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Online Therapists

Photo of Mind Matters Regional Neurofeedback Centers in Atlanta, NY
Mind Matters Regional Neurofeedback Centers
PhD, BCN, QEEGD
Verified Verified
Endicott, NY 13760
The majority of clients that are seen are those with Autism or ASD diagnosis, ADHD, behavioral issues, depression, anxiety and substance disorders to name a few.
I am an Internationally Board Certified Neurotherapist and specialize in Quantitative Electroencephalograph (QEEG) and brainwave regulation training (neurofeedback) for a host of symptoms associated with psychological and psychiatric disorders. We offer heart rate variability and breathing exercises. Neurotherapy is used by any aged individual.
The majority of clients that are seen are those with Autism or ASD diagnosis, ADHD, behavioral issues, depression, anxiety and substance disorders to name a few.
I am an Internationally Board Certified Neurotherapist and specialize in Quantitative Electroencephalograph (QEEG) and brainwave regulation training (neurofeedback) for a host of symptoms associated with psychological and psychiatric disorders. We offer heart rate variability and breathing exercises. Neurotherapy is used by any aged individual.
(607) 333-7671 View (607) 333-7671
Photo of Lee Ann Genussa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, NY
Lee Ann Genussa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13210  (Online Only)
Life’s beauty can be overshadowed by societal pressures and everyday responsibilities. We may often find ourselves bogged down by shame, judgment, and expectations. As a clinician, my aim is to create an empathetic, non-judgemental environment for you to explore and navigate your own unique challenges and goals. I have experience working with folks who struggle with depression, anxiety, suicidality, autism and ADHD, complex trauma, gender and sexuality issues, as well as race-related stress and trauma.
Life’s beauty can be overshadowed by societal pressures and everyday responsibilities. We may often find ourselves bogged down by shame, judgment, and expectations. As a clinician, my aim is to create an empathetic, non-judgemental environment for you to explore and navigate your own unique challenges and goals. I have experience working with folks who struggle with depression, anxiety, suicidality, autism and ADHD, complex trauma, gender and sexuality issues, as well as race-related stress and trauma.
(315) 993-6027 View (315) 993-6027
Photo of WNY Psychotherapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, NY
WNY Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14226
This comprehensive program includes psychological evaluations, psycho-educational evaluations and treatment of ADHD, assessment of Autism-Spectrum Disorders as well as assessment and treatment of behavioral/emotional disorders including, but not limited to; Depression, Anxiety, and Oppositional-Defiant Disorder.
Joseph P. Zannoni is the Executive Director of W.N.Y Psychotherapy Services. As an owner since 1988, he works diligently to select private practitioners who are interested in providing high quality, cost effective services utilizing a wide range of treatment modalities for families and individuals in the advancement of emotional health. Our network of providers consists of over twenty independent practitioners with various areas of expertise. Our licensed practitioners include; Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Psychologists, and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. With diverse backgrounds and specializations we address most patient needs, and provide comprehensive services for children, adults, families and seniors.
This comprehensive program includes psychological evaluations, psycho-educational evaluations and treatment of ADHD, assessment of Autism-Spectrum Disorders as well as assessment and treatment of behavioral/emotional disorders including, but not limited to; Depression, Anxiety, and Oppositional-Defiant Disorder.
Joseph P. Zannoni is the Executive Director of W.N.Y Psychotherapy Services. As an owner since 1988, he works diligently to select private practitioners who are interested in providing high quality, cost effective services utilizing a wide range of treatment modalities for families and individuals in the advancement of emotional health. Our network of providers consists of over twenty independent practitioners with various areas of expertise. Our licensed practitioners include; Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Psychologists, and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. With diverse backgrounds and specializations we address most patient needs, and provide comprehensive services for children, adults, families and seniors.
(716) 508-4568 View (716) 508-4568
Photo of Karin Theurer-Kaufman, Psychologist in Atlanta, NY
Karin Theurer-Kaufman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honeoye Falls, NY 14472  (Online Only)
I am passionate about my work with adolescents and their families and have specific expertise in the area of developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD and learning disabilities.
To benefit from therapy it is important that you and your family feel safe and comfortable. As you work together to develop new problem-solving and coping skills your therapist needs to demonstrate well-developed listening skills combined with the ability to be straightforward and supportive as you move forward. It is also important that your therapist presents with solid credentials and experience in the areas in which you need assistance. I have been told by my adolescent clients and their parents that they feel comfortable and respected, while also provided with skills that can be practiced between visits.
I am passionate about my work with adolescents and their families and have specific expertise in the area of developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD and learning disabilities.
To benefit from therapy it is important that you and your family feel safe and comfortable. As you work together to develop new problem-solving and coping skills your therapist needs to demonstrate well-developed listening skills combined with the ability to be straightforward and supportive as you move forward. It is also important that your therapist presents with solid credentials and experience in the areas in which you need assistance. I have been told by my adolescent clients and their parents that they feel comfortable and respected, while also provided with skills that can be practiced between visits.
(585) 445-7098 View (585) 445-7098
Photo of Joseph Bitetto, Pre-Licensed Professional in Atlanta, NY
Joseph Bitetto
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
East Rochester, NY 14445
I also offer assessments and diagnoses for autism spectrum disorder and ADHD.
Have you been noticing your child is becoming overly anxious or depressed? Do you notice that your child is having trouble with emotional regulation and is constantly blowing up? This can be very difficult, and it’s common for children and adolescents. Unfortunately, many people learn to avoid all conflicts in relationships. This can lead to resentment, which can cause more frequent fighting and lead to long-term problems.
I also offer assessments and diagnoses for autism spectrum disorder and ADHD.
Have you been noticing your child is becoming overly anxious or depressed? Do you notice that your child is having trouble with emotional regulation and is constantly blowing up? This can be very difficult, and it’s common for children and adolescents. Unfortunately, many people learn to avoid all conflicts in relationships. This can lead to resentment, which can cause more frequent fighting and lead to long-term problems.
(585) 252-5872 View (585) 252-5872
Photo of Rachel Bowen, LMHC. {Growing in Care Counseling}, Counselor in Atlanta, NY
Rachel Bowen, LMHC. {Growing in Care Counseling}
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14626
Hello! We're so glad you’re here. Seeking counseling for yourself or your loved one takes strength and compassion, and can be the first step in creating a brighter future. At Growing in Care Mental Health Counseling PLLC, we work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, and our experience includes supporting youth and adults with various diagnoses including (but not limited to), anxiety, depression, & autism. We utilize CBT and strength based approaches, while meeting clients where they are at in their growth and healing. We support with needs across settings, including school, employment, and with families.
Hello! We're so glad you’re here. Seeking counseling for yourself or your loved one takes strength and compassion, and can be the first step in creating a brighter future. At Growing in Care Mental Health Counseling PLLC, we work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, and our experience includes supporting youth and adults with various diagnoses including (but not limited to), anxiety, depression, & autism. We utilize CBT and strength based approaches, while meeting clients where they are at in their growth and healing. We support with needs across settings, including school, employment, and with families.
(585) 440-7753 View (585) 440-7753
Photo of Inner Lakes Therapy LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, NY
Inner Lakes Therapy LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14850  (Online Only)
Inner Lakes Therapy is a warm and welcoming virtual group practice. We specialize in working with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and trauma while prioritizing safety and affirming care. All of our clinicians are BIPOC allied and LGBTQIA+ and ND affirming, if not members of these groups themselves. We do our best to both align with strong social justice values and provide empowering and destigmatizing therapy. We are open, body-positive, sex-positive, kink-affirming, and non-judgmental.
Inner Lakes Therapy is a warm and welcoming virtual group practice. We specialize in working with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and trauma while prioritizing safety and affirming care. All of our clinicians are BIPOC allied and LGBTQIA+ and ND affirming, if not members of these groups themselves. We do our best to both align with strong social justice values and provide empowering and destigmatizing therapy. We are open, body-positive, sex-positive, kink-affirming, and non-judgmental.
(607) 527-2470 View (607) 527-2470
Photo of Niamh Doyle, Psychologist in Atlanta, NY
Niamh Doyle
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NY 13066
I also have decades of experience working with children with Autism, ADHD and anxiety disorders.
Are you a frustrated parent, feeling that you cannot connect with your child? Are you dealing with temper tantrums, defiance or even aggression? Are you concerned when you can't calm your child when they are anxious, scared or overwhelmed? Are you getting contacted by schools regarding their behavior? Does it feel like getting your child ready to leave the house or go to bed is exhausting? Have you wondered if your child has friends or the skills to progress academically? Does your child have a developmental diagnosis? Do you worry the effect having a child with a disability and/or behavior problem is having on your whole family?
I also have decades of experience working with children with Autism, ADHD and anxiety disorders.
Are you a frustrated parent, feeling that you cannot connect with your child? Are you dealing with temper tantrums, defiance or even aggression? Are you concerned when you can't calm your child when they are anxious, scared or overwhelmed? Are you getting contacted by schools regarding their behavior? Does it feel like getting your child ready to leave the house or go to bed is exhausting? Have you wondered if your child has friends or the skills to progress academically? Does your child have a developmental diagnosis? Do you worry the effect having a child with a disability and/or behavior problem is having on your whole family?
(315) 400-3116 View (315) 400-3116
Photo of Martin Brown, Counselor in Atlanta, NY
Martin Brown
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13202
I have experience working with people with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I work with people to help them sort through the things that can feel so overwhelming at times. I believe it is important to feel supported when confronted with life's struggles. Sometimes we have so much going on in our lives that we need someone to help us figure things out. Together we will work to create a firm understanding of what's going on and how we can make things better. You will be able to have healing in the places you need, and growth in the places you want.
I have experience working with people with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
I work with people to help them sort through the things that can feel so overwhelming at times. I believe it is important to feel supported when confronted with life's struggles. Sometimes we have so much going on in our lives that we need someone to help us figure things out. Together we will work to create a firm understanding of what's going on and how we can make things better. You will be able to have healing in the places you need, and growth in the places you want.
(315) 940-8011 View (315) 940-8011
Photo of Dr. Alex J Hinnebusch, Psychologist in Atlanta, NY
Dr. Alex J Hinnebusch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Clay, NY 13041
I specialize in neuropsychological evaluations, assessment (Learning, ADHD, Concussion, High-Functioning Autism), and psychotherapy.
I aim to provide an authentic relationship experience to clients who are looking to address their mental health concerns and improve their quality of life. I strive to always be honest and genuine in my relationships with my clients, while encouraging those that I work with to enact the change in their lives that they are seeking. Treatment is personalized to each patient’s unique needs, drawing on my prior training and expertise in a variety of therapeutic orientations. I seek to provide a relationship in which you can learn more about yourself, and challenge previous assumptions and experiences.
I specialize in neuropsychological evaluations, assessment (Learning, ADHD, Concussion, High-Functioning Autism), and psychotherapy.
I aim to provide an authentic relationship experience to clients who are looking to address their mental health concerns and improve their quality of life. I strive to always be honest and genuine in my relationships with my clients, while encouraging those that I work with to enact the change in their lives that they are seeking. Treatment is personalized to each patient’s unique needs, drawing on my prior training and expertise in a variety of therapeutic orientations. I seek to provide a relationship in which you can learn more about yourself, and challenge previous assumptions and experiences.
(680) 204-4382 View (680) 204-4382
Photo of Dr. Brian Nasca, Psychologist in Atlanta, NY
Dr. Brian Nasca
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14221
Hello, I am Dr. Nasca and I currently provide mental health care to children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, behavior disorders, ADHD, and OCD. I utilize a client-centered, individualized approach to therapy and am proficient in the following treatment modalities: cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness training, social skills training, narrative therapy, applied behavior analysis, parent training and consultation.
Hello, I am Dr. Nasca and I currently provide mental health care to children, adolescents, and young adults. I have experience working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, behavior disorders, ADHD, and OCD. I utilize a client-centered, individualized approach to therapy and am proficient in the following treatment modalities: cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness training, social skills training, narrative therapy, applied behavior analysis, parent training and consultation.
(716) 869-9044 View (716) 869-9044
Photo of Whole Wellness Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, NY
Whole Wellness Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14850
I believe that focusing on mental and emotional well-being is essential to overall health and life satisfaction. I take a special interest in working with individuals and families navigating anxiety and neurodivergent diagnoses, such as Selective Mutism, ADHD, and Autism. Psychoeducation, including mindfulness practices, can help individuals develop personal coping skills and can help families negotiate difficult times
I believe that focusing on mental and emotional well-being is essential to overall health and life satisfaction. I take a special interest in working with individuals and families navigating anxiety and neurodivergent diagnoses, such as Selective Mutism, ADHD, and Autism. Psychoeducation, including mindfulness practices, can help individuals develop personal coping skills and can help families negotiate difficult times
(607) 652-6558 View (607) 652-6558
Photo of Danielle Matias, Counselor in Atlanta, NY
Danielle Matias
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14222
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Sara Kranzler, Psychologist in Atlanta, NY
Sara Kranzler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ithaca, NY 14850  (Online Only)
It is hard to know when to seek help and where to find it. I offer one free consult session to help you figure it out. I work with young adults, early career professionals, and college age students struggling with family, social, relationship, and identity stressors, as well as anxiety, panic, and depression. I also enjoy partnering with children and teens to address depression and anxiety; especially when there is comorbid ADHD or Autism. When appropriate, I can offer short term targeted treatments for anxiety. Resilience is at the core of my work. At the heart of therapy is our human vulnerability.
It is hard to know when to seek help and where to find it. I offer one free consult session to help you figure it out. I work with young adults, early career professionals, and college age students struggling with family, social, relationship, and identity stressors, as well as anxiety, panic, and depression. I also enjoy partnering with children and teens to address depression and anxiety; especially when there is comorbid ADHD or Autism. When appropriate, I can offer short term targeted treatments for anxiety. Resilience is at the core of my work. At the heart of therapy is our human vulnerability.
(315) 888-4870 View (315) 888-4870
Photo of Kaylen Furr, Pre-Licensed Professional in Atlanta, NY
Kaylen Furr
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Macedon, NY 14502
I come with passions for working with the neurodivergent population (specifically with ADHD and Autism and unpacking a late realization), providing gender-affirming care, sex-positive counseling, disordered eating, and body image, managing and processing chronic illness, and identity work through a trauma-informed and all-inclusive perspective.
I understand counseling to be a place in which with collaboration, relationships, and trust, an individual can begin to craft the life they want to live by meeting themselves where they are at. Through an intersectional lens, it is my priority to co-create a space in which clients can connect with their whole experience and identities in creating the foundation for an abundance of growth. I understand clients to be the expert of their experience and the work we do to be inherently collaborative.
I come with passions for working with the neurodivergent population (specifically with ADHD and Autism and unpacking a late realization), providing gender-affirming care, sex-positive counseling, disordered eating, and body image, managing and processing chronic illness, and identity work through a trauma-informed and all-inclusive perspective.
I understand counseling to be a place in which with collaboration, relationships, and trust, an individual can begin to craft the life they want to live by meeting themselves where they are at. Through an intersectional lens, it is my priority to co-create a space in which clients can connect with their whole experience and identities in creating the foundation for an abundance of growth. I understand clients to be the expert of their experience and the work we do to be inherently collaborative.
(315) 961-8472 View (315) 961-8472
Photo of Melissa Bell, Counselor in Atlanta, NY
Melissa Bell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tonawanda, NY 14150
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum or teens who engage in high-risk behaviors.
Hello, I am Melissa owner of Embrace Mental Health! I offer a welcoming, trauma informed environment for individuals to overcome challenges they have faced in their past. I believe that every person has the skills within themselves to live the life they want. My job as the therapist is to help you foster those skills to achieve your goals.
I specialize in working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum or teens who engage in high-risk behaviors.
Hello, I am Melissa owner of Embrace Mental Health! I offer a welcoming, trauma informed environment for individuals to overcome challenges they have faced in their past. I believe that every person has the skills within themselves to live the life they want. My job as the therapist is to help you foster those skills to achieve your goals.
(716) 442-8905 View (716) 442-8905
Photo of Julie Cenzi, Counselor in Atlanta, NY
Julie Cenzi
Counselor, LBA, BCBA, LMHC
Verified Verified
East Rochester, NY 14445
Are you struggling with your child's behaviors? Do you feel like you've tried everything? I can help. I will work with you and your child to teach new skills to help them meet their needs in a more appropriate manner. I have over 15 years of experience working primarily with dually diagnosed children and adolescents. My expertise lies with those on the Autism Spectrum and those with challenging behavior. I typically use a combination of Applied Behavior Analysis and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while focusing on strengths and building on those.
Are you struggling with your child's behaviors? Do you feel like you've tried everything? I can help. I will work with you and your child to teach new skills to help them meet their needs in a more appropriate manner. I have over 15 years of experience working primarily with dually diagnosed children and adolescents. My expertise lies with those on the Autism Spectrum and those with challenging behavior. I typically use a combination of Applied Behavior Analysis and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy while focusing on strengths and building on those.
(585) 682-2135 View (585) 682-2135
Photo of Jennifer Wainman-Sauda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, NY
Jennifer Wainman-Sauda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Baldwinsville, NY 13027
Welcome to The Family Center. We provide therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and children. We can help you work on any presenting problem such as anxiety, depression, anger, grief, or relationship conflict. We specialize in helping families who have children with ADHD, anxiety, behavioral, and Autism Spectrum Disorders including PDA (Pathological Demand Aviodance). We believe in helping you live fully; happy with yourself, and connected with your partner, child, and family. We currently have 10 skilled licensed therapists on staff.
Welcome to The Family Center. We provide therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and children. We can help you work on any presenting problem such as anxiety, depression, anger, grief, or relationship conflict. We specialize in helping families who have children with ADHD, anxiety, behavioral, and Autism Spectrum Disorders including PDA (Pathological Demand Aviodance). We believe in helping you live fully; happy with yourself, and connected with your partner, child, and family. We currently have 10 skilled licensed therapists on staff.
(315) 496-1357 View (315) 496-1357
Photo of Christopher F Pollack, Psychologist in Atlanta, NY
Christopher F Pollack
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14625
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral problems including anxiety, ADHD, depression, defiance, autism, Aspergers, divorce, parenting, self esteem, bullying, blended family issues, and adjustment to medical issues.
In helping children, teens, and their families, I employ a combination of compassion, creativity, understanding, and humor with clinically proven treatment methods. During my 15+ years of experience I have found that a good collaborative therapeutic relationship combined with skill-based strategies and techniques results in positive and lasting changes. I typically begin treatment with a thorough assessment and treatment plan. Treatment incorporates both parent and child interventions. I routinely communicate with pediatricians, teachers and school personnel to assist in resolving the issues of children and teens, with parental permission.
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral problems including anxiety, ADHD, depression, defiance, autism, Aspergers, divorce, parenting, self esteem, bullying, blended family issues, and adjustment to medical issues.
In helping children, teens, and their families, I employ a combination of compassion, creativity, understanding, and humor with clinically proven treatment methods. During my 15+ years of experience I have found that a good collaborative therapeutic relationship combined with skill-based strategies and techniques results in positive and lasting changes. I typically begin treatment with a thorough assessment and treatment plan. Treatment incorporates both parent and child interventions. I routinely communicate with pediatricians, teachers and school personnel to assist in resolving the issues of children and teens, with parental permission.
(585) 502-1609 View (585) 502-1609
Photo of Amy J Brogan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, NY
Amy J Brogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spencerport, NY 14559
I have experience working with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, as well as neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and Autism.
Has the journey of life thrown you unexpected twists and turns presenting you with challenging circumstances, barriers and painful experiences? Your challenges can cause you to feel overwhelmed and out of balance. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I would be honored to work with you and or your family member to achieve your goals.
I have experience working with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, as well as neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD and Autism.
Has the journey of life thrown you unexpected twists and turns presenting you with challenging circumstances, barriers and painful experiences? Your challenges can cause you to feel overwhelmed and out of balance. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I would be honored to work with you and or your family member to achieve your goals.
(585) 440-7160 View (585) 440-7160
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.