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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Greg Handel - Handel Behavioral Health Franklin, PhD, Psychologist
Handel Behavioral Health Franklin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Milford, MA 01757
We may be facing relational tensions, challenges with addiction, or feeling anxious and depressed but unsure of the cause. No matter what we’re struggling with, we all need a person we can talk honestly and openly about our lives with. Our therapists at Handel Behavioral Health in Franklin are here to guide you in a collaborative way to a place of connection, understanding, and growth. As you work with one of our therapists in Franklin, you will cultivate self-awareness, examining with compassion and honesty, your inner strengths to meet life’s challenges, as well as the old patterns that may be delaying your growth.
We may be facing relational tensions, challenges with addiction, or feeling anxious and depressed but unsure of the cause. No matter what we’re struggling with, we all need a person we can talk honestly and openly about our lives with. Our therapists at Handel Behavioral Health in Franklin are here to guide you in a collaborative way to a place of connection, understanding, and growth. As you work with one of our therapists in Franklin, you will cultivate self-awareness, examining with compassion and honesty, your inner strengths to meet life’s challenges, as well as the old patterns that may be delaying your growth.
(508) 570-5423 View (508) 570-5423
Photo of Alessandra Keene, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alessandra Keene
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milford, MA 01757
Hi everyone, my name is Alessandra Keene. I graduated with my master's in counseling psychology trauma track from Fisher College. I enjoy working with children, teens, families, and adults. I’m passionate about empowering and supporting clients through tough moments in life.
Hi everyone, my name is Alessandra Keene. I graduated with my master's in counseling psychology trauma track from Fisher College. I enjoy working with children, teens, families, and adults. I’m passionate about empowering and supporting clients through tough moments in life.
(774) 357-1608 View (774) 357-1608

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa A Sullivan, MA, CAGS, LMHC, CBIS, Counselor
Lisa A Sullivan
Counselor, MA, CAGS, LMHC, CBIS
Verified Verified
Auburn, MA 01501
I am a clinical therapist licensed in Massachusetts for 29 years as a clinical psychotherapist. I provide telehealth and in person therapy. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including Trauma, Anxiety. Addiction, developmental disability, Autism, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, Parenting skills, OCD, Brain Injury, Children and Adolescents Therapy, Behavioral Management, Substance abuse, Dysmorphia and couple's therapy. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
I am a clinical therapist licensed in Massachusetts for 29 years as a clinical psychotherapist. I provide telehealth and in person therapy. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including Trauma, Anxiety. Addiction, developmental disability, Autism, Depression, PTSD, ADHD, anger management, Parenting skills, OCD, Brain Injury, Children and Adolescents Therapy, Behavioral Management, Substance abuse, Dysmorphia and couple's therapy. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
(508) 388-5709 View (508) 388-5709
Photo of Mark J. Bezanson - Mark Bezanson, Licsw, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Bezanson, Licsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amesbury, MA 01913  (Online Only)
I also enjoy helping with Social Struggles, "Aspergers"/ Autism, Defiance, ADHD, Video Addiction, Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, Depression, Suicide, Self Harm, Mood Swings, Bipolar Disorder, Hallucinations and Delusions, .
I especially love helping teens/ young adults (and their parents) with developing their independence. I'm excited to help individuals and families enjoy their lives more either by improving relationships, better managing their stage of life tasks, and also while dealing with difficult problems including Relationship/ Marital issues, Family Conflicts, Affairs, Sex addiction, Co-parenting, "Growing Up" issues, Adjusting to Divorce, Gay & Lesbian & Gender (Transgender) issues, Substance Abuse, Grief, Violence and Anger Management including Probation & Diversion involvement.
I also enjoy helping with Social Struggles, "Aspergers"/ Autism, Defiance, ADHD, Video Addiction, Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, Depression, Suicide, Self Harm, Mood Swings, Bipolar Disorder, Hallucinations and Delusions, .
I especially love helping teens/ young adults (and their parents) with developing their independence. I'm excited to help individuals and families enjoy their lives more either by improving relationships, better managing their stage of life tasks, and also while dealing with difficult problems including Relationship/ Marital issues, Family Conflicts, Affairs, Sex addiction, Co-parenting, "Growing Up" issues, Adjusting to Divorce, Gay & Lesbian & Gender (Transgender) issues, Substance Abuse, Grief, Violence and Anger Management including Probation & Diversion involvement.
(978) 705-6097 View (978) 705-6097
Photo of Sophia Sgarlat, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sophia Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Watertown, MA 02472
I specialize in ADHD, Autism, Depression, SI, and Anxiety, with experience in art & garden therapies.
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
I specialize in ADHD, Autism, Depression, SI, and Anxiety, with experience in art & garden therapies.
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
(617) 214-1011 View (617) 214-1011
Photo of Kimberly Masterson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kimberly Masterson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02125  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, behavioral difficulties, self-esteem issues, work or school difficulties as well as working with children and adults with Autism.
Hello! My name is Kimberly Masterson and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and families in a variety of settings. I take great pride in treating my clients with the utmost respect and building a strong therapeutic relationship based on honesty and integrity. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere in which together, we can explore ways to help you feel better and recognize your true strengths and full potential.
I have extensive experience supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, behavioral difficulties, self-esteem issues, work or school difficulties as well as working with children and adults with Autism.
Hello! My name is Kimberly Masterson and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts. I have over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and families in a variety of settings. I take great pride in treating my clients with the utmost respect and building a strong therapeutic relationship based on honesty and integrity. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere in which together, we can explore ways to help you feel better and recognize your true strengths and full potential.
(401) 740-3497 View (401) 740-3497
Photo of Duncan Fitch, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Duncan Fitch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families to help overcome a variety of stressors including anxiety, depression, impulse control and executive functioning issues like ADHD/language processing challenges, autism spectrum disorder, blended family struggles, academic challenges (from performance anxiety to IEPs and therapeutic schools), oppositional behaviors, and substance use. My clients describe me as warm, dedicated, and helpful. I tailor my approach to each client or family using an active-listening, strengths-based approach to build a trusting relationship and help clients identify and attain solutions that improve their functioning and relationships.
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families to help overcome a variety of stressors including anxiety, depression, impulse control and executive functioning issues like ADHD/language processing challenges, autism spectrum disorder, blended family struggles, academic challenges (from performance anxiety to IEPs and therapeutic schools), oppositional behaviors, and substance use. My clients describe me as warm, dedicated, and helpful. I tailor my approach to each client or family using an active-listening, strengths-based approach to build a trusting relationship and help clients identify and attain solutions that improve their functioning and relationships.
(508) 589-5385 View (508) 589-5385
Photo of Jessica Peters, MA, MSW, LICSW, MLADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW, MLADC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02131  (Online Only)
I am currently licensed in MA, NH, and VT. As a trauma therapist, I embrace an unconventional therapeutic style, incorporating humor and a holistic approach into my clinical practice. My practice is inclusive and welcoming to individuals from all identities and backgrounds. Many of my clients are neurodivergent and members of the LGBTQIA+ community who are experiencing issues related to complex PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and autism spectrum-related disorders. Drawing upon a deep understanding of trauma dynamics and harm reduction, I stand by my clients as they venture into a path of healing and self-exploration.
I am currently licensed in MA, NH, and VT. As a trauma therapist, I embrace an unconventional therapeutic style, incorporating humor and a holistic approach into my clinical practice. My practice is inclusive and welcoming to individuals from all identities and backgrounds. Many of my clients are neurodivergent and members of the LGBTQIA+ community who are experiencing issues related to complex PTSD, ADHD, substance use, and autism spectrum-related disorders. Drawing upon a deep understanding of trauma dynamics and harm reduction, I stand by my clients as they venture into a path of healing and self-exploration.
(413) 402-6935 View (413) 402-6935
Photo of Dr. Katerina Tolstikova - Katalyst Psychological Family Center LLC, Psychologist
Katalyst Psychological Family Center LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
We are licensed clinical mental health providers with over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. We complete Neuropsychological Evaluations, and work with individuals and families who have parenting concerns, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, ODD, and Autism.
We are licensed clinical mental health providers with over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families. We complete Neuropsychological Evaluations, and work with individuals and families who have parenting concerns, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, ODD, and Autism.
(603) 206-5844 View (603) 206-5844
Photo of Tetty Gorfine, LCSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tetty Gorfine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
Life is hard and life can be beautiful. Your symptoms perfectly reflect your distress. Gentleness, curiosity and developing awareness create a foundation for healing. Life need not be situations and feelings that keep repeating. I work to create positive ways of relating to yourself and others. Real change is possible with respect, courage and an open heart. I am not a managed care therapist - my commitment is to lasting change. I work with heterosexual, non-binary and LGBTQA+ individuals and couples. I also specialize in working with end of life, grief and loss, autism and deaf and hard of hearing issues.
Life is hard and life can be beautiful. Your symptoms perfectly reflect your distress. Gentleness, curiosity and developing awareness create a foundation for healing. Life need not be situations and feelings that keep repeating. I work to create positive ways of relating to yourself and others. Real change is possible with respect, courage and an open heart. I am not a managed care therapist - my commitment is to lasting change. I work with heterosexual, non-binary and LGBTQA+ individuals and couples. I also specialize in working with end of life, grief and loss, autism and deaf and hard of hearing issues.
(413) 206-9996 View (413) 206-9996
Photo of Andrew J Keith, PsyD, Psychologist
Andrew J Keith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02421
Dr. Andrew Keith is a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in Lexington, Arlington & the Metro West. He enjoys working with a broad range of clients, including children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Keith's areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, LGBTQ clients, addiction, emerging adulthood, identify confusion, and conflicts related to major life transitions (graduating high school or college, losses, career choice, romantic relationships, parenthood, young adulthood). Dr. Keith provides diagnostic assessments and parent consultations, as well as brief and ongoing psychotherapy.
Dr. Andrew Keith is a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in Lexington, Arlington & the Metro West. He enjoys working with a broad range of clients, including children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Keith's areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, LGBTQ clients, addiction, emerging adulthood, identify confusion, and conflicts related to major life transitions (graduating high school or college, losses, career choice, romantic relationships, parenthood, young adulthood). Dr. Keith provides diagnostic assessments and parent consultations, as well as brief and ongoing psychotherapy.
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Photo of Molly Martone, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Molly Martone
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barre, MA 01005  (Online Only)
Immediate in-network availability, please click website to book. As a seasoned mental health counselor, I bring over 15 years of experience to my practice, helping adults navigate through life's challenges. With a calm, humorous, empathetic and laid-back approach, I strive to create a nurturing space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors free from judgment. I have experience working in a variety of settings, with individuals struggling with substance abuse, severe mental illness, chronic health conditions, intellectual disabilities, autism/ADHD, depression and anxiety with a variety of age ranges.
Immediate in-network availability, please click website to book. As a seasoned mental health counselor, I bring over 15 years of experience to my practice, helping adults navigate through life's challenges. With a calm, humorous, empathetic and laid-back approach, I strive to create a nurturing space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors free from judgment. I have experience working in a variety of settings, with individuals struggling with substance abuse, severe mental illness, chronic health conditions, intellectual disabilities, autism/ADHD, depression and anxiety with a variety of age ranges.
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Photo of Jonathan Jenkins, PsyD, Psychologist
Jonathan Jenkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
Additionally, I have specialized training in autism, racial, sexual, and gender identity development.
Let's think about our thinking. Curiosity and bravery are important aspects of any learning experience and these traits are equally important in psychotherapy. As a psychologist, I encourage my clients to be both brave and curious as we respectfully examine and process poignant thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Through this thoughtful process, the client is able to grow and gain self-confidence and improved internal emotional regulation. My goal or agenda for psychotherapy is not mine but yours, and I look forward to collaborating with you and bearing witness to your growth.
Additionally, I have specialized training in autism, racial, sexual, and gender identity development.
Let's think about our thinking. Curiosity and bravery are important aspects of any learning experience and these traits are equally important in psychotherapy. As a psychologist, I encourage my clients to be both brave and curious as we respectfully examine and process poignant thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Through this thoughtful process, the client is able to grow and gain self-confidence and improved internal emotional regulation. My goal or agenda for psychotherapy is not mine but yours, and I look forward to collaborating with you and bearing witness to your growth.
(617) 431-4084 View (617) 431-4084
Photo of Paul Harris Sandman, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Paul Harris Sandman
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
(774) 768-0617 View (774) 768-0617
Photo of Heidi A Wilson - A Change of Mind, LLC - Heidi Wilson, LCSW, LCSW, ACHP-SW, CIMHP, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Change of Mind, LLC - Heidi Wilson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACHP-SW, CIMHP, CAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114
I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Solution-Focused therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma therapy, DBT to treat Autism, ADHD, cognitive disorders, anxiety, panic, grief, depression, anger, and trauma.
We change our behavior when the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing.- Henry Cloud. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed? My name is Heidi Wilson, and with 25 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing guidance to those desirous of change. I specialize in helping adults, college students and teens with depression, anxiety, panic, relationship issues, illness, cognitive issues, caregiver burnout, autism, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, C-PTSD, and parenting issues. Specialty Certifications in ADHD, Autism, Complex Trauma (C-PTSD), Alzheimer’s Disease, and Integrative Mental Health.
I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Solution-Focused therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma therapy, DBT to treat Autism, ADHD, cognitive disorders, anxiety, panic, grief, depression, anger, and trauma.
We change our behavior when the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing.- Henry Cloud. Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, stressed? My name is Heidi Wilson, and with 25 years of clinical experience, I am dedicated to providing guidance to those desirous of change. I specialize in helping adults, college students and teens with depression, anxiety, panic, relationship issues, illness, cognitive issues, caregiver burnout, autism, ADHD, substance abuse, trauma, C-PTSD, and parenting issues. Specialty Certifications in ADHD, Autism, Complex Trauma (C-PTSD), Alzheimer’s Disease, and Integrative Mental Health.
(239) 204-5697 View (239) 204-5697
Photo of Megan L McGrath, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan L McGrath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
West Roxbury, MA 02132
Patients are often coping with life transitions and psychosocial stressors associated with their age group and/or anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, co-morbid medical conditions, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders, or mild cognitive impairment.
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker who received their undergraduate and graduate degree from Boston College. I worked at Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospital before entering into private practice. I treat individuals from age 14 through adult and older adulthood, having completed clinical internships in graduate school at a school for children with special needs and the geriatric training program at the Veterans Administration Medical Center.
Patients are often coping with life transitions and psychosocial stressors associated with their age group and/or anxiety, depression, mood disorders, substance abuse, co-morbid medical conditions, ADHD, PTSD, autism spectrum disorders, or mild cognitive impairment.
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker who received their undergraduate and graduate degree from Boston College. I worked at Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospital before entering into private practice. I treat individuals from age 14 through adult and older adulthood, having completed clinical internships in graduate school at a school for children with special needs and the geriatric training program at the Veterans Administration Medical Center.
(781) 951-5048 View (781) 951-5048
Photo of Lynn Corbett, LMHC, BCBA, Counselor
Lynn Corbett
Counselor, LMHC, BCBA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Board Certified Behavior Analyst who specializes in depression, anxiety, stress-management, family issues, co-dependency, self-esteem, executive functioning, anger management and Asperger’s/High Functioning Autism.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Board Certified Behavior Analyst who specializes in depression, anxiety, stress-management, family issues, co-dependency, self-esteem, executive functioning, anger management and Asperger’s/High Functioning Autism.
(617) 539-2869 View (617) 539-2869
Michael David Dahnke
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Haverhill, MA 01832
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients & families looking to find how best to interact, understand, & support themselves and/or a family member who may struggle with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, depression or is on the autism spectrum.
Finding the right "fit" for therapy is one of the most important tasks for a client. Therapy that is grounded in a positive therapeutic relationship works. I strive to help build this type of relationship with clients.
I work with clients & families looking to find how best to interact, understand, & support themselves and/or a family member who may struggle with ADHD, anxiety, trauma, depression or is on the autism spectrum.
Finding the right "fit" for therapy is one of the most important tasks for a client. Therapy that is grounded in a positive therapeutic relationship works. I strive to help build this type of relationship with clients.
(978) 378-4213 View (978) 378-4213
Photo of Amy Prodanas, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Prodanas
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly, MA 01915
Some areas I enjoy working in are Autism 12+, Addiction (including love addiction), Grief and loss, Anxiety and depression, Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families.
Welcome! I am accepting new clients! I work with those experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss. I have a counseling and teaching background in public schools as a high school counselor and special education teacher. I work with neurodivergent children and teens (specifically ASD) in person or via Telehealth. I would also be available to go into local school systems. In addition, I work with clients who need support around addiction, specifically love and relationship addiction. Along your journey, I will guide and encourage you with solution focused, non judgmental counseling.
Some areas I enjoy working in are Autism 12+, Addiction (including love addiction), Grief and loss, Anxiety and depression, Adult Children of Alcoholics and Dysfunctional Families.
Welcome! I am accepting new clients! I work with those experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss. I have a counseling and teaching background in public schools as a high school counselor and special education teacher. I work with neurodivergent children and teens (specifically ASD) in person or via Telehealth. I would also be available to go into local school systems. In addition, I work with clients who need support around addiction, specifically love and relationship addiction. Along your journey, I will guide and encourage you with solution focused, non judgmental counseling.
(978) 709-2495 View (978) 709-2495
Photo of Elena Marie Pineau, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elena Marie Pineau
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Wilmington, MA 01887
My specialties are diverse ranging from individuals with learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression OCD, grief, substance use and PTSD.
I believe an individual should never suffer in silence if they are in need of mental health support. Whether they lose a loved one or are struggling in school because of a learning disability, have social anxiety or maybe they are going through a divorce. At some point in one's life they could benefit from seeking out a therapist to enhance their quality of life.
My specialties are diverse ranging from individuals with learning disabilities, autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression OCD, grief, substance use and PTSD.
I believe an individual should never suffer in silence if they are in need of mental health support. Whether they lose a loved one or are struggling in school because of a learning disability, have social anxiety or maybe they are going through a divorce. At some point in one's life they could benefit from seeking out a therapist to enhance their quality of life.
(978) 494-5080 View (978) 494-5080

See more therapy options for Uxbridge

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.