Autism Counselling in Cambridge

Photo of Richard Neil Papworth, MBACP, Counsellor
Richard Neil Papworth
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1  (Online Only)
I offer help with stress, depression, anxiety, and feelings of being angry, upset, stuck, or confused, and have a particular interest in making my practice autism-friendly.
Psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling has a distinct focus on events which have troubled us in the past, although we might not have awareness of them, and continue to trouble us in the present often through repeated patterns. There might not be any defined areas of concern for clients, and issues can be deep-seated; however, the therapeutic relationship aims to bring these aspects into consciousness in a manageable way so that they may be worked through safely. While psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling is often open-ended and can span several years, short courses of six months or less have also shown to be effective.
I offer help with stress, depression, anxiety, and feelings of being angry, upset, stuck, or confused, and have a particular interest in making my practice autism-friendly.
Psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling has a distinct focus on events which have troubled us in the past, although we might not have awareness of them, and continue to trouble us in the present often through repeated patterns. There might not be any defined areas of concern for clients, and issues can be deep-seated; however, the therapeutic relationship aims to bring these aspects into consciousness in a manageable way so that they may be worked through safely. While psychodynamic psychotherapeutic counselling is often open-ended and can span several years, short courses of six months or less have also shown to be effective.
023 8144 0269 View 023 8144 0269
Photo of Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Sophie Oakes-Rogers
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1
I am a compassionate, authentic clinical psychologist with a wealth of knowledge about all things mental health. I strive to create a safe space to nurture understanding, generate acceptance, and empower change through evidence based psychological services. I only offer therapy that has a strong evidence base and that which is recommended by NICE Guidelines. This means you have access to the best psychological interventions. I am qualified to assess and diagnose Autism and ADHD as part of a multidisciplinary team, and I can adapt psychological therapy for neurodiversity.
I am a compassionate, authentic clinical psychologist with a wealth of knowledge about all things mental health. I strive to create a safe space to nurture understanding, generate acceptance, and empower change through evidence based psychological services. I only offer therapy that has a strong evidence base and that which is recommended by NICE Guidelines. This means you have access to the best psychological interventions. I am qualified to assess and diagnose Autism and ADHD as part of a multidisciplinary team, and I can adapt psychological therapy for neurodiversity.
View
Photo of Lisa Weston - Neuro Coral Psychology; Autism & ADHD specialists, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Neuro Coral Psychology; Autism & ADHD specialists
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1
Hello! I'm Dr Lisa Weston, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist leading a small team of experienced clinicians. We offer Autism, ADHD, and Learning Disability diagnostic assessments and support sessions for children, young people and adults, in Cambridgeshire and beyond. We are skilled in assessing features of neurodivergence which are often missed, including in girls and women or those who may mask their differences. Having previously worked in an NHS diagnostic assessment service, I recognise how important it is for people to have a positive experience of their assessment and post diagnostic support.
Hello! I'm Dr Lisa Weston, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist leading a small team of experienced clinicians. We offer Autism, ADHD, and Learning Disability diagnostic assessments and support sessions for children, young people and adults, in Cambridgeshire and beyond. We are skilled in assessing features of neurodivergence which are often missed, including in girls and women or those who may mask their differences. Having previously worked in an NHS diagnostic assessment service, I recognise how important it is for people to have a positive experience of their assessment and post diagnostic support.
01480 772097 View 01480 772097
Photo of San Vtgotsky Wong, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
San Vtgotsky Wong
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1
Here are some of the most common problems I can help with: - ADHD - Autism - Specific Learning Difference (SPLD) - Speech disorder - Social disorder - Depression - Anxiety - Addictive - Relationship Difficulties - Grief and Trauma Management - Stress and Anger Management - Low Self Esteem - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Post Traumatic S.
I am San Vtgotsky Wong. I am a senior Psychotherapist and University Supervisor, working for children, youth and mental health for more than 19 years. I am very passionate about therapeutic interventions that vary from deep psychological interventions based on the client's history and memories, to an emphasis on the relationship between therapist and client, including their cultural context and systems. I am also very interested in using symbolic representations and meanings in the therapeutic setting to assist clients on their reflections and self-awareness. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric h
Here are some of the most common problems I can help with: - ADHD - Autism - Specific Learning Difference (SPLD) - Speech disorder - Social disorder - Depression - Anxiety - Addictive - Relationship Difficulties - Grief and Trauma Management - Stress and Anger Management - Low Self Esteem - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Post Traumatic S.
I am San Vtgotsky Wong. I am a senior Psychotherapist and University Supervisor, working for children, youth and mental health for more than 19 years. I am very passionate about therapeutic interventions that vary from deep psychological interventions based on the client's history and memories, to an emphasis on the relationship between therapist and client, including their cultural context and systems. I am also very interested in using symbolic representations and meanings in the therapeutic setting to assist clients on their reflections and self-awareness. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric h
020 8138 8672 View 020 8138 8672
Photo of Sharn Stewart, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Sharn Stewart
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge CB1
Hello, my name is Sharn and I am an integrative counsellor. I specialise in Trauma, Autism, ADHD, Anxiety and Depression, and working with College/University staff and students. We are all different and unique so I tailor my therapeutic approach to your individual need. I can appreciate how overwhelming and isolating life can feel sometimes, and how being our authentic and vulnerable self can feel risky and unsafe. Together, and at your pace, we can start to make sense of your experiences, your world, and how you relate with yourself and others; enabling you to move forward in life feeling liberated and empowered with authenticity.
Hello, my name is Sharn and I am an integrative counsellor. I specialise in Trauma, Autism, ADHD, Anxiety and Depression, and working with College/University staff and students. We are all different and unique so I tailor my therapeutic approach to your individual need. I can appreciate how overwhelming and isolating life can feel sometimes, and how being our authentic and vulnerable self can feel risky and unsafe. Together, and at your pace, we can start to make sense of your experiences, your world, and how you relate with yourself and others; enabling you to move forward in life feeling liberated and empowered with authenticity.
View
Photo of Dr Georgina Sergi, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Georgina Sergi
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge CB1  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Gina, a London-based Senior Clinical Psychologist, registered with the HCPC and BPS. With over eight years of experience in the NHS, I specialize in complex mental health difficulties, anxiety disorders, and neurodiversity. My therapeutic style is integrative, meaning that I will tailor my approach to your needs using a variety of evidence-based approaches including CBT, CFT and ACT. I also offer Autism diagnostic assessments using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview- Revised (ADI-R).
Hi, I'm Gina, a London-based Senior Clinical Psychologist, registered with the HCPC and BPS. With over eight years of experience in the NHS, I specialize in complex mental health difficulties, anxiety disorders, and neurodiversity. My therapeutic style is integrative, meaning that I will tailor my approach to your needs using a variety of evidence-based approaches including CBT, CFT and ACT. I also offer Autism diagnostic assessments using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview- Revised (ADI-R).
020 3817 7717 View 020 3817 7717
Photo of Amanda Jayne Eade (Nee Goss) - MD of Harley St. Psychotherapy Ltd (Amanda Goss), MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
MD of Harley St. Psychotherapy Ltd (Amanda Goss)
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB1
We can help with 1-1 Counselling; Relationship issues; Anxiety; Depression; Stress; Low Self Esteem; Social Anxiety; Loneliness; Child Therapy; Young Persons Counselling; Family Therapy; Walking Therapy; Addiction; Eating Disorders; Sexual Abuse; Bereavement; ADHD/ Autism/Asp.
Are you anxious/depressed/stressed/unhappy? Maybe you know the issue and don't want to feel this way any more? Even if you don't exactly know what is wrong, we will work with you to find out the cause so that you can live a happier, more contented life. We aim to get to the root of the problem so that the change is permanent. If you haven't had counselling before, or feel nervous about it, please call me for an informal chat. Counselling can be (and often is) a life changing experience. We suggest a 1st session, by the end of which you will know if you want to carry on. If you are a couple we have a specialist. Feel free to call.
We can help with 1-1 Counselling; Relationship issues; Anxiety; Depression; Stress; Low Self Esteem; Social Anxiety; Loneliness; Child Therapy; Young Persons Counselling; Family Therapy; Walking Therapy; Addiction; Eating Disorders; Sexual Abuse; Bereavement; ADHD/ Autism/Asp.
Are you anxious/depressed/stressed/unhappy? Maybe you know the issue and don't want to feel this way any more? Even if you don't exactly know what is wrong, we will work with you to find out the cause so that you can live a happier, more contented life. We aim to get to the root of the problem so that the change is permanent. If you haven't had counselling before, or feel nervous about it, please call me for an informal chat. Counselling can be (and often is) a life changing experience. We suggest a 1st session, by the end of which you will know if you want to carry on. If you are a couple we have a specialist. Feel free to call.
020 4538 3988 View 020 4538 3988
Photo of Becky Grace Irwing - Becky Grace Therapy, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Becky Grace Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cambridge CB1
I have ADHD, Autism and I am bisexual.
Are you struggling to work out who you are, feeling othered, the odd one out, having different views about society? Are you using behaviours involving food - bingeing, restricting, avoiding, exercising or being sick as a mask for feelings? You may have sought external validation through diagnoses e.g. ADHD, Autism, BPD, OCD, CPTSD to name but a few. You may have had different types of therapy before through the NHS. You are longing for an answer to your eating difficulties, trauma or identity. You hide behind a mask of anxiety - maybe 'high functioning'? You may be unsure of where you sit on the gender and/or sexuality spectrum
I have ADHD, Autism and I am bisexual.
Are you struggling to work out who you are, feeling othered, the odd one out, having different views about society? Are you using behaviours involving food - bingeing, restricting, avoiding, exercising or being sick as a mask for feelings? You may have sought external validation through diagnoses e.g. ADHD, Autism, BPD, OCD, CPTSD to name but a few. You may have had different types of therapy before through the NHS. You are longing for an answer to your eating difficulties, trauma or identity. You hide behind a mask of anxiety - maybe 'high functioning'? You may be unsure of where you sit on the gender and/or sexuality spectrum
01603 361424 View 01603 361424
Photo of Claire Donna Gibson, MUKCP, Counsellor
Claire Donna Gibson
Counsellor, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge CB23
I have worked with children from age 4-17 with a range of presenting issues including trauma, domestic violence, anxiety, self-harm, depression and school refusal. I have worked with neurodiverse young people with ADHD and ASC, as well as young people who are questioning their gender or sexual orientation. I also continue to practise in a special school setting with young people exhibiting challenging behaviours and significant emotional and mental health needs. The purpose of the therapeutic process is to support the young person to feel safe enough to explore the challenges they have faced in life either verbally or creatively.
I have worked with children from age 4-17 with a range of presenting issues including trauma, domestic violence, anxiety, self-harm, depression and school refusal. I have worked with neurodiverse young people with ADHD and ASC, as well as young people who are questioning their gender or sexual orientation. I also continue to practise in a special school setting with young people exhibiting challenging behaviours and significant emotional and mental health needs. The purpose of the therapeutic process is to support the young person to feel safe enough to explore the challenges they have faced in life either verbally or creatively.
01223 658733 View 01223 658733
Photo of Josie Webster, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap., Psychotherapist
Josie Webster
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB4
I understand that everyone's story is different, and it's okay to need some help telling it. I am an MA-trained Psychotherapist, specialising in supporting children and adolescents to thrive. I know that starting therapy can feel scary, so making sure you feel safe and comfortable is my biggest priority. I am particularly experienced and confident working with neurodivergent young people, who might have been consistently failed by the system and sadly experienced trauma along the way. I can offer a warm listening ear, gentle yet effective psychotherapy interventions, as well as a big dose of playfulness along the way!
I understand that everyone's story is different, and it's okay to need some help telling it. I am an MA-trained Psychotherapist, specialising in supporting children and adolescents to thrive. I know that starting therapy can feel scary, so making sure you feel safe and comfortable is my biggest priority. I am particularly experienced and confident working with neurodivergent young people, who might have been consistently failed by the system and sadly experienced trauma along the way. I can offer a warm listening ear, gentle yet effective psychotherapy interventions, as well as a big dose of playfulness along the way!
01223 650434 View 01223 650434
Photo of Guillemette Broadbent, MSc, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Guillemette Broadbent
Psychotherapist, MSc, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB2
Perhaps you are looking for help to find your bearings while going through a time of crisis and/or you who wish to examine your life more fully to address issues that have affected you over time. With the help of therapy, you can start understanding your inner world and thought patterns more clearly and remove the feelings of anxiety and worry from your mind. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy aims to go deep into your emotions, understanding how your early life has formed strategies that might contribute to unhelpful patterns in adulthood with the aim of gradually removing distress, helping you to live a fuller life.
Perhaps you are looking for help to find your bearings while going through a time of crisis and/or you who wish to examine your life more fully to address issues that have affected you over time. With the help of therapy, you can start understanding your inner world and thought patterns more clearly and remove the feelings of anxiety and worry from your mind. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy aims to go deep into your emotions, understanding how your early life has formed strategies that might contribute to unhelpful patterns in adulthood with the aim of gradually removing distress, helping you to live a fuller life.
01763 291250 View 01763 291250
Photo of Mary Kathleen O'Halloran-Millar - Mary Kathleen Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Mary Kathleen Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB3  (Online Only)
September 2024 availability: mornings, afternoons and evenings. I am a down to earth, qualified counsellor and I provide a calm, and warm approach to therapy. I am trained in the prominent therapeutic approaches; Person-centred, Cognitive behavioural, Psychodynamic and Attachment theory. I will take a holistic view, exploring your current emotions and thought processes, as well as considering developmental aspects, family, and cultural influences that may be important to your world.
September 2024 availability: mornings, afternoons and evenings. I am a down to earth, qualified counsellor and I provide a calm, and warm approach to therapy. I am trained in the prominent therapeutic approaches; Person-centred, Cognitive behavioural, Psychodynamic and Attachment theory. I will take a holistic view, exploring your current emotions and thought processes, as well as considering developmental aspects, family, and cultural influences that may be important to your world.
0121 387 0272 View 0121 387 0272
Photo of Ruth Oreschnick, MA, BPC, Psychotherapist
Ruth Oreschnick
Psychotherapist, MA, BPC
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB4
I’m a Jungian Analyst/Psychotherapist and Music Therapist - working with people to provide a creative, non-judgemental, space to explore the issues that they are experiencing. I provide a therapeutic space where we can work together to foster curiosity and a deeper understanding of these difficulties, in an environment that is welcoming and reflective. I offer a confidential and safe space in which to talk about whatever issues may be troubling you. I work with people either weekly or on a more intensive basis. I have experience of working with people from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and across all age groups.
I’m a Jungian Analyst/Psychotherapist and Music Therapist - working with people to provide a creative, non-judgemental, space to explore the issues that they are experiencing. I provide a therapeutic space where we can work together to foster curiosity and a deeper understanding of these difficulties, in an environment that is welcoming and reflective. I offer a confidential and safe space in which to talk about whatever issues may be troubling you. I work with people either weekly or on a more intensive basis. I have experience of working with people from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and across all age groups.
01223 734551 View 01223 734551
Photo of Isobel Harper, MBACP Snr. Accred, Counsellor
Isobel Harper
Counsellor, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB22  (Online Only)
I am an experienced Integrative Counsellor. My primary training is in the Psychodynamic model and this is the basis of my work. I do adapt my style to meet the highly individual needs of each client. I aim to offer a safe and confidential space for clients to explore what has made life slip out of gear.
I am an experienced Integrative Counsellor. My primary training is in the Psychodynamic model and this is the basis of my work. I do adapt my style to meet the highly individual needs of each client. I aim to offer a safe and confidential space for clients to explore what has made life slip out of gear.
01223 919498 View 01223 919498
Photo of Debbie Watt, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Debbie Watt
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB22
I’m a Coaching Psychologist and Accredited Master Coach with over 17 years of experience in supporting clients to navigate their way through challenges and change. My approach is to walk alongside you and tailor support to your changing needs on your journey to define and achieve your chosen outcomes -
I’m a Coaching Psychologist and Accredited Master Coach with over 17 years of experience in supporting clients to navigate their way through challenges and change. My approach is to walk alongside you and tailor support to your changing needs on your journey to define and achieve your chosen outcomes -
01223 650660 View 01223 650660
Photo of Andrea Bassett, MBACP, Counsellor
Andrea Bassett
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB2
Do you feel held back by anxiety or depression and you’re wondering how to make sense of your situation and find a path towards a better life? Perhaps you’ve reached the point where you know things have to change, and you’re ready to explore the underlying cause of your distress and make changes. In a space where you’re supported, seen and heard you can start to gain clarity and awareness over the complexities of your current problems, while also understanding how your earlier life experiences have influenced where you are today. Once we've untangled the patterns of the past and present, I can coach you in your forwards journey.
Do you feel held back by anxiety or depression and you’re wondering how to make sense of your situation and find a path towards a better life? Perhaps you’ve reached the point where you know things have to change, and you’re ready to explore the underlying cause of your distress and make changes. In a space where you’re supported, seen and heard you can start to gain clarity and awareness over the complexities of your current problems, while also understanding how your earlier life experiences have influenced where you are today. Once we've untangled the patterns of the past and present, I can coach you in your forwards journey.
01223 679834 View 01223 679834
Photo of Dr Marzio Ascione, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Marzio Ascione
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB3
Dr Marzio Ascione is a Consultant HCPC registered clinical psychologist and Associate Fellow of BPS. Dr Ascione has over 20 years’ experience in clinical neuropsychology and mental health within the NHS and private sector. He has worked as Clinical Psychologist and Researcher for Cambridge University Hospital, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, East London and City Mental Health Trust, West London Mental Health Trust, University of Milan, King’s College London. Dr Ascione sees patients at London and Cambridge clinics. Please contact our office for further information.
Dr Marzio Ascione is a Consultant HCPC registered clinical psychologist and Associate Fellow of BPS. Dr Ascione has over 20 years’ experience in clinical neuropsychology and mental health within the NHS and private sector. He has worked as Clinical Psychologist and Researcher for Cambridge University Hospital, Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust, East London and City Mental Health Trust, West London Mental Health Trust, University of Milan, King’s College London. Dr Ascione sees patients at London and Cambridge clinics. Please contact our office for further information.
020 3974 2199 View 020 3974 2199
Photo of Sally Martin, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Sally Martin
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB2
Dr Sally Martin began working in NHS based psychological services in 2008 and has a busy private practice now established. She works with people with a range of mental health problems. Sally works primarily with adults and can help with mild to moderate mental health difficulties and trauma. Sally’s specialist interest is perinatal and parent infant psychology. She has extensive experience of working with loss, trauma and parenting difficulties.
Dr Sally Martin began working in NHS based psychological services in 2008 and has a busy private practice now established. She works with people with a range of mental health problems. Sally works primarily with adults and can help with mild to moderate mental health difficulties and trauma. Sally’s specialist interest is perinatal and parent infant psychology. She has extensive experience of working with loss, trauma and parenting difficulties.
01223 867116 View 01223 867116
Photo of Fanni Frances Korany, MBACP, Counsellor
Fanni Frances Korany
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB4
In order to fly, all one must do is simply miss the ground - writes Douglas Adams. You will find an attuned, compassionate, therapeutic environment, where there is warmth, empathy, an active interest in your needs and strengths, as well as acceptance of, all of your experiences. I seek to provide containment for pain and distress that you may be going through so that you feel safe to open up and explore options for your complex life challenges. I am an experienced, BACP-registered Relationship Counsellor, working for Relate Cambridge, as an Individual, Couple and Family Counsellor, as well as a Psychosexual Therapist.
In order to fly, all one must do is simply miss the ground - writes Douglas Adams. You will find an attuned, compassionate, therapeutic environment, where there is warmth, empathy, an active interest in your needs and strengths, as well as acceptance of, all of your experiences. I seek to provide containment for pain and distress that you may be going through so that you feel safe to open up and explore options for your complex life challenges. I am an experienced, BACP-registered Relationship Counsellor, working for Relate Cambridge, as an Individual, Couple and Family Counsellor, as well as a Psychosexual Therapist.
01223 658037 View 01223 658037
Photo of Andrea Barlow, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Andrea Barlow
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cambridge CB22
I am a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counsellor with 11 years experience, seven running a secondary school counselling service. An integrative therapist, I commit to empathy and acceptance, consider the impact of past events on current behaviour, the significance of attachment patterns, and cognitive and behavioural patterns contributing to anxiety and low mood. I offer talk, play and sandtray therapy utilising creative resources, supporting children and young people to explore their challenges in pursuit of improved mental health. Special interests include ASD and ADHD. Working systemically, I also support parents.
I am a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counsellor with 11 years experience, seven running a secondary school counselling service. An integrative therapist, I commit to empathy and acceptance, consider the impact of past events on current behaviour, the significance of attachment patterns, and cognitive and behavioural patterns contributing to anxiety and low mood. I offer talk, play and sandtray therapy utilising creative resources, supporting children and young people to explore their challenges in pursuit of improved mental health. Special interests include ASD and ADHD. Working systemically, I also support parents.
01223 912817 View 01223 912817
1

See more therapy options for Cambridge

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.