they are at, no matter the area of difficulty or how layered their problems are. I offer parent education and support in a non-judgmental and caring manner. I use a variety of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, family system dynamics, attachment theory, and play therapy.
(801) 616-8819 View (801) 616-8819
Photo of Danielle Russo, MS, LPC, CAS, Counselor
Danielle Russo
Counselor, MS, LPC, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals on the autism spectrum and became a certified autism specialist.
Are you looking to make a change to improve your life? Let’s start that process together and kudos to you for taking the first step in your path. Being in the counseling field since 2018, I have gained a vast amount of knowledge of how to best serve my client’s presenting needs. I have a passion for guiding people to find their voice and turning any challenge into a strength. Building a comfortable environment and good rapport is incredibly important to me as it helps us speak more openly and tackle concerns together.
I enjoy working with individuals on the autism spectrum and became a certified autism specialist.
Are you looking to make a change to improve your life? Let’s start that process together and kudos to you for taking the first step in your path. Being in the counseling field since 2018, I have gained a vast amount of knowledge of how to best serve my client’s presenting needs. I have a passion for guiding people to find their voice and turning any challenge into a strength. Building a comfortable environment and good rapport is incredibly important to me as it helps us speak more openly and tackle concerns together.
(480) 906-4872 View (480) 906-4872
Photo of Brett Andersen, PsyD, SSP, ABSNP, NCSP, Psychologist
Brett Andersen
Psychologist, PsyD, SSP, ABSNP, NCSP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
, learning disability, dyslexia, autism, gifted, ADHD, behavior problems, etc.
As a child psychologist and a parent (myself), I love working with families. I can appreciate the difficulties of parenting, but as I child psychologist I understand child-related difficulties as they apply to academics inside and out. I currently work part-time for a local school district so I am up-to-date with any school-related practices (e.g., distance learning, IEPs, 504s, etc.). I love being able to resolve child-related concerns via psychoeducational evaluations and providing parents with a "road map" so their child gets what they need to be most successful.
, learning disability, dyslexia, autism, gifted, ADHD, behavior problems, etc.
As a child psychologist and a parent (myself), I love working with families. I can appreciate the difficulties of parenting, but as I child psychologist I understand child-related difficulties as they apply to academics inside and out. I currently work part-time for a local school district so I am up-to-date with any school-related practices (e.g., distance learning, IEPs, 504s, etc.). I love being able to resolve child-related concerns via psychoeducational evaluations and providing parents with a "road map" so their child gets what they need to be most successful.
(928) 236-9232 View (928) 236-9232
Photo of Carol McLean, PhD, Psychologist
Carol McLean
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
McLean and her team specialize in the early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder beginning at 12 months of age through 16 years of age.
Dr. Carol McLean, Ph.D., has been in private practice since 2003. She specializes in development throughout the lifespan. Developmental & Educational Psychological Services provides high quality comprehensive assessments to identify numerous psychological and developmental conditions. Psychological assessment is a valuable tool for exploring issues to determine treatment and access intervention and support. Without accurate identification of a developmental or psychological condition it is difficult to effectively treat symptoms. Get a clear understanding of your child’s psychological or developmental issues.
McLean and her team specialize in the early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder beginning at 12 months of age through 16 years of age.
Dr. Carol McLean, Ph.D., has been in private practice since 2003. She specializes in development throughout the lifespan. Developmental & Educational Psychological Services provides high quality comprehensive assessments to identify numerous psychological and developmental conditions. Psychological assessment is a valuable tool for exploring issues to determine treatment and access intervention and support. Without accurate identification of a developmental or psychological condition it is difficult to effectively treat symptoms. Get a clear understanding of your child’s psychological or developmental issues.
(480) 405-1003 View (480) 405-1003
Photo of Fernando Martinez, LBA, BCBA, MA
Fernando Martinez
LBA, BCBA, MA
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
I am an independent board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) that specializes in using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help children, teens, or adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities. I create person centered goals to help clients reach their developmental milestones. I also use techniqued to improve communication, daily living (e.g. getting dressed), coping, safety (e.g. crossing the street), social, play, and reduce challenging behaviors (e.g. tantrums and aggression). I am currently accepting new clients who need intensive ABA in-home, school consultation, and group home settings.
I am an independent board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) that specializes in using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help children, teens, or adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities. I create person centered goals to help clients reach their developmental milestones. I also use techniqued to improve communication, daily living (e.g. getting dressed), coping, safety (e.g. crossing the street), social, play, and reduce challenging behaviors (e.g. tantrums and aggression). I am currently accepting new clients who need intensive ABA in-home, school consultation, and group home settings.
(623) 462-1296 View (623) 462-1296
Photo of Joseph A Gentry - Gentry Pediatric Behavioral Services, PLLC, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA, Psychologist
Gentry Pediatric Behavioral Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Our Licensed Behavior Analysts cen help with the assessment, planning and training of staff to work with young kids diagnosed with Autism.
Dr. Joseph Gentry obtained his doctoral degree from Illinois State University, with a specialization in consultation, assessment, and developmental disabilities. Dr. Gentry and his wife, Sarah, opened Gentry PBS in 2008 to provide a wide range of services to children in the Phoenix Metro area. Gentry Pediatric Behavioral Services is a multi-disciplinary private practice that brings psychologists, behavior analysts, and speech and language pathologists together. We are devoted to conducting *gold standard* diagnostic evaluations and providing comprehensive treatment options for children and families dealing with childhood struggles.
Our Licensed Behavior Analysts cen help with the assessment, planning and training of staff to work with young kids diagnosed with Autism.
Dr. Joseph Gentry obtained his doctoral degree from Illinois State University, with a specialization in consultation, assessment, and developmental disabilities. Dr. Gentry and his wife, Sarah, opened Gentry PBS in 2008 to provide a wide range of services to children in the Phoenix Metro area. Gentry Pediatric Behavioral Services is a multi-disciplinary private practice that brings psychologists, behavior analysts, and speech and language pathologists together. We are devoted to conducting *gold standard* diagnostic evaluations and providing comprehensive treatment options for children and families dealing with childhood struggles.
(602) 714-2424 View (602) 714-2424
Photo of Dr. Morgan M Hall - Pinnacle Center, PhD, Psychologist
Pinnacle Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Hall provides both comprehensive evaluations as well as focused evaluations for specific conditions like autism or ADHD (referral required for focused evaluations).
Dr. Hall is a licensed psychologist in Central Phoenix specializing in neuropsychology and diagnosis. She sees toddlers through young adults (and their families!) for evaluations and brief therapy. Evaluations help uncover the root of an issue, and a diagnosis provides answers. Often our clients have tried a variety of therapies before coming for an evaluation to better understand what's going on. Neuropsychologists have extensive training in brain-behavior relationships and methods for better understanding individual experiences. Dr. Hall works with a team that is also available to provide direct therapy and parent training.
Hall provides both comprehensive evaluations as well as focused evaluations for specific conditions like autism or ADHD (referral required for focused evaluations).
Dr. Hall is a licensed psychologist in Central Phoenix specializing in neuropsychology and diagnosis. She sees toddlers through young adults (and their families!) for evaluations and brief therapy. Evaluations help uncover the root of an issue, and a diagnosis provides answers. Often our clients have tried a variety of therapies before coming for an evaluation to better understand what's going on. Neuropsychologists have extensive training in brain-behavior relationships and methods for better understanding individual experiences. Dr. Hall works with a team that is also available to provide direct therapy and parent training.
(623) 462-1068 View (623) 462-1068
Photo of Shalini Wahi - Arizona Psychology Clinic; Dr Shalini Wahi, PhD, Psychologist
Arizona Psychology Clinic; Dr Shalini Wahi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
The Arizona Psychology Clinic offers Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing Services for ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism, Gifted IQ, Twice Exceptional and Personality Issues. Additionally, testing for accommodations on Standardized Tests such as the SAT, ACT and GRE is also offered. Testing protocols for receiving accommodations within school and college settings are a focus of the practice as well.
The Arizona Psychology Clinic offers Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing Services for ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism, Gifted IQ, Twice Exceptional and Personality Issues. Additionally, testing for accommodations on Standardized Tests such as the SAT, ACT and GRE is also offered. Testing protocols for receiving accommodations within school and college settings are a focus of the practice as well.
(480) 789-9934 View (480) 789-9934
Photo of Lauren Megrew, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Megrew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with neurodiversity (high functioning Autism/Asperger's profiles and ADHD) in children, teens, and adults. I specialize in adult diagnosis and neurodiversity in females. I provide ND diagnostics, ND individual & couples therapy, as well as parent coaching & therapy, executive functioning coaching, and behavior planning/modification.
I specialize in helping people with neurodiversity (high functioning Autism/Asperger's profiles and ADHD) in children, teens, and adults. I specialize in adult diagnosis and neurodiversity in females. I provide ND diagnostics, ND individual & couples therapy, as well as parent coaching & therapy, executive functioning coaching, and behavior planning/modification.
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Photo of Sara Frye, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Sara Frye
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Frye specializes in neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations, with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorder (including adults being diagnosed for the first time), ADHD, learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), anxiety and depressive disorders, brain injuries, behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, and giftedness.
Disclaimer: We do not currently offer therapy services. Dr. Sara Frye is a licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist. She has practiced in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and schools. Her background is unique in that she is trained in both neuropsychology and school psychology. Thus, she can make medical diagnoses and educational recommendations. Evaluations focus on identifying neurocognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as assessing behavioral and social-emotional functioning, to clarify diagnoses and make recommendations for supports.
Frye specializes in neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations, with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorder (including adults being diagnosed for the first time), ADHD, learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), anxiety and depressive disorders, brain injuries, behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, and giftedness.
Disclaimer: We do not currently offer therapy services. Dr. Sara Frye is a licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist. She has practiced in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and schools. Her background is unique in that she is trained in both neuropsychology and school psychology. Thus, she can make medical diagnoses and educational recommendations. Evaluations focus on identifying neurocognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as assessing behavioral and social-emotional functioning, to clarify diagnoses and make recommendations for supports.
(520) 282-4709 View (520) 282-4709
Photo of Bethsy Amador, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bethsy Amador
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (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 Meira Greenfeld - Urim Recovery - EMDR, ADHD/Autism & Trauma, JD, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Urim Recovery - EMDR, ADHD/Autism & Trauma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I welcome all those needing support to feel connected, empowered and confident to meet life's challenges. Shift from reactivity to response. I help individuals, regardless of their ability to name their pain, to focus on taking care of themselves to recover from relational distress, loss & burnout. In our time together, we will work on restoring the trust, confidence and sense of self often depleted as a result of relational trauma and life experiences. I specialize in treating complex and attachment related trauma, ADHD as well as autism, from a relational and developmentally based perspective using EMDR, IPSRT and EFT.
I welcome all those needing support to feel connected, empowered and confident to meet life's challenges. Shift from reactivity to response. I help individuals, regardless of their ability to name their pain, to focus on taking care of themselves to recover from relational distress, loss & burnout. In our time together, we will work on restoring the trust, confidence and sense of self often depleted as a result of relational trauma and life experiences. I specialize in treating complex and attachment related trauma, ADHD as well as autism, from a relational and developmentally based perspective using EMDR, IPSRT and EFT.
(602) 691-4090 View (602) 691-4090
Photo of Sarah Zillweger- Neruoaffirming Therapist, LPC/AZ, LPCC/CA, NCC, ASDCS, Autplay, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Zillweger- Neruoaffirming Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC/AZ, LPCC/CA, NCC, ASDCS, Autplay
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85054
At Essence of Empowerment Therapy you matter. You deserve a place to be seen and heard. If its navigating and understanding a new diagnosis of ADHD, Autism, anxiety for you/your family, or managing life’s challenges with neurodiversity, you are not alone. Taking the first step can be challenging, and you did it, you are here. Specializing in Neurodiversity, and how it impacts our day to day, we integrate a trauma informed theraputic approach with a variety of techniques to best fit and support your/your child's unique journey. We are all about instilling hope and encouragement together every step of the way.
At Essence of Empowerment Therapy you matter. You deserve a place to be seen and heard. If its navigating and understanding a new diagnosis of ADHD, Autism, anxiety for you/your family, or managing life’s challenges with neurodiversity, you are not alone. Taking the first step can be challenging, and you did it, you are here. Specializing in Neurodiversity, and how it impacts our day to day, we integrate a trauma informed theraputic approach with a variety of techniques to best fit and support your/your child's unique journey. We are all about instilling hope and encouragement together every step of the way.
(520) 376-1202 View (520) 376-1202
Photo of Adrianne Gallucci, PsyD, MSW, Psychologist
Adrianne Gallucci
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
For adults, I provide: comprehensive neurocognitive assessments, capacity evaluations (finances, medical decisions, consent to treatment, living independently), pre-surgery evaluations (neuromodulation, bariatric, amputation), Fitness for Duty evaluations, ADHD, Autism, and psychological evaluations. For children over 6, I provide ADHD, Autism, intellectual functioning, and psychological assessments. I also provide psychotherapy for adults and couples.
For adults, I provide: comprehensive neurocognitive assessments, capacity evaluations (finances, medical decisions, consent to treatment, living independently), pre-surgery evaluations (neuromodulation, bariatric, amputation), Fitness for Duty evaluations, ADHD, Autism, and psychological evaluations. For children over 6, I provide ADHD, Autism, intellectual functioning, and psychological assessments. I also provide psychotherapy for adults and couples.
(602) 641-3203 View (602) 641-3203
Photo of Dr. Karla Mueller-Schrader, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Karla Mueller-Schrader
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in addressing the challenges associated with ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, Behavioral Disorders, Trauma, and Autism.
Welcome! I'm here to help as you take this important first step. As a dedicated therapist with over 20 years of experience, I work with individuals of all ages and possess specialized expertise in working with children, teens, and young adults. I create a safe and healing environment for all my clients through an approach rooted in acceptance to ensure that each client feels understood and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. I believe people of all ages and identities are capable of personal transformation and view my role as a partner on your journey to wholeness and health.
I have extensive experience in addressing the challenges associated with ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, Behavioral Disorders, Trauma, and Autism.
Welcome! I'm here to help as you take this important first step. As a dedicated therapist with over 20 years of experience, I work with individuals of all ages and possess specialized expertise in working with children, teens, and young adults. I create a safe and healing environment for all my clients through an approach rooted in acceptance to ensure that each client feels understood and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. I believe people of all ages and identities are capable of personal transformation and view my role as a partner on your journey to wholeness and health.
(623) 288-5356 View (623) 288-5356
Photo of Terri Pratt, Pre-Licensed Professional
Terri Pratt
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Welcome! I am a dedicated therapist intern with a deep passion for working with neurodivergent individuals. My personal journey as a mother of several neurodivergent children fuels my commitment to helping individuals with autism, learning challenges, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I specialize in helping neurodivergent individuals and their parents, the LGBTQ community, and can use integrative methods where I combine spiritual perspectives with psychological practices to foster holistic healing. I also support clients in faith deconstruction to explore and redefine beliefs.
Welcome! I am a dedicated therapist intern with a deep passion for working with neurodivergent individuals. My personal journey as a mother of several neurodivergent children fuels my commitment to helping individuals with autism, learning challenges, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I specialize in helping neurodivergent individuals and their parents, the LGBTQ community, and can use integrative methods where I combine spiritual perspectives with psychological practices to foster holistic healing. I also support clients in faith deconstruction to explore and redefine beliefs.
(623) 352-9032 x541 View (623) 352-9032 x541
Photo of Elizabeth M Hanson, LAC, Counselor
Elizabeth M Hanson
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
I have experience working with children with Autism as a registered behavior technician as well as experience in a University Counseling Center.
With each interaction I find that striking a balance between a safe therapeutic space and appropriate challenges leads to the most holistic healing and deeper insights. I believe in a top-down and bottom-up approach when it comes to therapy. I hope to encourage a client to take responsibility over their own life while recognizing and validating the larger systems and realities that impact them. The ultimate goal is to translate growth within the therapy room to a client’s actual day-to-day life. Overall, I hope to empower clients to uncover new healthier ways of being for themselves.
I have experience working with children with Autism as a registered behavior technician as well as experience in a University Counseling Center.
With each interaction I find that striking a balance between a safe therapeutic space and appropriate challenges leads to the most holistic healing and deeper insights. I believe in a top-down and bottom-up approach when it comes to therapy. I hope to encourage a client to take responsibility over their own life while recognizing and validating the larger systems and realities that impact them. The ultimate goal is to translate growth within the therapy room to a client’s actual day-to-day life. Overall, I hope to empower clients to uncover new healthier ways of being for themselves.
(623) 462-1304 View (623) 462-1304
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.