Autism Therapists in Alaska

Jennifer Hood, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairbanks, AK 99701
I do have some expertise in trauma both physical and psychological, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Autism high functioning.
I like to work with families, including children of all ages. I also work with individual adults and occasional couples. I also like to work with military families. I am also trained in EMDR therapy and have even tried some of this therapy style with adolescents. I am also trained in perinatal mood disorders.
I do have some expertise in trauma both physical and psychological, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Autism high functioning.
I like to work with families, including children of all ages. I also work with individual adults and occasional couples. I also like to work with military families. I am also trained in EMDR therapy and have even tried some of this therapy style with adolescents. I am also trained in perinatal mood disorders.
(907) 891-8232 View (907) 891-8232
Photo of Family Mental Health & Wellness, Pre-Licensed Professional in Alaska
Family Mental Health & Wellness
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Not Verified Not Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
My passion and many years of experience in behavioral health centers around providing mental health counseling, family therapy, group counseling support for people of all ages who struggle with ADHD, and Autism, Spectrum Disorders or traits of these disorders.
Are you creative and intelligent, but organizationally challenged, sitting at Procrastination Station, tired of losing things, forgetting appointments and deadlines, a little bit like Dory in Finding Nemo with the short term memory loss? Do you struggle with self confidence, depression and anxiety when you don’t quite fit in with neurotypical linear thought patterns? Do you feel isolated, judged, and very misunderstood by family members, coworkers, and well meaning friends who offer you advice and simple solutions that just don’t work? Maybe it’s someone in your family facing these struggles. You are not alone.
My passion and many years of experience in behavioral health centers around providing mental health counseling, family therapy, group counseling support for people of all ages who struggle with ADHD, and Autism, Spectrum Disorders or traits of these disorders.
Are you creative and intelligent, but organizationally challenged, sitting at Procrastination Station, tired of losing things, forgetting appointments and deadlines, a little bit like Dory in Finding Nemo with the short term memory loss? Do you struggle with self confidence, depression and anxiety when you don’t quite fit in with neurotypical linear thought patterns? Do you feel isolated, judged, and very misunderstood by family members, coworkers, and well meaning friends who offer you advice and simple solutions that just don’t work? Maybe it’s someone in your family facing these struggles. You are not alone.
(833) 313-0580 View (833) 313-0580
Photo of Breanna James, Occupational Therapist in Alaska
Breanna James
Occupational Therapist, OTD, OTR/L
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99517  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you an adult with autism, ADHD or a traumatic brain injury who struggles with everyday activities? Do you want to implement healthy habits and routines into your daily life, but don't know where to start? Does sensory overload make it difficult for you to go to work, parent, and have fun? Or do you want to create a daily routine that makes you feel fulfilled and not burnt out? I am a board certified occupational therapist with specialty trainings, certifications, and experience in treating neurological conditions (i.e. traumatic brain injury; stroke), chronic illnesses, and mental conditions (i.e. autism, ADHD).
Are you an adult with autism, ADHD or a traumatic brain injury who struggles with everyday activities? Do you want to implement healthy habits and routines into your daily life, but don't know where to start? Does sensory overload make it difficult for you to go to work, parent, and have fun? Or do you want to create a daily routine that makes you feel fulfilled and not burnt out? I am a board certified occupational therapist with specialty trainings, certifications, and experience in treating neurological conditions (i.e. traumatic brain injury; stroke), chronic illnesses, and mental conditions (i.e. autism, ADHD).
(907) 531-9443 View (907) 531-9443
Photo of Somer Webber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Somer Webber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Do you often feel misunderstood by people in your life, or find it difficult to understand them? Do you have trouble experiencing big emotions, and communicating them to others? Do you experience symptoms of ADHD, Autism Spectrum, trauma, or dysfunction in your family? I am a neurodiversity-affirming therapist, with the belief that each person is an expert on their own experience. When working together, we will create a safe and trusting relationship, to provide a space for honest and meaningful discussion. I will empower you to understand your brain and emotions, to accept and improve your current circumstances.
Do you often feel misunderstood by people in your life, or find it difficult to understand them? Do you have trouble experiencing big emotions, and communicating them to others? Do you experience symptoms of ADHD, Autism Spectrum, trauma, or dysfunction in your family? I am a neurodiversity-affirming therapist, with the belief that each person is an expert on their own experience. When working together, we will create a safe and trusting relationship, to provide a space for honest and meaningful discussion. I will empower you to understand your brain and emotions, to accept and improve your current circumstances.
(833) 689-3916 View (833) 689-3916
Photo of Caroline Blair, Psychologist in Alaska
Caroline Blair
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
In my neuropsychological evaluation practice, I evaluate individuals from preschool age into adulthood to include assessment for Developmental Disorders, Autism, ADHD, Learning Disorders, FASD, TBI, medical and genetic factors, as well as diagnostic clarification related to complex presentations.
I am a Psychologist and lifelong Alaskan, growing up and working in Anchorage. My clinical focus and expertise, whether as a therapist or when conducting evaluations, is to work with individuals to develop a sense of personal strength and capacity, and to identify and achieve their goals. I work with them and their family/support system to understand the basis of their current challenge(s), and collaborate to develop resources and skills that are developmentally appropriate for a successful resolution. My practice is split between providing therapeutic services and conducting neuropsychological evaluations.
In my neuropsychological evaluation practice, I evaluate individuals from preschool age into adulthood to include assessment for Developmental Disorders, Autism, ADHD, Learning Disorders, FASD, TBI, medical and genetic factors, as well as diagnostic clarification related to complex presentations.
I am a Psychologist and lifelong Alaskan, growing up and working in Anchorage. My clinical focus and expertise, whether as a therapist or when conducting evaluations, is to work with individuals to develop a sense of personal strength and capacity, and to identify and achieve their goals. I work with them and their family/support system to understand the basis of their current challenge(s), and collaborate to develop resources and skills that are developmentally appropriate for a successful resolution. My practice is split between providing therapeutic services and conducting neuropsychological evaluations.
(844) 407-2123 View (844) 407-2123
Photo of Nicole Gregson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Nicole Gregson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
After graduation, I pursued specialized training in EMDR, fetal alcohol syndrome, autism, Filial Therapy, and play therapy.
As a committed Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in working with preschool and elementary age children and their families. Children do not always have the language they need to work through their struggles. If we listen and allow the toys to be their words and play to be their language, they tell us so much. Every child has a unique wonder and light inside of them, sometimes they just need help developing their tools to be their best self. Play is how children express themselves, practice and learn new tasks, and regulate emotions. Many children can benefit from play therapy.
After graduation, I pursued specialized training in EMDR, fetal alcohol syndrome, autism, Filial Therapy, and play therapy.
As a committed Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in working with preschool and elementary age children and their families. Children do not always have the language they need to work through their struggles. If we listen and allow the toys to be their words and play to be their language, they tell us so much. Every child has a unique wonder and light inside of them, sometimes they just need help developing their tools to be their best self. Play is how children express themselves, practice and learn new tasks, and regulate emotions. Many children can benefit from play therapy.
(907) 717-7779 View (907) 717-7779
Spatrisano Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
My name is Jaime Spatrisano. I am originally from the midwest but have been enjoying Alaska's nature since 2010 when I moved up. I worked as a therapist for over 10 years and became a clinical psychologist in 2019. I then began a postdoctoral fellowship with Fuller Diagnostics in 2022 where I was trained as a clinical neuropsychologist. I have been conducting neuropsychological evaluations since and recently opened a private practice where I conduct neuropsychological evaluations for a variety of concerns including ADHD, autism, dementia, and traumatic brain injuries.
My name is Jaime Spatrisano. I am originally from the midwest but have been enjoying Alaska's nature since 2010 when I moved up. I worked as a therapist for over 10 years and became a clinical psychologist in 2019. I then began a postdoctoral fellowship with Fuller Diagnostics in 2022 where I was trained as a clinical neuropsychologist. I have been conducting neuropsychological evaluations since and recently opened a private practice where I conduct neuropsychological evaluations for a variety of concerns including ADHD, autism, dementia, and traumatic brain injuries.
(855) 586-1026 View (855) 586-1026
Photo of Kurtis L Walton, Counselor in Alaska
Kurtis L Walton
Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
As a Therapist, I specialize in ILF Neurofeedback. Neurofeedback is a noninvasive brain training method that does not involve "traditional talk therapy." Neurofeedback works by training your brain like a personal trainer at the gym. EEG Biofeedback has been around for over 40 years. It was originally used to help epilepsy and has now advanced to help a multitude of issues from PTST, Autism, ADHD, Migraines, and more. I have trained both in Europe and in the USA. What I love about Neurofeedback is it offers another and different method in helping us with our own issues.
As a Therapist, I specialize in ILF Neurofeedback. Neurofeedback is a noninvasive brain training method that does not involve "traditional talk therapy." Neurofeedback works by training your brain like a personal trainer at the gym. EEG Biofeedback has been around for over 40 years. It was originally used to help epilepsy and has now advanced to help a multitude of issues from PTST, Autism, ADHD, Migraines, and more. I have trained both in Europe and in the USA. What I love about Neurofeedback is it offers another and different method in helping us with our own issues.
(907) 312-2485 View (907) 312-2485
Photo of Nicole Zegiestowsky, M.S. (she/her), Pre-Licensed Professional in Alaska
Nicole Zegiestowsky, M.S. (she/her)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99515
Do you wake up and feel exhausted? Do you have a chronic illness that impacts your mental health? Are you searching for meaning? Are you struggling to connect with your friends, child, or loved ones? My name is Nicole, I use telehealth and/or outdoor walking therapy sessions with adults in Alaska and Anchorage who want to flourish. Whether your struggle is stemming from depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, perinatal/postpartum mental health, chronic illness, ADHD/ Autism, or unhealthy relationships, you deserve to feel joy every day in life.
Do you wake up and feel exhausted? Do you have a chronic illness that impacts your mental health? Are you searching for meaning? Are you struggling to connect with your friends, child, or loved ones? My name is Nicole, I use telehealth and/or outdoor walking therapy sessions with adults in Alaska and Anchorage who want to flourish. Whether your struggle is stemming from depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, perinatal/postpartum mental health, chronic illness, ADHD/ Autism, or unhealthy relationships, you deserve to feel joy every day in life.
(907) 744-7026 View (907) 744-7026
Photo of Lynne (Ann) Kelsey, LPC Supervisor AK-Psychodynami, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Lynne (Ann) Kelsey, LPC Supervisor AK-Psychodynami
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EMDR, DBT, CBT
Verified Verified
Eagle River, AK 99577
I am an early interventionist/child development and disability specialist especially TBI/ABI, Treat Autism Aspergers.
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
I am an early interventionist/child development and disability specialist especially TBI/ABI, Treat Autism Aspergers.
Respectful, supportive, positive CBT THERAPY, insight oriented, life coaching, wellness consulting, communication/problem solving and symptom mgt. for performance techniques with results. Regain control, improve relationships, communication, problem solving, work/career or sport. Brief intensive skill building tools for success. Strength based, personality specific Goal and objective setting. Be independent, yet patient; journal and homework", appreciation for incremental gains. Your individual uniqueness, intuition and inner guidance system are valued, so fine tune those To work well for you. Mind, body, spirit appreciated. Disabilities infant mental health young children. couples, marital, sex counseling, addictions, porn, horse therapy. Trauma specialist, anxiety, depression.
(907) 318-7841 View (907) 318-7841
Photo of Anika K Mullen, Counselor in Alaska
Anika K Mullen
Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, CPC
Verified Verified
Fairbanks, AK 99706  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also work with foster and adoptive children, as well as, provide PCIT-ASD, to children with Level 1 or 2 autism.
Have the terrible 2's never stopped or gotten worse after your child turned 2.5 yrs? Do you have a young child with more frequent, long, or intense temper tantrums and behavior problems than is expected for the child’s age? Does your child seem to get a thrill out of purposely annoying others, get in trouble regularly at preschool, or react with defiance and aggression to adult requests and limits? Or, is your child so anxious that you are dreading daycare or school drop offs because your child has to be pried off of you? Is your child struggling to adjust to a big transition like parents’ divorce, a new sibling, grief, or trauma?
I also work with foster and adoptive children, as well as, provide PCIT-ASD, to children with Level 1 or 2 autism.
Have the terrible 2's never stopped or gotten worse after your child turned 2.5 yrs? Do you have a young child with more frequent, long, or intense temper tantrums and behavior problems than is expected for the child’s age? Does your child seem to get a thrill out of purposely annoying others, get in trouble regularly at preschool, or react with defiance and aggression to adult requests and limits? Or, is your child so anxious that you are dreading daycare or school drop offs because your child has to be pried off of you? Is your child struggling to adjust to a big transition like parents’ divorce, a new sibling, grief, or trauma?
(775) 204-4567 View (775) 204-4567
Photo of Jennifer Dolphin | Open Door Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Jennifer Dolphin | Open Door Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99515
Waitlist for new clients
Do you carry old hurts and wonder if you’re good enough? Maybe you struggle with feeling hopeless and unmotivated. You get stuck in cycles you don’t know how to break and feel like you make the same mistakes over and over. You feel overwhelmed with guilt and shame. Maybe you wonder if you’ll ever have healthy relationships. It’s tearing you down from the inside out because you just want to feel content within and connected to others. Whether you're married with kids or single and kid-free; hurt is hurt and you deserve peace.
Do you carry old hurts and wonder if you’re good enough? Maybe you struggle with feeling hopeless and unmotivated. You get stuck in cycles you don’t know how to break and feel like you make the same mistakes over and over. You feel overwhelmed with guilt and shame. Maybe you wonder if you’ll ever have healthy relationships. It’s tearing you down from the inside out because you just want to feel content within and connected to others. Whether you're married with kids or single and kid-free; hurt is hurt and you deserve peace.
(844) 948-1742 View (844) 948-1742
Photo of Brad Ohs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Brad Ohs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palmer, AK 99645
I am dedicated to helping people overcome personal challenges, establish healthy balance and achieve lasting change through mindfulness-based approaches. These practices are very helpful for clients faced with issues such as anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, relationship/family issues, stress-related physical problems and life transitions. I have provided counseling services for over 35 years to children, teens, and adults and customize therapy to meet your specific needs and goals. To that end I have trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques, in the belief that no one size fits all.
I am dedicated to helping people overcome personal challenges, establish healthy balance and achieve lasting change through mindfulness-based approaches. These practices are very helpful for clients faced with issues such as anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, relationship/family issues, stress-related physical problems and life transitions. I have provided counseling services for over 35 years to children, teens, and adults and customize therapy to meet your specific needs and goals. To that end I have trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques, in the belief that no one size fits all.
(907) 331-6790 View (907) 331-6790
Photo of Colleen Nusbaum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Colleen Nusbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDCI, LPC Sup
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Soldotna, AK 99669
I was born in Anchorage, Alaska and have lived on the Kenai Peninsula with my mother, husband and two daughters since 2005. Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to mental/behavioral health challenges and teamed with my clients in order to help them achieve healthy/balanced personal lives and relationships. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and member of the Kenai Peninsula Community, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. I work with all ages from 2 years to our elders. I'm here for you, get in touch and book your session today...
I was born in Anchorage, Alaska and have lived on the Kenai Peninsula with my mother, husband and two daughters since 2005. Since 2010, I’ve dedicated myself to mental/behavioral health challenges and teamed with my clients in order to help them achieve healthy/balanced personal lives and relationships. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and member of the Kenai Peninsula Community, I’m deeply committed to being there when you need me most—helping you explore, heal, and move forward into a happy and healthy mindset. I work with all ages from 2 years to our elders. I'm here for you, get in touch and book your session today...
(907) 394-4442 View (907) 394-4442
Photo of Tracy Follett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Tracy Follett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99508
I have experience working with pre-teens and adolescents in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and adults in outpatient settings. Part of my approach to the therapeutic process is to develop a trusting relationship with my clients. It is through the development of this relationship that growth and change happen as we work toward a common goal; to feel empowered to ignite a change for themselves. I work to help clients make sense of circumstances that have been confusing or upsetting, I also help them develop insight into how they relate to others, how they see themselves, and how their choices affect themselves and others.
I have experience working with pre-teens and adolescents in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and adults in outpatient settings. Part of my approach to the therapeutic process is to develop a trusting relationship with my clients. It is through the development of this relationship that growth and change happen as we work toward a common goal; to feel empowered to ignite a change for themselves. I work to help clients make sense of circumstances that have been confusing or upsetting, I also help them develop insight into how they relate to others, how they see themselves, and how their choices affect themselves and others.
(855) 979-9080 View (855) 979-9080
Photo of Refocus Counseling Ministry, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Refocus Counseling Ministry, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
There are times you may experience life controlled by intense emotions or paralyzing anxiety/fear, detached numbness takes over. Traumatic memories that are overwhelming, causing insomnia or night tears. Facing another day in Alaska with loneliness, regrets and even suicidal ideation is too much! Relationships suffer from conflict and lack of intimacy, distraction is inevitable.Teen conflict, locked in power struggles without solutions that result in endless frustration dominating your time. Emotional control, seems like only a vague dream, that is illusive and beyond you. You are on your way towards healing, We can show you with
There are times you may experience life controlled by intense emotions or paralyzing anxiety/fear, detached numbness takes over. Traumatic memories that are overwhelming, causing insomnia or night tears. Facing another day in Alaska with loneliness, regrets and even suicidal ideation is too much! Relationships suffer from conflict and lack of intimacy, distraction is inevitable.Teen conflict, locked in power struggles without solutions that result in endless frustration dominating your time. Emotional control, seems like only a vague dream, that is illusive and beyond you. You are on your way towards healing, We can show you with
(907) 521-8504 View (907) 521-8504
Photo of Brandi Askeland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska
Brandi Askeland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients! Parenting is hard. Having a child experiencing behavioral health difficulties can be confusing, frustrating, as well as exhausting. Keep hold of your hope, as there are clinically proven strategies out there. I utilize an integrative and cooperative approach to treatment to support both you and your child. My passion is helping parents be the parents they believed they could be, supporting connections and helping youth heal. It takes courage, work, and intention to reach your full potential.
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients! Parenting is hard. Having a child experiencing behavioral health difficulties can be confusing, frustrating, as well as exhausting. Keep hold of your hope, as there are clinically proven strategies out there. I utilize an integrative and cooperative approach to treatment to support both you and your child. My passion is helping parents be the parents they believed they could be, supporting connections and helping youth heal. It takes courage, work, and intention to reach your full potential.
(907) 759-3720 View (907) 759-3720
Photo of A Listening Ear LLC, Counselor in Alaska
A Listening Ear LLC
Counselor, PsyD, LPC-S, RPT-S, CDC-I, MAC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
Greetings! My name is Janece and I am here to provide individuals and families with a safe and supportive place to work on sensitive concerns. I believe that change comes from commitment and dedication to improving oneself from the inside out. When individuals are able to regain control of life trouble, there is a tendency to feel better mentally, physically, and spiritually. I have my Doctorate of counseling psychology (PsyD), am a licensed professional counselor - supervisor (LPC), registered play therapist - supervisor (RPT-S), a nationally certified counselor (NBCC), certified dependency counselor - I (CDC-I), and a master addictions counselor (MAC).
Greetings! My name is Janece and I am here to provide individuals and families with a safe and supportive place to work on sensitive concerns. I believe that change comes from commitment and dedication to improving oneself from the inside out. When individuals are able to regain control of life trouble, there is a tendency to feel better mentally, physically, and spiritually. I have my Doctorate of counseling psychology (PsyD), am a licensed professional counselor - supervisor (LPC), registered play therapist - supervisor (RPT-S), a nationally certified counselor (NBCC), certified dependency counselor - I (CDC-I), and a master addictions counselor (MAC).
(907) 885-6081 View (907) 885-6081
Photo of Margie Thomson (She Her Hers), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alaska
Margie Thomson (She Her Hers)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Juneau, AK 99801
Are you looking for a safe place to explore your gender identity? Are you a parent or partner adjusting to the identity of your loved one? We offer a gender affirming, safe and confidential place for folx to explore and discover their journey and authenticity. I hope to create a safe space for you to work with some of the issues or situations that have entered into your life, or make sense of things that have happened in the past. Working from a gender affirming, strength based approach, I believe that we all can reach our goals and aspirations with support and be empowered to be our authentic selves.
Are you looking for a safe place to explore your gender identity? Are you a parent or partner adjusting to the identity of your loved one? We offer a gender affirming, safe and confidential place for folx to explore and discover their journey and authenticity. I hope to create a safe space for you to work with some of the issues or situations that have entered into your life, or make sense of things that have happened in the past. Working from a gender affirming, strength based approach, I believe that we all can reach our goals and aspirations with support and be empowered to be our authentic selves.
(907) 723-9574 View (907) 723-9574
Photo of Brighton Brooks, Pre-Licensed Professional in Alaska
Brighton Brooks
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairbanks, AK 99701  (Online Only)
What is safe? It can be hard to answer if your nervous system has adapted to dangerous or stressful situations, systems, people, and places. This can impact your relationship to yourself (your body in particular) and to others, leaving you feeling lonely, numb, overwhelmed, or in pain without knowing why. Let’s work together to explore new pathways to safety and to your core—a whole person worthy of love, joy, and liberation.
What is safe? It can be hard to answer if your nervous system has adapted to dangerous or stressful situations, systems, people, and places. This can impact your relationship to yourself (your body in particular) and to others, leaving you feeling lonely, numb, overwhelmed, or in pain without knowing why. Let’s work together to explore new pathways to safety and to your core—a whole person worthy of love, joy, and liberation.
(855) 714-2505 View (855) 714-2505

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.