Photo of Julie Bakalor, MS, MPS, LMHC, Counselor
Julie Bakalor
Counselor, MS, MPS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Syosset, NY 11791
I am a New York State licensed mental health counselor with extensive experience working with young children through adolescents and parents. I offer services to families at the office, in the home or at school to provide counseling to best facilitate positive changes and coordinate efforts of all those involved with the youngsters' success. I have two Masters Degrees and use a cognitive behavioral approach to counseling. Special areas of expertise include: anxiety disorders, loss or grief issues, impulse control disorders, problems related to dealing with divorce and separation and parenting skills.
I am a New York State licensed mental health counselor with extensive experience working with young children through adolescents and parents. I offer services to families at the office, in the home or at school to provide counseling to best facilitate positive changes and coordinate efforts of all those involved with the youngsters' success. I have two Masters Degrees and use a cognitive behavioral approach to counseling. Special areas of expertise include: anxiety disorders, loss or grief issues, impulse control disorders, problems related to dealing with divorce and separation and parenting skills.
(631) 403-6151 View (631) 403-6151

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristie Doheny, PsyD, LMSW, LMHC, RPT-S, Psychologist
Kristie Doheny
Psychologist, PsyD, LMSW, LMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mineola, NY 11501
Psychological evaluations are also offered to assess for ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ADOS-2), and developmental delays.
While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful 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 look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
Psychological evaluations are also offered to assess for ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ADOS-2), and developmental delays.
While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful 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 look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(347) 756-5019 View (347) 756-5019
Photo of Vasu Chikkatur Murthy - Tri State Counseling and MediatIon, LCSWR, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tri State Counseling and MediatIon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Anger Management, ADHD, Autism, Childhood disorders, Crisis Intervention, CISD, Substance abuse, truancy in children.
Trained in CBT, prefer to use a rational living approach with behavior modification and assist the client. Use DBT, CBT, Behavioral approach in Psychotherapy to achieve practical results, measurable and beneficial to the client. Short term treatment focus on result oriented approach with focus on cognitive or insight or behavioral modification is my style. Specialist in children, work with families and a fair mix of all age groups. I accept major health insurances & accept private pay. ANGER MANAGEMENT, AUTISM, ADHD, MOOD DISORDERS, ANXIETY SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ALCOHOL DOMESTIC RELATIONS/VIOLENCE ISSUES AND FORENSIC EVALUATIONS HANDLED AS WELL.
Anger Management, ADHD, Autism, Childhood disorders, Crisis Intervention, CISD, Substance abuse, truancy in children.
Trained in CBT, prefer to use a rational living approach with behavior modification and assist the client. Use DBT, CBT, Behavioral approach in Psychotherapy to achieve practical results, measurable and beneficial to the client. Short term treatment focus on result oriented approach with focus on cognitive or insight or behavioral modification is my style. Specialist in children, work with families and a fair mix of all age groups. I accept major health insurances & accept private pay. ANGER MANAGEMENT, AUTISM, ADHD, MOOD DISORDERS, ANXIETY SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ALCOHOL DOMESTIC RELATIONS/VIOLENCE ISSUES AND FORENSIC EVALUATIONS HANDLED AS WELL.
(718) 415-6266 View (718) 415-6266
Photo of Christina Mickalauskas, LMHC
Christina Mickalauskas
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Head, NY 11545  (Online Only)
Welcome! As an experienced mental health therapist in New York, I specialize in providing collaborative and non-judgmental therapy to adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, and ADHD. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), positive psychology, and mindfulness to facilitate long-lasting changes in your personal life, relationships, and overall well-being. I'm committed to helping you feel empowered to reclaim your life from self-doubt and anxiety.
Welcome! As an experienced mental health therapist in New York, I specialize in providing collaborative and non-judgmental therapy to adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, and ADHD. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), positive psychology, and mindfulness to facilitate long-lasting changes in your personal life, relationships, and overall well-being. I'm committed to helping you feel empowered to reclaim your life from self-doubt and anxiety.
View
Heart and Soul Counseling, LCSW, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
West Babylon, NY 11704
Heart and Soul Counseling, LCSW, PC is a progressive, comprehensive mental health center that offers psychotherapy, medication management, genetic testing and drama workshops in office. We offer individual, couples and family counseling to all populations including veterans, trauma victims, LGBTQI, older adults, teens and children. We take most insurances, Medicaid managed plans and Medicare. Some providers are Spanish speaking. We are pet friendly. We offer three office locations in Babylon, Wantagh and East Quogue, NY. We have over 30 years experience in the field of mental health.
Heart and Soul Counseling, LCSW, PC is a progressive, comprehensive mental health center that offers psychotherapy, medication management, genetic testing and drama workshops in office. We offer individual, couples and family counseling to all populations including veterans, trauma victims, LGBTQI, older adults, teens and children. We take most insurances, Medicaid managed plans and Medicare. Some providers are Spanish speaking. We are pet friendly. We offer three office locations in Babylon, Wantagh and East Quogue, NY. We have over 30 years experience in the field of mental health.
(631) 392-6107 View (631) 392-6107
Gail I Mandra Stallone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
*****Long Island Press voted "Best on Long Island for Psychotherapist". ***** My practice offers a broad spectrum of services which includes providing in-office/home, long/short term: individual (children, adolescents, adults), marital, and family psychotherapy. I Collaborate with psychiatrists (medication), attorneys (divorce/estate plannng) and neurologists (ADHD), to ensure the client receives proper care . A treatment plan is formulated for symptom management and stress reduction. Additionally, a detailed Psychosocial history and Mental Health Assessment is completed, together resulting in a working diagnosis. The client may then remain in treatment with me or will be referred to the appropriate setting to fit their individual needs.
*****Long Island Press voted "Best on Long Island for Psychotherapist". ***** My practice offers a broad spectrum of services which includes providing in-office/home, long/short term: individual (children, adolescents, adults), marital, and family psychotherapy. I Collaborate with psychiatrists (medication), attorneys (divorce/estate plannng) and neurologists (ADHD), to ensure the client receives proper care . A treatment plan is formulated for symptom management and stress reduction. Additionally, a detailed Psychosocial history and Mental Health Assessment is completed, together resulting in a working diagnosis. The client may then remain in treatment with me or will be referred to the appropriate setting to fit their individual needs.
(631) 706-4494 View (631) 706-4494
Photo of Aaiza Kausar, LMHC, Counselor
Aaiza Kausar
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Head, NY 11545  (Online Only)
The relationship we have with ourselves is a crucial factor for how we show up in our relationships. With my guidance, I can assist you in building confidence, practicing self-compassion, and managing interpersonal conflict. Using an eclectic combination of CBT and Humanistic approaches, we’ll work together to understand the relationship between your body and your mind. It’s through that foundation that we’ll then be able to gain insight into unhelpful thinking patterns, and equip you with the necessary skills so that you can continue living life to your fullest potential.
The relationship we have with ourselves is a crucial factor for how we show up in our relationships. With my guidance, I can assist you in building confidence, practicing self-compassion, and managing interpersonal conflict. Using an eclectic combination of CBT and Humanistic approaches, we’ll work together to understand the relationship between your body and your mind. It’s through that foundation that we’ll then be able to gain insight into unhelpful thinking patterns, and equip you with the necessary skills so that you can continue living life to your fullest potential.
(516) 447-2439 View (516) 447-2439
Photo of Danielle Matias, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Matias
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mineola, NY 11501
The goal of my practice is to improve the quality of life of my clients and assist them reach their full potential and personal goals. Specializing in family and couple therapy. I also specialize in depression and anxiety. The ideal client will be dedicated to their own treatment and have a strong desire to feel better. Together with my client we work as a team to achieve the therapeutic goals and make life worth living and enjoying. I have been working in mental health for over a decade and it is my greatest passion in life.
The goal of my practice is to improve the quality of life of my clients and assist them reach their full potential and personal goals. Specializing in family and couple therapy. I also specialize in depression and anxiety. The ideal client will be dedicated to their own treatment and have a strong desire to feel better. Together with my client we work as a team to achieve the therapeutic goals and make life worth living and enjoying. I have been working in mental health for over a decade and it is my greatest passion in life.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Angelique Vito, LMHC, CCATP, Counselor
Angelique Vito
Counselor, LMHC, CCATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glen Head, NY 11545  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am a mental health counselor who is passionate about helping others become the best version of who they are meant to be. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults who deal with surviving trauma. I have a sub-specialty in working with people challenged with anxiety, depression and anger management. My approach in session is to integrate mindfulness into our cognitive behavioral work together. This collaboration between us works to address difficulties and also at the same time, highlight strengths.
Hello and welcome! I am a mental health counselor who is passionate about helping others become the best version of who they are meant to be. I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults who deal with surviving trauma. I have a sub-specialty in working with people challenged with anxiety, depression and anger management. My approach in session is to integrate mindfulness into our cognitive behavioral work together. This collaboration between us works to address difficulties and also at the same time, highlight strengths.
(516) 234-7007 View (516) 234-7007
Photo of Chanel Viviana Tazza - Awaken Wellness, Inc., LMHC, NCC, CASAC, Counselor
Awaken Wellness, Inc.
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Head, NY 11545
***Email/Text preferred*** We believe that in every challenging moment in life lies the opportunity for change. Change can often be scary and/or difficult however necessary to achieve inner peace, counseling can help move forward the process to achieve mental health. Wellness is key and in our conversations I explore your values during counseling therapy sessions. We do explore all aspects of life that are important including physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual health. Typically our initial counseling sessions conversations are casual, it is a platform to ensure that I am the right fit for you.
***Email/Text preferred*** We believe that in every challenging moment in life lies the opportunity for change. Change can often be scary and/or difficult however necessary to achieve inner peace, counseling can help move forward the process to achieve mental health. Wellness is key and in our conversations I explore your values during counseling therapy sessions. We do explore all aspects of life that are important including physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual health. Typically our initial counseling sessions conversations are casual, it is a platform to ensure that I am the right fit for you.
(646) 630-7933 View (646) 630-7933
Photo of Danielle Brozik, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Brozik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Massapequa Park, NY 11762  (Online Only)
Many of my clients are young adults or new parents in the midst of a major life transition. I also work with adolescents and adults at any stage of life seeking validation, reassurance, and guidance in their careers, relationships, or parenting. Whatever is bringing you here today, I will use my own professional and personal life experiences to guide our process as we build momentum toward the change you envision for yourself. Working together we can uncover unhelpful patterns to make positive changes in a judgement-free, confidential, and cooperative space.
Many of my clients are young adults or new parents in the midst of a major life transition. I also work with adolescents and adults at any stage of life seeking validation, reassurance, and guidance in their careers, relationships, or parenting. Whatever is bringing you here today, I will use my own professional and personal life experiences to guide our process as we build momentum toward the change you envision for yourself. Working together we can uncover unhelpful patterns to make positive changes in a judgement-free, confidential, and cooperative space.
(516) 774-2530 View (516) 774-2530
Photo of Deirdre Holland -  First Step Directory, MSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
First Step Directory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
Deirdre built First Step Therapy & Wellness Group from the ground up and has been hands on every step of the way. Her work ethic is indisputable and she is completely invested in creating a cohesive work environment adhering to values such as mutual respect and equality. She believes healthy doses of restraint combined with self discipline are key components to her success both personally and professionally. Deirdre is highly regarded by her peers and is a long-standing staple within the community where she is committed to creating a safe secure environment for her clients and colleagues. Ms. Holland currently maintains an established private practice
Deirdre built First Step Therapy & Wellness Group from the ground up and has been hands on every step of the way. Her work ethic is indisputable and she is completely invested in creating a cohesive work environment adhering to values such as mutual respect and equality. She believes healthy doses of restraint combined with self discipline are key components to her success both personally and professionally. Deirdre is highly regarded by her peers and is a long-standing staple within the community where she is committed to creating a safe secure environment for her clients and colleagues. Ms. Holland currently maintains an established private practice
(516) 324-3167 View (516) 324-3167
Photo of Seymour Weissman, PhD, Psychologist
Seymour Weissman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Do you want happiness and fulfillment? Do you want to change the direction of your life.? I have over thirty years of experience to help guide you. My down to earth realistic approach will establish a relationship between us to to help you improve.
Do you want happiness and fulfillment? Do you want to change the direction of your life.? I have over thirty years of experience to help guide you. My down to earth realistic approach will establish a relationship between us to to help you improve.
(631) 240-4154 View (631) 240-4154

Online Therapists

Photo of Tyisha Gaskin - Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10027
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, 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, BPD, 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 Helene M Czech - Early Interventions Licensed Behavior Analyst NY, LBA, MSEd, BCBA, SDA
Early Interventions Licensed Behavior Analyst NY
LBA, MSEd, BCBA, SDA
Verified Verified
Salt Point, NY 12578
Provider of ABA services to those on the autism spectrum in the home and community settings. We provide services to individuals of all ages; including family training. Consultation available. We accept many insurance policies as well as private pay. School based services and consult also available. Licensed in Maryland and New York.
Provider of ABA services to those on the autism spectrum in the home and community settings. We provide services to individuals of all ages; including family training. Consultation available. We accept many insurance policies as well as private pay. School based services and consult also available. Licensed in Maryland and New York.
(845) 403-0108 View (845) 403-0108
Photo of Ashmee Fernandez - Footprints Mental Health Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10475
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, 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 where 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, BPD, 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 where 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 Jose J Vasquez, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jose J Vasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
Bilingual specialist in treating Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and trauma in all age groups, including those with ADHD and on the Autism Spectrum. Experienced in individual/couples therapy, utilizing approaches from Interpersonal, Rational Emotive, and Cognitive Behavioral therapies, as well as Supportive Psychotherapy and Clinical Supervision.
Bilingual specialist in treating Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and trauma in all age groups, including those with ADHD and on the Autism Spectrum. Experienced in individual/couples therapy, utilizing approaches from Interpersonal, Rational Emotive, and Cognitive Behavioral therapies, as well as Supportive Psychotherapy and Clinical Supervision.
(845) 286-4493 View (845) 286-4493
Photo of Russell Brian Shelkowitz, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Russell Brian Shelkowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rhinebeck, NY 12572
Russell's areas of expertise encompass Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Family Issues, Relationships, Identity Issues, Self-Esteem Issues, Life Transitions, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Self-Harm, Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Russell Shelkowitz, LCSW-R has extensive experience working with adolescents (12+), adults (individuals & couples), and families, and has provided compassionate and effective care in diverse settings, including hospitals, private practices, and outpatient clinics.
Russell's areas of expertise encompass Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Family Issues, Relationships, Identity Issues, Self-Esteem Issues, Life Transitions, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Self-Harm, Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Russell Shelkowitz, LCSW-R has extensive experience working with adolescents (12+), adults (individuals & couples), and families, and has provided compassionate and effective care in diverse settings, including hospitals, private practices, and outpatient clinics.
(838) 221-5937 View (838) 221-5937
Photo of Danielle Matias, LMHC, Counselor
Danielle Matias
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
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 Lucien Beckford - Footprints Mental Health Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, 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, BPD, 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.
(718) 550-5392 View (718) 550-5392
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.