Autism Therapists in Lowndes County, GA

Photo of Caryn Vandergriff, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC
Caryn Vandergriff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC
Valdosta, GA 31602
I support clients facing trauma, personality and mood disorders, substance use, and Level 1 ASD.
Are you feeling trapped in cycles of addiction, or struggling with relationships that feel impossible to repair? Does unresolved trauma weigh heavily on you, or do you find yourself overwhelmed by anxiety, mood swings, sleepless nights, or constant emotional turbulence? Maybe you carry deep feelings of shame or guilt, or feel disconnected from who you are. If you’re feeling stuck, uncertain about the future, or questioning whether things will ever get better, know this: you don’t have to face any of it alone. Healing is possible, and support is here when you’re ready.
I support clients facing trauma, personality and mood disorders, substance use, and Level 1 ASD.
Are you feeling trapped in cycles of addiction, or struggling with relationships that feel impossible to repair? Does unresolved trauma weigh heavily on you, or do you find yourself overwhelmed by anxiety, mood swings, sleepless nights, or constant emotional turbulence? Maybe you carry deep feelings of shame or guilt, or feel disconnected from who you are. If you’re feeling stuck, uncertain about the future, or questioning whether things will ever get better, know this: you don’t have to face any of it alone. Healing is possible, and support is here when you’re ready.
(229) 267-2683 View (229) 267-2683
Photo of Casey C Corbin - From Good to Great Counseling, Coaching, & Consult, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-II
From Good to Great Counseling, Coaching, & Consult
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC-II
Online Only
As an autistic clinician, I bring lived experience to supporting neurodivergent clients and those navigating life transitions.
My ideal client is a high-achieving professional who’s outwardly successful but inwardly exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck. They’ve tried therapy, coaching, and self-help—but old patterns like procrastination, perfectionism, and burnout keep returning. They want peace of mind, emotional clarity, and a sustainable way to grow without self-sabotage. More than a quick fix, they seek deep change—something personalized, practical, and powerful. They’re ready to feel whole, not just functional.
As an autistic clinician, I bring lived experience to supporting neurodivergent clients and those navigating life transitions.
My ideal client is a high-achieving professional who’s outwardly successful but inwardly exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck. They’ve tried therapy, coaching, and self-help—but old patterns like procrastination, perfectionism, and burnout keep returning. They want peace of mind, emotional clarity, and a sustainable way to grow without self-sabotage. More than a quick fix, they seek deep change—something personalized, practical, and powerful. They’re ready to feel whole, not just functional.
(229) 665-3259 View (229) 665-3259
Photo of Stephany A. Norris, Licensed Professional Counselor, (LPC), NCC, CFMHE, CPCS, EMDR-T
Stephany A. Norris
Licensed Professional Counselor, (LPC), NCC, CFMHE, CPCS, EMDR-T
1 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to create an empathic, comfortable, and professional environment for my clients. I work with individuals who struggle with long term mental health issues such as Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, or are just having difficulty adjusting to a life change or relationship issues. I love my work and enjoy helping others work through life's many challenges. I care about taking a non-judgmental approach in evaluating and treating my clients, and focus on helping you identify your own personal strengths so that you are better prepared and enabled to find solutions.
My goal is to create an empathic, comfortable, and professional environment for my clients. I work with individuals who struggle with long term mental health issues such as Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety, PTSD, or are just having difficulty adjusting to a life change or relationship issues. I love my work and enjoy helping others work through life's many challenges. I care about taking a non-judgmental approach in evaluating and treating my clients, and focus on helping you identify your own personal strengths so that you are better prepared and enabled to find solutions.
(229) 389-3042 View (229) 389-3042
Photo of Leah McMillan - EnSpire Counseling & Wellness, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, RPT, CFRC
EnSpire Counseling & Wellness, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, RPT, CFRC
1 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
EnSpire Counseling & Wellness is a comprehensive Mental Health & Wellness Center comprised of a multidisciplinary team of dedicated healthcare and wellness professionals providing hope, healing, and restoration. Our purpose is to help create a healthy and supportive environment for clients' success through services that address and enhance overall emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness. EnSpire’s mission and philosophy is holistic and designed to empower, encourage, and enlighten individuals, families, and couples in our local and surrounding communities.
EnSpire Counseling & Wellness is a comprehensive Mental Health & Wellness Center comprised of a multidisciplinary team of dedicated healthcare and wellness professionals providing hope, healing, and restoration. Our purpose is to help create a healthy and supportive environment for clients' success through services that address and enhance overall emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness. EnSpire’s mission and philosophy is holistic and designed to empower, encourage, and enlighten individuals, families, and couples in our local and surrounding communities.
(229) 520-5321 View (229) 520-5321
Photo of Chastidy Boutin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chastidy Boutin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
My office is very neurodivergent/sensory friendly with encouragement to utilize fidget toys & weighted blankets.
Hi, I’m Chastidy Boutin, LCSW. I earned my MSW degree in 2021. Since then, I’ve worked with both adults and children across the lifespan, supporting people through their needs. Some of the challenges you will find most of my patients struggle with are anxiety, ADHD/Neurodiversity, addictive behaviors, complex trauma, inner family abuse/ dysfunctional dynamics, and those with separated and/or blended families.
My office is very neurodivergent/sensory friendly with encouragement to utilize fidget toys & weighted blankets.
Hi, I’m Chastidy Boutin, LCSW. I earned my MSW degree in 2021. Since then, I’ve worked with both adults and children across the lifespan, supporting people through their needs. Some of the challenges you will find most of my patients struggle with are anxiety, ADHD/Neurodiversity, addictive behaviors, complex trauma, inner family abuse/ dysfunctional dynamics, and those with separated and/or blended families.
(229) 244-9688 View (229) 244-9688
Photo of Judy Martin Trexler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Judy Martin Trexler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Valdosta, GA 31602
I have been in practice for a number of years, so my experiences are varied. I work with everyone.....children, adolescents and adults. I am knowlegeable and skillful in the treatment of emotional, behavioral and substance abuse issues. I am fortunate to have practiced with extremely knowledgeable and skillful clinicians as my mentors so my skills go beyond the textbooks. I treat my clients with courtesy and respect; as I expect my friends and family to be treated should they ever need professional assistance. I give 100% in assisting them in resolving their issues. If I can't help them, I'll help them find someone who can.
I have been in practice for a number of years, so my experiences are varied. I work with everyone.....children, adolescents and adults. I am knowlegeable and skillful in the treatment of emotional, behavioral and substance abuse issues. I am fortunate to have practiced with extremely knowledgeable and skillful clinicians as my mentors so my skills go beyond the textbooks. I treat my clients with courtesy and respect; as I expect my friends and family to be treated should they ever need professional assistance. I give 100% in assisting them in resolving their issues. If I can't help them, I'll help them find someone who can.
(229) 299-4362 View (229) 299-4362
Photo of Taylor Christin Danielle Dasher - A Work In Progress LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
A Work In Progress LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
1 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31601
Hi, my name is Taylor Dasher. My ideal client is someone who entrusts me with their time, personal life experiences, and allowing me to be a part of their journey. Life in general maneuvers in unpredictable directions-up, down, even diagonally! Sometimes it is hard to process those directions and adapt to them. Despite the incidents that occur in life, what can we do to adapt to it while living a comfortable life that is fit for us? What can we do to not live life based on the "problem." Let's work together to find that starting point, decipher the presenting problem and make it to the end goal!
Hi, my name is Taylor Dasher. My ideal client is someone who entrusts me with their time, personal life experiences, and allowing me to be a part of their journey. Life in general maneuvers in unpredictable directions-up, down, even diagonally! Sometimes it is hard to process those directions and adapt to them. Despite the incidents that occur in life, what can we do to adapt to it while living a comfortable life that is fit for us? What can we do to not live life based on the "problem." Let's work together to find that starting point, decipher the presenting problem and make it to the end goal!
(229) 458-4837 View (229) 458-4837
Photo of Michelle Alden, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Michelle Alden
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Valdosta, GA 31605
I am a fully licensed bilingual clinician working with a diverse population. Since 2009, I have worked with adolescents and children as well as families, and groups. I have worked with clients suffering with depression, multiple personalities, trauma, alcohol abuse, anxiety, anger, physical/emotional and sexual abuse, self mutilators, bullying, conduct/oppositional disorders, adjustment disorders, grief and self esteem.
I am a fully licensed bilingual clinician working with a diverse population. Since 2009, I have worked with adolescents and children as well as families, and groups. I have worked with clients suffering with depression, multiple personalities, trauma, alcohol abuse, anxiety, anger, physical/emotional and sexual abuse, self mutilators, bullying, conduct/oppositional disorders, adjustment disorders, grief and self esteem.
(229) 318-5515 View (229) 318-5515
Photo of Leah C. McMillan, Marriage & Family Therapist, DPA, LMFT, CFRC
Leah C. McMillan
Marriage & Family Therapist, DPA, LMFT, CFRC
3 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
I have extensive clinical experience, 20 years+, working in the trauma-related, mental health, and counseling fields. I have been clinically licensed as a LMFT since 2006 and am an active member (clinical fellow) of AAMFT/GAMFT. My clinical path has allowed me to gain significant knowledge and experience in the field of mental health & counseling, clinical consultation, and speaking. I provide ongoing counseling in the areas of individual (children, adolescents, and adults), family, marital/couple/pre-marital, and group therapy. In addition, I am EMDR Trained and obtained my certification as a Certified First Responder Counselor.
I have extensive clinical experience, 20 years+, working in the trauma-related, mental health, and counseling fields. I have been clinically licensed as a LMFT since 2006 and am an active member (clinical fellow) of AAMFT/GAMFT. My clinical path has allowed me to gain significant knowledge and experience in the field of mental health & counseling, clinical consultation, and speaking. I provide ongoing counseling in the areas of individual (children, adolescents, and adults), family, marital/couple/pre-marital, and group therapy. In addition, I am EMDR Trained and obtained my certification as a Certified First Responder Counselor.
(229) 515-8880 View (229) 515-8880
Photo of Nancy E. Weingartner - The Better Mood Clinic of South Georgia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
The Better Mood Clinic of South Georgia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Valdosta, GA 31602
Are you juggling the world while carrying a heavy heart? When you're busy showing up for everyone else, your own healing often gets pushed to the side. If you feel emotionally drained and longing for a release, please hear this: Your struggle is valid, and you’ve carried this long enough. Let us help you set the weight down and rediscover your peace.
Are you juggling the world while carrying a heavy heart? When you're busy showing up for everyone else, your own healing often gets pushed to the side. If you feel emotionally drained and longing for a release, please hear this: Your struggle is valid, and you’ve carried this long enough. Let us help you set the weight down and rediscover your peace.
(229) 333-2273 View (229) 333-2273
Photo of Cassie Avellaneda, Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Cassie Avellaneda
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31601
Cassie is a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialists (ASDCS) able to evaluate, diagnose, and work with individuals on the Autism Spectrum.
Cassie Avellaneda is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC. Cassie’s professional career began in the public education system. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Warner University. She taught in the public-school system for several years. Cassie then received her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from Webster University. Cassie has been a fully licensed clinician for almost 10 years in the state of Florida. In relocating to Georgia, she is now dually licensed in both Florida and Georgia.
Cassie is a Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialists (ASDCS) able to evaluate, diagnose, and work with individuals on the Autism Spectrum.
Cassie Avellaneda is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC. Cassie’s professional career began in the public education system. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Warner University. She taught in the public-school system for several years. Cassie then received her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from Webster University. Cassie has been a fully licensed clinician for almost 10 years in the state of Florida. In relocating to Georgia, she is now dually licensed in both Florida and Georgia.
(229) 471-9229 View (229) 471-9229
Photo of Rowan (Lauren) Crawfish (St John), Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, NCC, ASDCS
Rowan (Lauren) Crawfish (St John)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, NCC, ASDCS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with LGBTQIA2S+, AuDHD and Autistic (specializing in late-diagnosed and self-identifying), chronically ill and disabled folks who are navigating complex trauma, anxiety, burnout, people-pleasing, grief, isolation, medical trauma, and the impact of systemic oppression.
I show up authentically: curious, compassionate, and present. My approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, autonomy and consent-based, blending ACT, EFIT, DBT, art therapy, and mindfulness with care that meets you where you are. This isn’t about fixing you—it’s about creating space for you to be fully seen, heard, and supported.
I work with LGBTQIA2S+, AuDHD and Autistic (specializing in late-diagnosed and self-identifying), chronically ill and disabled folks who are navigating complex trauma, anxiety, burnout, people-pleasing, grief, isolation, medical trauma, and the impact of systemic oppression.
I show up authentically: curious, compassionate, and present. My approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, autonomy and consent-based, blending ACT, EFIT, DBT, art therapy, and mindfulness with care that meets you where you are. This isn’t about fixing you—it’s about creating space for you to be fully seen, heard, and supported.
(912) 913-5115 View (912) 913-5115
Photo of William David Miller - Chaotic Neutral Heroes, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Chaotic Neutral Heroes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Grognard for hire. I have been playing Dungeons and Dragons, since about 1984, and I have been in the business of helping people since about 1990. Now I am here to help you! I have worked with children, adults, families in crisis, and people in hospitals. I have worked in the community, in schools, in homes, and in correctional settings. I have worked with people from almost every walk of life and level of severity. Give me the opportunity to hear your story and I am certain I can help you and yours start down the path towards better. Please make an appointment to see me and we can get started. I am looking forward to it!
Grognard for hire. I have been playing Dungeons and Dragons, since about 1984, and I have been in the business of helping people since about 1990. Now I am here to help you! I have worked with children, adults, families in crisis, and people in hospitals. I have worked in the community, in schools, in homes, and in correctional settings. I have worked with people from almost every walk of life and level of severity. Give me the opportunity to hear your story and I am certain I can help you and yours start down the path towards better. Please make an appointment to see me and we can get started. I am looking forward to it!
(706) 770-4949 View (706) 770-4949
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Serves Area
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Psychological evaluations / assessments can be utilized to determine eligibility for specific services or accommodations in school or the workplace. They may be required by a court order or in legal/forensic cases. Also, a psychological evaluation may be needed in cases involving professional licensing boards, child custody matters, and immigration.
(706) 899-3811 View (706) 899-3811
Photo of Autumn Hutto, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Autumn Hutto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Serves Area
In addition to traditional mental health counseling services, I also offer teen and adult evaluations for ADHD and Autism.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Calling all eclectics, readers, and goofballs! Are you in need support, but want your personality honored? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is enthusiastic about serving teens and adults who are struggling to adjust after trauma, developed their identity, and/or cope with neurodevelopmental disorders. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community through coming out and life transitions. I earned my degree from Mercer University where I began training and earning experience in trauma informed, humanistic, attachment, and psychodynamic approaches.
In addition to traditional mental health counseling services, I also offer teen and adult evaluations for ADHD and Autism.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Calling all eclectics, readers, and goofballs! Are you in need support, but want your personality honored? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is enthusiastic about serving teens and adults who are struggling to adjust after trauma, developed their identity, and/or cope with neurodevelopmental disorders. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community through coming out and life transitions. I earned my degree from Mercer University where I began training and earning experience in trauma informed, humanistic, attachment, and psychodynamic approaches.
(470) 706-1515 View (470) 706-1515
Photo of Zandra Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zandra Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I attended and graduated from Valdosta State University receiving a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I received my masters in Mental Health Counseling from Fort Valley State University. I have over 10 years of experience in the background of working with anger management, issues of grief/loss, stress, and anxiety. I also provide supports to parents/caregivers of adults and children with developmental disabilities. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you connect to your strengths while helping you overcome doubts and fears that may be hindering you to become the best version
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I attended and graduated from Valdosta State University receiving a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. I received my masters in Mental Health Counseling from Fort Valley State University. I have over 10 years of experience in the background of working with anger management, issues of grief/loss, stress, and anxiety. I also provide supports to parents/caregivers of adults and children with developmental disabilities. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you connect to your strengths while helping you overcome doubts and fears that may be hindering you to become the best version
(470) 348-5303 View (470) 348-5303
Photo of Marika Long - Rapha Counseling Group LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rapha Counseling Group LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our ideal client is someone ready to heal from life’s challenges—whether anxiety, trauma, grief, burnout, or relationship struggles. They seek a safe, supportive space to find peace, clarity, and purpose. Many have poured into others and now long to feel whole again. At Rapha Counseling Group, we meet clients with compassion, evidence-based care, and faith-informed guidance to help them restore balance, renew hope, and rediscover strength for their next chapter.
Our ideal client is someone ready to heal from life’s challenges—whether anxiety, trauma, grief, burnout, or relationship struggles. They seek a safe, supportive space to find peace, clarity, and purpose. Many have poured into others and now long to feel whole again. At Rapha Counseling Group, we meet clients with compassion, evidence-based care, and faith-informed guidance to help them restore balance, renew hope, and rediscover strength for their next chapter.
(678) 726-5058 View (678) 726-5058
Photo of Traci Zajdel, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Traci Zajdel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2010 and have worked in a variety of settings - with children, adolescents, couples, adults, military members, veterans, and many unique individuals. I am also an AASECT certified sex therapist. In my work, I traverse some of people's darkest times with them, helping them to not feel alone and to know that there can be peace within the storms of life. I give couples whose love stories have reached tumultuous territory the hope to keep building their lives together. It has been an honor and a privilege to impact the lives of others in a positive way.
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2010 and have worked in a variety of settings - with children, adolescents, couples, adults, military members, veterans, and many unique individuals. I am also an AASECT certified sex therapist. In my work, I traverse some of people's darkest times with them, helping them to not feel alone and to know that there can be peace within the storms of life. I give couples whose love stories have reached tumultuous territory the hope to keep building their lives together. It has been an honor and a privilege to impact the lives of others in a positive way.
(229) 216-9130 View (229) 216-9130
Photo of Taylor Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Taylor Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Hi, I’m Taylor Moore a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and military spouse with a passion for helping individuals, families, and couples navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults, offering a safe, supportive space to explore emotions, build resilience, and foster meaningful growth. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or family dynamics, I use a compassionate and collaborative approach tailored to your unique needs.
Hi, I’m Taylor Moore a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and military spouse with a passion for helping individuals, families, and couples navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults, offering a safe, supportive space to explore emotions, build resilience, and foster meaningful growth. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or family dynamics, I use a compassionate and collaborative approach tailored to your unique needs.
(229) 850-5349 View (229) 850-5349

Online Therapists

Photo of R. Kyle McCranie, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
R. Kyle McCranie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I have a deep-rooted commitment to helping individuals overcome mental health and substance use challenges. Grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, my approach is tailored to address the root causes of distress. I empower clients to develop coping mechanisms, make informed choices, and achieve lasting change by integrating behavioral, reality, and motivational interviewing techniques. Comprehensive assessments inform treatment plans, while psychoanalytic insights offer a deeper understanding of underlying patterns. My goal is to create a supportive therapeutic alliance.
I have a deep-rooted commitment to helping individuals overcome mental health and substance use challenges. Grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, my approach is tailored to address the root causes of distress. I empower clients to develop coping mechanisms, make informed choices, and achieve lasting change by integrating behavioral, reality, and motivational interviewing techniques. Comprehensive assessments inform treatment plans, while psychoanalytic insights offer a deeper understanding of underlying patterns. My goal is to create a supportive therapeutic alliance.
(770) 230-1314 View (770) 230-1314

See more therapy options for Lowndes County

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.