Autism Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Andrew Vogl, MA, BCBA
Andrew Vogl
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I provide coaching and therapy for individuals on the autism spectrum, as well as parent coaching.
Being autistic or having autism or Asperger's can cause challenges in communication, feelings of isolation, and rigid thinking. Together, we can address these limitations so you can improve your life in the exact ways you want to. Being able to talk to your partner or spouse, while expressing how you really feel, can be achieved by learning new techniques.
I provide coaching and therapy for individuals on the autism spectrum, as well as parent coaching.
Being autistic or having autism or Asperger's can cause challenges in communication, feelings of isolation, and rigid thinking. Together, we can address these limitations so you can improve your life in the exact ways you want to. Being able to talk to your partner or spouse, while expressing how you really feel, can be achieved by learning new techniques.
(415) 527-5431 View (415) 527-5431
Photo of Dr. Thuy Tran, DO
Dr. Thuy Tran
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have special interest in providing an integrative and personalized care for clients with ADHD and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
As a doctor and a coach, I offer consultation, screening, diagnosis, integrative and personalized care for ADHD. I collaborate and facilitate understanding of your relationship to ADHD/ASD. Together in a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space, we explore your strengths, interests, passions, intentions, motivations, and bridge them to actions.
I have special interest in providing an integrative and personalized care for clients with ADHD and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
As a doctor and a coach, I offer consultation, screening, diagnosis, integrative and personalized care for ADHD. I collaborate and facilitate understanding of your relationship to ADHD/ASD. Together in a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space, we explore your strengths, interests, passions, intentions, motivations, and bridge them to actions.
(415) 237-9214 View (415) 237-9214
Photo of Dr. Boikanyo P. Tlhong, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Boikanyo P. Tlhong
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My competencies include clinical diagnostics, psychological evaluations and therapy for Mood / Bi-polar disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, alcohol and substance abuse, depression and grief and loss issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California. I earned my doctorate in Clinical psychology from California Southern University and a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University-Phoenix in 2004. I have more than 20 years of clinical practice working with different clients with serious mental illnesses (SMI), alcohol and substance use disorders. I consider myself to be an avid cognitive behavioral therapist, and prefer to work with adult population.
My competencies include clinical diagnostics, psychological evaluations and therapy for Mood / Bi-polar disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, alcohol and substance abuse, depression and grief and loss issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in California. I earned my doctorate in Clinical psychology from California Southern University and a Masters in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University-Phoenix in 2004. I have more than 20 years of clinical practice working with different clients with serious mental illnesses (SMI), alcohol and substance use disorders. I consider myself to be an avid cognitive behavioral therapist, and prefer to work with adult population.
(213) 682-2878 View (213) 682-2878
Photo of Josephine Kelly, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Josephine Kelly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have specialized training in sex therapy, somatic therapy, and neurodiversity-affirming autism assessments.
Do you want to be able to speak the hard truths and be met with compassion? Let's create a space where you feel safe enough to share your unpopular opinions and hot takes. I’ll sit with you and be a witness to your story, no matter how beautiful or terrible. I want to hear what’s taboo, subversive, and extraordinary. Through our work you’ll learn to embrace your whole self: messy, complex, and capable of growth no matter your past.
I have specialized training in sex therapy, somatic therapy, and neurodiversity-affirming autism assessments.
Do you want to be able to speak the hard truths and be met with compassion? Let's create a space where you feel safe enough to share your unpopular opinions and hot takes. I’ll sit with you and be a witness to your story, no matter how beautiful or terrible. I want to hear what’s taboo, subversive, and extraordinary. Through our work you’ll learn to embrace your whole self: messy, complex, and capable of growth no matter your past.
(510) 983-7359 View (510) 983-7359
Photo of Graham (Woo) Holoch, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Graham (Woo) Holoch
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
My areas of experience include transitioning life stages, "failure to launch" syndrome, social skills, finding community, anxiety, depression, supporting people diagnosed and undiagnosed with ADHD, and the nuanced experience of being on the Autism Spectrum.
I am compassionate, positive, pragmatic, and flexible. I am no stranger to humor and cynicism. Talk therapy and expressive forms of communication (journaling, arts, etc) have an equal place in the therapy room. My approach utilizes combinations of Motivational Interview, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and a systems approach.
My areas of experience include transitioning life stages, "failure to launch" syndrome, social skills, finding community, anxiety, depression, supporting people diagnosed and undiagnosed with ADHD, and the nuanced experience of being on the Autism Spectrum.
I am compassionate, positive, pragmatic, and flexible. I am no stranger to humor and cynicism. Talk therapy and expressive forms of communication (journaling, arts, etc) have an equal place in the therapy room. My approach utilizes combinations of Motivational Interview, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and a systems approach.
(415) 548-7954 x2 View (415) 548-7954 x2
Photo of Dr. April Moyer, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. April Moyer
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Please reach out if you are living with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, relationship stress, or family discord and would like support.
I am based in San Francisco and am happy to see clients throughout California. I specialize in supporting clients through life's many transitions - to adulthood, building a family, raising a child/teenager, marriage/commitment, divorce/separation, career decisions, loss of loved ones, and more. My approach to therapy is solutions focused and strengths based.
Please reach out if you are living with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, relationship stress, or family discord and would like support.
I am based in San Francisco and am happy to see clients throughout California. I specialize in supporting clients through life's many transitions - to adulthood, building a family, raising a child/teenager, marriage/commitment, divorce/separation, career decisions, loss of loved ones, and more. My approach to therapy is solutions focused and strengths based.
(415) 901-0642 View (415) 901-0642
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Coloma, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Coloma
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Specializing in: ADHD, autism, and trauma/PTSD thru affirming therapy and psychodiagnostic evaluations.
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin. Getting your power back, finding your spark — to offer hope beyond relief. This is in the essence of my practice. Sessions hold a gentle reflective space to process stuck zones and distress. Tracing connections to liberate insights that’ll inform needs, and align concrete tools and strategies for opportunities to be, and become. Treatment is dynamic, collaborative, and flexible. Often explores existential and sociocultural aspects of identity to inform diagnostic assessments for a full view of the self.
Specializing in: ADHD, autism, and trauma/PTSD thru affirming therapy and psychodiagnostic evaluations.
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” - Anais Nin. Getting your power back, finding your spark — to offer hope beyond relief. This is in the essence of my practice. Sessions hold a gentle reflective space to process stuck zones and distress. Tracing connections to liberate insights that’ll inform needs, and align concrete tools and strategies for opportunities to be, and become. Treatment is dynamic, collaborative, and flexible. Often explores existential and sociocultural aspects of identity to inform diagnostic assessments for a full view of the self.
(415) 338-9600 View (415) 338-9600
Photo of Adrian Rivera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Adrian Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Online Only
I support people of all ages with personal or relationship challenges, mood/anxiety disorders, neuro-developmental differences (ADHD/ Autism) and provide educational counseling and advocacy.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
I support people of all ages with personal or relationship challenges, mood/anxiety disorders, neuro-developmental differences (ADHD/ Autism) and provide educational counseling and advocacy.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
(510) 901-5736 View (510) 901-5736
Photo of Jessica Foley - Jessica Foley, Neuropsychology SF, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Jessica Foley, Neuropsychology SF
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
She has many years of experience in conducting such evaluations in the context of neurologic (e.g., TBI, epilepsy, brain tumor, MS, movement disorders, neurodegenerative), neurodevelopmental (ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disability) and psychiatric factors interfering with academic, occupational, and other aspects of everyday functioning.
I provide neuropsychological evaluation (ages 14+), to determine causes of real-life struggles, via assessment of attention, processing speed, memory, language, spatial, executive, mood and personality functions. Results of an individually tailored test battery serve identify areas of abnormality and targeted treatment recommendations to improve functioning.
She has many years of experience in conducting such evaluations in the context of neurologic (e.g., TBI, epilepsy, brain tumor, MS, movement disorders, neurodegenerative), neurodevelopmental (ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disability) and psychiatric factors interfering with academic, occupational, and other aspects of everyday functioning.
I provide neuropsychological evaluation (ages 14+), to determine causes of real-life struggles, via assessment of attention, processing speed, memory, language, spatial, executive, mood and personality functions. Results of an individually tailored test battery serve identify areas of abnormality and targeted treatment recommendations to improve functioning.
(628) 212-7955 View (628) 212-7955
Photo of Riley Jana Morgan, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Riley Jana Morgan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Waitlist for new clients
If you are an Autistic adult seeking autism-focused and neurodivergent affirming therapy, I will help you feel safe, supported, and heard with compassion.
As an Autistic therapist, I offer neurodivergent affirming therapy for adults with or without a formal autism diagnosis; I address autistic burnout, masking, and sensory sensitivities; I provide solutions for anxiety & depression; and I offer mindful self-care through strength-based, somatic (sensory-based), compassion-focused, and autism affirming therapy.
If you are an Autistic adult seeking autism-focused and neurodivergent affirming therapy, I will help you feel safe, supported, and heard with compassion.
As an Autistic therapist, I offer neurodivergent affirming therapy for adults with or without a formal autism diagnosis; I address autistic burnout, masking, and sensory sensitivities; I provide solutions for anxiety & depression; and I offer mindful self-care through strength-based, somatic (sensory-based), compassion-focused, and autism affirming therapy.
(415) 358-6700 View (415) 358-6700
Photo of Kaitlin Doran, Psychologist, PsyD
Kaitlin Doran
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
I am a queer, autistic licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in high masking Autism, depression and anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, women’s health issues, and life transitions.
I enjoy working with adults via telemedicine across the State of California.
I am a queer, autistic licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in high masking Autism, depression and anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, women’s health issues, and life transitions.
I enjoy working with adults via telemedicine across the State of California.
(628) 200-3679 View (628) 200-3679
Photo of Jess Pliszka, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Jess Pliszka
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
11 Endorsed
Online Only
Board-Certified (NCC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Neuropsychotherapist, ADHD-CCSP, & Autism-CCSP.
Do you feel like you’ve always moved through life a little differently, being deeply perceptive, emotionally attuned, and constantly adapting to meet others’ needs? You may have masked so well for so long that even you are questioning who the "real you" is. Our private neurodivergent awakening support services are validating, collaborative, and designed to help you finally name what you’ve known all along: You’re not too much—you’re just tuned in.
Board-Certified (NCC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Neuropsychotherapist, ADHD-CCSP, & Autism-CCSP.
Do you feel like you’ve always moved through life a little differently, being deeply perceptive, emotionally attuned, and constantly adapting to meet others’ needs? You may have masked so well for so long that even you are questioning who the "real you" is. Our private neurodivergent awakening support services are validating, collaborative, and designed to help you finally name what you’ve known all along: You’re not too much—you’re just tuned in.
(414) 206-1149 View (414) 206-1149
Photo of Sharon Qi, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, BCBA, PhD
Sharon Qi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, BCBA, PhD
Online Only
If you’re facing challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, or low confidence, due to autism, or ADHD—I’m here to help.
I use various counseling strategies including ABA, CBT, DBT, ACT, mindfulness, or motivational interviewing. I have worked at Appletree Psychological Services for six to seven years. I am also joining other virtual mental health service organizations such as Headway mental health to provide service to more clients.
If you’re facing challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, or low confidence, due to autism, or ADHD—I’m here to help.
I use various counseling strategies including ABA, CBT, DBT, ACT, mindfulness, or motivational interviewing. I have worked at Appletree Psychological Services for six to seven years. I am also joining other virtual mental health service organizations such as Headway mental health to provide service to more clients.
(510) 462-5485 View (510) 462-5485
Photo of Lori Mothersell, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Lori Mothersell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
I have extensive experience of Autism.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to guide them to achieve more satisfying, meaningful relationships and social adjustment. I believe therapy is a collaborative, creative process to unveil hidden strengths and courage to motivate change and create new experiences in your life. Creating a therapeutic relationship that feels safe and trusting enough to take personal and emotional risks is important. Through an eclectic approach best suited for my client, I have had success treating a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, past trauma, and grief/loss.
I have extensive experience of Autism.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to guide them to achieve more satisfying, meaningful relationships and social adjustment. I believe therapy is a collaborative, creative process to unveil hidden strengths and courage to motivate change and create new experiences in your life. Creating a therapeutic relationship that feels safe and trusting enough to take personal and emotional risks is important. Through an eclectic approach best suited for my client, I have had success treating a wide range of issues including: anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, past trauma, and grief/loss.
(415) 689-9058 View (415) 689-9058
Photo of Debbie Vuong - Debbie Vuong, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Debbie Vuong, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
San Francisco, CA 94115
I help neurodivergent clients ( Autism, ADHD/executive-function) and those with social anxiety.
With more than 20 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I help children, teens, and young adults—especially those who are neurodivergent or living with social anxiety—navigate emotional, social, and developmental challenges. My warm, collaborative style blends psychodynamic and in-depth, relational insight with concrete tools from behavioral, mindfulness, and social-skills training so each client gains both understanding and practical strategies.
I help neurodivergent clients ( Autism, ADHD/executive-function) and those with social anxiety.
With more than 20 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I help children, teens, and young adults—especially those who are neurodivergent or living with social anxiety—navigate emotional, social, and developmental challenges. My warm, collaborative style blends psychodynamic and in-depth, relational insight with concrete tools from behavioral, mindfulness, and social-skills training so each client gains both understanding and practical strategies.
(415) 949-7120 View (415) 949-7120
Photo of Navpreet Chima, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Navpreet Chima
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have training and experience working with neurodivergent adults with autism or adhd.
Being told to trust the process in talk therapy can be frustrating, I use direct parts work/ somatic approaches that validate the connection between mind and body. If you are dealing with the effects of childhood emotional neglect or trauma, like difficulty trusting others or maintaining relationships, having overwhelming emotions or anxiety, or low energy/ motivation, healing younger parts in therapy can resolve these issues. I use DBT with Internal Family Systems Therapy to provide a structured, collaborative approach. Neurodivergence and Chronic Illnesses are accommodated, while providing skill development as needed.
I have training and experience working with neurodivergent adults with autism or adhd.
Being told to trust the process in talk therapy can be frustrating, I use direct parts work/ somatic approaches that validate the connection between mind and body. If you are dealing with the effects of childhood emotional neglect or trauma, like difficulty trusting others or maintaining relationships, having overwhelming emotions or anxiety, or low energy/ motivation, healing younger parts in therapy can resolve these issues. I use DBT with Internal Family Systems Therapy to provide a structured, collaborative approach. Neurodivergence and Chronic Illnesses are accommodated, while providing skill development as needed.
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Photo of Julie Kangas, Psychologist, PhD
Julie Kangas
Psychologist, PhD
San Francisco, CA 94103
We now know that autism doesn’t look the way our culture often expects it to, and we see the harms of treatment models that aim to make you fit in with the neurotypical world.
I want to help you make a life that works for you, represents your values, and lets you live with peace and comfort, just as you are. I provide a warm, validating, and empowering environment for my clients, and I don’t make assumptions about their experiences. My therapeutic approach includes the interplay between mental, emotional, and physical health.
We now know that autism doesn’t look the way our culture often expects it to, and we see the harms of treatment models that aim to make you fit in with the neurotypical world.
I want to help you make a life that works for you, represents your values, and lets you live with peace and comfort, just as you are. I provide a warm, validating, and empowering environment for my clients, and I don’t make assumptions about their experiences. My therapeutic approach includes the interplay between mental, emotional, and physical health.
(858) 771-2591 View (858) 771-2591
Photo of Patty Laushman - Patty Laushman, Thrive Autism Coaching, MA, CAS
Patty Laushman, Thrive Autism Coaching
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We have a diverse team of highly skilled, specialist autism life coaches who see clients virtually.
We understand the impact of being neurodivergent (autistic, ASD, PDA, ADHD, gifted, 2e, dyslexic, dysgraphic, dyscalculic) in a world built for neurotypicals. Because the world is not designed for neurodivergent people, daily life is often more difficult due to neurological differences that impact communication, executive functioning, sensory regulation, and learning.
We have a diverse team of highly skilled, specialist autism life coaches who see clients virtually.
We understand the impact of being neurodivergent (autistic, ASD, PDA, ADHD, gifted, 2e, dyslexic, dysgraphic, dyscalculic) in a world built for neurotypicals. Because the world is not designed for neurodivergent people, daily life is often more difficult due to neurological differences that impact communication, executive functioning, sensory regulation, and learning.
(720) 513-7353 View (720) 513-7353
Photo of Stephanie Ariana Acevedo-Moran, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT , LAADC, BCBA
Stephanie Ariana Acevedo-Moran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT , LAADC, BCBA
Online Only
I specialize in working with people struggling from mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, addiction and recovery, LBGTQ issues, and neurodevelopment disorders specifically autism spectrum disorder.
How would you like to create meaning in your life? What would it look like to fulfill your dreams and achieve happiness? Do you live in fear, anger, and sadness wondering how to sustain joy? My goal is to help you generate insight about yourself, identify your needs and wants and teach you how to communicate this to yourself and others, and manage interfering thoughts and behaviors that may limit growth and change.
I specialize in working with people struggling from mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, addiction and recovery, LBGTQ issues, and neurodevelopment disorders specifically autism spectrum disorder.
How would you like to create meaning in your life? What would it look like to fulfill your dreams and achieve happiness? Do you live in fear, anger, and sadness wondering how to sustain joy? My goal is to help you generate insight about yourself, identify your needs and wants and teach you how to communicate this to yourself and others, and manage interfering thoughts and behaviors that may limit growth and change.
(657) 213-2330 View (657) 213-2330
Photo of Melanie Ferrari, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Melanie Ferrari
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My other main areas of focus include addiction, autism, ADHD, and chronic illness (including experiences of medical gaslighting, HIV/AIDS, TBI, and long COVID).
I'm authentic and direct. I value science equally with the domain of intuition and art. My style is anchored in cognitive science, attachment theory, mindfulness, social justice, parts work, somatic psychology, psychodynamic theory, and depth psychotherapy. I'm queer and LGBTQIA+ aligned, and I consider myself an especially huge nerd with evolutionary psychology.
My other main areas of focus include addiction, autism, ADHD, and chronic illness (including experiences of medical gaslighting, HIV/AIDS, TBI, and long COVID).
I'm authentic and direct. I value science equally with the domain of intuition and art. My style is anchored in cognitive science, attachment theory, mindfulness, social justice, parts work, somatic psychology, psychodynamic theory, and depth psychotherapy. I'm queer and LGBTQIA+ aligned, and I consider myself an especially huge nerd with evolutionary psychology.
(510) 826-5168 View (510) 826-5168

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Autism Therapists

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.

How does ABA work?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.

How does treatment for autism work?

Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.

How long does therapy for autism take?

Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.