Autism Counselling in Tallebudgera Valley, QLD

Photo of Neisha Cass - Neisha Cass Counselling + Equine Assisted Therapy, Counsellor, ACA-L2
I aim to provide a connection from inner vulnerability to someone and somewhere safe and supportive. I believe that we each have unique windows of tolerance, narrow or wide, depending on our experiences and it is our aim through therapy to support people to widen their window, and grow their capacity to thrive. My approach as a therapist combines Counselling, Equine Assisted Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Attachment Focused Expressive Therapy, Art therapy, Sand and Symbol Therapy, Trauma Informed Guided Drawing, Mindfulness and Neuroscience.
I aim to provide a connection from inner vulnerability to someone and somewhere safe and supportive. I believe that we each have unique windows of tolerance, narrow or wide, depending on our experiences and it is our aim through therapy to support people to widen their window, and grow their capacity to thrive. My approach as a therapist combines Counselling, Equine Assisted Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Attachment Focused Expressive Therapy, Art therapy, Sand and Symbol Therapy, Trauma Informed Guided Drawing, Mindfulness and Neuroscience.
(07) 3214 3627 View (07) 3214 3627

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bernice Botha - Anchor Counselling & Coaching Services, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Anchor Counselling & Coaching Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Upper Coomera, QLD 4209
With 20 years' experience in many areas including neurodivergence ( autism/adhd/audhd), trauma, relationship issues, domestic violence, anger, general mental health and child and adolescent behaviour, I work from an eclectic and strength based perspective.
You followed the plan and it didn't work out. Perhaps you threw out the plan and now regret it or was never given a plan to begin with and life just happened! Regardless how you got here the one thing that is certain, is that something needs to change. The good news is you are not alone, there is always something that can be done. This situation and these feelings will not last forever and you have taken the first courageous step towards changing your course. As a degree qualified and registered counsellor with a background in psychology, I can help you with the next steps.
With 20 years' experience in many areas including neurodivergence ( autism/adhd/audhd), trauma, relationship issues, domestic violence, anger, general mental health and child and adolescent behaviour, I work from an eclectic and strength based perspective.
You followed the plan and it didn't work out. Perhaps you threw out the plan and now regret it or was never given a plan to begin with and life just happened! Regardless how you got here the one thing that is certain, is that something needs to change. The good news is you are not alone, there is always something that can be done. This situation and these feelings will not last forever and you have taken the first courageous step towards changing your course. As a degree qualified and registered counsellor with a background in psychology, I can help you with the next steps.
(07) 3050 0641 View (07) 3050 0641
Photo of Dante Zelakiewicz - Dante Psychology - Mental Health & Neurodiversity, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Dante Psychology - Mental Health & Neurodiversity
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, & Trauma/PTSD are my four areas of specialty.
I'm an integrative therapist, meaning that I take the best parts from different styles of therapy (including EMDR, CBT, & ACT). This allows us to have a flexible toolkit while working together. I also offer assessments for Autism, ADHD, Learning Disorders (Dyslexia, etc.), and Intelligence (IQ). I work with ages 8+.
Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, & Trauma/PTSD are my four areas of specialty.
I'm an integrative therapist, meaning that I take the best parts from different styles of therapy (including EMDR, CBT, & ACT). This allows us to have a flexible toolkit while working together. I also offer assessments for Autism, ADHD, Learning Disorders (Dyslexia, etc.), and Intelligence (IQ). I work with ages 8+.
0420 235 817 View 0420 235 817
Photo of Kerri Henderson, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kerri Henderson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Coolangatta, QLD 4225
My work focuses on evaluating cognitive profiles, including autism spectrum conditions, ADHD, intellectual disability, and learning disorders.
With over 17 years in counselling and education settings, my extensive experience allows me to offer a nuanced and supportive approach to those navigating emotional, cognitive and developmental challenges. As Co-Director of Beachside Therapy Collective, I provide comprehensive support across the lifespan, assisting individuals with a diverse array of challenges, including anxiety, stress, mood disorders, trauma, parenting complexities, relationship difficulties, and neurodiversity. My therapeutic approach integrates a variety of evidence-based interventions, collaboratively adapted to meet each client's unique needs.
My work focuses on evaluating cognitive profiles, including autism spectrum conditions, ADHD, intellectual disability, and learning disorders.
With over 17 years in counselling and education settings, my extensive experience allows me to offer a nuanced and supportive approach to those navigating emotional, cognitive and developmental challenges. As Co-Director of Beachside Therapy Collective, I provide comprehensive support across the lifespan, assisting individuals with a diverse array of challenges, including anxiety, stress, mood disorders, trauma, parenting complexities, relationship difficulties, and neurodiversity. My therapeutic approach integrates a variety of evidence-based interventions, collaboratively adapted to meet each client's unique needs.
(08) 6846 1735 View (08) 6846 1735
Photo of Tegan Campbell - Tegan Campbell Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Tegan Campbell Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
Perhaps it's stress, anxiety or depression, your neurodivergent identity (ADHD/ Autism), the assessment process (I can provide post diagnosis support/coaching for ADHD and Autism), the executive functions of the brain or substance use difficulties.
My style is: Warm, compassionate & supportive with a dash of humour. I am a parent, neurodivergent ally, psychologist and life long learner. Our initial session: is an opportunity for us to get to know one another, to chat about what you would like help with... what you would like to be doing more of (or less of) during our time together.
Perhaps it's stress, anxiety or depression, your neurodivergent identity (ADHD/ Autism), the assessment process (I can provide post diagnosis support/coaching for ADHD and Autism), the executive functions of the brain or substance use difficulties.
My style is: Warm, compassionate & supportive with a dash of humour. I am a parent, neurodivergent ally, psychologist and life long learner. Our initial session: is an opportunity for us to get to know one another, to chat about what you would like help with... what you would like to be doing more of (or less of) during our time together.
(07) 4515 2398 View (07) 4515 2398
Photo of Vinita Sagar - Calm Space Psychology Services, Psychologist
Calm Space Psychology Services
Psychologist
Serves Area
Special interest areas: Anxiety, Autism, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Cross-cultural experiences, Depression, Emotion regulation, Grief and loss, Managing relationships and friendships (social skills), Post-migration difficulties, Sleep difficulties, Trauma and more!
Calm Space Psychology Services aims to provide assessment and therapy services to individuals, couples, and groups with a warm, caring, and empathetic approach. We are a team underpinned by advocacy and dedication to creating a safe, inclusive space where diversity is accepted and celebrated; respect, compassion, and collaboration are fostered; and where every client experiences a felt sense of safety, calm, and genuine support. Our team of experienced clinicians is committed to providing a safe, Calm Space using therapeutic approaches that promote healing, growth, and resilience.
Special interest areas: Anxiety, Autism, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Cross-cultural experiences, Depression, Emotion regulation, Grief and loss, Managing relationships and friendships (social skills), Post-migration difficulties, Sleep difficulties, Trauma and more!
Calm Space Psychology Services aims to provide assessment and therapy services to individuals, couples, and groups with a warm, caring, and empathetic approach. We are a team underpinned by advocacy and dedication to creating a safe, inclusive space where diversity is accepted and celebrated; respect, compassion, and collaboration are fostered; and where every client experiences a felt sense of safety, calm, and genuine support. Our team of experienced clinicians is committed to providing a safe, Calm Space using therapeutic approaches that promote healing, growth, and resilience.
(07) 5655 7640 View (07) 5655 7640
Photo of Simon Wegman - Deep Well Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Deep Well Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I also am able to provide assessments to diagnose ADHD and autism.
I offer a safe, supportive space in which I can help you navigate issues with your mental health, overcome challenges, work towards goals and improve your wellbeing for the long term. I work in a cognitive behavioural therapy framework, incorporating aspects of other modalities, such as acceptance and commitment therapy, schema therapy and EMDR.
I also am able to provide assessments to diagnose ADHD and autism.
I offer a safe, supportive space in which I can help you navigate issues with your mental health, overcome challenges, work towards goals and improve your wellbeing for the long term. I work in a cognitive behavioural therapy framework, incorporating aspects of other modalities, such as acceptance and commitment therapy, schema therapy and EMDR.
0420 474 742 View 0420 474 742
Photo of Rebecca Ryan - Mapping Minds Child Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Mapping Minds Child Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Specialising in assessment, diagnosis of neurodevelopmental differences in children (e.g., ADHD, Autism, Learning differences (e.g., dyslexia), cognition/IQ, and psychological support to nurture the development of socio-emotional skills.
Our assessment process is therapeutic and neuroaffirming. We take a collaborative approach with parents/carers to ensure the best outcomes for a child.
Specialising in assessment, diagnosis of neurodevelopmental differences in children (e.g., ADHD, Autism, Learning differences (e.g., dyslexia), cognition/IQ, and psychological support to nurture the development of socio-emotional skills.
Our assessment process is therapeutic and neuroaffirming. We take a collaborative approach with parents/carers to ensure the best outcomes for a child.
(07) 3214 3688 View (07) 3214 3688
Photo of David Hennessy, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
David Hennessy
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Varsity Lakes, QLD 4227
David is experienced working psychotherapeutically in the areas of: Mood and anxiety disorders, Phobias, Substance use and addiction, Obsessions and/or compulsions, Adult autism spectrum disorder, Trauma, Persistent pain, Physical/medical health issues, Schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder, Grief and loss, and Psychological assessment and reporting.
I am humbled and privileged to accompany clients on a journey through private perceptions, memories, thoughts, beliefs, hopes, dreams, and fears while we work together on building understanding, resilience, and resourcefulness in the private storm of their internal lives. Mental health struggles are mostly invisible, and the visible parts are rarely consistent with the internal struggle. Clinical & General Psychology - Member of the Australian Psychological Society & Fellow of the College of Clinical Psychology- NDIS Registered- Complex Mental Health Presentations-Availability.
David is experienced working psychotherapeutically in the areas of: Mood and anxiety disorders, Phobias, Substance use and addiction, Obsessions and/or compulsions, Adult autism spectrum disorder, Trauma, Persistent pain, Physical/medical health issues, Schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder, Grief and loss, and Psychological assessment and reporting.
I am humbled and privileged to accompany clients on a journey through private perceptions, memories, thoughts, beliefs, hopes, dreams, and fears while we work together on building understanding, resilience, and resourcefulness in the private storm of their internal lives. Mental health struggles are mostly invisible, and the visible parts are rarely consistent with the internal struggle. Clinical & General Psychology - Member of the Australian Psychological Society & Fellow of the College of Clinical Psychology- NDIS Registered- Complex Mental Health Presentations-Availability.
(07) 4519 1064 View (07) 4519 1064
Photo of Fergus Trevethan - Our Space Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Our Space Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Mental Health Care Medicare Plan rebates are available, Commcare, DVA, and Eating Disorder Medicare rebates are available, Autism Approved Medicare rebates and all NDS rebates available to eligible clients.
As the lead psychologist at The Salvation Army Alcohol and Other Drugs Rehabilitation Facility, and the Principle Psychologist at Our Space Psychology, I specialise in delivering comprehensive cognitive, functional, and behavioural assessments for educational institutions and supporting NDIS funding application processes. In my leadership role at the rehabilitation facility, I oversee the delivery of evidence-based interventions for those confronting substance use. In my role at Our Space Psychology, I also provide individualised therapeutic interventions, incorporating the support of two certified therapy dogs, Ably and Honey.
Mental Health Care Medicare Plan rebates are available, Commcare, DVA, and Eating Disorder Medicare rebates are available, Autism Approved Medicare rebates and all NDS rebates available to eligible clients.
As the lead psychologist at The Salvation Army Alcohol and Other Drugs Rehabilitation Facility, and the Principle Psychologist at Our Space Psychology, I specialise in delivering comprehensive cognitive, functional, and behavioural assessments for educational institutions and supporting NDIS funding application processes. In my leadership role at the rehabilitation facility, I oversee the delivery of evidence-based interventions for those confronting substance use. In my role at Our Space Psychology, I also provide individualised therapeutic interventions, incorporating the support of two certified therapy dogs, Ably and Honey.
(07) 3477 9071 View (07) 3477 9071
Photo of Keith Bunce, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Keith Bunce
Counsellor, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
This could include developing coping strategies for ADHD, managing autism in personal and professional lives, LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking self-acceptance, or Armed Forces veterans processing past experiences and adjusting to civilian life, or addressing situations from the past.
I offer a confidential, safe and affirming environment for you to feel comfortable to share events that are troubling you. Working with emotions and feelings we will explore from a very surface level to how you deeply feel about certain aspects, it can help to explore patterns of relating and how it may have had a negative impact.
This could include developing coping strategies for ADHD, managing autism in personal and professional lives, LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking self-acceptance, or Armed Forces veterans processing past experiences and adjusting to civilian life, or addressing situations from the past.
I offer a confidential, safe and affirming environment for you to feel comfortable to share events that are troubling you. Working with emotions and feelings we will explore from a very surface level to how you deeply feel about certain aspects, it can help to explore patterns of relating and how it may have had a negative impact.
(07) 2801 5605 View (07) 2801 5605
Photo of Laurenne See - Mind on Health Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mind on Health Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Oxenford, QLD 4210
We also offer comprehensive assessments for children and adults including Learning Assessments (WISC, WIAT, ABAS), Cognitive Assessments (WISC, WAIS, ABAS), ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessments, and Personality Assessments.
Our psychologists are experienced in a range of mental health and life adjustment concerns including but not limited to depression, Bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, trauma, abuse, BPD, school or workplace difficulties, addiction, ADHD, ASD, disability, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+, gender diversity, perinatal concerns, parenting, etc.
We also offer comprehensive assessments for children and adults including Learning Assessments (WISC, WIAT, ABAS), Cognitive Assessments (WISC, WAIS, ABAS), ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessments, and Personality Assessments.
Our psychologists are experienced in a range of mental health and life adjustment concerns including but not limited to depression, Bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, trauma, abuse, BPD, school or workplace difficulties, addiction, ADHD, ASD, disability, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+, gender diversity, perinatal concerns, parenting, etc.
(07) 2801 6538 View (07) 2801 6538
Photo of Ashleigh Eljed, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ashleigh Eljed
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Bundall, QLD 4217
Ashleigh assists children and adolescents in a range of educational learning difficulties including Intellectual Disability, Learning Difficulties, Dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, as well as individuals who have experienced post traumatic stress disorder, complex childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and borderline personality disorder.
Ashleigh Eljed has over 20 years experience working as a psychologist assisting individuals of all ages. She is a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc (AAPI) and a registered Supervisor with AHPRA in the fields of Counselling Psychology and Educational and Developmental Psychology.
Ashleigh assists children and adolescents in a range of educational learning difficulties including Intellectual Disability, Learning Difficulties, Dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, as well as individuals who have experienced post traumatic stress disorder, complex childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and borderline personality disorder.
Ashleigh Eljed has over 20 years experience working as a psychologist assisting individuals of all ages. She is a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists Inc (AAPI) and a registered Supervisor with AHPRA in the fields of Counselling Psychology and Educational and Developmental Psychology.
(03) 6163 1740 View (03) 6163 1740
Photo of Shayna McKenzie - Shayna McKenzie | Be Good Therapy, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Shayna McKenzie | Be Good Therapy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I also provide support for autism and ADHD, life transitions and changes, trauma and complex trauma, victims of crime, and couples.
I'm a mental health counsellor for individuals and couples. My approach to therapy is centred on your strengths and your unique therapeutic needs. I operate with the belief that therapy doesn’t always have to be intense. With me, you can expect therapy to be warm, welcoming, safe and sometimes a bit funny!
I also provide support for autism and ADHD, life transitions and changes, trauma and complex trauma, victims of crime, and couples.
I'm a mental health counsellor for individuals and couples. My approach to therapy is centred on your strengths and your unique therapeutic needs. I operate with the belief that therapy doesn’t always have to be intense. With me, you can expect therapy to be warm, welcoming, safe and sometimes a bit funny!
(07) 3477 9154 View (07) 3477 9154
Photo of Morgana Robinson, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Morgana Robinson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Robina, QLD 4226
She enjoys working with all clients who present with autism spectrum disorder and anxiety.
Morgana has completed training in Perinatal care through COPE centre of Perinatal Excellence in Perinatal Mental Health.
She enjoys working with all clients who present with autism spectrum disorder and anxiety.
Morgana has completed training in Perinatal care through COPE centre of Perinatal Excellence in Perinatal Mental Health.
(08) 6185 0771 View (08) 6185 0771
Photo of Deanne Blackman - Mindwindow Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mindwindow Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Maudsland, QLD 4210
Mindwindow Psychology has availability for adults & adolescents (16+) presenting with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, PTSD, parenting problems, phobias, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), grief & loss, low self-esteem, LGBT+ minority stress, and issues relating to sexuality & gender identity.
Our psychologists have training in evidence-based therapies including; Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR), Radical Exposure Tapping (RET), Mindfulness, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychosexual Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and more.
Mindwindow Psychology has availability for adults & adolescents (16+) presenting with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, PTSD, parenting problems, phobias, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), grief & loss, low self-esteem, LGBT+ minority stress, and issues relating to sexuality & gender identity.
Our psychologists have training in evidence-based therapies including; Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing (EMDR), Radical Exposure Tapping (RET), Mindfulness, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychosexual Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and more.
(07) 2801 6133 View (07) 2801 6133
Photo of Stacey Hansen - Your Psych Centre, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Your Psych Centre
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
We provide Gold-Standard assessment services (ADHD, Autism, Learning Differences) and therapy tailored to your treatment goals.
I am Director and Principal Psychologist of Your Psych Centre. We are an affirming clinic who works with individuals across the lifespan. We recognise individuals and parents are the experts - we are here to help make sense of it all. Our diverse clinicians are passionate about empowering all individuals, particularly those within the LGBTIQ+, Neurodivergent, and Culturally and Linguistic Diverse communities.
We provide Gold-Standard assessment services (ADHD, Autism, Learning Differences) and therapy tailored to your treatment goals.
I am Director and Principal Psychologist of Your Psych Centre. We are an affirming clinic who works with individuals across the lifespan. We recognise individuals and parents are the experts - we are here to help make sense of it all. Our diverse clinicians are passionate about empowering all individuals, particularly those within the LGBTIQ+, Neurodivergent, and Culturally and Linguistic Diverse communities.
(07) 5391 4223 View (07) 5391 4223
Photo of Natasha Denny, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Natasha Denny
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Robina, QLD 4226
I have a special interest in neuroaffirmative care, Autism, ADHD, trauma and PTSD/CPTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harm and suicidality.
Hi, My name is Tash and I'm a registered psychologist. I am dedicated and committed to creating a nurturing and non-judgemental environment for my clients. I believe in working from a holistic approach to assist clients to navigate life's complexities, build resilience, and facilitate positive change. I have worked in unique environments including with children, adolescents, and adults both in the community and in a facility setting. I currently work in private practice, high schools, and with NDIS participants.
I have a special interest in neuroaffirmative care, Autism, ADHD, trauma and PTSD/CPTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harm and suicidality.
Hi, My name is Tash and I'm a registered psychologist. I am dedicated and committed to creating a nurturing and non-judgemental environment for my clients. I believe in working from a holistic approach to assist clients to navigate life's complexities, build resilience, and facilitate positive change. I have worked in unique environments including with children, adolescents, and adults both in the community and in a facility setting. I currently work in private practice, high schools, and with NDIS participants.
(03) 8771 5438 View (03) 8771 5438
Photo of Eloise Olive, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Eloise Olive
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Currumbin, QLD 4223
My particular areas of interest are working in the adjustment of late adolescent/early adulthood, Expectant, New or Postpartum Mothers, resolving birth trauma with EMDR, those Questioning Neurodivergence (ADHD/ Autism), and Neurodivergent women.
I have extensive experience working as a counsellor before becoming a Psychologist. From this, I understand the importance of feeling safe, connected and comfortable in therapy. I always prioritise the therapeutic relationship, where I lean on my counselling skills to get to know you and how I can best support you before diving into psychological therapy.
My particular areas of interest are working in the adjustment of late adolescent/early adulthood, Expectant, New or Postpartum Mothers, resolving birth trauma with EMDR, those Questioning Neurodivergence (ADHD/ Autism), and Neurodivergent women.
I have extensive experience working as a counsellor before becoming a Psychologist. From this, I understand the importance of feeling safe, connected and comfortable in therapy. I always prioritise the therapeutic relationship, where I lean on my counselling skills to get to know you and how I can best support you before diving into psychological therapy.
(07) 4276 4802 View (07) 4276 4802
Photo of Nikki Bray, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Nikki Bray
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
3 Endorsed
Southport, QLD 4215
I also offer neuroaffirming Autism assessments for adults.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Owner at BrayPsych. I have availability for new adult clients in-person at Southport (Gold Coast) or via telehealth. I like to describe myself as an enthusiastic and compassionate therapist. I provide support for adults experiencing midlife changes (e.g. perimenopausal depression and anxiety, stress and burnout, sleep and insomnia). I also provide support for adults for anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, and adjusting to an Autistic and/or ADHD neurotype.
I also offer neuroaffirming Autism assessments for adults.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Owner at BrayPsych. I have availability for new adult clients in-person at Southport (Gold Coast) or via telehealth. I like to describe myself as an enthusiastic and compassionate therapist. I provide support for adults experiencing midlife changes (e.g. perimenopausal depression and anxiety, stress and burnout, sleep and insomnia). I also provide support for adults for anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, and adjusting to an Autistic and/or ADHD neurotype.
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Autism Counsellors

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.