Autism Therapists in Wake Forest, NC

Photo of Frank Paul Green - Charis Wellness Counseling Center (Foundation), DMin, MA, LMFT
Charis Wellness Counseling Center (Foundation)
DMin, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
These include: DIR Floortime treatment for families dealing with Autism, other developmental issues, and Children and adults suffering Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Charis Foundation has two counseling therapeutic opportunities: 1.) Charis Counseling Wellness Center, a out patient service, is dedicated to providing non-judgmental treatment for Adults, Adolescents, Children, individuals, couples, and families. We are committed to non-biased assessment and treatment our clients, with respect to their cultural, ethnic, sexual, and religious difference, in an effort to gain insight, promote wellness and encourage healing and growth. 2.) Serenity Grace Farm is dedicated to equine therapy, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, and other horse riding activities. This works towards enhancing and improving physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills. Trail rides, party opportunities, special events for focus groups such as service groups, churches, civic organizations, and special needs are also part of the repertoire of therapeutic experiences available.
These include: DIR Floortime treatment for families dealing with Autism, other developmental issues, and Children and adults suffering Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Charis Foundation has two counseling therapeutic opportunities: 1.) Charis Counseling Wellness Center, a out patient service, is dedicated to providing non-judgmental treatment for Adults, Adolescents, Children, individuals, couples, and families. We are committed to non-biased assessment and treatment our clients, with respect to their cultural, ethnic, sexual, and religious difference, in an effort to gain insight, promote wellness and encourage healing and growth. 2.) Serenity Grace Farm is dedicated to equine therapy, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, and other horse riding activities. This works towards enhancing and improving physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills. Trail rides, party opportunities, special events for focus groups such as service groups, churches, civic organizations, and special needs are also part of the repertoire of therapeutic experiences available.
(919) 587-8121 View (919) 587-8121
Photo of Krista Etchison - The Counseling Collective, PLLC, MA, LCMHCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Counseling Collective, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Currently accepting clients both in office and telehealth sessions. Please go to our webiste: www.counselingcollectivepllc.com and click "Request An Appointment" to get started. We are a group of practioners who provide individual, family, and group therapy and enjoy working with children, teens, and adults. Our therapists have experience working with various mental health diagnoses including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Autism, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, and Personality Disorders. We are trained in evidenced-based approaches for trauma, Solution Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, and Child-Centered Play Therapy and many more.
Currently accepting clients both in office and telehealth sessions. Please go to our webiste: www.counselingcollectivepllc.com and click "Request An Appointment" to get started. We are a group of practioners who provide individual, family, and group therapy and enjoy working with children, teens, and adults. Our therapists have experience working with various mental health diagnoses including, but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Autism, PTSD, Bipolar Disorders, and Personality Disorders. We are trained in evidenced-based approaches for trauma, Solution Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, and Child-Centered Play Therapy and many more.
(984) 206-3328 View (984) 206-3328
Photo of Corinne N Green, PhD, LP, HSP-P, Psychologist
Corinne N Green
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Areas of special interests include developmental disorders, autism, adjustment, anxiety, depression, divorce, sexual orientation, grief, parenting, and relationship issues.
My name is Dr. Corinne Green. I am a Licensed Psychologist and Health Service Provider-Psychologist in the state of North Carolina. I have received extensive training in providing diagnostic assessment and psychotherapy for all age groups in a variety of settings. I provide supportive and solution-focused individual, couple's, and family therapies from a systems approach; helping individuals recognize patterns in their thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationships that have developed as they have adapted to their unique backgrounds and experiences. I consider it a privilege to join others in their personal journies toward healing, growth, health and wellness.
Areas of special interests include developmental disorders, autism, adjustment, anxiety, depression, divorce, sexual orientation, grief, parenting, and relationship issues.
My name is Dr. Corinne Green. I am a Licensed Psychologist and Health Service Provider-Psychologist in the state of North Carolina. I have received extensive training in providing diagnostic assessment and psychotherapy for all age groups in a variety of settings. I provide supportive and solution-focused individual, couple's, and family therapies from a systems approach; helping individuals recognize patterns in their thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationships that have developed as they have adapted to their unique backgrounds and experiences. I consider it a privilege to join others in their personal journies toward healing, growth, health and wellness.
(919) 299-0104 View (919) 299-0104
Photo of Hannah Morley, MSW, LCSW-A
Hannah Morley
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
My specialties are ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Behavior Management, intrustive thoughts, personality disorders, LGBTQIA+, and Relationships.
So, I'm a tall person - 6'2" to be exact. I know what you're thinking - "Do you play sports?" and "How's the weather up there?" Well, despite my stature, I lack any notable athletic abilities, but I do have some equestrian skills up my sleeve. As for the weather? That’s confidential information for tall people only! As a therapist, I pride myself on breaking free from traditional constraints and fostering a warm, inviting atmosphere, filled with laughter and a touch of quirkiness. My approach is rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and genuine human connection – because that's where the magic truly happens.
My specialties are ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, Behavior Management, intrustive thoughts, personality disorders, LGBTQIA+, and Relationships.
So, I'm a tall person - 6'2" to be exact. I know what you're thinking - "Do you play sports?" and "How's the weather up there?" Well, despite my stature, I lack any notable athletic abilities, but I do have some equestrian skills up my sleeve. As for the weather? That’s confidential information for tall people only! As a therapist, I pride myself on breaking free from traditional constraints and fostering a warm, inviting atmosphere, filled with laughter and a touch of quirkiness. My approach is rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and genuine human connection – because that's where the magic truly happens.
(984) 985-3887 View (984) 985-3887
Photo of Biancas Smith, MS, LCMHC
Biancas Smith
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate that specializes in working with children and adolescents. I received my Masters of Science in Counselor Education at East Carolina University in 2021. I also received my Masters of Science in Child Development and Family Relations in 2015. I work with clients ranging in age from 3-25 years old. I have a passion for working with children that have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental Disorders. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral concerns, and trauma. I also provide parenting education.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate that specializes in working with children and adolescents. I received my Masters of Science in Counselor Education at East Carolina University in 2021. I also received my Masters of Science in Child Development and Family Relations in 2015. I work with clients ranging in age from 3-25 years old. I have a passion for working with children that have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental Disorders. In addition, I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral concerns, and trauma. I also provide parenting education.
(919) 823-5450 View (919) 823-5450
Photo of Betty A Brandon, MA, MACert, CCMA
Betty A Brandon
MA, MACert, CCMA
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Services include: Academic, Behavioral, Parent Training & services for those on the Autism Spectrum, Study Skills, Test Taking & Organizational Skills, Developmental Delays, Intellectual Impairments, Learning Disabilities, Autism, ADHD & Emotional Concerns, IEP meetings, Life Coaching, Navigating Transitions.
If your ready to be empowered, I offer comprehensive psychoeducational services that provide help to children, adolescents, parents & families on their journeys.I enjoy working with children & families who desire growth in any area, including academics, behavioral &/or those on the autism spectrum. I am an enthusiastic, compassionate clinician who believes that individuals can excel & reach their goals. Using proven methods as well as innovative & creative techniques, together we can progress & learn to overcome obstacles. Everyone is a unique individual & I take a tailor made approach with each client. Using strengths to overcome weaknesses...
Services include: Academic, Behavioral, Parent Training & services for those on the Autism Spectrum, Study Skills, Test Taking & Organizational Skills, Developmental Delays, Intellectual Impairments, Learning Disabilities, Autism, ADHD & Emotional Concerns, IEP meetings, Life Coaching, Navigating Transitions.
If your ready to be empowered, I offer comprehensive psychoeducational services that provide help to children, adolescents, parents & families on their journeys.I enjoy working with children & families who desire growth in any area, including academics, behavioral &/or those on the autism spectrum. I am an enthusiastic, compassionate clinician who believes that individuals can excel & reach their goals. Using proven methods as well as innovative & creative techniques, together we can progress & learn to overcome obstacles. Everyone is a unique individual & I take a tailor made approach with each client. Using strengths to overcome weaknesses...
(919) 728-5767 View (919) 728-5767
Photo of Kathy W Honeyman, MSW, LCSW, AANE, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy W Honeyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, AANE, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Adults with Aspergers (a/k/a Autism Spectrum Disorder) have extraordinary challenges coping with everyday life. This is a result of neurological differences in emotional wiring, communications, social interaction, sensory and executive functioning. Living life with these differences can result in depression and anxiety. It can also cause havoc within a marriage, educational pursuits, and careers. I offer a validating environment to better understand the "typical world," and develop coping skills to manage everyday life--as well as a creative space for couples to learn about their differences and work towards acceptance.
Adults with Aspergers (a/k/a Autism Spectrum Disorder) have extraordinary challenges coping with everyday life. This is a result of neurological differences in emotional wiring, communications, social interaction, sensory and executive functioning. Living life with these differences can result in depression and anxiety. It can also cause havoc within a marriage, educational pursuits, and careers. I offer a validating environment to better understand the "typical world," and develop coping skills to manage everyday life--as well as a creative space for couples to learn about their differences and work towards acceptance.
(919) 283-5734 View (919) 283-5734
Photo of Kristen Baez, LCMHC-A, MT-BC, MA, Counselor
Kristen Baez
Counselor, LCMHC-A, MT-BC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Waitlist for new clients
Life is full of beautiful moments, trying times, and everything in between. Maybe you are going through a big life transition, or you are simply wanting to try something new to better your mental health. I believe in an open, honest, and authentic therapeutic relationship. Together we can creatively navigate the challenges you face and work toward goals to enhance your life.
Life is full of beautiful moments, trying times, and everything in between. Maybe you are going through a big life transition, or you are simply wanting to try something new to better your mental health. I believe in an open, honest, and authentic therapeutic relationship. Together we can creatively navigate the challenges you face and work toward goals to enhance your life.
(984) 231-8094 View (984) 231-8094
Photo of Dana Wilkins, Counselor
Dana Wilkins
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Associate in North Carolina. I received my Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy from Adler University in 2010. I have over 15 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and families in various roles, including clinical mental health, case management, and crisis intervention. I have worked with various diagnoses and specialties such as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, women's issues, life transitions, family counseling, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity, anger management, and Mood Dysregulation Disorder.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Associate in North Carolina. I received my Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy from Adler University in 2010. I have over 15 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and families in various roles, including clinical mental health, case management, and crisis intervention. I have worked with various diagnoses and specialties such as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, women's issues, life transitions, family counseling, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity, anger management, and Mood Dysregulation Disorder.
(919) 769-6050 View (919) 769-6050
Photo of Melissa Jackson-Westbrook, PsyD, Psychologist
Melissa Jackson-Westbrook
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Dr. Jackson-Westbrook is currently only accepting new testing clients. Dr. Melissa Jackson-Westbrook is a licensed clinical psychologist in North Carolina. She was born in Alaska and grew up in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with a concentration in forensic psychology. She completed her internship at the Federal Correction Complex in Butner, North Carolina.
Dr. Jackson-Westbrook is currently only accepting new testing clients. Dr. Melissa Jackson-Westbrook is a licensed clinical psychologist in North Carolina. She was born in Alaska and grew up in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with a concentration in forensic psychology. She completed her internship at the Federal Correction Complex in Butner, North Carolina.
(919) 343-5484 View (919) 343-5484
Photo of Kateryna Chorna, MSW, LCSW, CTRP, DBT, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kateryna Chorna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CTRP, DBT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Hi, my name is Kateryna Chorna, and I am a Mental Health Therapist. I specialize in helping adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma to manage their negative emotions so they feel safer, calmer, and more in control of themselves and their lives. I understand how overwhelming and debilitating these conditions can be, and I am here to support, guide, and empower you on your journey towards healing and recovery.
Hi, my name is Kateryna Chorna, and I am a Mental Health Therapist. I specialize in helping adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma to manage their negative emotions so they feel safer, calmer, and more in control of themselves and their lives. I understand how overwhelming and debilitating these conditions can be, and I am here to support, guide, and empower you on your journey towards healing and recovery.
(919) 343-9026 View (919) 343-9026
Photo of Abbey M Friedman, MA, CPRP  , QMHP
Abbey M Friedman
MA, CPRP , QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing and therapeutic life coaching services to meet the unique needs of adults and their families living with severe and persistent mental health challenges. My goal is to provide comprehensive case management services to empower each individual to reach their highest potential and live a meaningful and fulfilling life. I understand how overwhelming it can be to live with or care for someone with a mental illness and recognize the difficulty of navigating the multiple systems involved in the care and management of one's mental health. I am here for you and will advocate for you. I recently relocated to NC.
I specialize in providing and therapeutic life coaching services to meet the unique needs of adults and their families living with severe and persistent mental health challenges. My goal is to provide comprehensive case management services to empower each individual to reach their highest potential and live a meaningful and fulfilling life. I understand how overwhelming it can be to live with or care for someone with a mental illness and recognize the difficulty of navigating the multiple systems involved in the care and management of one's mental health. I am here for you and will advocate for you. I recently relocated to NC.
(919) 705-0699 View (919) 705-0699
Photo of Julia Wheeler, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia Wheeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor providing supportive therapy for individuals, couples and families of all ages. Using a systems approach, we can work together to recognize patterns in thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationships that have developed through your unique experiences. Providing support with issues of depression, anxiety, sexual orientation, physical and emotional abuse, grief, divorce, parenting, adjustment, spiritual and relationship concerns is a priority. I have also, received level one training in the Gottman Method for couples therapy.
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor providing supportive therapy for individuals, couples and families of all ages. Using a systems approach, we can work together to recognize patterns in thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationships that have developed through your unique experiences. Providing support with issues of depression, anxiety, sexual orientation, physical and emotional abuse, grief, divorce, parenting, adjustment, spiritual and relationship concerns is a priority. I have also, received level one training in the Gottman Method for couples therapy.
(919) 587-8046 View (919) 587-8046
Photo of Erin Benjamin, LCMHCA, Counselor
Erin Benjamin
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Hello, In therapy we have a unique opportunity to hold space for a season of time in which you can process your relationships and life experiences. Are you feeling plagued with anxiety or depression? Are you at a crossroads because of a major life event or perhaps just a growing restlessness? Have you experienced trauma that keeps you bound or making choices you’d like to change?
Hello, In therapy we have a unique opportunity to hold space for a season of time in which you can process your relationships and life experiences. Are you feeling plagued with anxiety or depression? Are you at a crossroads because of a major life event or perhaps just a growing restlessness? Have you experienced trauma that keeps you bound or making choices you’d like to change?
(919) 351-6095 View (919) 351-6095
Photo of Kristian Gibson-Ford, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristian Gibson-Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Now Accepting New Clients! Tell me what’s going on. I am here for you. I understand that you may be going through a lot right now, and may be feeling overwhelmed, depressed, stressed, or anxious, but that is why I am here to help you. I enjoy working with those in all stages of their career life whether they are just getting started, in the middle, or in retirement. My practice areas include: Trauma and emotional safety, relationship and communication, self-esteem and shame, life and career transitions, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, stress and time management, emotional wellbeing and mindfulness.
Now Accepting New Clients! Tell me what’s going on. I am here for you. I understand that you may be going through a lot right now, and may be feeling overwhelmed, depressed, stressed, or anxious, but that is why I am here to help you. I enjoy working with those in all stages of their career life whether they are just getting started, in the middle, or in retirement. My practice areas include: Trauma and emotional safety, relationship and communication, self-esteem and shame, life and career transitions, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, stress and time management, emotional wellbeing and mindfulness.
(919) 205-5021 View (919) 205-5021
Photo of Drew Klobuchar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Drew Klobuchar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
Would you like to regain a sense of meaning and purpose? Have you had difficulty making decisions or experiencing an increase in racing thoughts? Mr. Klobuchar believes therapy is a place where people can remove their mask and reveal their true selves. Drew is passionate about challenging and assisting the client through any life stage they are currently going through. Whether you are experiencing significant anxiety or learning how to communicate with a partner, Mr. Klobuchar will assist you through the process.
Would you like to regain a sense of meaning and purpose? Have you had difficulty making decisions or experiencing an increase in racing thoughts? Mr. Klobuchar believes therapy is a place where people can remove their mask and reveal their true selves. Drew is passionate about challenging and assisting the client through any life stage they are currently going through. Whether you are experiencing significant anxiety or learning how to communicate with a partner, Mr. Klobuchar will assist you through the process.
(984) 217-4659 View (984) 217-4659
Photo of Dr. Brie Arevalo, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Brie Arevalo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
The Landing Place, PLLC is opening January 2024! Our clinic offers therapy for children, adolescents, families, and young adults. We specialize in parent-child relationships, childhood trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, adoptee identity formation, life transitions, and Christian faith-integration (upon request). Our mission is to empower every child and family to transform challenges into strengths, celebrate mistakes as stepping stones, and illuminate untold stories that make each individual and family unique. At our core, we strive to collaboratively build relationships - and do so by having fun!
The Landing Place, PLLC is opening January 2024! Our clinic offers therapy for children, adolescents, families, and young adults. We specialize in parent-child relationships, childhood trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, adoptee identity formation, life transitions, and Christian faith-integration (upon request). Our mission is to empower every child and family to transform challenges into strengths, celebrate mistakes as stepping stones, and illuminate untold stories that make each individual and family unique. At our core, we strive to collaboratively build relationships - and do so by having fun!
(919) 635-9388 View (919) 635-9388
Photo of Susannah Scearce, PhD, Psychologist
Susannah Scearce
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
If you suspect that an aspect of your child’s development or learning isn’t quite typical; if you’ve had professionals, friends, or family members encourage you to seek testing for your child, but you’re scared; if you’re learning more about neurodiversity and tempted to self-diagnose, and you want a professional consultation; if you’re just curious about aspects of your personality or cognitive abilities; if you are courageous enough to dig deeper and to face that nagging intuition, I am here to help.
If you suspect that an aspect of your child’s development or learning isn’t quite typical; if you’ve had professionals, friends, or family members encourage you to seek testing for your child, but you’re scared; if you’re learning more about neurodiversity and tempted to self-diagnose, and you want a professional consultation; if you’re just curious about aspects of your personality or cognitive abilities; if you are courageous enough to dig deeper and to face that nagging intuition, I am here to help.
(919) 439-6063 View (919) 439-6063
Photo of Jeremy Phan, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Jeremy Phan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
My name is Jeremy Phan. I am a licensed mental health professional (LCMHCA) with a wide array of experience, not only as a counselor, but as a father, a mentor, and a coach. We all have a story to tell and one that will continue to be told years to come. My goal is to help you navigate the present, learn to manage your past, and help you prepare for the future YOU want.
My name is Jeremy Phan. I am a licensed mental health professional (LCMHCA) with a wide array of experience, not only as a counselor, but as a father, a mentor, and a coach. We all have a story to tell and one that will continue to be told years to come. My goal is to help you navigate the present, learn to manage your past, and help you prepare for the future YOU want.
(984) 231-8473 View (984) 231-8473
Photo of Maximilian Serge Shafir, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maximilian Serge Shafir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587
If you’re feeling lost, scared or stuck in your day to day routine, your relationships with family, friends or co-workers it may be time to take another look. I believe that all of us are working towards an improved version of ourselves or a better understanding of what may be in our way. I work to help individuals repair, restructure and rebuild their relationships with themselves and those they love. So whether it be individual or family work you are seeking I believe therapy is meant to help you uncover the hidden messages your emotions are trying to tell you. Let me help you along your journey towards healing, repair and growth
If you’re feeling lost, scared or stuck in your day to day routine, your relationships with family, friends or co-workers it may be time to take another look. I believe that all of us are working towards an improved version of ourselves or a better understanding of what may be in our way. I work to help individuals repair, restructure and rebuild their relationships with themselves and those they love. So whether it be individual or family work you are seeking I believe therapy is meant to help you uncover the hidden messages your emotions are trying to tell you. Let me help you along your journey towards healing, repair and growth
(984) 224-6474 View (984) 224-6474
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.