Autism Therapists in 08844

Photo of Amy Lyn Clarkson, MT-BC, CP, PAT, LCAT, Art Therapist
Amy Lyn Clarkson
Art Therapist, MT-BC, CP, PAT, LCAT
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
As a music therapist and psychodramatist, I support and foster my clients' innate spontaneity and creativity, which are powerful resources for growth, change, and healing. In my 20 years of clinical work, I have extensive experience helping children, teens, and adults who are coping with difficult family situations, children and teens who have experienced trauma, and children and teens with autism spectrum disorder or other neurodevelopmental disabilities. My practice also includes work with adults who are seeking to develop new alternatives for living, wanting to break free from old, unhealthy patterns that are no longer helpful.
As a music therapist and psychodramatist, I support and foster my clients' innate spontaneity and creativity, which are powerful resources for growth, change, and healing. In my 20 years of clinical work, I have extensive experience helping children, teens, and adults who are coping with difficult family situations, children and teens who have experienced trauma, and children and teens with autism spectrum disorder or other neurodevelopmental disabilities. My practice also includes work with adults who are seeking to develop new alternatives for living, wanting to break free from old, unhealthy patterns that are no longer helpful.
(908) 386-4630 View (908) 386-4630
Photo of Marissa Ross, LPC, Counselor
Marissa Ross
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
Are you feeling worried or unable to fully enjoy previous hobbies or interests that you once looked forward to? Or are you a parent of a child who is struggling emotionally or behaviorally in school or at home? It takes a great amount of strength to admit an answer to any of these, let alone seek therapy. I admire the courage of each and every person who makes the decision to come to therapy. My experience involves providing individual, group, and school counseling services to children as young as 2 years old, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have unique experience in working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
Are you feeling worried or unable to fully enjoy previous hobbies or interests that you once looked forward to? Or are you a parent of a child who is struggling emotionally or behaviorally in school or at home? It takes a great amount of strength to admit an answer to any of these, let alone seek therapy. I admire the courage of each and every person who makes the decision to come to therapy. My experience involves providing individual, group, and school counseling services to children as young as 2 years old, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have unique experience in working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
(551) 250-1017 x7 View (551) 250-1017 x7
Photo of Rory A Panter, PsyD, Psychologist
Rory A Panter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I am a Licensed Psychologist in New Jersey at Behavior Therapy Assocates (BTA) and have been the Program Director of the North New Jersey Campus of HI-STEP® Summer Program since 2008. I have a special interest in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, anxiety disorders, and training parents on behavior management strategies to improve child behavior.
I am a Licensed Psychologist in New Jersey at Behavior Therapy Assocates (BTA) and have been the Program Director of the North New Jersey Campus of HI-STEP® Summer Program since 2008. I have a special interest in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders, disruptive behavior disorders, anxiety disorders, and training parents on behavior management strategies to improve child behavior.
(848) 373-0544 View (848) 373-0544
Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Northern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
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Photo of Christine Peters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
Christine has over 10 years of therapy experience, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other approaches. She received her degree from New York University and is also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of issues. These include depression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, phobias, panic, anger, stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, developmental delays, and work/home/school issues.
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Photo of Kris Stankiewicz, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Kris Stankiewicz
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Our testing services include: Neurodevelopmental (Learning Disability, ADHD, Autism Spectrum), Neuropsychological screenings, IQ, Giftedness, Executive Function, Diagnostic, processing, and standardized test accommodation evaluations (i.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing with children, adolescents, and young adults. Specifically, I focus on helping children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with anxiety, school related stress, depression, ADHD, peer & relationship difficulty, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, behavior problems, and school challenges (i.e. school refusal/avoidance, poor executive skills, organizational difficulties, homework inconsistency, etc.). I address these challenges using cognitive-behavioral approaches that have clear scientific support for their effectiveness.
Our testing services include: Neurodevelopmental (Learning Disability, ADHD, Autism Spectrum), Neuropsychological screenings, IQ, Giftedness, Executive Function, Diagnostic, processing, and standardized test accommodation evaluations (i.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, specializing with children, adolescents, and young adults. Specifically, I focus on helping children, adolescents, and young adults presenting with anxiety, school related stress, depression, ADHD, peer & relationship difficulty, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, behavior problems, and school challenges (i.e. school refusal/avoidance, poor executive skills, organizational difficulties, homework inconsistency, etc.). I address these challenges using cognitive-behavioral approaches that have clear scientific support for their effectiveness.
(908) 212-9693 View (908) 212-9693
Photo of Jennifer Luongo - DevOTed to Kids, MSOTR/L, Occupational Therapist
DevOTed to Kids
Occupational Therapist, MSOTR/L
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Founder of Devoted to Kids, Jennifer Luongo has 23 years of experience in the field of pediatrics with an advanced Master's Degree in occupational therapy. She is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive and holistic intervention for her clients and their families. Her experience ranges from infants to young adults with autism spectrum disorder, low muscle tone, global developmental delays, cerebral palsy, developmental coordination disorder, ADHD and more. Devoted to Kids is focused on maximizing a child’s full potential in the areas of sensory processing, self-regulation, executive functioning, coordination, strength, etc.
Founder of Devoted to Kids, Jennifer Luongo has 23 years of experience in the field of pediatrics with an advanced Master's Degree in occupational therapy. She is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive and holistic intervention for her clients and their families. Her experience ranges from infants to young adults with autism spectrum disorder, low muscle tone, global developmental delays, cerebral palsy, developmental coordination disorder, ADHD and more. Devoted to Kids is focused on maximizing a child’s full potential in the areas of sensory processing, self-regulation, executive functioning, coordination, strength, etc.
(848) 600-6543 View (848) 600-6543
Photo of Catherine M O'Sullivan - Trinity Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Trinity Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Our team of professionals includes psychotherapists and neuropsychologists. Our team of therapists focus on providing cognitive behavior therapy, which is an approach that helps clients to identify unhealthy ways of thinking so that they can learn to change those patterns and develop healthier coping skills. We have clinicians that focus on supporting the emotional needs of children as well as those who work with adults. Our neuropsychological services assess for learning differences which may result from a range of challenges, including but not limited to ADHD, brain injuries, learning disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Our team of professionals includes psychotherapists and neuropsychologists. Our team of therapists focus on providing cognitive behavior therapy, which is an approach that helps clients to identify unhealthy ways of thinking so that they can learn to change those patterns and develop healthier coping skills. We have clinicians that focus on supporting the emotional needs of children as well as those who work with adults. Our neuropsychological services assess for learning differences which may result from a range of challenges, including but not limited to ADHD, brain injuries, learning disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(551) 250-1017 View (551) 250-1017
Photo of Ellen Herr-Israel, MA, MBA, PhD, Psychologist
Ellen Herr-Israel
Psychologist, MA, MBA, PhD
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I provide evaluation, diagnosis and treatment/educational recommendations for developmental disorders or delays including intellectual disability, specific learning disability, autism, and Fragile X syndrome.
Intergenerational family dysfunction is not inevitable. I work with adults and children to untangle relational and behavioral patterns that are often foundational to the presenting problem. I take an integrative, strength-based approach and help the client identify perceptions and attributions that may be interfering with optimal self development and fulfilling relationships. This therapeutic approach is helpful in changing dysfunctional relational dynamics to those that promote growth and well-being.
I provide evaluation, diagnosis and treatment/educational recommendations for developmental disorders or delays including intellectual disability, specific learning disability, autism, and Fragile X syndrome.
Intergenerational family dysfunction is not inevitable. I work with adults and children to untangle relational and behavioral patterns that are often foundational to the presenting problem. I take an integrative, strength-based approach and help the client identify perceptions and attributions that may be interfering with optimal self development and fulfilling relationships. This therapeutic approach is helpful in changing dysfunctional relational dynamics to those that promote growth and well-being.
(908) 386-5142 View (908) 386-5142
Photo of Mark Cooperberg, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Cooperberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Case Western Reserve University in 2003 after completing my pre-doctoral internship at UMDNJ-RWJ. I am the Director of Psychological Services at Princeton Speech-Language & Learning Center and a Clinical Instructor at Rutgers-RWJ Medical School. My primary work is with children, adolescents, and their families. I also treat adults. I have expertise in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Psychoeducational and Psychological Assessments, and I am a qualified Cogmed coach (computerized working memory training). I work with individuals who have AD/HD, Autism, disruptive behavior, social difficulties, and Mood and Anxiety Disorders
I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Case Western Reserve University in 2003 after completing my pre-doctoral internship at UMDNJ-RWJ. I am the Director of Psychological Services at Princeton Speech-Language & Learning Center and a Clinical Instructor at Rutgers-RWJ Medical School. My primary work is with children, adolescents, and their families. I also treat adults. I have expertise in Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Psychoeducational and Psychological Assessments, and I am a qualified Cogmed coach (computerized working memory training). I work with individuals who have AD/HD, Autism, disruptive behavior, social difficulties, and Mood and Anxiety Disorders
(609) 454-6184 View (609) 454-6184
Photo of Stefanie Marky, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stefanie Marky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Do you sometimes feel stressed, anxious, overwhelmed and need someone to talk to you? The decision to seek therapy is usually not an easy one to make but I am here to offer guidance and support during your journey. Whether you struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, or coping with the effects of the Pandemic, you do not have to travel these steps alone. It is my belief that therapy comes in all shapes and sizes and together we can see what works best for you. I truly believe in the meaningful and transformative effects of therapy.
Do you sometimes feel stressed, anxious, overwhelmed and need someone to talk to you? The decision to seek therapy is usually not an easy one to make but I am here to offer guidance and support during your journey. Whether you struggle with anxiety, stress, depression, or coping with the effects of the Pandemic, you do not have to travel these steps alone. It is my belief that therapy comes in all shapes and sizes and together we can see what works best for you. I truly believe in the meaningful and transformative effects of therapy.
(732) 290-4341 View (732) 290-4341
Photo of Roni Michaels-DeBlank, MSW, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roni Michaels-DeBlank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
If you are experiencing feelings of stress, overwhelm, anxiety, sadness, lack of motivation, or challenges within your relationships, I am here to support you. Whether you are struggling with fear, addiction, disordered eating, insomnia, illness, clutter, or gender identity issues, I am dedicated to helping you lead a more fulfilling life.
If you are experiencing feelings of stress, overwhelm, anxiety, sadness, lack of motivation, or challenges within your relationships, I am here to support you. Whether you are struggling with fear, addiction, disordered eating, insomnia, illness, clutter, or gender identity issues, I am dedicated to helping you lead a more fulfilling life.
(908) 938-9167 View (908) 938-9167
Photo of Kari Lynn Costello, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kari Lynn Costello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Taking the steps to find a therapist can be overwhelming, but making the decision to take those steps is the hardest part. Recognizing that there is a need for support is a sign of strength & courage. I believe that building a therapeutic relationship & providing a safe environment are the two most important elements in therapy. My goal is to establish those elements in efforts to guide & empower clients towards personal growth & achievement. My work with clients is supportive, nonjudgmental, collaborative, builds upon client strengths & aims to foster a change process. I utilize cognitive behavioral, strengths, solution focused & mindfulness approaches.
Taking the steps to find a therapist can be overwhelming, but making the decision to take those steps is the hardest part. Recognizing that there is a need for support is a sign of strength & courage. I believe that building a therapeutic relationship & providing a safe environment are the two most important elements in therapy. My goal is to establish those elements in efforts to guide & empower clients towards personal growth & achievement. My work with clients is supportive, nonjudgmental, collaborative, builds upon client strengths & aims to foster a change process. I utilize cognitive behavioral, strengths, solution focused & mindfulness approaches.
(908) 242-3316 View (908) 242-3316
Photo of Jennifer Stradling, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Stradling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
I would identify my ideal client as an adolescent who is experiencing mental health issues and/or interpersonal difficulties. This could include an individual experiencing PTSD-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and other mental health-related issues. This could also include an individual experiencing life stressors/transitions, difficulties in developing healthy and sustainable relationships, complex grief, and lack of self-esteem and role identification. The goals of an ideal client would include improving mental health-related symptoms through the application of coping skills, communication skills, and self-esteem.
I would identify my ideal client as an adolescent who is experiencing mental health issues and/or interpersonal difficulties. This could include an individual experiencing PTSD-related symptoms, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and other mental health-related issues. This could also include an individual experiencing life stressors/transitions, difficulties in developing healthy and sustainable relationships, complex grief, and lack of self-esteem and role identification. The goals of an ideal client would include improving mental health-related symptoms through the application of coping skills, communication skills, and self-esteem.
(908) 364-9350 View (908) 364-9350
Photo of Leonard V Pisano, PhD, Psychologist
Leonard V Pisano
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Dr. Leonard V. Pisano has over 30 years experience as a school Psychologist offering psychological services to both general and special education students. Evaluations include Psycho-Ed and School Neuropsychological assessments addressing learning, behavioral and social-emotional issues. The evaluation examines the student's strengths, weaknesses, how information is utilized and the impact of learning environments. Dr. Pisano's therapeutic services reflect consultation, advocacy, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, motivational interviewing and goal-setting techniques dealing with adjustment problems and coping strategies.
Dr. Leonard V. Pisano has over 30 years experience as a school Psychologist offering psychological services to both general and special education students. Evaluations include Psycho-Ed and School Neuropsychological assessments addressing learning, behavioral and social-emotional issues. The evaluation examines the student's strengths, weaknesses, how information is utilized and the impact of learning environments. Dr. Pisano's therapeutic services reflect consultation, advocacy, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, motivational interviewing and goal-setting techniques dealing with adjustment problems and coping strategies.
(908) 809-8113 View (908) 809-8113
Photo of AnnaMarie Resnikoff, PhD, Psychologist
AnnaMarie Resnikoff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Adult Men and Women - Interested in relieving your distressing symptoms that may be interfering in your ability to work, learn, engage in relationships or enjoy your life? I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Treatment of: Depression Anxiety disorders, including: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Panic Agoraphobia Social and Generalized Anxiety CBT teaches clients to distinguish between thoughts and feelings and develop effective coping techniques. I work with clients in a supportive and empathic atmosphere. Clients learn problem-solving skills through application of CBT techniques to real-life problems in their daily lives.
Adult Men and Women - Interested in relieving your distressing symptoms that may be interfering in your ability to work, learn, engage in relationships or enjoy your life? I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Treatment of: Depression Anxiety disorders, including: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Panic Agoraphobia Social and Generalized Anxiety CBT teaches clients to distinguish between thoughts and feelings and develop effective coping techniques. I work with clients in a supportive and empathic atmosphere. Clients learn problem-solving skills through application of CBT techniques to real-life problems in their daily lives.
(732) 333-8448 View (732) 333-8448
Photo of Jessica Jensen - Growth & Empowerment, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Growth & Empowerment
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
"Life moves pretty fast, if you don't stop and look around once in a while you could miss it"- This is one of my favorite quotes from the movie Ferris Bueller's Day off because it is so true. Things happen to us throughout our lifetime that make us feel stuck, worthless, guilty, shamed, and like we are never enough. These ideas about ourselves dictate the way we learn, how we do in school and work, and how we love and connect to others. When someone has experienced trauma, these thoughts and feelings can be even more extreme which can cause significant distress. Growth and Empowerment is accepting new clients!
"Life moves pretty fast, if you don't stop and look around once in a while you could miss it"- This is one of my favorite quotes from the movie Ferris Bueller's Day off because it is so true. Things happen to us throughout our lifetime that make us feel stuck, worthless, guilty, shamed, and like we are never enough. These ideas about ourselves dictate the way we learn, how we do in school and work, and how we love and connect to others. When someone has experienced trauma, these thoughts and feelings can be even more extreme which can cause significant distress. Growth and Empowerment is accepting new clients!
(908) 451-7896 View (908) 451-7896
Photo of Cheryl Stashkevetch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Stashkevetch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
If you're here, it's likely that you're concerned about your child's ability to handle big feelings and life situations. Maybe you've noticed that they are spending a lot of time worrying, having trouble with friends, or perhaps are acting out at school. As a counselor, I'm here to support your child in finding their own path towards self-discovery and growth. My approach is centered on the power of play, which I believe is one of the most important tools for supporting children in their journey towards emotional well-being. My goal is to help your child access their own courage, determination, resilience and strength.
If you're here, it's likely that you're concerned about your child's ability to handle big feelings and life situations. Maybe you've noticed that they are spending a lot of time worrying, having trouble with friends, or perhaps are acting out at school. As a counselor, I'm here to support your child in finding their own path towards self-discovery and growth. My approach is centered on the power of play, which I believe is one of the most important tools for supporting children in their journey towards emotional well-being. My goal is to help your child access their own courage, determination, resilience and strength.
(609) 804-5048 View (609) 804-5048
Photo of Jacqueline Pidich, LPC, ACS, LPAT, ATR- BC, ATCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacqueline Pidich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, LPAT, ATR- BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
We are living in very different times. Are stress, depression and anxiety eating you alive? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or lonely, despite all of your attempts at handling life alone? You deserve a break, and you owe it to yourself to try! I can help you with the transitions you face due to Covid, the change in seasons, college and job stress, break ups, divorce, raising kids, coming out as LGBT and, or chronic pain. I get it you may not know where to start. I myself have overcome many life's challenges. Breathe and take a shot! ... Art Therapy and talk therapy can provide a sense of relief, and I am here to support you!
We are living in very different times. Are stress, depression and anxiety eating you alive? Are you feeling overwhelmed, unheard, or lonely, despite all of your attempts at handling life alone? You deserve a break, and you owe it to yourself to try! I can help you with the transitions you face due to Covid, the change in seasons, college and job stress, break ups, divorce, raising kids, coming out as LGBT and, or chronic pain. I get it you may not know where to start. I myself have overcome many life's challenges. Breathe and take a shot! ... Art Therapy and talk therapy can provide a sense of relief, and I am here to support you!
(609) 436-9416 View (609) 436-9416
Photo of Kristi A Pace, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi A Pace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
My methods are deeply rooted in empathy, aided by a caring heart and an analytical mind, as well as an ability to build strong relationships and enlist clients' cooperation in facing life’s journeys. I use plain and even colorful language to create an atmosphere of safety, trust, honesty, openness, understanding, and growth. I've been in practice over 19 years. More than 7 of my years in practice have been dedicated to in-home therapy services. I have seen first-hand how much more at ease my clients are when completing sessions at home. I add to that comfort by bringing open-minded kindness, honesty, and respect to all households.
My methods are deeply rooted in empathy, aided by a caring heart and an analytical mind, as well as an ability to build strong relationships and enlist clients' cooperation in facing life’s journeys. I use plain and even colorful language to create an atmosphere of safety, trust, honesty, openness, understanding, and growth. I've been in practice over 19 years. More than 7 of my years in practice have been dedicated to in-home therapy services. I have seen first-hand how much more at ease my clients are when completing sessions at home. I add to that comfort by bringing open-minded kindness, honesty, and respect to all households.
(973) 821-3114 View (973) 821-3114
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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.