Autism Therapists in Oakhurst, CA

Photo of Stacey Lynch, MSW, LCSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Lynch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Oakhurst, CA 93644
Waitlist for new clients
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience within diverse populations and settings including Social Services and Behavioral Health programs. Experienced in diagnosing and providing therapeutic intervention to adults, children, couples and families.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience within diverse populations and settings including Social Services and Behavioral Health programs. Experienced in diagnosing and providing therapeutic intervention to adults, children, couples and families.
(209) 886-2439 View (209) 886-2439

Online Therapists

Photo of Vasni Briones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vasni Briones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93720
I have worked extensively with children who struggle with symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety and autism who need support in managing their daily life. At times the support is needed in the school, home and/or in the community setting and I am able to provide such support.
I have worked extensively with children who struggle with symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety and autism who need support in managing their daily life. At times the support is needed in the school, home and/or in the community setting and I am able to provide such support.
(559) 663-2419 View (559) 663-2419
Photo of Rashella Avalos-Senteno, MA, LEP, Psychologist
Rashella Avalos-Senteno
Psychologist, MA, LEP
Verified Verified
Visalia, CA 93291
We at Applied Life Dynamics offer adult and child psychotherapy, psycho-educational/ psychological assessments, career assessment, social skill development for children to young adult with Autism or have other social skills or emotional deficits.
My desire is to work with you in developing the skills and tools necessary to navigate through the struggles you may face on the job, parenting children with or without disabilities, relationships, daily stressors, and helping children to learn the skills needed so they can thrive and develop at their highest potential. It first starts with self-growth, development, and to apply the life skills that are right for you. I am here to guide, council, coach, instruct, and provide assessment in the areas needed to assist in providing you with as much information and support needed to live a more peaceful life with better relationships.
We at Applied Life Dynamics offer adult and child psychotherapy, psycho-educational/ psychological assessments, career assessment, social skill development for children to young adult with Autism or have other social skills or emotional deficits.
My desire is to work with you in developing the skills and tools necessary to navigate through the struggles you may face on the job, parenting children with or without disabilities, relationships, daily stressors, and helping children to learn the skills needed so they can thrive and develop at their highest potential. It first starts with self-growth, development, and to apply the life skills that are right for you. I am here to guide, council, coach, instruct, and provide assessment in the areas needed to assist in providing you with as much information and support needed to live a more peaceful life with better relationships.
(559) 234-0693 View (559) 234-0693
Photo of Leila Yenina Gail - Connected, Heard, & Seen; SoulShine, MS, PSY-A
Connected, Heard, & Seen; SoulShine
MS, PSY-A
Verified Verified
Markleeville, CA 96120
Hello! I am a therapist and coach, PsyD student, and am passionate about connecting with clients who have a deep desire for change and growth, wanting to create a life with deeper meaning and in line with purpose. My passion is helping others to thrive in all aspects of life and guiding them to reframe negative beliefs and behaviors. Registered Psychological Associate (94028382) being supervised by Reya Kost, current PsyD student in Clinical Psychology, MS in Autism Studies, MS in Psychology, Certified Master Coach, and Mindfulness Trainer. Insurance accepted, CA-only. Cash discount. Telehealth primary.
Hello! I am a therapist and coach, PsyD student, and am passionate about connecting with clients who have a deep desire for change and growth, wanting to create a life with deeper meaning and in line with purpose. My passion is helping others to thrive in all aspects of life and guiding them to reframe negative beliefs and behaviors. Registered Psychological Associate (94028382) being supervised by Reya Kost, current PsyD student in Clinical Psychology, MS in Autism Studies, MS in Psychology, Certified Master Coach, and Mindfulness Trainer. Insurance accepted, CA-only. Cash discount. Telehealth primary.
(775) 242-5226 View (775) 242-5226
Photo of Michael 'page' Morgan, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael 'page' Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93727
Hi there, I'm Michael "Page" Morgan, a licensed professional clinical counselor. I've helped people with a variety of issues including ADHD, anxiety, Autism, mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, and more. My approach utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Existential Therapy, but I customize therapy for each individual based on their situation. I am a fun, down, earthly person. I have worked in private therapy offices, County Specialty Mental Health Services, Native American Clinics, the Educational Field, Church Counseling Offices, and the Jail System.
Hi there, I'm Michael "Page" Morgan, a licensed professional clinical counselor. I've helped people with a variety of issues including ADHD, anxiety, Autism, mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, and more. My approach utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Existential Therapy, but I customize therapy for each individual based on their situation. I am a fun, down, earthly person. I have worked in private therapy offices, County Specialty Mental Health Services, Native American Clinics, the Educational Field, Church Counseling Offices, and the Jail System.
(559) 379-5716 View (559) 379-5716
Photo of Corrina Schader - Mindful LEP, MA, PPS, LEP
Mindful LEP
MA, PPS, LEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93722
I work with learners of any age, either in school or wanting to enter school, who would like to grow emotionally or socially. Children who are not responding to other forms of therapy or intervention will benefit from play-based counseling. Individuals on the autism spectrum, or suspected to be on the spectrum, or kids with emotional regulation or executive functioning (impulsivity, attention, or time management) deficits can find help with Mindful LEP. I provide affirming care to LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse individuals to help them find acceptance and celebration of what makes them amazing. Services must be educationally related.
I work with learners of any age, either in school or wanting to enter school, who would like to grow emotionally or socially. Children who are not responding to other forms of therapy or intervention will benefit from play-based counseling. Individuals on the autism spectrum, or suspected to be on the spectrum, or kids with emotional regulation or executive functioning (impulsivity, attention, or time management) deficits can find help with Mindful LEP. I provide affirming care to LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse individuals to help them find acceptance and celebration of what makes them amazing. Services must be educationally related.
(559) 338-6639 View (559) 338-6639
Photo of Tricia Lara - Connections Family and Behavioral Services, MFT, AMFT, ASW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connections Family and Behavioral Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, AMFT, ASW
Verified Verified
Madera, CA 93637
At Connections Family and Behavioral Services work with individuals with ADHD, Autism Spectrum, behavioral, learning, and developmental diagnoses.
Does the world seem chaotic and to not make sense? Does it seem like you should be able to do more, but just can’t? Does it seem like there are rules to life everyone else knows? Are you exhausted from ‘playing the role' of yourself in your life, trying to ‘do it right'? All families want peace, all individuals want greater ease and understanding in their lives. With over 25 years of providing services to exceptional individuals, I know the importance of having the right support for the need at hand.
At Connections Family and Behavioral Services work with individuals with ADHD, Autism Spectrum, behavioral, learning, and developmental diagnoses.
Does the world seem chaotic and to not make sense? Does it seem like you should be able to do more, but just can’t? Does it seem like there are rules to life everyone else knows? Are you exhausted from ‘playing the role' of yourself in your life, trying to ‘do it right'? All families want peace, all individuals want greater ease and understanding in their lives. With over 25 years of providing services to exceptional individuals, I know the importance of having the right support for the need at hand.
(559) 517-3902 View (559) 517-3902
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95354
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(209) 399-3939 View (209) 399-3939
Photo of Dr. Ruxandra Manu (Supporting Diverse Minds), LEP, PsyD
Dr. Ruxandra Manu (Supporting Diverse Minds)
LEP, PsyD
Verified Verified
Manteca, CA 95336
Supporting Diverse Minds links your unique needs to services: Assessments like Dyslexia & Autism; Coaching for IEP & Special Education support; Section 504 help; Academic therapy; Counseling; Executive Functioning Coaching for all ages; Young Adult academic and life coaching; and child led playgroups and parent support.
Since 2020 children and young adults have been faced with a changed state of education and new challenges when it comes to learning, mental health, and the job market. If you are a parent of a child that faces school challenges (learning, behavior, emotional), a parent trying to navigate IEPs or getting supports for your child in school, a parent of a child about to enter school and need to understand if your child is ready, or a parent who wants their child academically challenged, Supporting Diverse Minds (SDM) can help you. Also, if you are a young adult in need of support to access help at college or in life, SDM can help.
Supporting Diverse Minds links your unique needs to services: Assessments like Dyslexia & Autism; Coaching for IEP & Special Education support; Section 504 help; Academic therapy; Counseling; Executive Functioning Coaching for all ages; Young Adult academic and life coaching; and child led playgroups and parent support.
Since 2020 children and young adults have been faced with a changed state of education and new challenges when it comes to learning, mental health, and the job market. If you are a parent of a child that faces school challenges (learning, behavior, emotional), a parent trying to navigate IEPs or getting supports for your child in school, a parent of a child about to enter school and need to understand if your child is ready, or a parent who wants their child academically challenged, Supporting Diverse Minds (SDM) can help you. Also, if you are a young adult in need of support to access help at college or in life, SDM can help.
(209) 332-4198 View (209) 332-4198
Photo of Michelle Dunn - Dunn Psychological Services, Inc., PhD, Psychologist
Dunn Psychological Services, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clovis, CA 93612
We specialize in Autism, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Cognitive/IQ, Academic Achievement, and Learning Disorder evaluations.
As awareness surrounding mental health increases, so do concerns from parents or individuals who feel that something may not be quite right. More and more individuals have been coming in after relating to a social media influencer posts surrounding a variety of mental health concerns. We also see parents coming in with more awareness about signs of neurodevelopmental disorders and wanting evaluations for their children as early as possible so they can begin early interventions. We are here to help provide answers to those questions and guide the next step in treatment.
We specialize in Autism, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Cognitive/IQ, Academic Achievement, and Learning Disorder evaluations.
As awareness surrounding mental health increases, so do concerns from parents or individuals who feel that something may not be quite right. More and more individuals have been coming in after relating to a social media influencer posts surrounding a variety of mental health concerns. We also see parents coming in with more awareness about signs of neurodevelopmental disorders and wanting evaluations for their children as early as possible so they can begin early interventions. We are here to help provide answers to those questions and guide the next step in treatment.
(559) 206-8957 View (559) 206-8957
Photo of Tanya E Zaleschuk - Apogee Educational Assessments, EdS, LEP
Apogee Educational Assessments
Licensed Educational Psychologist, EdS, LEP
Verified Verified
Bishop, CA 93514
Families often have questions about their child's learning, be it Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Autism, ADHD or Gifted. What is keeping your child from achieving more success? Socially, we all want our children to have friends, be invited to birthday parties or meet the milestones that others get to celebrate. Questions about how to manage that are all valid and can be addressed together. Clients also looking to optimize their brain functioning through Neurofeedback therapy, to support Anxiety, Depression, past traumas, or sleep issues can be fulfilled with treatments.
Families often have questions about their child's learning, be it Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Autism, ADHD or Gifted. What is keeping your child from achieving more success? Socially, we all want our children to have friends, be invited to birthday parties or meet the milestones that others get to celebrate. Questions about how to manage that are all valid and can be addressed together. Clients also looking to optimize their brain functioning through Neurofeedback therapy, to support Anxiety, Depression, past traumas, or sleep issues can be fulfilled with treatments.
(760) 582-7182 View (760) 582-7182
Photo of Samantha J Cooper, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha J Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Andreas, CA 95249
I bring my experience with Group Therapy, Social Thinking techniques, Autism and blended families as tools to help with the healing process.
My ideal client is a child, 3 to 18 years old that is a survivor of trauma. Play therapy offers our beloved children a needed safe and familiar place to tell their stories. It is this arena of play that children are empowered to lead the way in their therapy. Deciding when and how to share the details of their story on the journey of healing.
I bring my experience with Group Therapy, Social Thinking techniques, Autism and blended families as tools to help with the healing process.
My ideal client is a child, 3 to 18 years old that is a survivor of trauma. Play therapy offers our beloved children a needed safe and familiar place to tell their stories. It is this arena of play that children are empowered to lead the way in their therapy. Deciding when and how to share the details of their story on the journey of healing.
(209) 395-0955 View (209) 395-0955
Photo of Jetena McGhee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jetena McGhee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93721  (Online Only)
Are you a young lady or adult woman who is having difficulty navigating life? Do you have a daughter who needs help? Difficulties in life can cause crisis, guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, a lack of faith and hope, and a lack of understanding who you are and what you stand for. If you are interested in straightening you path, gaining clarity and building faith, please consider reaching out. I have a total of 15 years of experience helping children/adolescents and adults with challenging life issues. I got my start in the helping field as a therapist for children/adolescents with autism.
Are you a young lady or adult woman who is having difficulty navigating life? Do you have a daughter who needs help? Difficulties in life can cause crisis, guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, a lack of faith and hope, and a lack of understanding who you are and what you stand for. If you are interested in straightening you path, gaining clarity and building faith, please consider reaching out. I have a total of 15 years of experience helping children/adolescents and adults with challenging life issues. I got my start in the helping field as a therapist for children/adolescents with autism.
(626) 209-8340 View (626) 209-8340
Photo of Paige Fisher - Paige Fisher (Deep Wellness Center), ACSW, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paige Fisher (Deep Wellness Center)
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95356
Hello there! My name is Paige Fisher and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in working with children, teens and families. My specialties include working with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral and school issues, parenting, family conflicts, and autism. I also have a great deal of experience working with children who have an intellectual or developmental disabilities, along with their families who are coping with and adjusting to changes after a diagnosis.
Hello there! My name is Paige Fisher and I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in working with children, teens and families. My specialties include working with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral and school issues, parenting, family conflicts, and autism. I also have a great deal of experience working with children who have an intellectual or developmental disabilities, along with their families who are coping with and adjusting to changes after a diagnosis.
(209) 370-1206 View (209) 370-1206
Photo of Aimée V Sanchez, PhD, Psychologist
Aimée V Sanchez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711
I have over 20 years treating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, Alzheimers/Dementia, ADHD, Autism, learning and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Dr. Sanchez is an experienced Neuropsychologist who provides evaluation for children and adults. Her expertise is also in evaluating TBI, forensic, psychiatric, and pediatric neuropsychological evaluations. We provide comprehensive assessment services to help you achieve peace of mind, enhance brain-behavior functioning, and live a fulfilling life! We treat clients remotely via telehealth/teleneuropsychology. If you’re concerned about you or, a loved one's learning, attention or, behavior, we can help verify diagnosis to ensure you get the best results possible. Contact our office for a no-cost consult today!
I have over 20 years treating anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, Alzheimers/Dementia, ADHD, Autism, learning and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Dr. Sanchez is an experienced Neuropsychologist who provides evaluation for children and adults. Her expertise is also in evaluating TBI, forensic, psychiatric, and pediatric neuropsychological evaluations. We provide comprehensive assessment services to help you achieve peace of mind, enhance brain-behavior functioning, and live a fulfilling life! We treat clients remotely via telehealth/teleneuropsychology. If you’re concerned about you or, a loved one's learning, attention or, behavior, we can help verify diagnosis to ensure you get the best results possible. Contact our office for a no-cost consult today!
(559) 234-4377 View (559) 234-4377
Photo of Kandi Lopez, MSW, ASW
Kandi Lopez
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93722  (Online Only)
I have four years of experience working with children and families impacted by autism.
Espanol marca a 5592063048 Are you a young woman or an adult woman struggling to cope with life's challenges? Are you looking for help for your daughter? Difficulties in life can lead to crisis, guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, a lack of faith and hope, and uncertainty about your identity and values. If you are interested in finding direction, gaining clarity and strengthening your faith, please consider reaching out.
I have four years of experience working with children and families impacted by autism.
Espanol marca a 5592063048 Are you a young woman or an adult woman struggling to cope with life's challenges? Are you looking for help for your daughter? Difficulties in life can lead to crisis, guilt, shame, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, a lack of faith and hope, and uncertainty about your identity and values. If you are interested in finding direction, gaining clarity and strengthening your faith, please consider reaching out.
(559) 206-3048 View (559) 206-3048
Photo of Kirsten Suarez, MS, LMFT, BCBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kirsten Suarez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, BCBA
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95355
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California in 2018. I am also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst since 2014. I have worked in the field of Behavior Analysis since 2008, specializing in treatment for individuals diagnosed with Autism and other developmental disabilities. In addition, I have worked with adults with a variety of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, parenting challenges and life changes. My counseling style is warm, collaborative and supportive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California in 2018. I am also a Board Certified Behavior Analyst since 2014. I have worked in the field of Behavior Analysis since 2008, specializing in treatment for individuals diagnosed with Autism and other developmental disabilities. In addition, I have worked with adults with a variety of presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, parenting challenges and life changes. My counseling style is warm, collaborative and supportive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
(209) 299-3017 View (209) 299-3017
Photo of Xochitl Yazmin Zaragoza, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Xochitl Yazmin Zaragoza
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711
I have worked with a variety of populations such as domestic violence victims & perpetrators, children ranging from toddler age to teenagers, grief & loss, autism, behavioral issues, transitional life changes, & couple work. I work from an integrative Humanistic & Existential Theoretical approach as my belief is that loss is something that is experienced by everyone during many times in our lives & use nondirective play therapy when working with children & explore any issues that might be present in their lives. I have worked in private practice, agency & school based setting as a therapist & honing in my expertise.
I have worked with a variety of populations such as domestic violence victims & perpetrators, children ranging from toddler age to teenagers, grief & loss, autism, behavioral issues, transitional life changes, & couple work. I work from an integrative Humanistic & Existential Theoretical approach as my belief is that loss is something that is experienced by everyone during many times in our lives & use nondirective play therapy when working with children & explore any issues that might be present in their lives. I have worked in private practice, agency & school based setting as a therapist & honing in my expertise.
(559) 206-5374 View (559) 206-5374
Photo of Erika Eagerton - Nucleus Behavioral Health, PhD, Psychologist
Nucleus Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711
We conduct assessments to diagnose autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and learning disorders for children AND adults!.
Our primary goal is to help kids manage the road to adulthood. We provide therapy to help kids process their thoughts and feelings, assessment to make diagnoses or to guide therapeutic treatment, and consultation with parents and other providers to help adults better understand the kids in their lives. ​We are inclusive clinicians who are neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
We conduct assessments to diagnose autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and learning disorders for children AND adults!.
Our primary goal is to help kids manage the road to adulthood. We provide therapy to help kids process their thoughts and feelings, assessment to make diagnoses or to guide therapeutic treatment, and consultation with parents and other providers to help adults better understand the kids in their lives. ​We are inclusive clinicians who are neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(559) 236-6421 View (559) 236-6421
Photo of Jacqueline Gall, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Gall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sanger, CA 93657
I have worked with individuals who struggle with substance abuse disorders, depression, trauma, anger, anxiety, autism, and relationship issues. I have worked in the helping field for 6 years and have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for under a year. I have had my Advanced Alcohol and Drug counseling certificate for over 4 years. I am here to tell you, you are able to bring balance back into your life and recover from what may be troubling you. We can focus on mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
I have worked with individuals who struggle with substance abuse disorders, depression, trauma, anger, anxiety, autism, and relationship issues. I have worked in the helping field for 6 years and have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for under a year. I have had my Advanced Alcohol and Drug counseling certificate for over 4 years. I am here to tell you, you are able to bring balance back into your life and recover from what may be troubling you. We can focus on mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
(559) 461-3212 View (559) 461-3212

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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.