Autism Therapists in Winnipeg, MB

Photo of Demetra Hajidiacos, MEd, BEd, BA Hons, ECE III
Demetra Hajidiacos
MEd, BEd, BA Hons, ECE III
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3R
I have been an educator for nearly 30 years, and an enthusiastic Autism Educator and Coach for over 15 years.
Are you an adult on the autism spectrum or someone who suspects you may be on the spectrum? Are you looking to learn more about your diagnosis and gain skills that will lead to happier relationships at school, work or home? I can help you understand how you learn best and how you can succeed in different environments and with different groups of people. I will help you become more confident, and I will coach you on how to walk through this life knowing that you have a right to be here, and you have the skills needed to educate those around you about your diagnosis. I am dedicated to helping you create a life you love and deserve.
I have been an educator for nearly 30 years, and an enthusiastic Autism Educator and Coach for over 15 years.
Are you an adult on the autism spectrum or someone who suspects you may be on the spectrum? Are you looking to learn more about your diagnosis and gain skills that will lead to happier relationships at school, work or home? I can help you understand how you learn best and how you can succeed in different environments and with different groups of people. I will help you become more confident, and I will coach you on how to walk through this life knowing that you have a right to be here, and you have the skills needed to educate those around you about your diagnosis. I am dedicated to helping you create a life you love and deserve.
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Photo of Kristy Hourd, CCC, Counsellor
Kristy Hourd
Counsellor, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Being neurodivergent doesn’t have to mean life is a constant cycle of burnout and not-quite recovery. If “I don’t get why I can’t just do this” or “I don’t know how to explain why this is hard” is a familiar thought, I see you. I know how frustrated and exhausted you are. If you’re learning about your own autism or ADHD, but you have no idea what to do with that, I can help. You make sense. You've just had a framework forced on you that doesn't fit. I can help you find the one that works for you, that allows you to stop working against yourself and start working with yourself instead.
Being neurodivergent doesn’t have to mean life is a constant cycle of burnout and not-quite recovery. If “I don’t get why I can’t just do this” or “I don’t know how to explain why this is hard” is a familiar thought, I see you. I know how frustrated and exhausted you are. If you’re learning about your own autism or ADHD, but you have no idea what to do with that, I can help. You make sense. You've just had a framework forced on you that doesn't fit. I can help you find the one that works for you, that allows you to stop working against yourself and start working with yourself instead.
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Photo of Amélie Rossignol, RTC, HHP, BSc, Counsellor
Amélie Rossignol
Counsellor, RTC, HHP, BSc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you want to explore your differences? Perhaps you are a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), neurodivergent ( Autism, ADHD, etc.), gifted, 2slgbtqia+, intense, a parent of a high needs child, or different in some other way. Your challenges may include dealing with intense feelings, being over-critical of yourself, being easily overwhelmed by life, stress-related physical conditions, feeling alone, or a tendency to put your own needs last. I offer a safe and accepting space to explore who you really are, and what you need to survive and thrive in a world not designed for you.
Do you want to explore your differences? Perhaps you are a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), neurodivergent ( Autism, ADHD, etc.), gifted, 2slgbtqia+, intense, a parent of a high needs child, or different in some other way. Your challenges may include dealing with intense feelings, being over-critical of yourself, being easily overwhelmed by life, stress-related physical conditions, feeling alone, or a tendency to put your own needs last. I offer a safe and accepting space to explore who you really are, and what you need to survive and thrive in a world not designed for you.
(587) 848-3585 View (587) 848-3585
Photo of Yuka Oshimi, MC, DCP(c), RCC, Counsellor
Yuka Oshimi
Counsellor, MC, DCP(c), RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am dedicated to meeting you wherever you are at, and walking alongside you on your journey towards healing and growth. Specializing in areas such as Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Depression, Grief/Loss, Neurodiversity, School/Career, and Stress Management, I offer tailored support to address your unique needs. I provide counselling services to both neurodiverse and neurotypical individuals, and work with adolescents and adults both virtually and in-person.
I am dedicated to meeting you wherever you are at, and walking alongside you on your journey towards healing and growth. Specializing in areas such as Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Depression, Grief/Loss, Neurodiversity, School/Career, and Stress Management, I offer tailored support to address your unique needs. I provide counselling services to both neurodiverse and neurotypical individuals, and work with adolescents and adults both virtually and in-person.
(249) 504-0411 View (249) 504-0411
Photo of Robin Hannigan, MMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin Hannigan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R3M
Accepting New Online Clients as of 01/20/25 and In-Person Clients as of 02/15/25. I am focused on helping people with ADHD and Autism, as I have personal experiences with these. I am also able to help individuals, couples and families who are wanting to learn to trust themselves more. I take special interest in managing conflict as I feel that is likely where the most growth will occur. That being said, I recognize that it can be a very uncomfortable experience. Relationships are a high risk, high reward situation. I want to help facilitate difficult conversations as much as possible.
Accepting New Online Clients as of 01/20/25 and In-Person Clients as of 02/15/25. I am focused on helping people with ADHD and Autism, as I have personal experiences with these. I am also able to help individuals, couples and families who are wanting to learn to trust themselves more. I take special interest in managing conflict as I feel that is likely where the most growth will occur. That being said, I recognize that it can be a very uncomfortable experience. Relationships are a high risk, high reward situation. I want to help facilitate difficult conversations as much as possible.
(431) 400-9489 View (431) 400-9489
Photo of Karyn M Walters, MMFT, PT, CCC, RSW, Counsellor
Karyn M Walters
Counsellor, MMFT, PT, CCC, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive training including play therapy, marriage and family therapy, sand tray, anxiety treatment, depression treatment, autism, treatment of trauma, mindfulness, childhood sexual abuse, disordered eating, glbttqa issues, divorce, infidelity, treatment of PTSD and mental health issues.
I love working with children, teens, adults, couples and families! I am not your typical therapist. Clients have told me I am easy to talk to and they don't feel judged. I have experience working with all issues and would love the chance to work with what ever issues are in the way of living the life you want!
I have extensive training including play therapy, marriage and family therapy, sand tray, anxiety treatment, depression treatment, autism, treatment of trauma, mindfulness, childhood sexual abuse, disordered eating, glbttqa issues, divorce, infidelity, treatment of PTSD and mental health issues.
I love working with children, teens, adults, couples and families! I am not your typical therapist. Clients have told me I am easy to talk to and they don't feel judged. I have experience working with all issues and would love the chance to work with what ever issues are in the way of living the life you want!
(204) 272-4926 View (204) 272-4926
Photo of Jennifer Phillips, BA, BMR, MOT, Occupational Therapist
Jennifer Phillips
Occupational Therapist, BA, BMR, MOT
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3H
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of expertise include anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Tourette's Disorder, PANDAS, mood disorders, trauma and autism.
Appointments available on evenings and weekends, individual sessions (child and adolescent, adults) and groups. Do you feel overwhelmed and stressed with parenting? Is your child having difficulty with big feelings, meltdowns or behaviour difficulties? Coming to therapy can help you understand what is underneath behaviour and how to support your child. Each family is unique and we will work together to decide on the plan to meet your needs and concerns. Situations can range from navigating developmental stages and life changes, to a child receiving and living with a mental health diagnosis.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Tourette's Disorder, PANDAS, mood disorders, trauma and autism.
Appointments available on evenings and weekends, individual sessions (child and adolescent, adults) and groups. Do you feel overwhelmed and stressed with parenting? Is your child having difficulty with big feelings, meltdowns or behaviour difficulties? Coming to therapy can help you understand what is underneath behaviour and how to support your child. Each family is unique and we will work together to decide on the plan to meet your needs and concerns. Situations can range from navigating developmental stages and life changes, to a child receiving and living with a mental health diagnosis.
(204) 400-1883 View (204) 400-1883
Photo of Jennifer Grant (Former Jobin) Nurse Psychotherapist, BHEcol, RN,BN, CNP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jennifer Grant (Former Jobin) Nurse Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, BHEcol, RN,BN, CNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in ADHD/ Autism management, natural or pharmaceutical treatment counselling to help empower decisions as well as parenting support in challenging situations with motivational/ self worth protecting methods with a unique brain in mind.
Therapeutic/Strength based ADHD / Autism assessments, treatment counselling and neurodiversity affirming therapy. General, Anxiety, Depression, Life purpose, spiritual awakening distress, treatment/health care support and advocacy and energy psychology. Mind, Body and Spirit. When one area is unwell the others tend to follow. Finding a therapist who is intimately acquainted with neurodiversity can be a game changer for healing. I use a very self affirming style to reacquaint you with the you that may have become misled by yourself or others.
I specialize in ADHD/ Autism management, natural or pharmaceutical treatment counselling to help empower decisions as well as parenting support in challenging situations with motivational/ self worth protecting methods with a unique brain in mind.
Therapeutic/Strength based ADHD / Autism assessments, treatment counselling and neurodiversity affirming therapy. General, Anxiety, Depression, Life purpose, spiritual awakening distress, treatment/health care support and advocacy and energy psychology. Mind, Body and Spirit. When one area is unwell the others tend to follow. Finding a therapist who is intimately acquainted with neurodiversity can be a game changer for healing. I use a very self affirming style to reacquaint you with the you that may have become misled by yourself or others.
(431) 441-3971 View (431) 441-3971
Photo of Alexa Thiessen, MA, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Alexa Thiessen
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R2J
Skilled in EMDR, DBT, and strengths-based methods, she brings cultural sensitivity to support LGBTQIA+ clients, individuals with ADHD or autism, and those facing trauma or life transitions.
Currently have Monday to Thursday, 8 am to 3 pm availability only. Each person has a unique story, and my priority is creating a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to share their experiences. I honor each client as the expert of their life, including their personal, cultural, and spiritual backgrounds. No matter the pain or darkness, you don’t have to face it alone. Whether working with children or adults, I offer a trauma-informed approach tailored to each client’s needs, honouring their resilience and strengths. It’s my privilege to walk beside them, offering support that respects their pace and fosters growth.
Skilled in EMDR, DBT, and strengths-based methods, she brings cultural sensitivity to support LGBTQIA+ clients, individuals with ADHD or autism, and those facing trauma or life transitions.
Currently have Monday to Thursday, 8 am to 3 pm availability only. Each person has a unique story, and my priority is creating a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to share their experiences. I honor each client as the expert of their life, including their personal, cultural, and spiritual backgrounds. No matter the pain or darkness, you don’t have to face it alone. Whether working with children or adults, I offer a trauma-informed approach tailored to each client’s needs, honouring their resilience and strengths. It’s my privilege to walk beside them, offering support that respects their pace and fosters growth.
(431) 531-7043 View (431) 531-7043
Photo of Lai Yee Cheung, MSW, RW, Registered Social Worker
Lai Yee Cheung
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2M
Karen specialized in child-centered approaches for children and families with unique needs like Autism and ADHD.
Karen has over 15 years of experience working with children & families in Hong Kong, including health care, mental health & school settings. Karen has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Hong Kong. Karen is a Certified Facilitator of Brick-by-Brick program and have training in DIR Floortime & play therapy training.
Karen specialized in child-centered approaches for children and families with unique needs like Autism and ADHD.
Karen has over 15 years of experience working with children & families in Hong Kong, including health care, mental health & school settings. Karen has a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Hong Kong. Karen is a Certified Facilitator of Brick-by-Brick program and have training in DIR Floortime & play therapy training.
(431) 812-5073 View (431) 812-5073
Photo of Sarah Pirrotta - Abloom Therapy: Online Therapy Team - No Waitlist, RP, CCC, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Abloom Therapy: Online Therapy Team - No Waitlist
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC, MACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
We specialize in areas of anxiety, depression, anger, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, autism, grief, self esteem, stress, trauma and PTSD, self-harming, suicidal ideation, relationship issues, divorce, parenting, family, & more.
Are you ready for more than just validation? Are you wrapped up tight in your suffering? We invite you to unfold here. Unfold and explore your pain, your curiosity, your resistance, your strength, your power, your joy, your vulnerability, and your peace. Unfold to imagining a future that is better! Our trained mental health professionals will offer you more than just validation - we will meet you where you are with compassion, respect, and non-judgement. We offer online-only psychotherapy services in English, Turkish, & Cantonese. Book a free consultation with one of our therapists to feel out if we might be the right fit for you.
We specialize in areas of anxiety, depression, anger, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, autism, grief, self esteem, stress, trauma and PTSD, self-harming, suicidal ideation, relationship issues, divorce, parenting, family, & more.
Are you ready for more than just validation? Are you wrapped up tight in your suffering? We invite you to unfold here. Unfold and explore your pain, your curiosity, your resistance, your strength, your power, your joy, your vulnerability, and your peace. Unfold to imagining a future that is better! Our trained mental health professionals will offer you more than just validation - we will meet you where you are with compassion, respect, and non-judgement. We offer online-only psychotherapy services in English, Turkish, & Cantonese. Book a free consultation with one of our therapists to feel out if we might be the right fit for you.
(639) 389-3262 View (639) 389-3262
Photo of Zainab Khimji - The Psychotherapy Spot, MA, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
The Psychotherapy Spot
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My area of expertise include life transitions, early childhood abandonment anxiety, codependency, autism, BPD, ADHD, perfectionism, self esteem and boundary issues, that result from a difficult childhood.
Do you struggle with chronic feelings of emptiness, the fear of abandonment, unstable relationships, a lack of knowing who you are at your core due to a distorted sense of self image and identity, emotional mood swings, social isolation, perfectionistic tendencies, procrastination, social anxiety and the effects of complex post traumatic stress? The effects of these struggles can result in anxiety, issues in relationships with yourself and others, job insecurity, and/or low self-worth. If you answered yes to any of the questions above, please know that you are not alone, and that I am trained to offer you support as a therapist.
My area of expertise include life transitions, early childhood abandonment anxiety, codependency, autism, BPD, ADHD, perfectionism, self esteem and boundary issues, that result from a difficult childhood.
Do you struggle with chronic feelings of emptiness, the fear of abandonment, unstable relationships, a lack of knowing who you are at your core due to a distorted sense of self image and identity, emotional mood swings, social isolation, perfectionistic tendencies, procrastination, social anxiety and the effects of complex post traumatic stress? The effects of these struggles can result in anxiety, issues in relationships with yourself and others, job insecurity, and/or low self-worth. If you answered yes to any of the questions above, please know that you are not alone, and that I am trained to offer you support as a therapist.
(548) 800-1671 View (548) 800-1671
Photo of Eileen M Deswiage, BSc, MSc, RTC, Counsellor
Eileen M Deswiage
Counsellor, BSc, MSc, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My work experience has been predominantly working within the neurodiversity spectrum community ( Autism and/or ADHD/ADD), providing specialized and specific therapeutic approaches for anxiety and depression, training and resources.
I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor who works with those on the neurodiversity spectrum ( Autism, ADHD/ADD). Are you experiencing anxiety, sensory overload, "burn out" and need support getting "unstuck". I offer online counselling and resources to individuals youth and adults who are struggling with sensory dysregulation, anxious thinking, and/or stress/burn out. Do you need to learn new strategies for coping with home/school/work life balance? In my practice I provide online individual therapy services to those who live in either urban or rural/remote locations and are looking for support and resources to reach your goals.
My work experience has been predominantly working within the neurodiversity spectrum community ( Autism and/or ADHD/ADD), providing specialized and specific therapeutic approaches for anxiety and depression, training and resources.
I am a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor who works with those on the neurodiversity spectrum ( Autism, ADHD/ADD). Are you experiencing anxiety, sensory overload, "burn out" and need support getting "unstuck". I offer online counselling and resources to individuals youth and adults who are struggling with sensory dysregulation, anxious thinking, and/or stress/burn out. Do you need to learn new strategies for coping with home/school/work life balance? In my practice I provide online individual therapy services to those who live in either urban or rural/remote locations and are looking for support and resources to reach your goals.
(306) 992-3370 View (306) 992-3370
Photo of Cailey Clarke, MA, CCC, Counsellor
Cailey Clarke
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting New Clients! Are you neurodivergent, or suspect that you might be neurodivergent? Have you felt unseen and feel like you have to mask in order to be accepted? Want a therapist that understands how hard it is to unmask, accept yourself, and build a sustainable life because she's neurodivergent too?
Accepting New Clients! Are you neurodivergent, or suspect that you might be neurodivergent? Have you felt unseen and feel like you have to mask in order to be accepted? Want a therapist that understands how hard it is to unmask, accept yourself, and build a sustainable life because she's neurodivergent too?
(587) 805-0255 View (587) 805-0255
Photo of Helen H Williams, MA, BCBA
Helen H Williams
MA, BCBA
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3Y
Many children struggle with tantrum behaviour, noncompliance, sleep issues, toileting issues, eating issues, language concerns, aggression , and many other behavioural challenges. Once children are in school, challenges in learning may also appear. Struggling with learning, whether in school or in daily tasks, can be very frustrating for families and children. Often this frustration in children then leads to further behaviour issues such as aggression and/or arguing. Children with a diagnosis such as ADHD, ASD, or a developmental disability can present with many additional challenging issues.
Many children struggle with tantrum behaviour, noncompliance, sleep issues, toileting issues, eating issues, language concerns, aggression , and many other behavioural challenges. Once children are in school, challenges in learning may also appear. Struggling with learning, whether in school or in daily tasks, can be very frustrating for families and children. Often this frustration in children then leads to further behaviour issues such as aggression and/or arguing. Children with a diagnosis such as ADHD, ASD, or a developmental disability can present with many additional challenging issues.
(431) 531-8701 View (431) 531-8701
Photo of Shayna Wilhelmer - Healing Thru Words Therapy Practice, BSc, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Shayna Wilhelmer - Healing Thru Words Therapy Practice
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3T
What I love to see in my clients are individuals willing to put in the work and allow their walls to be lowered so that we can explore their struggles, both in the present, as well as diving into the root cause of those struggles, from the past. It is always ideal when a client is at a point in their journey when they are ready for change, but unfortunately, clients often wait to seek help until they are desperate for change and in serious pain. Wherever you are at in journey, let's talk through it and see if we can help you to rise and move beyond your struggles, and regain your power.
What I love to see in my clients are individuals willing to put in the work and allow their walls to be lowered so that we can explore their struggles, both in the present, as well as diving into the root cause of those struggles, from the past. It is always ideal when a client is at a point in their journey when they are ready for change, but unfortunately, clients often wait to seek help until they are desperate for change and in serious pain. Wherever you are at in journey, let's talk through it and see if we can help you to rise and move beyond your struggles, and regain your power.
(204) 400-4735 View (204) 400-4735
Photo of Charlie Dilk, BA, BSW, RSW, Counsellor
Charlie Dilk
Counsellor, BA, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R2H
I primarily work with children, young adults and queer folks of any age. I identify myself as part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, the neurodivergent and the French community. My first language is French, I am also fluent in English. I provide therapy services in both French and English.
I primarily work with children, young adults and queer folks of any age. I identify myself as part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, the neurodivergent and the French community. My first language is French, I am also fluent in English. I provide therapy services in both French and English.
(431) 533-0931 View (431) 533-0931
Photo of Nicole Oliver, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nicole Oliver
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Do you struggle with overwhelming worries and concerns that affect your day-to-day life? Do you hope that things could be better and easier? Are you trying to figure out what a recent diagnosis REALLY means? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, stressed, and uncertain about finding their place in life, how to making meaningful connections with others, and understanding themselves. Mental wellness is possible. I believe there is hope.
Do you struggle with overwhelming worries and concerns that affect your day-to-day life? Do you hope that things could be better and easier? Are you trying to figure out what a recent diagnosis REALLY means? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, stressed, and uncertain about finding their place in life, how to making meaningful connections with others, and understanding themselves. Mental wellness is possible. I believe there is hope.
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Photo of Sherry Maharaj - BrainWorks Psychological Services, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
BrainWorks Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Winnipeg, MB R3T
At Brainworks, we are committed to supporting mental health, emotional well-being, learning and positive school adjustment. Today's children, youth and young adults are faced with overwhelming levels of stress, uncertainty, and change that can negatively impact their physical, social-emotional, and mental health. Do you or your child get so anxious and worried that it is hard to function? Do you or your child feel overwhelmed at school/work due to ongoing ADHD/learning difficulties? Do you or your child have emotional, social or mental health problems but on a long waitlist for diagnosis and/or help? We at Brainworks want to help!
At Brainworks, we are committed to supporting mental health, emotional well-being, learning and positive school adjustment. Today's children, youth and young adults are faced with overwhelming levels of stress, uncertainty, and change that can negatively impact their physical, social-emotional, and mental health. Do you or your child get so anxious and worried that it is hard to function? Do you or your child feel overwhelmed at school/work due to ongoing ADHD/learning difficulties? Do you or your child have emotional, social or mental health problems but on a long waitlist for diagnosis and/or help? We at Brainworks want to help!
(431) 831-4120 View (431) 831-4120
Photo of Yamila Zimerman - Mind Recovery Therapy, CCC, RCC, LCT-C, RPC, CH, Counsellor
Mind Recovery Therapy
Counsellor, CCC, RCC, LCT-C, RPC, CH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winnipeg, MB R2H
Winners of the 2025 Canadian Choice Awards! Supporting clients online across Canada and in-person in Winnipeg, MB. We help clients with a variety of presenting issues such as trauma, anxiety, ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, BPD, bipolar, stress, burnout, self-esteem and more! Our therapists have different specializations and we aim to match clients up with a therapist that could be the best fit for them. We have evening & weekend availability, no waitlist! We have therapists with different specializations, including a Hypnotherapist.
Winners of the 2025 Canadian Choice Awards! Supporting clients online across Canada and in-person in Winnipeg, MB. We help clients with a variety of presenting issues such as trauma, anxiety, ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, BPD, bipolar, stress, burnout, self-esteem and more! Our therapists have different specializations and we aim to match clients up with a therapist that could be the best fit for them. We have evening & weekend availability, no waitlist! We have therapists with different specializations, including a Hypnotherapist.
(431) 244-1999 View (431) 244-1999
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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.