Autism Counselling in Leeds

Photo of Emma Johnston - Emma Johnston Counselling, Counsellor, BACP
Emma Johnston Counselling
Counsellor, BACP
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS27
If you or your partner are neurodivergent I can help you find collaborative ways of communicating together.
I am a down to earth Yorkshire women who is also a Wife and Mum. I have a rich tapestry of lived experience and theory at my disposal. I've always felt safe and protected whilst walking through woods. I aim to offer the same feeling of safety and protection as we take this journey together and I walk alongside you whilst you go on a journey of discovery.
If you or your partner are neurodivergent I can help you find collaborative ways of communicating together.
I am a down to earth Yorkshire women who is also a Wife and Mum. I have a rich tapestry of lived experience and theory at my disposal. I've always felt safe and protected whilst walking through woods. I aim to offer the same feeling of safety and protection as we take this journey together and I walk alongside you whilst you go on a journey of discovery.
0113 467 9535 View 0113 467 9535
Photo of Catherine Tatman - Leeds Centre for Attachment & Trauma (LCAT), Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Welcome! We're a specialist child, adolescent and adult psychotherapy service, working from a cosy practice in North Leeds. We offer: Creative psychotherapy to children, teens and young adults; Attachment psychotherapy to parents and children together; Trauma-focussed psychotherapy - including EMDR - to children and adults Our unique approach integrates somatic and creative therapies with a rich understanding of child and adult personality development. With us, you’ll find a service that really understands development, the impact of traumatic stress on the body and the importance of attachment relationships across the lifespan.
Welcome! We're a specialist child, adolescent and adult psychotherapy service, working from a cosy practice in North Leeds. We offer: Creative psychotherapy to children, teens and young adults; Attachment psychotherapy to parents and children together; Trauma-focussed psychotherapy - including EMDR - to children and adults Our unique approach integrates somatic and creative therapies with a rich understanding of child and adult personality development. With us, you’ll find a service that really understands development, the impact of traumatic stress on the body and the importance of attachment relationships across the lifespan.
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Photo of Joanne Sankey, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Joanne Sankey
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Leeds LS16
I also work with young adults and neurodivergent adults.
Every young person is unique, so I tailor my approach to suit their needs. I integrate creative methods like art and play therapy alongside traditional talking therapy. As a neurodivergent therapist, I adapt my work to support neurodivergent clients effectively. I also have specialist training in eating disorders and self-harm.
I also work with young adults and neurodivergent adults.
Every young person is unique, so I tailor my approach to suit their needs. I integrate creative methods like art and play therapy alongside traditional talking therapy. As a neurodivergent therapist, I adapt my work to support neurodivergent clients effectively. I also have specialist training in eating disorders and self-harm.
0113 519 5465 View 0113 519 5465
Photo of Dr Caroline Dunsmuir-White, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Caroline Dunsmuir-White
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Leeds LS26
I'm a clinical psychologist offering compassionate, individualised, and non-judgmental therapy. I will help you to make sense of your difficulties and learn new ways of coping to help you to move forward. I specialise in working with adults who have experienced trauma using compassionate approaches and EMDR. I also specialise in neurodivergence, acknowledging the unique strengths and challenges, as well as providing support on the journey of diagnosis, self-acceptance, and managing any mental health comorbid difficulties. I also specialise in anxiety, OCD, and addictions.
I'm a clinical psychologist offering compassionate, individualised, and non-judgmental therapy. I will help you to make sense of your difficulties and learn new ways of coping to help you to move forward. I specialise in working with adults who have experienced trauma using compassionate approaches and EMDR. I also specialise in neurodivergence, acknowledging the unique strengths and challenges, as well as providing support on the journey of diagnosis, self-acceptance, and managing any mental health comorbid difficulties. I also specialise in anxiety, OCD, and addictions.
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Photo of Mark Johnson, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Mark Johnson
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Leeds LS1
Autism and ADHD Counselling Specialist.
I adapt my approach and pace to the needs of the person I am working with, providing a safe, calm, and non-judgmental space where the client can explore their concerns and feel truly understood. This balance helps to facilitate psychological growth and provides a platform on which clients can work towards positive change.
Autism and ADHD Counselling Specialist.
I adapt my approach and pace to the needs of the person I am working with, providing a safe, calm, and non-judgmental space where the client can explore their concerns and feel truly understood. This balance helps to facilitate psychological growth and provides a platform on which clients can work towards positive change.
0113 519 1568 View 0113 519 1568
Photo of Carol Gledhill, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Carol Gledhill
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Leeds LS27
I am also interested in helping clients who are neurodivergent and coming to terms with late diagnosis and all the mixed emotions and regrets that they can feel.
My speciality lies in helping women through menopause, exploring and learning to cope with that stage of life. I also offer neuro-affirming counselling to help people who have been late diagnosed with neurodivergence such as autism or ADHD, coming to terms with the diagnosis and working through the possible grief and anger because they didn't have support.
I am also interested in helping clients who are neurodivergent and coming to terms with late diagnosis and all the mixed emotions and regrets that they can feel.
My speciality lies in helping women through menopause, exploring and learning to cope with that stage of life. I also offer neuro-affirming counselling to help people who have been late diagnosed with neurodivergence such as autism or ADHD, coming to terms with the diagnosis and working through the possible grief and anger because they didn't have support.
01484 627869 View 01484 627869
Photo of Izzy Barlow, Counsellor, MBACP
Izzy Barlow
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I believe that every person I've ever worked with has been doing the best they can with the resources they have. Not everyone has the same resources as others do, whether by trauma, neglect, poverty, neurodiversity or discrimination, many people are trying to navigate life without the tools and skills they are often expected to have. My goal as a counsellor is to try to help you rebuild and learn these missing resources to help you to navigate life with resilience, confidence and joy.
I believe that every person I've ever worked with has been doing the best they can with the resources they have. Not everyone has the same resources as others do, whether by trauma, neglect, poverty, neurodiversity or discrimination, many people are trying to navigate life without the tools and skills they are often expected to have. My goal as a counsellor is to try to help you rebuild and learn these missing resources to help you to navigate life with resilience, confidence and joy.
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Photo of Ewelina Monika Ahmed - Fenix CBT Psychotherapy, Autism and OCD Specialist, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
At Fenix CBT we specialise in CBT/DBT therapy specifically adapted to autistic adults, children and young people, OCD (ERP) and PTSD.
My name is Eve Ahmed I am an owner and Lead Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (BABCP accredited) at Fenix CBT LTD. I utilise my skills and extensive experience to help my clients reach their personal targets and clinical recovery. I am very passionate about the work I do and I love helping people reach their goals. I have ten years of experience working in mental health in public and charity sector with adults and children. I completed BSc undergraduate degree in Psychology, Postgraduate Diploma in CBT and Level 3 Diploma in DBT and I also have (amongst many others) EMDR, ACT and Compassionate Mind training.
At Fenix CBT we specialise in CBT/DBT therapy specifically adapted to autistic adults, children and young people, OCD (ERP) and PTSD.
My name is Eve Ahmed I am an owner and Lead Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (BABCP accredited) at Fenix CBT LTD. I utilise my skills and extensive experience to help my clients reach their personal targets and clinical recovery. I am very passionate about the work I do and I love helping people reach their goals. I have ten years of experience working in mental health in public and charity sector with adults and children. I completed BSc undergraduate degree in Psychology, Postgraduate Diploma in CBT and Level 3 Diploma in DBT and I also have (amongst many others) EMDR, ACT and Compassionate Mind training.
0113 487 2229 View 0113 487 2229
Photo of Dr Georgia Meisel, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Georgia Meisel
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a particular interest in working with adolescents and young adults struggling with mental health issues, neurodivergent individuals who may need adaptations to standard therapy sessions, individuals with eating and body image difficulties, and adults experiencing sexual problems (e.g., painful sex or low desire).
I believe therapy is a collaborative process. You are the expert on your own experiences and story, while I bring psychological insights and tools to help you navigate your challenges. Together, we’ll explore ways to help you move forward and make meaningful, positive changes.
I have a particular interest in working with adolescents and young adults struggling with mental health issues, neurodivergent individuals who may need adaptations to standard therapy sessions, individuals with eating and body image difficulties, and adults experiencing sexual problems (e.g., painful sex or low desire).
I believe therapy is a collaborative process. You are the expert on your own experiences and story, while I bring psychological insights and tools to help you navigate your challenges. Together, we’ll explore ways to help you move forward and make meaningful, positive changes.
020 4572 4532 View 020 4572 4532
Photo of Dr Laurence Rogers, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Laurence Rogers
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS7
I appreciate that people might be coming to therapy with different preconceptions, goals, past experiences, and/or worries. As starting therapy takes a lot of courage, it is important we go at your pace. As such, our first session together will focus on: Getting to know each other to make sure I am the right fit for you, and exploring the difficulties you would like support with. We might also start to develop your goals and think about the type of therapy best suited to meet these. covering other important aspects such as confidentiality, session length, and timings so we know what to expect from each other.
I appreciate that people might be coming to therapy with different preconceptions, goals, past experiences, and/or worries. As starting therapy takes a lot of courage, it is important we go at your pace. As such, our first session together will focus on: Getting to know each other to make sure I am the right fit for you, and exploring the difficulties you would like support with. We might also start to develop your goals and think about the type of therapy best suited to meet these. covering other important aspects such as confidentiality, session length, and timings so we know what to expect from each other.
020 4572 3920 View 020 4572 3920
Photo of Krieanna Johnson, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Krieanna Johnson
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
Neurodivergent?
Fully accredited with the BABCP, I offer NICE guideline based treatments for depression and multiple anxiety disorders. As a late diagnosed neurodivergent parent, with neurodivergent children, and having worked with multiple neurodivergent people, I have a unique perspective and understanding of common difficulties and adaptations for therapy that can help.
Neurodivergent?
Fully accredited with the BABCP, I offer NICE guideline based treatments for depression and multiple anxiety disorders. As a late diagnosed neurodivergent parent, with neurodivergent children, and having worked with multiple neurodivergent people, I have a unique perspective and understanding of common difficulties and adaptations for therapy that can help.
01302 490855 View 01302 490855
Photo of Rachel Ambrose, Counsellor, MBACP
Rachel Ambrose
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed by a world that doesn’t suit the neurodivergent brain?
I believe in adapting my approach to suit your needs and objectives. I am happy to work on both a long-term and short-term basis. My areas of special interest are Neurodiversity. Chronic illnesses such as Long Covid, CFS/ ME and Fibromyalgia. Also helping people with Migraines and Chronic Headaches.
Feeling overwhelmed by a world that doesn’t suit the neurodivergent brain?
I believe in adapting my approach to suit your needs and objectives. I am happy to work on both a long-term and short-term basis. My areas of special interest are Neurodiversity. Chronic illnesses such as Long Covid, CFS/ ME and Fibromyalgia. Also helping people with Migraines and Chronic Headaches.
01484 598911 View 01484 598911
Photo of Dr Rachel Casper-White - All Things Therapy Centre Ltd, Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
All Things Therapy Centre Ltd
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Serves Area
We work with children, young people, adults, couples, parents and families. We offer inclusive therapy to support those who hold a diagnosis of neurodiversity or behavioural/emotional difficulty. We also work with parents to discuss parenting strategies to build resilience in the household. We work with anyone from any background with a number of problems. These can include: behavioural and emotional problems, suicidal ideation, trauma, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, parenting, family relationships, divorce, bereavement, illness, developmental disorders, eating disorders and more.
We work with children, young people, adults, couples, parents and families. We offer inclusive therapy to support those who hold a diagnosis of neurodiversity or behavioural/emotional difficulty. We also work with parents to discuss parenting strategies to build resilience in the household. We work with anyone from any background with a number of problems. These can include: behavioural and emotional problems, suicidal ideation, trauma, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, parenting, family relationships, divorce, bereavement, illness, developmental disorders, eating disorders and more.
01756 639053 View 01756 639053
Photo of Cass Jarvis, Counsellor, MBACP
Cass Jarvis
Counsellor, MBACP
5 Endorsed
Online Only
The majority of humans I work with are within the LGBTQIA community or neurodivergent in some sort of flavour.
Nice to meet you! I'm Cass. An integrative therapist based in South Yorkshire currently offering online and telephone therapy. Here to collaborate and help people with any support they may be looking for. My approach with therapy is the ideology of taking the clinical, cold side out of the equation and creating something that people can really feel free to be themselves in. I understand that it can be hard to take the first step, and even harder to do the work. I can help support you with that journey, in a judgement free and safe space to heal and grow.
The majority of humans I work with are within the LGBTQIA community or neurodivergent in some sort of flavour.
Nice to meet you! I'm Cass. An integrative therapist based in South Yorkshire currently offering online and telephone therapy. Here to collaborate and help people with any support they may be looking for. My approach with therapy is the ideology of taking the clinical, cold side out of the equation and creating something that people can really feel free to be themselves in. I understand that it can be hard to take the first step, and even harder to do the work. I can help support you with that journey, in a judgement free and safe space to heal and grow.
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Photo of Clara Peiro-Timoner, Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Clara Peiro-Timoner
Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
Being neurodivergent myself, I've been drawn to work with autism, ADHD and other neurotypes, as well as the gender, sexuality, kink, and relationship diversity (polyamory/non-monogamy) community, including sex workers.
I believe that every person has the inner wisdom and potential to create a fulfilling life for themselves. However, at some point, most of us will find that we need external perspective and a space to explore issues that might make us feel stuck or hopeless. To me, counselling is a collaborative and creative relational process, and my role within it is to help people find their own personal power and joy, no matter their circumstances. I'm an energetic practitioner who will laugh and get excited with you, but also respect your rhythm and create space for grief, pain and stuckness, for as long as it's needed.
Being neurodivergent myself, I've been drawn to work with autism, ADHD and other neurotypes, as well as the gender, sexuality, kink, and relationship diversity (polyamory/non-monogamy) community, including sex workers.
I believe that every person has the inner wisdom and potential to create a fulfilling life for themselves. However, at some point, most of us will find that we need external perspective and a space to explore issues that might make us feel stuck or hopeless. To me, counselling is a collaborative and creative relational process, and my role within it is to help people find their own personal power and joy, no matter their circumstances. I'm an energetic practitioner who will laugh and get excited with you, but also respect your rhythm and create space for grief, pain and stuckness, for as long as it's needed.
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Photo of Anya Zinkivskay, Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
Anya Zinkivskay
Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individual clients and groups affected by complex trauma and PTSD (rooted in armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders (i.e. OCD, phobias, panic attacks and GAD), depression, neurodiverse development and function ( ASD or specific learning difficulties), as well as loss, bereavement and addiction.
As private practice and NHS practitioner, with a 20-year background in neuropsychology, I structure therapy around the needs of my clients. Using Trauma-informed practice I employ Evidence-based techniques such as CBT, ERP and EMDR, in conjunction with psychoeducation. Client-Centred approach is central to my therapeutic aim of growing self-awareness and offering clients a proactive involvement in their therapeutic process. My private practice is based in Derbyshire and virtually on Zoom, where in a confidential, safe and empathic environment I have been supporting clients from across the UK and Europe.
I work with individual clients and groups affected by complex trauma and PTSD (rooted in armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders (i.e. OCD, phobias, panic attacks and GAD), depression, neurodiverse development and function ( ASD or specific learning difficulties), as well as loss, bereavement and addiction.
As private practice and NHS practitioner, with a 20-year background in neuropsychology, I structure therapy around the needs of my clients. Using Trauma-informed practice I employ Evidence-based techniques such as CBT, ERP and EMDR, in conjunction with psychoeducation. Client-Centred approach is central to my therapeutic aim of growing self-awareness and offering clients a proactive involvement in their therapeutic process. My private practice is based in Derbyshire and virtually on Zoom, where in a confidential, safe and empathic environment I have been supporting clients from across the UK and Europe.
01663 790112 View 01663 790112
Photo of Erica M Finlayson - Biscuits Tea & Therapy, Counsellor, BACP
Biscuits Tea & Therapy
Counsellor, BACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work in a person-centred way, collaborating with my clients (usually with a brew in hand!) to explore your unique experiences, relationships or trauma- we can focus on your healing goals; perhaps improving current relationships, learning to understand & embrace your ADHD or Autism, or simply being able to tell your own powerful story in a safe non-judgemental space.
I specialise in working with clients with ADHD (with or without a diagnosis) and have completed ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) training. I also have my own lived experience of ADHD. I am also currently undertaking Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist Intensive Training (ASDCS).
I work in a person-centred way, collaborating with my clients (usually with a brew in hand!) to explore your unique experiences, relationships or trauma- we can focus on your healing goals; perhaps improving current relationships, learning to understand & embrace your ADHD or Autism, or simply being able to tell your own powerful story in a safe non-judgemental space.
I specialise in working with clients with ADHD (with or without a diagnosis) and have completed ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) training. I also have my own lived experience of ADHD. I am also currently undertaking Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist Intensive Training (ASDCS).
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Photo of Carly Radford, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Carly Radford
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with sensitive people, those whose sensitivity is innate such as being highly sensitive, HSP, autistic or adhd, and those for whom their sensitivity is acquired through anxiety or traumatic or distressing experiences, in particular sexual trauma.
Has a recent or past negative experience left you feeling lost or stuck? Maybe you’ve tried to just get on with life but inside you still feel broken, replaying events in your mind and asking yourself why or how this happened. Perhaps you know what happened to you was traumatic or maybe you’ve told yourself it “wasn’t that bad”. Some days you seem to feel all the emotions all at once, and other days you feel nothing at all. Other people simply don’t understand, which may leave you feeling alone and like you don’t matter. You are not alone and you do matter. You deserve freedom and peace from your past experiences.
I work with sensitive people, those whose sensitivity is innate such as being highly sensitive, HSP, autistic or adhd, and those for whom their sensitivity is acquired through anxiety or traumatic or distressing experiences, in particular sexual trauma.
Has a recent or past negative experience left you feeling lost or stuck? Maybe you’ve tried to just get on with life but inside you still feel broken, replaying events in your mind and asking yourself why or how this happened. Perhaps you know what happened to you was traumatic or maybe you’ve told yourself it “wasn’t that bad”. Some days you seem to feel all the emotions all at once, and other days you feel nothing at all. Other people simply don’t understand, which may leave you feeling alone and like you don’t matter. You are not alone and you do matter. You deserve freedom and peace from your past experiences.
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Photo of Janet Lucy Still - Still Waters Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Still Waters Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a particular interest in autism and ADHD.
Life can sometimes be difficult and we all need support at times. You might be suffering from issues such as depression, anxiety, low self esteem or maybe you feel like you don't fit in anywhere. I can provide you with a safe space within which to explore your difficulties I believe that you are the expert on yourself and will work with you to help you move forwards and feel better. I have worked with a number of issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodiversity and loss. I offer both online and in person sessions. In person sessions take place in Acomb.
I have a particular interest in autism and ADHD.
Life can sometimes be difficult and we all need support at times. You might be suffering from issues such as depression, anxiety, low self esteem or maybe you feel like you don't fit in anywhere. I can provide you with a safe space within which to explore your difficulties I believe that you are the expert on yourself and will work with you to help you move forwards and feel better. I have worked with a number of issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodiversity and loss. I offer both online and in person sessions. In person sessions take place in Acomb.
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Photo of Paulina Rybak - Lighthouse Therapy, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Lighthouse Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Serves Area
I have significant experience working with individuals on the autistic spectrum, including those who may be undiagnosed or exploring their neurodivergence.
I offer a broad range of psychological services tailored to meet the unique needs of each person I work with. As a person-centred, relational, integrative, and creative psychotherapist, I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches to support your journey, always guided by what works best for you. Psychoeducation is central to my practice, reflecting my professional roots in teaching. I believe that knowledge can be deeply empowering. Helping clients understand the 'why' behind their experiences is an integral part of how I work. As a passionate lifelong learner, I have recently begun a postgraduate clinical psychology program.
I have significant experience working with individuals on the autistic spectrum, including those who may be undiagnosed or exploring their neurodivergence.
I offer a broad range of psychological services tailored to meet the unique needs of each person I work with. As a person-centred, relational, integrative, and creative psychotherapist, I draw on a variety of therapeutic approaches to support your journey, always guided by what works best for you. Psychoeducation is central to my practice, reflecting my professional roots in teaching. I believe that knowledge can be deeply empowering. Helping clients understand the 'why' behind their experiences is an integral part of how I work. As a passionate lifelong learner, I have recently begun a postgraduate clinical psychology program.
0113 519 0459 View 0113 519 0459

See more therapy options for Leeds

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.