Autism Psychiatrists in Comal County, TX

Photo of Sara L Koenig Langston - Affective Mental Wellness, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Affective Mental Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
New Braunfels, TX 78130
At Affective Mental Wellness, three fully licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners are able to meet your mental health needs in the state of Texas. We are experienced in working with a diverse population of patients. We are able to provide high-quality, comprehensive, compassionate, and patient-focused care for patients between ages 2 to 999 years old. Focusing on the whole person, we, with the patient develop individualized treatment plans.
At Affective Mental Wellness, three fully licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners are able to meet your mental health needs in the state of Texas. We are experienced in working with a diverse population of patients. We are able to provide high-quality, comprehensive, compassionate, and patient-focused care for patients between ages 2 to 999 years old. Focusing on the whole person, we, with the patient develop individualized treatment plans.
(830) 483-8064 View (830) 483-8064
Photo of Laura Craig, Psychiatrist, MD
Laura Craig
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Seeking mental health support can be intimidating, especially when it comes to mental health medicines. My focus is on a holistic approach including complementary and alternative approaches in combination with mental health medicine. I take a collaborative approach and we design a treatment plan together. I love working with all ages and genders. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and depression and am comfortable with high acuity. I also enjoy working with those who identify as neurodivergent. I offer: - Gender Affirming Surgery Evaluations - Evaluations for Those Seeking Asylum - Medication Management
Seeking mental health support can be intimidating, especially when it comes to mental health medicines. My focus is on a holistic approach including complementary and alternative approaches in combination with mental health medicine. I take a collaborative approach and we design a treatment plan together. I love working with all ages and genders. I specialize in trauma, anxiety and depression and am comfortable with high acuity. I also enjoy working with those who identify as neurodivergent. I offer: - Gender Affirming Surgery Evaluations - Evaluations for Those Seeking Asylum - Medication Management
(830) 580-3964 View (830) 580-3964
Photo of Femi Popoola - GraceLand Psychiatric and Neuromodulation Center, Psychiatrist, MD
GraceLand Psychiatric and Neuromodulation Center
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Femi Popoola, MD is ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! I am double board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I love to listen actively while carefully conducting psychiatric evaluations and formulating treatment plans. The least that I can do to help you is to be a positive force in your life as it relates to empathy and the educational value of mental health treatment that you get from me. I offer medication management for all ranges of mental health challenges. My therapy add on are typically short, directed and supportive. My goal is to give you 100% satisfaction in caring for your mental health needs.
Femi Popoola, MD is ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! I am double board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I love to listen actively while carefully conducting psychiatric evaluations and formulating treatment plans. The least that I can do to help you is to be a positive force in your life as it relates to empathy and the educational value of mental health treatment that you get from me. I offer medication management for all ranges of mental health challenges. My therapy add on are typically short, directed and supportive. My goal is to give you 100% satisfaction in caring for your mental health needs.
(210) 934-8107 View (210) 934-8107
Photo of Lydia Kimeli-Pope, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Lydia Kimeli-Pope
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130
Lydia is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She believes that every patient is unique in their needs and circumstances, and each one requires great care in harmonizing treatment plans, provider-patient interactions, and medications to achieve positive and therapeutic outcomes. Lydia values listening and understanding her patients more than issuing directives to them. She has extensive experience in the medical field, including 10 years as a Registered Nurse (BSN) and then as a Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) since 2019. She found her passion for working in psychiatric care in 2014 and has remained ever since.
Lydia is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She believes that every patient is unique in their needs and circumstances, and each one requires great care in harmonizing treatment plans, provider-patient interactions, and medications to achieve positive and therapeutic outcomes. Lydia values listening and understanding her patients more than issuing directives to them. She has extensive experience in the medical field, including 10 years as a Registered Nurse (BSN) and then as a Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) since 2019. She found her passion for working in psychiatric care in 2014 and has remained ever since.
(830) 283-4754 View (830) 283-4754
Photo of Dr. Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
New Braunfels, TX 78130
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(830) 445-2079 View (830) 445-2079
Photo of Karen Mitchell - Advanced Child & Adult Psychiatric Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Advanced Child & Adult Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC
Online Only
Advanced Child & Adult Psychiatric Services provides expert psychiatric evaluations, medication management, & psychosocial counseling for children, adults, & their families. Our ability to provide high-quality, compassionate, affordable psychiatric care in a timely manner is one of our greatest strengths. Most appointments can be scheduled within one week of contacting us. Given today's concerns related to COVID-19, telepsychiatry visits are offered.
Advanced Child & Adult Psychiatric Services provides expert psychiatric evaluations, medication management, & psychosocial counseling for children, adults, & their families. Our ability to provide high-quality, compassionate, affordable psychiatric care in a timely manner is one of our greatest strengths. Most appointments can be scheduled within one week of contacting us. Given today's concerns related to COVID-19, telepsychiatry visits are offered.
(833) 761-0510 View (833) 761-0510
Photo of Alejandro Perez - Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
New Braunfels, TX 78130
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(830) 320-3153 View (830) 320-3153
Photo of Riz Ahmad - Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Bulverde, TX 78163
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(830) 396-5174 View (830) 396-5174
Photo of Dr. Alejandro Perez - Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Perez @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Bulverde, TX 78163
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
Do racing thoughts, restless nights, and constant self-doubt drain your energy and peace of mind? Are you overwhelmed by the need for certainty, struggling with poor concentration, or feeling burdened by your own hypersensitivity? Whether your challenges stem from brain chemistry, genetics, or hurtful parenting, you don’t have to face them alone. At Evolve Psychiatry, our compassionate team of medical experts and seasoned psychotherapists partners with you to explore and finally answer these questions. Together, we’ll cultivate the skills you need to feel more confident in yourself and more connected to the world around you.
(210) 361-6840 View (210) 361-6840
Photo of Phillip Balfanz, Psychiatrist, MD
Phillip Balfanz
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist with experience in helping family members of all ages when illness interferes with a person's mental health. I believe in the process of recovery and the power of hope in working toward a healthier life.
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist with experience in helping family members of all ages when illness interferes with a person's mental health. I believe in the process of recovery and the power of hope in working toward a healthier life.
(210) 880-3424 View (210) 880-3424
Photo of Eric D. Seilhamer Jr., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
Eric D. Seilhamer Jr.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN , PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, nice to meet you! I am Eric Seilhamer, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of children and adolescents. I received my Doctor of Nursing practice along with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Texas Christian University in 2023. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring over 11 years of experience to my practice. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to empower young minds and guide them towards a path of resilience.
Hello, nice to meet you! I am Eric Seilhamer, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for promoting the emotional and psychological well-being of children and adolescents. I received my Doctor of Nursing practice along with my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Texas Christian University in 2023. With a background in nursing and specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care, I bring over 11 years of experience to my practice. I am committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to empower young minds and guide them towards a path of resilience.
(210) 468-7099 View (210) 468-7099

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Yemi Ogunfeitimi - Valen Mental Health services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Valen Mental Health services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Leon Valley, TX 78238
My specialization including, Anxiety, Autism, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Disruptive behavior, schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, OCD, Panic disorder, Insomnia, Postpartum depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD—reflects my commitment to addressing the diverse needs of my clients.
As a dedicated mental health professional, I take pride in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to my clients. My journey into psychiatry is rooted in a profound desire to empower individuals facing mental health challenges. I believe that every person deserves hope and the opportunity to reclaim their well-being. I am committed to advancing my skills and knowledge in psychiatry, with a particular interest in community mental health. I believe that access to compassionate care should be a right, not a privilege, and I am eager to contribute to initiatives that promote mental health awareness.
My specialization including, Anxiety, Autism, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Disruptive behavior, schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, OCD, Panic disorder, Insomnia, Postpartum depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD—reflects my commitment to addressing the diverse needs of my clients.
As a dedicated mental health professional, I take pride in providing compassionate and evidence-based care to my clients. My journey into psychiatry is rooted in a profound desire to empower individuals facing mental health challenges. I believe that every person deserves hope and the opportunity to reclaim their well-being. I am committed to advancing my skills and knowledge in psychiatry, with a particular interest in community mental health. I believe that access to compassionate care should be a right, not a privilege, and I am eager to contribute to initiatives that promote mental health awareness.
(726) 215-9785 View (726) 215-9785
Rene Melendez
Psychiatrist, MD
San Antonio, TX 78230
My practice focus on a wide range of mood disorders, including depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, PTSDA,DHD, substance use disorders.
As a General Psychiatrist my focus encompasses a thorough diagnostic evaluation, and implementation of a treatment plan that include medications or without medications Primary goals is to identify Mental Wellness conditions and or other physical conditions, with the intention of establishing the best treatment and open an opportunity to obtain professional help and development of an effective treatment.
My practice focus on a wide range of mood disorders, including depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, PTSDA,DHD, substance use disorders.
As a General Psychiatrist my focus encompasses a thorough diagnostic evaluation, and implementation of a treatment plan that include medications or without medications Primary goals is to identify Mental Wellness conditions and or other physical conditions, with the intention of establishing the best treatment and open an opportunity to obtain professional help and development of an effective treatment.
(830) 580-3674 View (830) 580-3674
Photo of Rachal Katerle, Physician Assistant, PA-C
Rachal Katerle
Physician Assistant, PA-C
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
Rachal has experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Mood Disorders and other psychiatric illnesses.
Rachal provides Initial Comprehensive Evaluations and Follow Ups for Medication Management of Mental Health Conditions
Rachal has experience in diagnosing and treating Depression, Anxiety, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Mood Disorders and other psychiatric illnesses.
Rachal provides Initial Comprehensive Evaluations and Follow Ups for Medication Management of Mental Health Conditions
(512) 722-7976 View (512) 722-7976
Photo of Dr. Andrew Wong, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrew Wong
Psychiatrist, MD
Austin, TX 78746
I work together with individuals to treat mood issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, autism, and/or behavioral issues.
I practice evidence based medicine, using my knowledge and background in the latest psychiatric research regarding treatment modalities and medications. I trained locally at UT Austin Dell Medical School and Dell Children's Medical Center. I am well connected to the Austin Mental Health Community for networking and referrals.
I work together with individuals to treat mood issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, psychosis, autism, and/or behavioral issues.
I practice evidence based medicine, using my knowledge and background in the latest psychiatric research regarding treatment modalities and medications. I trained locally at UT Austin Dell Medical School and Dell Children's Medical Center. I am well connected to the Austin Mental Health Community for networking and referrals.
(512) 572-4268 View (512) 572-4268
Photo of Azka Bilal, Psychiatrist, MD
Azka Bilal
Psychiatrist, MD
Austin, TX 78759
I provide treatment for a wide range of concerns, including ADHD, autism, PDA, depression, anxiety, excessive screen use, trauma, psychosis and eating disorders.
Hello! I am a board-certified adult, child and adolescent psychiatrist with specialized training from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia & University of Pennsylvania. With extensive experience in treating psychiatric concerns in children and adolescents, I offer compassionate, individualized care tailored to each child's unique needs. I take a collaborative approach, working closely with both you and your child to understand their challenges and develop the most effective treatment plan. My practice is located in Austin for in-person appointments, and offer virtual consultations to patients across Texas.
I provide treatment for a wide range of concerns, including ADHD, autism, PDA, depression, anxiety, excessive screen use, trauma, psychosis and eating disorders.
Hello! I am a board-certified adult, child and adolescent psychiatrist with specialized training from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia & University of Pennsylvania. With extensive experience in treating psychiatric concerns in children and adolescents, I offer compassionate, individualized care tailored to each child's unique needs. I take a collaborative approach, working closely with both you and your child to understand their challenges and develop the most effective treatment plan. My practice is located in Austin for in-person appointments, and offer virtual consultations to patients across Texas.
(737) 352-4285 View (737) 352-4285
Photo of Dr. Abigail Talley, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Abigail Talley
Psychiatrist, MD
San Antonio, TX 78209
She treats a variety of psychiatric conditions, to include ADHD, child behavioral issues, autism, anxiety, OCD, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Abigail Talley, MD, is board-certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Born and raised in San Antonio, Dr. Talley attended Trinity University, where she graduated with a B.S. in Biology. She completed medical school, General Psychiatry residency, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Talley joined the faculty at UT Health before starting her own private practice. In addition to patient care, she is passionate about mental health education for both patients and medical professionals. She regularly presents on women's mental health and pediatric mental health topics.
She treats a variety of psychiatric conditions, to include ADHD, child behavioral issues, autism, anxiety, OCD, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Abigail Talley, MD, is board-certified in both Adult Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Born and raised in San Antonio, Dr. Talley attended Trinity University, where she graduated with a B.S. in Biology. She completed medical school, General Psychiatry residency, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fellowship at UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Talley joined the faculty at UT Health before starting her own private practice. In addition to patient care, she is passionate about mental health education for both patients and medical professionals. She regularly presents on women's mental health and pediatric mental health topics.
(210) 382-6566 View (210) 382-6566
Photo of Juliet Gatobu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Juliet Gatobu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Online Only
I specialize in managing a wide range of conditions, from mental health disorders such as anxiety, sleep disorders , depression, ADHD, IDD/ Autism and gender dysphoria.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals seeking support and healing. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental wellness is achieved through a holistic approach, addressing the mind, body, and spirit.
I specialize in managing a wide range of conditions, from mental health disorders such as anxiety, sleep disorders , depression, ADHD, IDD/ Autism and gender dysphoria.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals seeking support and healing. My practice is rooted in the belief that mental wellness is achieved through a holistic approach, addressing the mind, body, and spirit.
(726) 237-4668 View (726) 237-4668
Photo of Kelly Campbell, Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Kelly Campbell
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731
I work with children, adolescents and adults (ages 4-55) and provide diagnosis and treatment on a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and OCD, autism, PTSD, and more.
Together we'll create a plan for your mental health that takes into account your lifestyle, your medical health,your family history and more. I prescribe medication when indicated and utilize brief therapy techniques. In cases where more extensive therapy is indicated I can identify the best type of therapy for you and collaborate with your chosen therapist.
I work with children, adolescents and adults (ages 4-55) and provide diagnosis and treatment on a wide range of conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and OCD, autism, PTSD, and more.
Together we'll create a plan for your mental health that takes into account your lifestyle, your medical health,your family history and more. I prescribe medication when indicated and utilize brief therapy techniques. In cases where more extensive therapy is indicated I can identify the best type of therapy for you and collaborate with your chosen therapist.
(512) 399-5403 View (512) 399-5403
Photo of Ariel De LLanos - Focus & Balance, PLLC, Psychiatrist, MD
Focus & Balance, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
San Antonio, TX 78229
Our clinic specialized in treating a range of mental health disorders such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, autism, bi-polar disorder and more.
At Focus and Balance we offer a comprehensive range of services designed to support individuals on their journey to mental well-being. We provide thorough psychiatric evaluations to accurately diagnose a variety of conditions, ensuring each client receives personalized, evidence based treatment. In addition to traditional therapy, we offer advanced treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for individuals who have not responded to conventional therapies. Our experienced team also specializes in medication management, carefully monitoring and adjusting prescriptions to optimize effectiveness while minimizing side effects.
Our clinic specialized in treating a range of mental health disorders such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, autism, bi-polar disorder and more.
At Focus and Balance we offer a comprehensive range of services designed to support individuals on their journey to mental well-being. We provide thorough psychiatric evaluations to accurately diagnose a variety of conditions, ensuring each client receives personalized, evidence based treatment. In addition to traditional therapy, we offer advanced treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for individuals who have not responded to conventional therapies. Our experienced team also specializes in medication management, carefully monitoring and adjusting prescriptions to optimize effectiveness while minimizing side effects.
(210) 791-9056 View (210) 791-9056

See more therapy options for Comal County

Autism Psychiatrists

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.