Autism Therapists in Miami, FL

Photo of Patricia Lomando, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Lomando
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Autism is another focus Patricia has personal and professional ties to.
Patricia Lomando, LCSW, RPT-S, provides neurodivergent affirming services for the child, adolescent, and adult. Depression and anxiety are passions focused on throughout her career. Using sandtray, expressive arts, Internal Family Systems and Play Therapy, she explores mood and prevention patterns, collaborates on coping strategies and helps identify those sometimes elusive gifts that are part of every neurotype. With expansive certifications in Registered Play Therapy and Infant Mental Health, she works through methodologies that bridge family gaps and help “translate” the child’s language through play, art and sand tray work.
Autism is another focus Patricia has personal and professional ties to.
Patricia Lomando, LCSW, RPT-S, provides neurodivergent affirming services for the child, adolescent, and adult. Depression and anxiety are passions focused on throughout her career. Using sandtray, expressive arts, Internal Family Systems and Play Therapy, she explores mood and prevention patterns, collaborates on coping strategies and helps identify those sometimes elusive gifts that are part of every neurotype. With expansive certifications in Registered Play Therapy and Infant Mental Health, she works through methodologies that bridge family gaps and help “translate” the child’s language through play, art and sand tray work.
(305) 570-3547 View (305) 570-3547
Photo of Ariadna Montero, PsyD, Psychologist
Ariadna Montero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33144
My current focus is on the assessment of childhood disorders, mainly ADHD and autism.
Is your child facing challenges in school? Are they having trouble concentrating? Suspecting a learning disability? If you or your child is struggling with social, behavioral, emotional, or academic issues, I'm here to assist! Take a proactive approach rather than reacting to a problem that can be addressed if identified early. Evaluations provide valuable insights for treatment, enabling other professionals to make informed decisions for your well-being. Knowledge is empowering! I provide thorough assessments of psychological disorders with a focus on learning disorders, intellectual disability, autism, and ADHD.
My current focus is on the assessment of childhood disorders, mainly ADHD and autism.
Is your child facing challenges in school? Are they having trouble concentrating? Suspecting a learning disability? If you or your child is struggling with social, behavioral, emotional, or academic issues, I'm here to assist! Take a proactive approach rather than reacting to a problem that can be addressed if identified early. Evaluations provide valuable insights for treatment, enabling other professionals to make informed decisions for your well-being. Knowledge is empowering! I provide thorough assessments of psychological disorders with a focus on learning disorders, intellectual disability, autism, and ADHD.
(786) 730-7299 View (786) 730-7299
Photo of Tanisha Tatum, MS, LEP, BCBA
Tanisha Tatum
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MS, LEP, BCBA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Trained to work w/neurodiverse clients as well who have Autism, ADHD etc.
My clients teens and young adults who need help identifying and managing their mental health needs whether that is Anxiety, Depression, social problems, and/or adjusting to growing up. I provide therapy as well as psychoeducational assessment services. My assessments target neurodiverse abilities such as ADHD, Autism & learning disabilities. When relevant assessments include recommendations for accommodations for school and work. For my therapy practice, I used solution focused approaches as well as behavior based strategies, combining my skills to create a positive therapeutic experience. Virtual services only in FL and SC.
Trained to work w/neurodiverse clients as well who have Autism, ADHD etc.
My clients teens and young adults who need help identifying and managing their mental health needs whether that is Anxiety, Depression, social problems, and/or adjusting to growing up. I provide therapy as well as psychoeducational assessment services. My assessments target neurodiverse abilities such as ADHD, Autism & learning disabilities. When relevant assessments include recommendations for accommodations for school and work. For my therapy practice, I used solution focused approaches as well as behavior based strategies, combining my skills to create a positive therapeutic experience. Virtual services only in FL and SC.
(754) 354-0190 View (754) 354-0190
Photo of Grettel Martinez, PsyD, Psychologist
Grettel Martinez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33144
Is you child having trouble with school? Is he having difficulty concentrating? Do you suspect a learning disability? If you or your child are struggling with social, behavioral, emotional, or academic problems, I can help! Do not wait. Be proactive rather than reactive to a problem that can be fixed if caught early on. Evaluations inform treatment and help other professionals make better decisions for your benefit. Knowledge is power! I offer comprehensive assessments of psychological disorders. Specialty: learning disorders, autism and ADHD. INSURANCE ACCEPTED FOR PART OF THE EVALUATION
Is you child having trouble with school? Is he having difficulty concentrating? Do you suspect a learning disability? If you or your child are struggling with social, behavioral, emotional, or academic problems, I can help! Do not wait. Be proactive rather than reactive to a problem that can be fixed if caught early on. Evaluations inform treatment and help other professionals make better decisions for your benefit. Knowledge is power! I offer comprehensive assessments of psychological disorders. Specialty: learning disorders, autism and ADHD. INSURANCE ACCEPTED FOR PART OF THE EVALUATION
(305) 760-9861 View (305) 760-9861
Photo of Ana Bulnes, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ana Bulnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a clinical social worker with over 21 years of experience licensed in the states of Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, Texas, and Vermont. I help clients address autism, ADHD, and the challenges that stem from these differences (C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships and communication challenges, family relationship challenges, and parenting support). I also have a lot of experience working with PTSD and C-PTSD, and helping individuals, couples and families improve their communications. I see my clients as the experts in their lives and my role as that of a guide toward insight and improvement.
I am a clinical social worker with over 21 years of experience licensed in the states of Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, Texas, and Vermont. I help clients address autism, ADHD, and the challenges that stem from these differences (C-PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships and communication challenges, family relationship challenges, and parenting support). I also have a lot of experience working with PTSD and C-PTSD, and helping individuals, couples and families improve their communications. I see my clients as the experts in their lives and my role as that of a guide toward insight and improvement.
(305) 783-3501 View (305) 783-3501
Photo of Jodi Pliszka - Adult Female Autism-Adhd Specialist, PhD
Jodi Pliszka - Adult Female Autism-Adhd Specialist
PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Are you a high-achieving woman questioning Autism or ADHD? Beyond your success, do you struggle with your self-identity and feel different than others? Do feel socially awkward and experience sensory concerns? You are hardworking and goal-oriented, but often feel overwhelmed to the point of having a meltdown. You strive to put your needs first, but struggle with perfectionism, self-limiting beliefs, and imposter syndrome. People don't take your concerns seriously because of your success. Feeling out of control is exhausting, but we will help you discover your authentic self, accommodate your needs, and validate your experience.
Are you a high-achieving woman questioning Autism or ADHD? Beyond your success, do you struggle with your self-identity and feel different than others? Do feel socially awkward and experience sensory concerns? You are hardworking and goal-oriented, but often feel overwhelmed to the point of having a meltdown. You strive to put your needs first, but struggle with perfectionism, self-limiting beliefs, and imposter syndrome. People don't take your concerns seriously because of your success. Feeling out of control is exhausting, but we will help you discover your authentic self, accommodate your needs, and validate your experience.
(786) 977-3908 View (786) 977-3908
Photo of Ashley Tirado-Martinez, PsyD, Psychologist
Ashley Tirado-Martinez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33156
My interests include: Child and adolescent psychology, parent-child dynamics, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Are you struggling to connect with your child? Do they seem to be withdrawing, are not like themselves, or exhibiting challenging behaviors? Are they undergoing major life changes, having difficulties with academics, or struggling socializing with peers? I am here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. The demands of parenting are ever prevalent in today's society and can prove to be quite a challenge! My goal is to help you understand your child and better cope with the inevitable changes they'll have throughout their development.
My interests include: Child and adolescent psychology, parent-child dynamics, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Are you struggling to connect with your child? Do they seem to be withdrawing, are not like themselves, or exhibiting challenging behaviors? Are they undergoing major life changes, having difficulties with academics, or struggling socializing with peers? I am here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. The demands of parenting are ever prevalent in today's society and can prove to be quite a challenge! My goal is to help you understand your child and better cope with the inevitable changes they'll have throughout their development.
(786) 574-6820 View (786) 574-6820
Photo of Daniela Schmeichler, MS, BCBA
Daniela Schmeichler
MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33179
I provide ABA Early Intervention and Behavioral Therapy to children ages 12 months to 12 years old. My mission is to help children build their own strength. I work with children with problem behaviors, emotional challenges, academic struggles, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, defiant behavior, and autism, among others. To provide comprehensive support, I use a combination of tools in my practice including behavioral ABA therapy, art, playtime, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My behavioral training does not substitute my psychology background but complements each other.
I provide ABA Early Intervention and Behavioral Therapy to children ages 12 months to 12 years old. My mission is to help children build their own strength. I work with children with problem behaviors, emotional challenges, academic struggles, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, defiant behavior, and autism, among others. To provide comprehensive support, I use a combination of tools in my practice including behavioral ABA therapy, art, playtime, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My behavioral training does not substitute my psychology background but complements each other.
(954) 231-4249 View (954) 231-4249
Photo of Jorge Garcia, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Jorge Garcia
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33145
In addition to psychological evaluations, we also offer Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to support children with autism and other developmental disorders.
With over three decades of experience, I, Dr. Jorge Garcia, specialize in conducting comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adolescents. My primary focus is on identifying and assessing a range of behavioral and developmental conditions, including gifted programs, autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and various behavioral problems. My goal is to provide thorough and accurate assessments that help in understanding and addressing the unique needs of each child.
In addition to psychological evaluations, we also offer Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to support children with autism and other developmental disorders.
With over three decades of experience, I, Dr. Jorge Garcia, specialize in conducting comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adolescents. My primary focus is on identifying and assessing a range of behavioral and developmental conditions, including gifted programs, autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and various behavioral problems. My goal is to provide thorough and accurate assessments that help in understanding and addressing the unique needs of each child.
(786) 404-9293 View (786) 404-9293
Photo of Jackie Jas, MS, BCBA
Jackie Jas
MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33176
I work with children and adolescents with a wide array of developmental disabilities and disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and other neurological conditions.
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who began my career volunteering in the Child Life department at Miami Children's Hospital, in 2007. It was there that I first developed a passion for helping children. I later discovered the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and loved that I could make a difference in the lives of others through the application of science. I provide ABA therapy where the behaviors are most likely to occur: in the home, at school, and in the community.
I work with children and adolescents with a wide array of developmental disabilities and disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and other neurological conditions.
I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who began my career volunteering in the Child Life department at Miami Children's Hospital, in 2007. It was there that I first developed a passion for helping children. I later discovered the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and loved that I could make a difference in the lives of others through the application of science. I provide ABA therapy where the behaviors are most likely to occur: in the home, at school, and in the community.
(786) 627-5149 View (786) 627-5149
Photo of Dani Rodwell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dani Rodwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Taking consultations for autism/ADHD assessments.
Currently accepting clients for autism & ADHD assessments! Hi, I'm Dani, and fostering a SAFE, specialized, affirming space for neurodivergent adults is my life's work. I work with adult autistics and ADHDers who exist in varying stages of their identity exploration process, careers, relationships, etc. I'm here for people who have always felt different & are looking to understand/accommodate how their brain works through therapy, coaching, & diagnostic assessment. I'm an AuDHD therapist currently providing telehealth in NJ, VT, SC, & FL. BIPOC-affirming. I additionally enjoy supporting LGBTQ+ individuals.
Taking consultations for autism/ADHD assessments.
Currently accepting clients for autism & ADHD assessments! Hi, I'm Dani, and fostering a SAFE, specialized, affirming space for neurodivergent adults is my life's work. I work with adult autistics and ADHDers who exist in varying stages of their identity exploration process, careers, relationships, etc. I'm here for people who have always felt different & are looking to understand/accommodate how their brain works through therapy, coaching, & diagnostic assessment. I'm an AuDHD therapist currently providing telehealth in NJ, VT, SC, & FL. BIPOC-affirming. I additionally enjoy supporting LGBTQ+ individuals.
(201) 690-2047 View (201) 690-2047
Photo of David Smith, LCSW, CASDCS, CFTP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASDCS, CFTP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have deep professional, academic, and personal experience in trauma, neurodiversity ( Autism, ADHD), family/parenting issues, and mood struggles including depression, anxiety, and grief.
Taking charge of your healing journey is a heroic step. Much like training for an athletic challenge, it requires dedication, courage, determination, and self-love - as well as a good coach. We will do incredible work together if you are motivated to commit to your own growth process, are curious and open-minded, and are willing to do the sometimes difficult mental, emotional, and spiritual work to change habits and patterns that no longer serve you or those you care about. I'm especially passionate about working with healers, helpers, teachers, parents, caregivers, and people healing from childhood and intergenerational trauma.
I have deep professional, academic, and personal experience in trauma, neurodiversity ( Autism, ADHD), family/parenting issues, and mood struggles including depression, anxiety, and grief.
Taking charge of your healing journey is a heroic step. Much like training for an athletic challenge, it requires dedication, courage, determination, and self-love - as well as a good coach. We will do incredible work together if you are motivated to commit to your own growth process, are curious and open-minded, and are willing to do the sometimes difficult mental, emotional, and spiritual work to change habits and patterns that no longer serve you or those you care about. I'm especially passionate about working with healers, helpers, teachers, parents, caregivers, and people healing from childhood and intergenerational trauma.
(727) 496-7204 View (727) 496-7204
Photo of Pricilla Liriano, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pricilla Liriano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialize in autism and ADHD, offering social skills training, executive functioning development, and caregiver support.
Imagine feeling heard, supported, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges, whether related to relationships, personal growth, or balancing family and self-care. I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety, trauma, and overwhelm. Therapy can be a space to explore your strengths, rebuild confidence, and find peace amid life’s demands. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to see if we’re a good fit and if Telehealth works for you. Together, we’ll create the balance and relief you deserve. ADOS-2 assessor for autism evaluations.
I also specialize in autism and ADHD, offering social skills training, executive functioning development, and caregiver support.
Imagine feeling heard, supported, and empowered to navigate life’s challenges, whether related to relationships, personal growth, or balancing family and self-care. I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety, trauma, and overwhelm. Therapy can be a space to explore your strengths, rebuild confidence, and find peace amid life’s demands. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to see if we’re a good fit and if Telehealth works for you. Together, we’ll create the balance and relief you deserve. ADOS-2 assessor for autism evaluations.
(839) 222-5639 View (839) 222-5639
Photo of Laura Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am skilled in various therapeutic modalities and hold certifications as both a Trauma and Loss Clinical Specialist and a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist.
From a young age, I knew I wanted to pursue a profession focused on helping others, and for over 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with adults of all ages, children, adolescents, and families who are motivated to make positive changes and live more fulfilling lives. I am here to walk this journey with you, providing support every step of the way.
I am skilled in various therapeutic modalities and hold certifications as both a Trauma and Loss Clinical Specialist and a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist.
From a young age, I knew I wanted to pursue a profession focused on helping others, and for over 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with adults of all ages, children, adolescents, and families who are motivated to make positive changes and live more fulfilling lives. I am here to walk this journey with you, providing support every step of the way.
(813) 359-0814 View (813) 359-0814
Photo of Solangel Padron, BCBA
Solangel Padron
BCBA
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33125
I also work primarily with children and adolescents, especially those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, but my skills can benefit individuals of all ages.
I am deeply passionate about mental health and behavior analysis, and I have dedicated my academic and professional pursuits to understanding the relation of cognitive and behavioral health. My educational journey started with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, where I developed a strong interest in developmental, clinical, and behavioral psychology. Following that, I pursued a Master's degree in Psychology with a minor in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). My interest in pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Health Science has led me to explore the integration of both fields.
I also work primarily with children and adolescents, especially those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, but my skills can benefit individuals of all ages.
I am deeply passionate about mental health and behavior analysis, and I have dedicated my academic and professional pursuits to understanding the relation of cognitive and behavioral health. My educational journey started with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, where I developed a strong interest in developmental, clinical, and behavioral psychology. Following that, I pursued a Master's degree in Psychology with a minor in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). My interest in pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Health Science has led me to explore the integration of both fields.
(786) 981-4492 View (786) 981-4492
Photo of Kelly Redmon Loo, LCSW, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Redmon Loo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in doing autism assessments for adults.
Most of my clients come to me in a state of Autistic burnout, although they may not realize what it is at the time. Treating it as depression or anxiety can be counterproductive & only increases burnout symptoms. These clients are also typically seeking a late-diagnosis of ASD and figuring out the best way forward to meet needs that have been masked for years. As a neurodiverse-affirming therapist and diagnostician, I go through the diagnostic process with clients and afterwards we formulate therapeutic goals that are individualized for each person.
I specialize in doing autism assessments for adults.
Most of my clients come to me in a state of Autistic burnout, although they may not realize what it is at the time. Treating it as depression or anxiety can be counterproductive & only increases burnout symptoms. These clients are also typically seeking a late-diagnosis of ASD and figuring out the best way forward to meet needs that have been masked for years. As a neurodiverse-affirming therapist and diagnostician, I go through the diagnostic process with clients and afterwards we formulate therapeutic goals that are individualized for each person.
(571) 470-5374 View (571) 470-5374
Photo of Elizabeth Donovan, PhD, Psychologist
Elizabeth Donovan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33133
People work with me in therapy when when they want to understand themselves better, express themselves more authentically, build stronger social connections, and get through a big life transition. I have openings for therapy and neurodivergence-affirming autism assessments.
People work with me in therapy when when they want to understand themselves better, express themselves more authentically, build stronger social connections, and get through a big life transition. I have openings for therapy and neurodivergence-affirming autism assessments.
(917) 475-6726 View (917) 475-6726
Photo of Brenna Doering, MA, Counselor
Brenna Doering
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Brenna and my pronouns are she/her. I am really passionate about helping Latinx, neurodivergent, and queer kids, teens, and adults navigate their identities, set boundaries, improve parent/child relationships, and heal their inner child. My goal is to guide you through your healing journey, while ensuring you feel safe in sharing your story in an inclusive and holistic environment. I have helped clients through a variety of personal challenges, such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, generational trauma, grief/loss, identity, family/relationship dynamics, and life transitions.
Hi, I’m Brenna and my pronouns are she/her. I am really passionate about helping Latinx, neurodivergent, and queer kids, teens, and adults navigate their identities, set boundaries, improve parent/child relationships, and heal their inner child. My goal is to guide you through your healing journey, while ensuring you feel safe in sharing your story in an inclusive and holistic environment. I have helped clients through a variety of personal challenges, such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, generational trauma, grief/loss, identity, family/relationship dynamics, and life transitions.
(954) 833-6349 View (954) 833-6349
Photo of Ellen Kipnis - Ellen Kipnis, LCSW - Comprehensive Evaluations, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Kipnis, LCSW - Comprehensive Evaluations
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33180
She specializes in diagnosing Autism, ADHD, OCD, Tourette syndrome, and other behavioral and mood disorders in children and adults.
Ellen Kipnis offers comprehensive evaluation services for educational and testing accommodations (such as 504 plans, MCAT, SAT, ACT, LSAT, MPRE, and BAR), immigration purposes, bariatric surgery clearance, and parental fitness/child custody. Ellen employs various industry-standard assessment tools to clarify diagnoses and rule out commonly misdiagnosed mental health conditions in children and adults. Her extensive experience ensures accurate assessments and tailored support for a range of needs.
She specializes in diagnosing Autism, ADHD, OCD, Tourette syndrome, and other behavioral and mood disorders in children and adults.
Ellen Kipnis offers comprehensive evaluation services for educational and testing accommodations (such as 504 plans, MCAT, SAT, ACT, LSAT, MPRE, and BAR), immigration purposes, bariatric surgery clearance, and parental fitness/child custody. Ellen employs various industry-standard assessment tools to clarify diagnoses and rule out commonly misdiagnosed mental health conditions in children and adults. Her extensive experience ensures accurate assessments and tailored support for a range of needs.
(561) 250-7323 View (561) 250-7323
Photo of Ellis Thomas, MS, PMHC
Ellis Thomas
Provisional Mental Health Counselor, MS, PMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33109
I work with adults and couples, specializing in treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, autism, people pleasing, and PTSD. I create a supportive, safe, and judgement free environment in therapy.
I work with adults and couples, specializing in treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, autism, people pleasing, and PTSD. I create a supportive, safe, and judgement free environment in therapy.
(407) 632-4783 View (407) 632-4783
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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.