Autism Therapists in Woodmere, OH

Photo of Patricia Lynn Saddle, MA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Lynn Saddle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Woodmere, OH 44122
Feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Looking to make changes but not sure how to move forward? Perhaps I can help. My experience working in business, healthcare, college counseling, and mental health has given me a range of skills and the ability to work with issues related to adolescents and adults dealing with life transitions. My role as a counselor is to empower clients so they can move forward. Depending on the situation, my approach ranges from a gentle nudge to direct suggestions. I specialize in working with students, adult clients, adults with perfectionist thinking and ADHD, and high functioning autism. LGBTQ+ friendly.
Feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Looking to make changes but not sure how to move forward? Perhaps I can help. My experience working in business, healthcare, college counseling, and mental health has given me a range of skills and the ability to work with issues related to adolescents and adults dealing with life transitions. My role as a counselor is to empower clients so they can move forward. Depending on the situation, my approach ranges from a gentle nudge to direct suggestions. I specialize in working with students, adult clients, adults with perfectionist thinking and ADHD, and high functioning autism. LGBTQ+ friendly.
(216) 584-9302 View (216) 584-9302
Photo of Mark Lovinger, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Lovinger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodmere, OH 44124
In my 30 years of experience as a child and adult clinical psychologist, I have developed a diverse set of assessment and therapeutic skills, allowing me to provide optimal care to children, adults and families. I am a member of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), and my specialties include helping families going through the difficulties of divorce, parent coordination, preserving a cooperative and collaborative environment to keep the children's best interests a priority, and conducting court-ordered custody evaluations. Attorneys and courts frequently request these services in order to help resolve child custody and parenting disputes.
In my 30 years of experience as a child and adult clinical psychologist, I have developed a diverse set of assessment and therapeutic skills, allowing me to provide optimal care to children, adults and families. I am a member of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC), and my specialties include helping families going through the difficulties of divorce, parent coordination, preserving a cooperative and collaborative environment to keep the children's best interests a priority, and conducting court-ordered custody evaluations. Attorneys and courts frequently request these services in order to help resolve child custody and parenting disputes.
(216) 584-9839 View (216) 584-9839

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristi Anderson Wilson, LPCC-S, NCC, CBIS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi Anderson Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S, NCC, CBIS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Don't be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart. (Roy T. Bennett). Beyond her over 15 years of practice, what sets Kristi apart is her dedication to ongoing learning and curiosity, allowing her to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field of mental health. Her open and authentic approach creates a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Kristi's expertise extends to various mental health issues and disorders, including Autism, Acquired Brain Injury, Trauma (PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, and Grief Counseling.
Don't be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart. (Roy T. Bennett). Beyond her over 15 years of practice, what sets Kristi apart is her dedication to ongoing learning and curiosity, allowing her to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field of mental health. Her open and authentic approach creates a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Kristi's expertise extends to various mental health issues and disorders, including Autism, Acquired Brain Injury, Trauma (PTSD), Anxiety, Depression, and Grief Counseling.
(216) 616-8329 View (216) 616-8329
Denise Eslinger
Counselor, LPCC-S, NCSP, BCPC, CMFSW-D, LSW
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Testing for autism, dyslexia, adhd.
Denise has been a consultant, school psychologist, and clinical counselor for over 30 years working as a licensed and board certified clinical counselor, school psychologist and psychotherapist. She has seen hundreds of children and young adults ages 4 to 22 and older, and specializes in testing and identifying people at-risk for autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and other disorders that result from profound social, emotional, behavioral, academic and learning problems. Denise offers career assessments for young adults ages 16 to 25, who are lost and seeking direction based upon their strengths and abilities. Offices in Beachwood, and Fairlawn Ohio
Testing for autism, dyslexia, adhd.
Denise has been a consultant, school psychologist, and clinical counselor for over 30 years working as a licensed and board certified clinical counselor, school psychologist and psychotherapist. She has seen hundreds of children and young adults ages 4 to 22 and older, and specializes in testing and identifying people at-risk for autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, dyslexia, learning disabilities, and other disorders that result from profound social, emotional, behavioral, academic and learning problems. Denise offers career assessments for young adults ages 16 to 25, who are lost and seeking direction based upon their strengths and abilities. Offices in Beachwood, and Fairlawn Ohio
(440) 525-2002 View (440) 525-2002
Photo of Sarah Hope Lincoln, PhD, Psychologist
Sarah Hope Lincoln
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
, OCD, GAD, SAD), depression, self-harm, trauma/PTSD, autism spectrum disorders, psychosis, and behavioral disorders of childhood (e.
Everyone experiences challenges throughout their lives, and each of us is equipped with different strengths to tackle them. Sometimes we need to acquire additional support to develop new skills and strategies, and have a source of encouragement, in facing these challenges. I aim to help children, teens, and young adults navigate a variety of academic, learning, behavioral, and psychological challenges, in a supportive, warm, and collaborative environment. I work with incredible individuals and am honored to work with them!
, OCD, GAD, SAD), depression, self-harm, trauma/PTSD, autism spectrum disorders, psychosis, and behavioral disorders of childhood (e.
Everyone experiences challenges throughout their lives, and each of us is equipped with different strengths to tackle them. Sometimes we need to acquire additional support to develop new skills and strategies, and have a source of encouragement, in facing these challenges. I aim to help children, teens, and young adults navigate a variety of academic, learning, behavioral, and psychological challenges, in a supportive, warm, and collaborative environment. I work with incredible individuals and am honored to work with them!
(617) 553-6351 View (617) 553-6351
Photo of Jasany Jenkins Lisw-S Asdcs, MSSA, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasany Jenkins Lisw-S Asdcs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Whether you need support with managing neurodevelopmental conditions ( autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, etc.
Do you feel lost, as if others have some sort of cheat code to life that no one passed to you? Maybe you've always felt different than most, leaving you to question your identity and intuition. I've been there and even continue to do the work that allows me to feel grounded in my identity, and befriend my authentic self. At 31, all my quirky traits and unpopular opinions finally made sense, once I learned about and embraced my neurodivergent brain. There is no specific blueprint on who to be or how to live. We all have varying identities that make life exciting, challenging, and rewarding.
Whether you need support with managing neurodevelopmental conditions ( autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, etc.
Do you feel lost, as if others have some sort of cheat code to life that no one passed to you? Maybe you've always felt different than most, leaving you to question your identity and intuition. I've been there and even continue to do the work that allows me to feel grounded in my identity, and befriend my authentic self. At 31, all my quirky traits and unpopular opinions finally made sense, once I learned about and embraced my neurodivergent brain. There is no specific blueprint on who to be or how to live. We all have varying identities that make life exciting, challenging, and rewarding.
(216) 279-6861 View (216) 279-6861
Photo of Matthew Escano, MA , LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Escano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPCC
Verified Verified
Lyndhurst, OH 44124
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, various forms of addiction, autism, & more. Are your goals oriented towards reducing maladaptive symptoms, identifying the behaviors you wish to engage in, being the person you want to be, and, ultimately, the life you aspire to live? Do you desire change and growth & are willing to put the necessary effort in? As your counselor, I do not effect change; that responsibility belongs to you. I aim to empower you to recognize your innate strengths, develop them further, and effectively use them towards your goals in life.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, various forms of addiction, autism, & more. Are your goals oriented towards reducing maladaptive symptoms, identifying the behaviors you wish to engage in, being the person you want to be, and, ultimately, the life you aspire to live? Do you desire change and growth & are willing to put the necessary effort in? As your counselor, I do not effect change; that responsibility belongs to you. I aim to empower you to recognize your innate strengths, develop them further, and effectively use them towards your goals in life.
(216) 616-8505 View (216) 616-8505
Photo of Dr. Jason Friedman, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jason Friedman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Dr. Friedman is a clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience treating children and adolescents in a variety of settings. He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and body image issues. He also uses his background and interest in sports to work with athletes in optimizing their performance. In addition to therapy at his private practice, Dr. Friedman conducts comprehensive autism evaluations at Pivotal ABA Therapy. For additional information on the autism evaluation clinic, please visit our website at https:/pivotalabatherapy.com/ autism-assessment-ohio.
Dr. Friedman is a clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience treating children and adolescents in a variety of settings. He specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and body image issues. He also uses his background and interest in sports to work with athletes in optimizing their performance. In addition to therapy at his private practice, Dr. Friedman conducts comprehensive autism evaluations at Pivotal ABA Therapy. For additional information on the autism evaluation clinic, please visit our website at https:/pivotalabatherapy.com/ autism-assessment-ohio.
(440) 901-1367 View (440) 901-1367
Photo of Solomon Zaraa, DO
Solomon Zaraa
DO
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Solomon Zaraa, DO is board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. He has expertise in medication management in all mental health disorders including ADHD, behavioral disorders, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, panic, PTSD and other trauma-related conditions, and autism.
Solomon Zaraa, DO is board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. He has expertise in medication management in all mental health disorders including ADHD, behavioral disorders, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, panic, PTSD and other trauma-related conditions, and autism.
(216) 677-9730 View (216) 677-9730
Photo of Christie Rush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christie Rush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
I have experience helping individuals with anxiety, depression, autism spectrum, grief and loss, veterans, LGBTQ, anger management, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, agoraphobia, OCD, bipolar I and II, trauma.
Greetings! I am a 2020 graduate of Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland Ohio with a Masters in Social Sciences Administration. I have my independent license through the Counselor Social Worker Marriage and Family Therapist Board (CSWMFT) in Ohio. I have experience in community mental health where I served as an intake worker diagnosing and treating individuals with many types of mental health diagnosis's, mainly severe and persistent mental illness.
I have experience helping individuals with anxiety, depression, autism spectrum, grief and loss, veterans, LGBTQ, anger management, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, agoraphobia, OCD, bipolar I and II, trauma.
Greetings! I am a 2020 graduate of Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland Ohio with a Masters in Social Sciences Administration. I have my independent license through the Counselor Social Worker Marriage and Family Therapist Board (CSWMFT) in Ohio. I have experience in community mental health where I served as an intake worker diagnosing and treating individuals with many types of mental health diagnosis's, mainly severe and persistent mental illness.
(216) 999-5619 View (216) 999-5619
Photo of Elizabeth Anne Schneps, MSW, LSW
Elizabeth Anne Schneps
MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lyndhurst, OH 44124
I specialize in working with young adults and older teens that have struggled with learning disabilities or had mental health issues such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Autism Spectrum Disorder, which have affected their overall academic or work success.
I am here to help you by being an empathetic listener and to guiding you through the process of working towards your life goals. My goal is to help you to be successful by building your skills to develop into the person that you want to be. I am the person who you can turn to with your thoughts, concerns, and problems. Each session is guided by you, as we review your progress towards your goals. We can discuss the barriers you face and find ways you can manage your feelings so you can continue to feel happy in life and with yourself.
I specialize in working with young adults and older teens that have struggled with learning disabilities or had mental health issues such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Autism Spectrum Disorder, which have affected their overall academic or work success.
I am here to help you by being an empathetic listener and to guiding you through the process of working towards your life goals. My goal is to help you to be successful by building your skills to develop into the person that you want to be. I am the person who you can turn to with your thoughts, concerns, and problems. Each session is guided by you, as we review your progress towards your goals. We can discuss the barriers you face and find ways you can manage your feelings so you can continue to feel happy in life and with yourself.
(216) 714-1921 View (216) 714-1921
Photo of Dr. Tim K. Wallace, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Tim K. Wallace
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44124  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with adults on sport and performance psychology, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, Autism, issues with identity and self-acceptance, LGBTQ support, career counseling, and phase-of-life problems.
Do you know what one of the most powerful desires in the world is? To feel heard. My ideal client desires to feel heard, seeks no judgment, and wants to learn how to develop self-compassion. As a former athlete turned therapist, I recognize that life IS performance. And although it helps to have a voice to help with high-performance demands, sometimes it's hard to ask for that voice. As a proud blerd (black and a nerd), I can also help those willing to use aspects of their culture, or pop culture, or any movie, television show, anime, video game, or piece of music that allows one to reflect and try to embrace life uniquely.
My specialty is working with adults on sport and performance psychology, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, Autism, issues with identity and self-acceptance, LGBTQ support, career counseling, and phase-of-life problems.
Do you know what one of the most powerful desires in the world is? To feel heard. My ideal client desires to feel heard, seeks no judgment, and wants to learn how to develop self-compassion. As a former athlete turned therapist, I recognize that life IS performance. And although it helps to have a voice to help with high-performance demands, sometimes it's hard to ask for that voice. As a proud blerd (black and a nerd), I can also help those willing to use aspects of their culture, or pop culture, or any movie, television show, anime, video game, or piece of music that allows one to reflect and try to embrace life uniquely.
(614) 992-7895 View (614) 992-7895
Photo of Debra Vitale, LISW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Vitale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
I am both inspired by and respectful of the time, courage and commitment it takes for you to engage in a therapeutic relationship, especially via telehealth. Utilizing a strength’s-based approach, I believe helping you to set realistic and achievable goals is pivotal to a successful outcome of self-sufficiency and self-care. Working from a place of compassion, flexibility and sensitivity, I also recognize and incorporate in treatment the importance of different life factors (e.g., family, cultural and environment) that heavily influence us socially and emotionally and our abilities to cope with challenges.
I am both inspired by and respectful of the time, courage and commitment it takes for you to engage in a therapeutic relationship, especially via telehealth. Utilizing a strength’s-based approach, I believe helping you to set realistic and achievable goals is pivotal to a successful outcome of self-sufficiency and self-care. Working from a place of compassion, flexibility and sensitivity, I also recognize and incorporate in treatment the importance of different life factors (e.g., family, cultural and environment) that heavily influence us socially and emotionally and our abilities to cope with challenges.
(216) 284-5569 View (216) 284-5569
Photo of Tiel M Wilczynski, ATR, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiel M Wilczynski
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44124  (Online Only)
You deserve wellness and healing. It is time to become the person you are meant to be, rather than person you've become based on the way life has treated you. Since 2009 I have worked in the mental health field and provided therapeutic services to individuals, couples, groups, and families. I am invested in empowering others to overcome hardship, foster perseverance, and build resilience. I have made a positive impact on the people I have served. I have assisted children, adolescents, adults, and older adults in learning and practicing the skills necessary for mental health and wellness.
You deserve wellness and healing. It is time to become the person you are meant to be, rather than person you've become based on the way life has treated you. Since 2009 I have worked in the mental health field and provided therapeutic services to individuals, couples, groups, and families. I am invested in empowering others to overcome hardship, foster perseverance, and build resilience. I have made a positive impact on the people I have served. I have assisted children, adolescents, adults, and older adults in learning and practicing the skills necessary for mental health and wellness.
(216) 755-7754 View (216) 755-7754
Photo of Michelle Martin, EdS
Michelle Martin
EdS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
Are you concerned about your -- or your child/teen's anxiety/sadness, anger/emotionality, or attention/learning? Are there social issues and/or feelings of failure? My intention is to support those who seek to understand the true cause(s) of their issues and treat them, rather than rely on pills only. Would you like to improve focus/concentration, clear thinking and interpersonal/academic and job success using an Integrated traditional and holistic approach? I enjoy helping individuals of all ages develop a sense of connectedness & self-compassion. I strive to help them feel safe and cared for as they find themselves and their passion.
Are you concerned about your -- or your child/teen's anxiety/sadness, anger/emotionality, or attention/learning? Are there social issues and/or feelings of failure? My intention is to support those who seek to understand the true cause(s) of their issues and treat them, rather than rely on pills only. Would you like to improve focus/concentration, clear thinking and interpersonal/academic and job success using an Integrated traditional and holistic approach? I enjoy helping individuals of all ages develop a sense of connectedness & self-compassion. I strive to help them feel safe and cared for as they find themselves and their passion.
(216) 600-1324 View (216) 600-1324
Photo of Hannah Heffner, ATR-BC, LPCC, DBT-LBC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Heffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPCC, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with teens and young adults who are exploring their identity and hold a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ affirming counseling. I work well with teens and young adults who experience anxiety, depression, disordered eating and self-harm behaviors. I take a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered, trauma informed approach within a social justice frame to support clients in blending the creative and practical so that clients enjoy the process of exploration and can see results in their mood and behaviors. New Group starting in April- Youth AFFIRM which is a group for LGBTQIA+ teens!
I have a passion for working with teens and young adults who are exploring their identity and hold a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ affirming counseling. I work well with teens and young adults who experience anxiety, depression, disordered eating and self-harm behaviors. I take a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered, trauma informed approach within a social justice frame to support clients in blending the creative and practical so that clients enjoy the process of exploration and can see results in their mood and behaviors. New Group starting in April- Youth AFFIRM which is a group for LGBTQIA+ teens!
(484) 549-9434 View (484) 549-9434
Photo of Smallton Cameron
Smallton Cameron
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122  (Online Only)
Everyone could use someone in their life that listens objectively and actually hears what you are saying. I think all of us deserve that person. I have a more direct approach in counseling, paired with kindness, humor, honesty, and empathy. I have several years of experience working with anxiety and depression, but also Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Schizophrenia, Sexual Orientation/Transitioning, Relational problems, and other issues that so many people are challenged with. I incorporate creative approaches when working with clients and always try to think outside of the box when it comes to coping skills.
Everyone could use someone in their life that listens objectively and actually hears what you are saying. I think all of us deserve that person. I have a more direct approach in counseling, paired with kindness, humor, honesty, and empathy. I have several years of experience working with anxiety and depression, but also Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Schizophrenia, Sexual Orientation/Transitioning, Relational problems, and other issues that so many people are challenged with. I incorporate creative approaches when working with clients and always try to think outside of the box when it comes to coping skills.
(937) 721-3461 View (937) 721-3461
Photo of Shavaun Graves Jones, MEd, LPCC-S, Counselor
Shavaun Graves Jones
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I am a Professional Clinical Counselor who reaches out to assist individuals and families who are in need. I strive to assist others in meeting personal goals, resolving areas of concern and achieving healthy lifestyles. My goal is to use my skills and educate others in the specialized field of adult, child and adolescent counseling, personal and social counseling, family counseling, mental health counseling, early childhood mental health counseling, career counseling, educational counseling, grief counseling and diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional disturbance.
I am a Professional Clinical Counselor who reaches out to assist individuals and families who are in need. I strive to assist others in meeting personal goals, resolving areas of concern and achieving healthy lifestyles. My goal is to use my skills and educate others in the specialized field of adult, child and adolescent counseling, personal and social counseling, family counseling, mental health counseling, early childhood mental health counseling, career counseling, educational counseling, grief counseling and diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional disturbance.
(800) 642-4560 View (800) 642-4560
Photo of Gerald Hayes, LP, Psychologist
Gerald Hayes
Psychologist, LP
Verified Verified
Lyndhurst, OH 44124
If you're facing adjustment issues, relationship concerns, or seeking to build resilience, I'm here for you. You might be searching for meaning, wanting to boost your self-esteem, or exploring your identity. Perhaps you're part of an underserved population, like the deaf or hard of hearing, and need tailored support. You aim to develop a healthier lifestyle and manage stress more effectively through self-awareness and self-compassion. Let's work together to achieve these goals and create lasting change in your life.
If you're facing adjustment issues, relationship concerns, or seeking to build resilience, I'm here for you. You might be searching for meaning, wanting to boost your self-esteem, or exploring your identity. Perhaps you're part of an underserved population, like the deaf or hard of hearing, and need tailored support. You aim to develop a healthier lifestyle and manage stress more effectively through self-awareness and self-compassion. Let's work together to achieve these goals and create lasting change in your life.
(216) 616-1884 View (216) 616-1884
Photo of Haley Dunn, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Haley Dunn
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
When things aren’t right and you don’t know what to do, it can be comforting to know that it doesn’t have to stay that way. When you are overwhelmed it can be hard to make day to day decisions let alone navigate the big picture. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or grief, going through a major life transition or loss, or simply wanting to feel like yourself again, I am here to be with you through that process.
When things aren’t right and you don’t know what to do, it can be comforting to know that it doesn’t have to stay that way. When you are overwhelmed it can be hard to make day to day decisions let alone navigate the big picture. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or grief, going through a major life transition or loss, or simply wanting to feel like yourself again, I am here to be with you through that process.
(216) 400-9615 View (216) 400-9615

See more therapy options for Woodmere

Autism Therapists

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.