Autism Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ

Photo of Maria Cronyn, ND
Maria Cronyn
ND
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Pediatric behavior disorders and autism spectrum children respond rapidly to preserve your child's health and academic progress. Typical responses are within 4 weeks to treatment. Parental health around their child is also vital and I often treat the whole family. Integrative oncology to include diet, supplements, IV therapy, precision testing of tissue for alternative solutions to cancer. The whole person- you are uniquely singular and must always be treated that way.
Pediatric behavior disorders and autism spectrum children respond rapidly to preserve your child's health and academic progress. Typical responses are within 4 weeks to treatment. Parental health around their child is also vital and I often treat the whole family. Integrative oncology to include diet, supplements, IV therapy, precision testing of tissue for alternative solutions to cancer. The whole person- you are uniquely singular and must always be treated that way.
(802) 278-6075 View (802) 278-6075
Photo of Paige Palsgaard, LAC, Counselor
Paige Palsgaard
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Welcome! I have over two years of counseling experience working with children, teenagers, families, and young adults. If you are experiencing symptoms of Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Anger, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Self-Esteem Problems, Self-Harming Behavior, Stress, Suicidal Ideations, Insomnia, and PTSD, then I would love to help. I am trained in using CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts Therapy, IFS, and ACT. I believe that all individuals are their own experts in their life and I strive to serve as a guide to help and support everyone through their journey. I have advanced training in Autism.
Welcome! I have over two years of counseling experience working with children, teenagers, families, and young adults. If you are experiencing symptoms of Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Anger, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Self-Esteem Problems, Self-Harming Behavior, Stress, Suicidal Ideations, Insomnia, and PTSD, then I would love to help. I am trained in using CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, Sand Tray, Expressive Arts Therapy, IFS, and ACT. I believe that all individuals are their own experts in their life and I strive to serve as a guide to help and support everyone through their journey. I have advanced training in Autism.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Christy Pietzsch, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christy Pietzsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Accepting New Clients. Hi and Welcome! I have a passion for working with teenagers and adults with Autism, ADHD and Gender Transitioning. I also help with depression, anxiety, substance addiction, trauma and self-esteem issues. I am LGBTQIA+ allied and a gender affirming care therapist. I have over 5 years of counseling experience, working in a homeless shelter and community mental health.
Accepting New Clients. Hi and Welcome! I have a passion for working with teenagers and adults with Autism, ADHD and Gender Transitioning. I also help with depression, anxiety, substance addiction, trauma and self-esteem issues. I am LGBTQIA+ allied and a gender affirming care therapist. I have over 5 years of counseling experience, working in a homeless shelter and community mental health.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Danielle Russo, MS, LPC, CAS, Counselor
Danielle Russo
Counselor, MS, LPC, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with individuals on the autism spectrum and became a certified autism specialist.
Are you looking to make a change to improve your life? Let’s start that process together and kudos to you for taking the first step in your path. Being in the counseling field since 2018, I have gained a vast amount of knowledge of how to best serve my client’s presenting needs. I have a passion for guiding people to find their voice and turning any challenge into a strength. Building a comfortable environment and good rapport is incredibly important to me as it helps us speak more openly and tackle concerns together.
I enjoy working with individuals on the autism spectrum and became a certified autism specialist.
Are you looking to make a change to improve your life? Let’s start that process together and kudos to you for taking the first step in your path. Being in the counseling field since 2018, I have gained a vast amount of knowledge of how to best serve my client’s presenting needs. I have a passion for guiding people to find their voice and turning any challenge into a strength. Building a comfortable environment and good rapport is incredibly important to me as it helps us speak more openly and tackle concerns together.
(480) 906-4872 View (480) 906-4872
Photo of Jordan Johansen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Johansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I am an experienced therapist specializing in working with children and adolescents who have autism, ADHD, and those who are gifted. With a strong focus on individualized care, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each child, fostering emotional growth, resilience, and self-confidence.
I am an experienced therapist specializing in working with children and adolescents who have autism, ADHD, and those who are gifted. With a strong focus on individualized care, I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of each child, fostering emotional growth, resilience, and self-confidence.
(520) 675-4427 View (520) 675-4427
Photo of Debra Davis - Davis Psychology, Education, & Behavior Solutions, PhD, Psychologist
Davis Psychology, Education, & Behavior Solutions
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Dr. Debra Davis utilizes evidence-based diagnostic and treatment practices and specializes in psycho-educational evaluations; learning disabilities; functional behavior assessments; applied behavior analysis; cognitive behavior and behavior therapy; parent consultation and training; teacher consultation; ADHD; autism; developmental disabilities; and parenting of children experiencing chronic illness or divorce.
Dr. Debra Davis utilizes evidence-based diagnostic and treatment practices and specializes in psycho-educational evaluations; learning disabilities; functional behavior assessments; applied behavior analysis; cognitive behavior and behavior therapy; parent consultation and training; teacher consultation; ADHD; autism; developmental disabilities; and parenting of children experiencing chronic illness or divorce.
(480) 467-5498 View (480) 467-5498
Photo of Shelby Rouse, LPC, EMDR , DBT, Counselor
Shelby Rouse
Counselor, LPC, EMDR , DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Hi! My name is Shelby Rouse, LPC, Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist. I am currently accepting new clients. I have experience with children and play therapy. I am also EMDR trained and trauma informed. I have experience in the behavioral health field and specialized in Applied Behavior Analytics with children, adolescents, and young adults on the Autism Spectrum. A solid therapeutic alliance is one of the most important factors in counseling and with the art of listening and collaboratively designing your treatment plan, I look forward to to building one with you.
Hi! My name is Shelby Rouse, LPC, Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist. I am currently accepting new clients. I have experience with children and play therapy. I am also EMDR trained and trauma informed. I have experience in the behavioral health field and specialized in Applied Behavior Analytics with children, adolescents, and young adults on the Autism Spectrum. A solid therapeutic alliance is one of the most important factors in counseling and with the art of listening and collaboratively designing your treatment plan, I look forward to to building one with you.
(480) 245-5573 View (480) 245-5573
Photo of Brett Andersen, PsyD, SSP, ABSNP, NCSP, Psychologist
Brett Andersen
Psychologist, PsyD, SSP, ABSNP, NCSP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
, learning disability, dyslexia, autism, gifted, ADHD, behavior problems, etc.
As a child psychologist and a parent (myself), I love working with families. I can appreciate the difficulties of parenting, but as I child psychologist I understand child-related difficulties as they apply to academics inside and out. I currently work part-time for a local school district so I am up-to-date with any school-related practices (e.g., distance learning, IEPs, 504s, etc.). I love being able to resolve child-related concerns via psychoeducational evaluations and providing parents with a "road map" so their child gets what they need to be most successful.
, learning disability, dyslexia, autism, gifted, ADHD, behavior problems, etc.
As a child psychologist and a parent (myself), I love working with families. I can appreciate the difficulties of parenting, but as I child psychologist I understand child-related difficulties as they apply to academics inside and out. I currently work part-time for a local school district so I am up-to-date with any school-related practices (e.g., distance learning, IEPs, 504s, etc.). I love being able to resolve child-related concerns via psychoeducational evaluations and providing parents with a "road map" so their child gets what they need to be most successful.
(928) 236-9232 View (928) 236-9232
Photo of Stephen Sommers, LPC, CMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephen Sommers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I have experience working with Teens with ADHD, and Autism, as well as Depression, Anxiety, Eating Didorders and Behavioral Issues.
I have extensive experience working with children and families and excel meeting children and teens where they are at, no matter the area of difficulty or how layered their problems are. I offer parent education and support in a non-judgmental and caring manner. I use a variety of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, family system dynamics, attachment theory, and play therapy.
I have experience working with Teens with ADHD, and Autism, as well as Depression, Anxiety, Eating Didorders and Behavioral Issues.
I have extensive experience working with children and families and excel meeting children and teens where they are at, no matter the area of difficulty or how layered their problems are. I offer parent education and support in a non-judgmental and caring manner. I use a variety of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, family system dynamics, attachment theory, and play therapy.
(801) 616-8819 View (801) 616-8819
Photo of Carol McLean, PhD, Psychologist
Carol McLean
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
McLean and her team specialize in the early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder beginning at 12 months of age through 17 years of age.
Dr. Carol McLean, Ph.D., has been in private practice since 2003. She specializes in development throughout the lifespan. Developmental & Educational Psychological Services provides high quality comprehensive assessments to identify numerous psychological and developmental conditions. Psychological assessment is a valuable tool for exploring issues to determine treatment and access intervention and support. Without accurate identification of a developmental or psychological condition it is difficult to effectively treat symptoms. Get a clear understanding of your child’s psychological or developmental issues.
McLean and her team specialize in the early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder beginning at 12 months of age through 17 years of age.
Dr. Carol McLean, Ph.D., has been in private practice since 2003. She specializes in development throughout the lifespan. Developmental & Educational Psychological Services provides high quality comprehensive assessments to identify numerous psychological and developmental conditions. Psychological assessment is a valuable tool for exploring issues to determine treatment and access intervention and support. Without accurate identification of a developmental or psychological condition it is difficult to effectively treat symptoms. Get a clear understanding of your child’s psychological or developmental issues.
(480) 405-1003 View (480) 405-1003
Photo of Fernando Martinez, LBA, BCBA, MA
Fernando Martinez
LBA, BCBA, MA
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
I am an independent board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) that specializes in using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help children, teens, or adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities. I create person centered goals to help clients reach developmental milestones. My services help improve communication, daily living (e.g. getting dressed), coping, safety (e.g. crossing the street), social, play, and reduce challenging behaviors (e.g. tantrums and aggression). I am currently accepting new clients who need intensive ABA in-home, school consultation, and group home settings.
I am an independent board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) that specializes in using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to help children, teens, or adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities. I create person centered goals to help clients reach developmental milestones. My services help improve communication, daily living (e.g. getting dressed), coping, safety (e.g. crossing the street), social, play, and reduce challenging behaviors (e.g. tantrums and aggression). I am currently accepting new clients who need intensive ABA in-home, school consultation, and group home settings.
(623) 462-1296 View (623) 462-1296
Photo of Joseph A Gentry - Gentry Pediatric Behavioral Services, PLLC, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA, Psychologist
Gentry Pediatric Behavioral Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Our Licensed Behavior Analysts cen help with the assessment, planning and training of staff to work with young kids diagnosed with Autism.
Dr. Joseph Gentry obtained his doctoral degree from Illinois State University, with a specialization in consultation, assessment, and developmental disabilities. Dr. Gentry and his wife, Sarah, opened Gentry PBS in 2008 to provide a wide range of services to children in the Phoenix Metro area. Gentry Pediatric Behavioral Services is a multi-disciplinary private practice that brings psychologists, behavior analysts, and speech and language pathologists together. We are devoted to conducting *gold standard* diagnostic evaluations and providing comprehensive treatment options for children and families dealing with childhood struggles.
Our Licensed Behavior Analysts cen help with the assessment, planning and training of staff to work with young kids diagnosed with Autism.
Dr. Joseph Gentry obtained his doctoral degree from Illinois State University, with a specialization in consultation, assessment, and developmental disabilities. Dr. Gentry and his wife, Sarah, opened Gentry PBS in 2008 to provide a wide range of services to children in the Phoenix Metro area. Gentry Pediatric Behavioral Services is a multi-disciplinary private practice that brings psychologists, behavior analysts, and speech and language pathologists together. We are devoted to conducting *gold standard* diagnostic evaluations and providing comprehensive treatment options for children and families dealing with childhood struggles.
(602) 714-2424 View (602) 714-2424
Photo of Dr. Morgan M Hall - Pinnacle Center, PhD, Psychologist
Pinnacle Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Hall provides both comprehensive evaluations as well as focused evaluations for specific conditions like autism or ADHD (referral required for focused evaluations).
Dr. Hall is a licensed psychologist in Central Phoenix specializing in neuropsychology and diagnosis. She sees toddlers through young adults (and their families!) for evaluations and brief therapy. Evaluations help uncover the root of an issue, and a diagnosis provides answers. Often our clients have tried a variety of therapies before coming for an evaluation to better understand what's going on. Neuropsychologists have extensive training in brain-behavior relationships and methods for better understanding individual experiences. Dr. Hall works with a team that is also available to provide direct therapy and parent training.
Hall provides both comprehensive evaluations as well as focused evaluations for specific conditions like autism or ADHD (referral required for focused evaluations).
Dr. Hall is a licensed psychologist in Central Phoenix specializing in neuropsychology and diagnosis. She sees toddlers through young adults (and their families!) for evaluations and brief therapy. Evaluations help uncover the root of an issue, and a diagnosis provides answers. Often our clients have tried a variety of therapies before coming for an evaluation to better understand what's going on. Neuropsychologists have extensive training in brain-behavior relationships and methods for better understanding individual experiences. Dr. Hall works with a team that is also available to provide direct therapy and parent training.
(602) 848-1889 View (602) 848-1889
Photo of Shalini Wahi - Arizona Psychology Clinic; Dr Shalini Wahi, PhD, Psychologist
Arizona Psychology Clinic; Dr Shalini Wahi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
The Arizona Psychology Clinic offers Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing Services for ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism, Gifted IQ, Twice Exceptional and Personality Issues. Additionally, testing for accommodations on Standardized Tests such as the SAT, ACT and GRE is also offered. Testing protocols for receiving accommodations within school and college settings are a focus of the practice as well.
The Arizona Psychology Clinic offers Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing Services for ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism, Gifted IQ, Twice Exceptional and Personality Issues. Additionally, testing for accommodations on Standardized Tests such as the SAT, ACT and GRE is also offered. Testing protocols for receiving accommodations within school and college settings are a focus of the practice as well.
(480) 789-9934 View (480) 789-9934
Photo of Meira Greenfeld - Urim Recovery - EMDR, ADHD/Autism & Trauma, JD, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Urim Recovery - EMDR, ADHD/Autism & Trauma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I provide strength-based affirming support for those wishing to connect on an emotional level and cope with CPTSD, ADHD and autism.
Post election stress? I welcome all those needing support to feel connected, empowered and confident to meet life's challenges. Shift from reactivity to response. I help individuals name their pain, focus on taking care of themselves and recover from relational distress, loss & burnout. In our time together, we will work on restoring the trust, confidence and sense of self often depleted as a result of relational trauma and life experiences. I specialize in treating complex and attachment related trauma, ADHD, CPTSD as well as autism, from a relational and developmentally based perspective using EMDR, IPSRT and EFT.
I provide strength-based affirming support for those wishing to connect on an emotional level and cope with CPTSD, ADHD and autism.
Post election stress? I welcome all those needing support to feel connected, empowered and confident to meet life's challenges. Shift from reactivity to response. I help individuals name their pain, focus on taking care of themselves and recover from relational distress, loss & burnout. In our time together, we will work on restoring the trust, confidence and sense of self often depleted as a result of relational trauma and life experiences. I specialize in treating complex and attachment related trauma, ADHD, CPTSD as well as autism, from a relational and developmentally based perspective using EMDR, IPSRT and EFT.
(602) 691-4090 View (602) 691-4090
Photo of Sara Frye, PhD, NCSP, Psychologist
Sara Frye
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Frye specializes in neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations, with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorder (including adults being diagnosed for the first time), ADHD, learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), anxiety and depressive disorders, brain injuries, behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, and giftedness.
Disclaimer: We do not currently offer therapy services. Dr. Sara Frye is a licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist. She has practiced in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and schools. Her background is unique in that she is trained in both neuropsychology and school psychology. Thus, she can make medical diagnoses and educational recommendations. Evaluations focus on identifying neurocognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as assessing behavioral and social-emotional functioning, to clarify diagnoses and make recommendations for supports.
Frye specializes in neuropsychological and psychoeducational evaluations, with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorder (including adults being diagnosed for the first time), ADHD, learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia), anxiety and depressive disorders, brain injuries, behavior disorders, intellectual disabilities, and giftedness.
Disclaimer: We do not currently offer therapy services. Dr. Sara Frye is a licensed psychologist and nationally certified school psychologist. She has practiced in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and schools. Her background is unique in that she is trained in both neuropsychology and school psychology. Thus, she can make medical diagnoses and educational recommendations. Evaluations focus on identifying neurocognitive strengths and weaknesses, as well as assessing behavioral and social-emotional functioning, to clarify diagnoses and make recommendations for supports.
(520) 282-4709 View (520) 282-4709
Photo of Bethsy Amador, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bethsy Amador
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85251  (Online Only)
I am a Catholic Christian therapist who specializes in Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Trauma. With over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert in your life and my role as your therapist is to gently guide, support and provide you with the tools that you need to overcome the challenges that you face. We all experience struggles in life and finding the right supports is essential to progress and healing. My hope is to be that support for each and every one of my clients.
I am a Catholic Christian therapist who specializes in Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Trauma. With over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert in your life and my role as your therapist is to gently guide, support and provide you with the tools that you need to overcome the challenges that you face. We all experience struggles in life and finding the right supports is essential to progress and healing. My hope is to be that support for each and every one of my clients.
(480) 771-2165 View (480) 771-2165
Photo of Sarah Zillweger- Neruoaffirming Therapist, LPC/AZ, LPCC/CA, NCC, ASDCS, Autplay, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Zillweger- Neruoaffirming Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC/AZ, LPCC/CA, NCC, ASDCS, Autplay
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85054
Using a trauma informed, integrative, and strength based approach, I tend to work with my speciality certifications in ADHD, Autism, and prior neurobiology attachment experience to best support the overall psychological development and emotional well being of the client/child and or family.
At Essence of Empowerment Therapy you matter. You deserve a place to be seen and heard. If its navigating and understanding a new diagnosis of ADHD, Autism, anxiety for you/your family, or managing life’s challenges with neurodiversity, you are not alone. Taking the first step can be challenging, and you did it, you are here. Specializing in Neurodiversity, and how it impacts our day to day, we integrate a trauma informed theraputic approach with a variety of techniques to best fit and support your/your child's unique journey. We are all about instilling hope and encouragement together every step of the way.
Using a trauma informed, integrative, and strength based approach, I tend to work with my speciality certifications in ADHD, Autism, and prior neurobiology attachment experience to best support the overall psychological development and emotional well being of the client/child and or family.
At Essence of Empowerment Therapy you matter. You deserve a place to be seen and heard. If its navigating and understanding a new diagnosis of ADHD, Autism, anxiety for you/your family, or managing life’s challenges with neurodiversity, you are not alone. Taking the first step can be challenging, and you did it, you are here. Specializing in Neurodiversity, and how it impacts our day to day, we integrate a trauma informed theraputic approach with a variety of techniques to best fit and support your/your child's unique journey. We are all about instilling hope and encouragement together every step of the way.
(520) 376-1202 View (520) 376-1202
Photo of Adrianne Gallucci, PsyD, MSW, Psychologist
Adrianne Gallucci
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
For adults, I provide: comprehensive neurocognitive assessments, capacity evaluations (finances, medical decisions, consent to treatment, living independently), pre-surgery evaluations (neuromodulation, bariatric, amputation), Fitness for Duty evaluations, ADHD, Autism, and psychological evaluations. For children over 6, I provide ADHD, Autism, intellectual functioning, and psychological assessments. I also provide psychotherapy for adults and couples.
For adults, I provide: comprehensive neurocognitive assessments, capacity evaluations (finances, medical decisions, consent to treatment, living independently), pre-surgery evaluations (neuromodulation, bariatric, amputation), Fitness for Duty evaluations, ADHD, Autism, and psychological evaluations. For children over 6, I provide ADHD, Autism, intellectual functioning, and psychological assessments. I also provide psychotherapy for adults and couples.
(602) 641-3203 View (602) 641-3203
Photo of Sarah Anderson, OTD, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist
Sarah Anderson
Occupational Therapist, OTD, OTR/L
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent millennials, Gen Z teens, and young adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, Autism, OCD, chronic stress, life transitions, and substance use recovery. If you often feel overwhelmed by everyday demands, struggle with perfectionism or procrastination, or find it hard to focus and stay organized, I’m here to help. My neuroaffirming approach is compassionate and tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll create routines that truly work for you, improve your daily functioning, and build self-confidence, empowering you to thrive in a way that honors who you are and how you experience the world.
I specialize in supporting neurodivergent millennials, Gen Z teens, and young adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, Autism, OCD, chronic stress, life transitions, and substance use recovery. If you often feel overwhelmed by everyday demands, struggle with perfectionism or procrastination, or find it hard to focus and stay organized, I’m here to help. My neuroaffirming approach is compassionate and tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll create routines that truly work for you, improve your daily functioning, and build self-confidence, empowering you to thrive in a way that honors who you are and how you experience the world.
(602) 429-9338 View (602) 429-9338
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.