Autism Therapists in South Park, PA

Photo of Samantha J Lacy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha J Lacy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
I enjoy working with people who have Trauma or PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, and Reactive Attachment Disorder.
Are you currently living your best life? Are you living your truth? Or maybe events from your past and/or present are weighing on you and you're not sure what to do at this point or where to turn. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who prides myself on my ability to help others achieve their therapeutic goals and be the best version of themselves. I have over 18 years of experience in the field of psychology, and have worked in many different settings such as partial hospital, IBHS, Social Skills programming, school settings, and Outpatient MH. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults.
I enjoy working with people who have Trauma or PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, and Reactive Attachment Disorder.
Are you currently living your best life? Are you living your truth? Or maybe events from your past and/or present are weighing on you and you're not sure what to do at this point or where to turn. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who prides myself on my ability to help others achieve their therapeutic goals and be the best version of themselves. I have over 18 years of experience in the field of psychology, and have worked in many different settings such as partial hospital, IBHS, Social Skills programming, school settings, and Outpatient MH. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults.
(412) 790-2059 View (412) 790-2059
Photo of Dawn Marie Friend - Dr. Dawn Marie Friend & Associates, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Dawn Marie Friend & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
I have been helping clients of all ages, races, and backgrounds live more fulfilling, rewarding, hopeful lives for as long as I can remember. It was natural for me to become a psychologist and make my mark on the world by doing exactly what I loved to do. Although my clients continually tell me how much they are helped by therapy, I can honestly say that I am the one who is truly changed by helping others. No matter what your difficulties are, I can assure you that you will be changed in some way by entering therapy. There is no difficulty too great or too small to work on in therapy. The only constant in life is change.
I have been helping clients of all ages, races, and backgrounds live more fulfilling, rewarding, hopeful lives for as long as I can remember. It was natural for me to become a psychologist and make my mark on the world by doing exactly what I loved to do. Although my clients continually tell me how much they are helped by therapy, I can honestly say that I am the one who is truly changed by helping others. No matter what your difficulties are, I can assure you that you will be changed in some way by entering therapy. There is no difficulty too great or too small to work on in therapy. The only constant in life is change.
(412) 924-8276 View (412) 924-8276
Photo of Susan M Stay - Stay Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stay Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
Stay Counseling Center s a group psychotherapy practice located in the South Hills. If you are seeking services to manage day to day stress,relationship issues, trauma, depression, panic, anxiety or other issues that create distress and compromise our day to day living. We invite you to share with us the possibly of personal and relational growth.
Stay Counseling Center s a group psychotherapy practice located in the South Hills. If you are seeking services to manage day to day stress,relationship issues, trauma, depression, panic, anxiety or other issues that create distress and compromise our day to day living. We invite you to share with us the possibly of personal and relational growth.
(412) 455-6930 View (412) 455-6930
Photo of Amy Schafer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Schafer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
I strongly believe that all people have the ability to live their best life when given the opportunity and the right tools for them. Each journey is just as unique as the individual who embarks on it. The work I do with clients is person centered, motivationally driven, and tailored to meet the needs of each person no matter where they are on their therapeutic journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or have decided to try again, I would be honored to meet you where you are and guide you toward reaching your personal goals.
I strongly believe that all people have the ability to live their best life when given the opportunity and the right tools for them. Each journey is just as unique as the individual who embarks on it. The work I do with clients is person centered, motivationally driven, and tailored to meet the needs of each person no matter where they are on their therapeutic journey. Whether this is your first time seeking therapy, or have decided to try again, I would be honored to meet you where you are and guide you toward reaching your personal goals.
(412) 419-0927 View (412) 419-0927

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robert A Naseef, PhD, Psychologist
Robert A Naseef
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
We have authored 4 books about autism and special needs.
Are you wondering if you might be autistic? Might you be more than just shy and introverted? Do you have intense passions and special interests? Do you have sensory differences? If you are open to the possibility that you are autistic, a professional evaluation can be an important step in self-awareness and a lens to understand your life experiences. You could also be eligible for accommodations in your job or school. I specialize in diagnosing and treating adults and teens with autism spectrum disorders. I have a distinctive voice and perspective as a psychologist and father of an adult son with autism.
We have authored 4 books about autism and special needs.
Are you wondering if you might be autistic? Might you be more than just shy and introverted? Do you have intense passions and special interests? Do you have sensory differences? If you are open to the possibility that you are autistic, a professional evaluation can be an important step in self-awareness and a lens to understand your life experiences. You could also be eligible for accommodations in your job or school. I specialize in diagnosing and treating adults and teens with autism spectrum disorders. I have a distinctive voice and perspective as a psychologist and father of an adult son with autism.
(215) 544-2205 View (215) 544-2205
Photo of Andrew Burkett, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Burkett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (Online Only)
Areas of expertise include emerging adulthood, anxiety, depression, autism, OCD, family relationships, stress, grief and loss, LGBTQ+, adolescence, and behavioral issues.
Taking the first step of seeking support already shows tremendous strength and awareness! My outlook on therapy operates under the belief that people are always growing and changing towards a better version of themselves. Through experiences, achievements, mistakes and obstacles we all have the opportunity to learn and grow. As your counselor, I will always strive to help and encourage you to learn from your past, take power over your present, and look forward to your future. I take a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling and work with each person to identify their strengths and needs.
Areas of expertise include emerging adulthood, anxiety, depression, autism, OCD, family relationships, stress, grief and loss, LGBTQ+, adolescence, and behavioral issues.
Taking the first step of seeking support already shows tremendous strength and awareness! My outlook on therapy operates under the belief that people are always growing and changing towards a better version of themselves. Through experiences, achievements, mistakes and obstacles we all have the opportunity to learn and grow. As your counselor, I will always strive to help and encourage you to learn from your past, take power over your present, and look forward to your future. I take a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling and work with each person to identify their strengths and needs.
(724) 201-7471 View (724) 201-7471
Photo of Paula Kauffman Oberly, LPC, NCC, BCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paula Kauffman Oberly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BCC, ACS
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
I have helped clients like you successfully address a variety of issues related to relationships, family, work, school, college and career, including: Autism, ADHD, Depression, Learning Disabilities, Grief, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Anger Management, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Stress Management, and Executive Functioning difficulties.
My goal is to help you gain the insights & tools to feel successful and satisfied. I have an eclectic strengths-based approach integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adlerian Theory, creative expression and bibliotherapy. I provide a variety of services, including: Individual, Family, and Group Therapy for all ages. Including Grief and Parent Counseling.
I have helped clients like you successfully address a variety of issues related to relationships, family, work, school, college and career, including: Autism, ADHD, Depression, Learning Disabilities, Grief, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Anger Management, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Stress Management, and Executive Functioning difficulties.
My goal is to help you gain the insights & tools to feel successful and satisfied. I have an eclectic strengths-based approach integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adlerian Theory, creative expression and bibliotherapy. I provide a variety of services, including: Individual, Family, and Group Therapy for all ages. Including Grief and Parent Counseling.
(412) 387-7595 View (412) 387-7595
Photo of Thomas R Knight - Knight Psychological Services, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Knight Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Specializing in ADHD and Autism evaluations - Knight Psychological Services provides a range of services designed to address a variety of needs. This includes, but is not limited to, outpatient counseling, psychological testing, testing for giftedness and learning disabilities, and educational consultation. We diagnose and treat conditions such as Autism, anxiety, depression, grief, and ADHD. We strive to practice in a culturally competent manner and utilize a fundamentally compassionate approach. We feel that the client is an integral part of treatment and that individual needs and goals will drive the treatment process.
Specializing in ADHD and Autism evaluations - Knight Psychological Services provides a range of services designed to address a variety of needs. This includes, but is not limited to, outpatient counseling, psychological testing, testing for giftedness and learning disabilities, and educational consultation. We diagnose and treat conditions such as Autism, anxiety, depression, grief, and ADHD. We strive to practice in a culturally competent manner and utilize a fundamentally compassionate approach. We feel that the client is an integral part of treatment and that individual needs and goals will drive the treatment process.
(878) 313-2618 View (878) 313-2618
Photo of Kate Gibson, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Gibson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15210
I have experience working with children with Autism, developmental and learning disabilities, behavioral issues and complex & chronic medical issues.
Everyone experiences life in their own way and therefore our thoughts, feelings and perceptions are unique to each individual. Although words are our primary method of communication, words sometimes cannot fully express our emotions and experiences. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I use art making and creativity specified to meet your individual needs to help guide you and your family towards healing and wellness.
I have experience working with children with Autism, developmental and learning disabilities, behavioral issues and complex & chronic medical issues.
Everyone experiences life in their own way and therefore our thoughts, feelings and perceptions are unique to each individual. Although words are our primary method of communication, words sometimes cannot fully express our emotions and experiences. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I use art making and creativity specified to meet your individual needs to help guide you and your family towards healing and wellness.
(585) 471-6415 View (585) 471-6415
Photo of Dr. Taylor Day, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Taylor Day
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
Did you know autism can be diagnosed in children as young as 14 months of age? So often parents are told to "wait and see" despite having concerns about their child's development. As a child psychologist, I have expertise in the early diagnosis and intervention of autism. I have over a decade of experience conducting gold-standard evaluations for autism and research to advance knowledge about early autism signs with over 25 peer-reviewed publications/book chapters. I offer both diagnosis and intervention services for families of young children via telehealth throughout the country (select states). Contact me for a FREE consult!
Did you know autism can be diagnosed in children as young as 14 months of age? So often parents are told to "wait and see" despite having concerns about their child's development. As a child psychologist, I have expertise in the early diagnosis and intervention of autism. I have over a decade of experience conducting gold-standard evaluations for autism and research to advance knowledge about early autism signs with over 25 peer-reviewed publications/book chapters. I offer both diagnosis and intervention services for families of young children via telehealth throughout the country (select states). Contact me for a FREE consult!
(412) 837-0965 View (412) 837-0965
Photo of Christina Pettinato, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Pettinato
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
Are you feeling anxious, alone, or depressed? Maybe you're feeling stuck in life? I'm here to help. Through meaningful conversation, you and I will navigate your issues and struggles with proven problem-solving techniques, coping skills, and self-reflection. My goal is to help you map out opportunities for growth, awareness, trust, and mindfulness in your life and your relationships. I provide professional counseling services with an approach that is conversational, non-judgmental and supportive. Some of my specialties include; anxiety, autism spectrum, depression, grief, guilt, life transitions, relationships, trauma, and trust.
Are you feeling anxious, alone, or depressed? Maybe you're feeling stuck in life? I'm here to help. Through meaningful conversation, you and I will navigate your issues and struggles with proven problem-solving techniques, coping skills, and self-reflection. My goal is to help you map out opportunities for growth, awareness, trust, and mindfulness in your life and your relationships. I provide professional counseling services with an approach that is conversational, non-judgmental and supportive. Some of my specialties include; anxiety, autism spectrum, depression, grief, guilt, life transitions, relationships, trauma, and trust.
(412) 567-0751 View (412) 567-0751
Photo of Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn
PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP who conducts neuropsychological, psychological, academic, and independent educational evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., BPD), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP who conducts neuropsychological, psychological, academic, and independent educational evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., BPD), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
(412) 447-5306 View (412) 447-5306
Photo of Adam Thomas Oshnock, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adam Thomas Oshnock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience with treating all types of mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and treatment of children and adults who have autism.
I have been practicing as a therapist for over twenty years and have worked with children, adults, and families in many different types of therapeutic settings. I have the clinical skills necessary to develop a therapeutic relationship, which I feel is key to advance the therapeutic process. I am able to teach the skills to clients so they can apply them when needed. I can help clients to learn from their past, live a healthy life in the present, and set goals for the future.
I have experience with treating all types of mood disorders, impulse control disorders, and treatment of children and adults who have autism.
I have been practicing as a therapist for over twenty years and have worked with children, adults, and families in many different types of therapeutic settings. I have the clinical skills necessary to develop a therapeutic relationship, which I feel is key to advance the therapeutic process. I am able to teach the skills to clients so they can apply them when needed. I can help clients to learn from their past, live a healthy life in the present, and set goals for the future.
(724) 399-3113 View (724) 399-3113
Alyssa Cass
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMurray, PA 15317
Alyssa has experience working in IBHS and outpatient settings with clients experiencing symptoms related to diagnoses including but not limited to Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, separation anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, and life changes/transitions.
Alyssa is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. She received her BS in psychology from Robert Morris University and her MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Duquesne University. She has special interest in helping clients navigate peer pressure and societal demands related to expectations as children grow into young adults understands the unique difficulties that children face as they grow. Alyssa believes in providing a safe and positive environment in which clients can express themselves and drawing on client's strengths to help them achieve their goals.
Alyssa has experience working in IBHS and outpatient settings with clients experiencing symptoms related to diagnoses including but not limited to Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, depression, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, separation anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, and life changes/transitions.
Alyssa is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. She received her BS in psychology from Robert Morris University and her MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Duquesne University. She has special interest in helping clients navigate peer pressure and societal demands related to expectations as children grow into young adults understands the unique difficulties that children face as they grow. Alyssa believes in providing a safe and positive environment in which clients can express themselves and drawing on client's strengths to help them achieve their goals.
(412) 207-3360 View (412) 207-3360
Photo of Kimberly Lorraine Rodgers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Lorraine Rodgers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canonsburg, PA 15317  (Online Only)
I specialize in individuals with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression but have also worked with individuals with comorbid disorders, PSTD, bipolar and personality disorders.
Hello, my name is Kimberly Rodgers. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the past six years. I have worked in the mental health field for 17 years. I moved into outpatient therapy during 2019 and have had with clients of all ages and mental health diagnosis. I have worked with all ages groups from children as young as 3 years old to adult populations and everything in between. I am well versed in the challenges, the stress and the anxiety related to mental health care and accommodations. My previous work experience was involved with wraparound services as a behavior specialist, mobile therapist and therapeutic staff.
I specialize in individuals with Autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression but have also worked with individuals with comorbid disorders, PSTD, bipolar and personality disorders.
Hello, my name is Kimberly Rodgers. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the past six years. I have worked in the mental health field for 17 years. I moved into outpatient therapy during 2019 and have had with clients of all ages and mental health diagnosis. I have worked with all ages groups from children as young as 3 years old to adult populations and everything in between. I am well versed in the challenges, the stress and the anxiety related to mental health care and accommodations. My previous work experience was involved with wraparound services as a behavior specialist, mobile therapist and therapeutic staff.
(724) 213-3608 View (724) 213-3608
Photo of Anita Cilia, LCSW , BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Cilia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , BA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
I work with many different issues, including, but not limited to: autism, mood disorders, personality disorders, intellectual disabilities and dual diagnosis with significant behaviors, PTSD, grief and loss, trauma/abuse victims, and codependency.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, like you are drowning and not able to catch your breath? Are you having trouble managing your thoughts and feelings? Are you having difficulty dealing with the loss of a loved one? Are you sad and unsure why or what to do about it? Do you ever find yourself talking and no matter how loudly you talk it seems like nobody is listening? Do you feel irritated and angry or are having trouble controlling your temper and it’s causing you difficulties at home or work?
I work with many different issues, including, but not limited to: autism, mood disorders, personality disorders, intellectual disabilities and dual diagnosis with significant behaviors, PTSD, grief and loss, trauma/abuse victims, and codependency.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, like you are drowning and not able to catch your breath? Are you having trouble managing your thoughts and feelings? Are you having difficulty dealing with the loss of a loved one? Are you sad and unsure why or what to do about it? Do you ever find yourself talking and no matter how loudly you talk it seems like nobody is listening? Do you feel irritated and angry or are having trouble controlling your temper and it’s causing you difficulties at home or work?
(878) 213-4840 View (878) 213-4840
Photo of Erynne Schoeneweis, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erynne Schoeneweis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15205
I have experience working with adults with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, trauma, relationship issues, identity, managing life circumstances, and career decisions.
Hello! I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, and work towards achieving your personal goals. As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I will apply my knowledge and lived experience to therapy to help those of us thrive in a system that was not built for us. I tailor my person-centered counseling approach to best meet your individual needs. I also am partially trained in EMDR therapy!
I have experience working with adults with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, trauma, relationship issues, identity, managing life circumstances, and career decisions.
Hello! I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, and work towards achieving your personal goals. As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I will apply my knowledge and lived experience to therapy to help those of us thrive in a system that was not built for us. I tailor my person-centered counseling approach to best meet your individual needs. I also am partially trained in EMDR therapy!
(412) 912-2915 View (412) 912-2915
Photo of Megan Navratil, MS, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Navratil
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bridgeville, PA 15017
"At any given moment you have the power to say: This is not how the story is going to end". My experience is in counseling individuals with depression and anxiety disorders while developing a positive, empathetic, non- judgmental and trusting therapeutic relationship. I have a background in working with youth and young adults with learning disabilities, ADHD, depression, and autism spectrum disorders, specifically individuals with Asperger's.
"At any given moment you have the power to say: This is not how the story is going to end". My experience is in counseling individuals with depression and anxiety disorders while developing a positive, empathetic, non- judgmental and trusting therapeutic relationship. I have a background in working with youth and young adults with learning disabilities, ADHD, depression, and autism spectrum disorders, specifically individuals with Asperger's.
(724) 291-8472 View (724) 291-8472
Photo of Ashley J Julin, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley J Julin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethel Park, PA 15102
Ashley received her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Throughout her career, she has gained experience in home, school, community, group, and outpatient settings. Ashley incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness techniques into her sessions. She encourages and empowers clients to make positive and healthy lifestyle changes. Ashley provides therapy to children, teens, adults, families, and couples. She has experience working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, trauma, anger management, and relationship issues.
Ashley received her Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Chatham University. Throughout her career, she has gained experience in home, school, community, group, and outpatient settings. Ashley incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness techniques into her sessions. She encourages and empowers clients to make positive and healthy lifestyle changes. Ashley provides therapy to children, teens, adults, families, and couples. She has experience working with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, trauma, anger management, and relationship issues.
(412) 283-5095 View (412) 283-5095
Photo of Lauren Scangarella, MEd, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Scangarella
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, BA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15210  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I support people dealing with depression, anxiety, relational distress, life transitions, gender and sexuality exploration, chronic illness, autism and/or ADHD. Healthy relationships with our family, friends, and support systems including therapy inform our ability to cope, process, and grow. I believe healing happens when we develop self-compassion for our most shamed parts and build support systems that meet us with care and understanding. My style is integrative, mindful and rooted in social justice.
I support people dealing with depression, anxiety, relational distress, life transitions, gender and sexuality exploration, chronic illness, autism and/or ADHD. Healthy relationships with our family, friends, and support systems including therapy inform our ability to cope, process, and grow. I believe healing happens when we develop self-compassion for our most shamed parts and build support systems that meet us with care and understanding. My style is integrative, mindful and rooted in social justice.
(267) 848-9676 View (267) 848-9676
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.