Autism Therapists in Nassau County, NY

Photo of Jill Schieber, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Schieber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
My specialty lies in working with parents of all children as well as those with disabled children; particularly those with Autism, ADHD, emotional issues &mood disorders.
Are you having trouble in a relationship, feeling overwhelmed, overcome, anxious or depressed? Are you experiencing difficulties with a child, spouse/significant other or parent? For over 30 years I have helped individuals, couples and families become healthier. I have extensive experience helping clients deal with anxiety, depression, conflict, intimacy, communication, and personal growth. I have the training, insight and experience needed to work with my clients to define problem areas and make the changes needed to live happier lives.
My specialty lies in working with parents of all children as well as those with disabled children; particularly those with Autism, ADHD, emotional issues &mood disorders.
Are you having trouble in a relationship, feeling overwhelmed, overcome, anxious or depressed? Are you experiencing difficulties with a child, spouse/significant other or parent? For over 30 years I have helped individuals, couples and families become healthier. I have extensive experience helping clients deal with anxiety, depression, conflict, intimacy, communication, and personal growth. I have the training, insight and experience needed to work with my clients to define problem areas and make the changes needed to live happier lives.
(516) 346-5691 View (516) 346-5691
Photo of Fran Dalis, PsyD, LMSW, RPT-S, Psychologist
Fran Dalis
Psychologist, PsyD, LMSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Norwich, NY 11732
I am a Clinical Psychologist and an ally who works with children, adolescents, and their families. I provide a neutral space for young people to express their needs and help families develop adaptive communication skills. As a diagnostician, I provide psychological testing for gifted students and those with special needs who require school accommodations. My approach is to employ integrative, evidence-based interventions, including CBT, ACT, and Psychodynamic therapy. Therapeutic populations include autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ identity formation, chronic pain management, depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and an ally who works with children, adolescents, and their families. I provide a neutral space for young people to express their needs and help families develop adaptive communication skills. As a diagnostician, I provide psychological testing for gifted students and those with special needs who require school accommodations. My approach is to employ integrative, evidence-based interventions, including CBT, ACT, and Psychodynamic therapy. Therapeutic populations include autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ identity formation, chronic pain management, depression, anxiety, and behavioral issues.
(516) 614-3464 View (516) 614-3464
Photo of Colleen Mullin, MSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Mullin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parenting stress is common but sometimes requires counseling. Parents often have questions about their child's development. My specialty is early childhood development and disorders such as ADHD, Autism, Aspergers and other differences including learning differences. Other issues include difficulty socializing. Therapy includes assessment, diagnosis, referral for additional resources, support, education, parent training, and increasing coping skills. Other therapeutic strategies include behavior management, mindfulness, relaxation training, play therapy, social skills training and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Parenting stress is common but sometimes requires counseling. Parents often have questions about their child's development. My specialty is early childhood development and disorders such as ADHD, Autism, Aspergers and other differences including learning differences. Other issues include difficulty socializing. Therapy includes assessment, diagnosis, referral for additional resources, support, education, parent training, and increasing coping skills. Other therapeutic strategies include behavior management, mindfulness, relaxation training, play therapy, social skills training and cognitive behavioral therapy.
(516) 962-2712 View (516) 962-2712
Photo of Subashini Jesurasa, MS, PsyD, Psychologist
Subashini Jesurasa
Psychologist, MS, PsyD
Verified Verified
Linder Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities for three years and currently I am a School Psychologist for the Department of Education in NYC.
I am a empathetic psychologist with various experiences in clinical and educational settings. I use an integrative approach to therapy that incorporates a variety of therapeutic principles, philosophies, and techniques from Behavior Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based and/or Play Therapy. I joined AHRC/ Brookville Center for Children Services in 2004 as an Applied Behavior Analysis consultant, providing parent training and direct care for home based programs utilizing Applied Behavior Analysis for school age individuals diagnosed with Autism and later obtained the role as the program supervisor from 2012-2015.
Linder Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities for three years and currently I am a School Psychologist for the Department of Education in NYC.
I am a empathetic psychologist with various experiences in clinical and educational settings. I use an integrative approach to therapy that incorporates a variety of therapeutic principles, philosophies, and techniques from Behavior Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based and/or Play Therapy. I joined AHRC/ Brookville Center for Children Services in 2004 as an Applied Behavior Analysis consultant, providing parent training and direct care for home based programs utilizing Applied Behavior Analysis for school age individuals diagnosed with Autism and later obtained the role as the program supervisor from 2012-2015.
(516) 259-3747 View (516) 259-3747
Photo of Dr. Leigh Rust, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Leigh Rust
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
Throughout his clinical and school experience, Dr. Rust has gained extensive training in Child/Adolescent Psychology. He specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Rust often incorporates components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and principles of Behavior Analysis in his eclectic approach. He is exceptionally aware of the social, emotional and behavioral needs of a child and utilizes a “whole child” methodology.
Throughout his clinical and school experience, Dr. Rust has gained extensive training in Child/Adolescent Psychology. He specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral Disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Rust often incorporates components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Play Therapy, and principles of Behavior Analysis in his eclectic approach. He is exceptionally aware of the social, emotional and behavioral needs of a child and utilizes a “whole child” methodology.
(516) 614-5599 View (516) 614-5599
Photo of Zachary Rose, PsyD, Psychologist
Zachary Rose
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
Any families interested in learning more about Autism Testing (in-person, in Merrick, NY), full battery assessments, therapy (both in-person and virtual), and/or consultation may call (516) 234-5005.
The relationship with your therapist is paramount for a successful therapeutic experience. I am a warm, personable, professional, and kid-friendly practitioner on Long Island. I am a New York State Licensed Psychologist & Certified NYS School Psychologist. My practice offers therapy (both in-person and virtual), comprehensive Autism evaluations (ADOS-2, ADI-R, Adaptive scales included) for all ages, along with full neuropsychological evaluations, consultation, parent training, and behavior modification/management.
Any families interested in learning more about Autism Testing (in-person, in Merrick, NY), full battery assessments, therapy (both in-person and virtual), and/or consultation may call (516) 234-5005.
The relationship with your therapist is paramount for a successful therapeutic experience. I am a warm, personable, professional, and kid-friendly practitioner on Long Island. I am a New York State Licensed Psychologist & Certified NYS School Psychologist. My practice offers therapy (both in-person and virtual), comprehensive Autism evaluations (ADOS-2, ADI-R, Adaptive scales included) for all ages, along with full neuropsychological evaluations, consultation, parent training, and behavior modification/management.
(516) 980-5479 View (516) 980-5479
Photo of Diana Damilatis, MA, LMHC
Diana Damilatis
MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialized in working with adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, and other mental health disorders.
I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor. I am an integrative psychotherapist who truly believes in viewing individuals through a holistic perspective. I work in a private practice, known as Image Therapy Services. Image Therapy Services provides psychotherapy to teens, young adults, couples, and families. We address developmental disabilities, depression, anxiety, and addiction. Our goal is to restore a balance to improve self-image and functioning. I also work as the Assistant Director for the Bridges to Adelphi Program, which is a program at Adelphi University that provides Academic, Social, and Vocational Services to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, or other nonverbal learning disorders.
I specialized in working with adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, and other mental health disorders.
I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor. I am an integrative psychotherapist who truly believes in viewing individuals through a holistic perspective. I work in a private practice, known as Image Therapy Services. Image Therapy Services provides psychotherapy to teens, young adults, couples, and families. We address developmental disabilities, depression, anxiety, and addiction. Our goal is to restore a balance to improve self-image and functioning. I also work as the Assistant Director for the Bridges to Adelphi Program, which is a program at Adelphi University that provides Academic, Social, and Vocational Services to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, or other nonverbal learning disorders.
(631) 759-8397 View (631) 759-8397
Photo of Renee Clauselle, PsyD, Psychologist
Renee Clauselle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dr. Renee Clauselle is the Founder of Child and Family Psychology, a private group practice with 3 locations across Long Island, NY. The headquarter office is in Franklin Square, with two satellite offices in Kings Park and Garden City. Specialties include but are not limited to, psychological testing, ADHD,school issues, anxiety disorders, marital issues,behavioral concerns, Autism Spectrum disorders, depression, family issues, divorce and more. Dr. Renee Clauselle is a frequent media expert and can be seen on Good Morning American Health and ABC Evening Eyewitness News.
Dr. Renee Clauselle is the Founder of Child and Family Psychology, a private group practice with 3 locations across Long Island, NY. The headquarter office is in Franklin Square, with two satellite offices in Kings Park and Garden City. Specialties include but are not limited to, psychological testing, ADHD,school issues, anxiety disorders, marital issues,behavioral concerns, Autism Spectrum disorders, depression, family issues, divorce and more. Dr. Renee Clauselle is a frequent media expert and can be seen on Good Morning American Health and ABC Evening Eyewitness News.
(516) 669-0906 View (516) 669-0906
Photo of Creative Arts Therapy Source Jessica Arroyo, MS, Bc-DMT, LCAT
Creative Arts Therapy Source Jessica Arroyo
Creative Arts Therapist, MS, Bc-DMT, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
Receiving a diagnosis for your child can be overwhelming and scary, but you don’t have to face it alone. With over six years of experience in the field, I’m an empathic and compassionate Dance/Movement Therapist dedicated to providing services for children with a variety of socio- emotional needs, backgrounds, skills, and diagnoses (including Autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental disabilities). I offer support for children and their families who may be experiencing challenges in areas such as social skills, behavior challenges, daily living skills, communication, body and self awareness, and more.
Receiving a diagnosis for your child can be overwhelming and scary, but you don’t have to face it alone. With over six years of experience in the field, I’m an empathic and compassionate Dance/Movement Therapist dedicated to providing services for children with a variety of socio- emotional needs, backgrounds, skills, and diagnoses (including Autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental disabilities). I offer support for children and their families who may be experiencing challenges in areas such as social skills, behavior challenges, daily living skills, communication, body and self awareness, and more.
(516) 212-9017 View (516) 212-9017
Photo of Dr. Jeremy Grunfeld, PhD, LMFT, CDBT, CCSP, ADHD-CC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jeremy Grunfeld
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CDBT, CCSP, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
I pride myself on working with teenagers and adults who have not found success in previous therapy experiences. Over the past 26 years of my professional endeavors, I have prevented many families from having to send their teenagers to residential treatment centers, have helped families to remain intact, and have allowed individuals who fall within the Autism Spectrum Disorder to achieve full lives. My work with clients who have ADHD has allowed these individuals to be succesful in school, the community, within the family system, and within their workplace of choice.
I pride myself on working with teenagers and adults who have not found success in previous therapy experiences. Over the past 26 years of my professional endeavors, I have prevented many families from having to send their teenagers to residential treatment centers, have helped families to remain intact, and have allowed individuals who fall within the Autism Spectrum Disorder to achieve full lives. My work with clients who have ADHD has allowed these individuals to be succesful in school, the community, within the family system, and within their workplace of choice.
(516) 475-7402 View (516) 475-7402
Photo of Bethanie Milford, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethanie Milford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Massapequa, NY 11758  (Online Only)
I provide trauma informed Autism/ADHD/other (qualitative) evaluations, immigration evaluations, and Psychotherapy for individuals, families and couples. My approach when collaborating with a patient providing therapy is to focus on their history, culture, identity and/or spirituality. I provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings, determine solutions and create a sense of balance in your life while embracing your own beliefs. I provide therapy remotely and use various modalities through an integrative approach.
I provide trauma informed Autism/ADHD/other (qualitative) evaluations, immigration evaluations, and Psychotherapy for individuals, families and couples. My approach when collaborating with a patient providing therapy is to focus on their history, culture, identity and/or spirituality. I provide a safe space for you to explore your feelings, determine solutions and create a sense of balance in your life while embracing your own beliefs. I provide therapy remotely and use various modalities through an integrative approach.
(917) 994-9674 View (917) 994-9674
Photo of Taryn Wood, PsyD, Psychologist
Taryn Wood
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Jericho, NY 11753
I also specialize in gifted testing and autism assessments for individuals applying to OPWDD including administration of the ADOS-2 and adaptive measures.
I am a NYS certified School Psychologist and Licensed Psychologist. I have extensive experience with a variety of assessment tools. I am able to provide detailed assessments of cognitive abilities, social-emotional functioning, academic skills, and executive functioning.
I also specialize in gifted testing and autism assessments for individuals applying to OPWDD including administration of the ADOS-2 and adaptive measures.
I am a NYS certified School Psychologist and Licensed Psychologist. I have extensive experience with a variety of assessment tools. I am able to provide detailed assessments of cognitive abilities, social-emotional functioning, academic skills, and executive functioning.
(516) 217-2306 View (516) 217-2306
Photo of Susan J Strong, Susan J, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan J Strong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Susan J
Verified Verified
Merrick, NY 11566  (Online Only)
I have been a therapist for over 15 years working with children, adolescents and adults. I have had a lot of experience working with individuals who are managing the complexities of anxiety, depression, and challenging life events. One of my focuses has been assisting children and adolescents with Autism and learning difficulties. I utilize evidence-based practices that focus on the modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Psychotherapy, Play Therapy, Strengths Based, and Mindfulness.
I have been a therapist for over 15 years working with children, adolescents and adults. I have had a lot of experience working with individuals who are managing the complexities of anxiety, depression, and challenging life events. One of my focuses has been assisting children and adolescents with Autism and learning difficulties. I utilize evidence-based practices that focus on the modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Psychotherapy, Play Therapy, Strengths Based, and Mindfulness.
(516) 289-0012 View (516) 289-0012
Photo of Mandy Breslow, LCSW, MS Ed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mandy Breslow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethpage, NY 11714
In addition to my professional experience, I also draw from my personal experience as a parent of two children on the Autism Spectrum.
I work with children ages 5 and up who struggle with ADHD, anxiety and socialization issues. I also provide parent training for those families who are seeking support and guidance managing their child’s special needs. Additionally, I am very experienced with adults dealing with anxiety, depression and domestic violence. I am also LGBTQ and Lifestyle friendly. I offer a safe space to talk and work through your feelings.
In addition to my professional experience, I also draw from my personal experience as a parent of two children on the Autism Spectrum.
I work with children ages 5 and up who struggle with ADHD, anxiety and socialization issues. I also provide parent training for those families who are seeking support and guidance managing their child’s special needs. Additionally, I am very experienced with adults dealing with anxiety, depression and domestic violence. I am also LGBTQ and Lifestyle friendly. I offer a safe space to talk and work through your feelings.
(516) 586-0577 View (516) 586-0577
Photo of Jamie Silverman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
I have additional training working with clients diagnosed with Autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker who has worked in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults with an array of needs. This has provided me the opportunity to hone my craft gaining experience with individuals from all walks of life. Regardless of setting, each individual is unique. I strive to create a safe space for my clients to feel free to be themselves. Asking for help can sometimes feel overwhelming. My approach is warm and non-judgmental. My down-to-earth nature is often what clients are drawn to. I would love the opportunity to assist you on your journey of growth and healing.
I have additional training working with clients diagnosed with Autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker who has worked in a variety of settings with children, adolescents and adults with an array of needs. This has provided me the opportunity to hone my craft gaining experience with individuals from all walks of life. Regardless of setting, each individual is unique. I strive to create a safe space for my clients to feel free to be themselves. Asking for help can sometimes feel overwhelming. My approach is warm and non-judgmental. My down-to-earth nature is often what clients are drawn to. I would love the opportunity to assist you on your journey of growth and healing.
(631) 791-6524 View (631) 791-6524
Photo of Connor McCann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connor McCann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Westbury, NY 11590  (Online Only)
I also specialize in the unique issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community and individuals with Autism & ADHD.
Are you or a loved one feeling stuck - uncertain about navigating changes in your life, how you see yourself, or how to reconnect with those close to you? When we feel stuck, taking steps forward can feel like a monumental task. We can work together to break down your thoughts and uncertainties, determine the best way forward, and put practical strategies into action, to empower you to create the life you want for yourself. In me, you'll have a collaborator who will listen and follow your lead but also be willing to challenge you and continue to motivate you towards achieving your goals. Let's figure out the next steps together.
I also specialize in the unique issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community and individuals with Autism & ADHD.
Are you or a loved one feeling stuck - uncertain about navigating changes in your life, how you see yourself, or how to reconnect with those close to you? When we feel stuck, taking steps forward can feel like a monumental task. We can work together to break down your thoughts and uncertainties, determine the best way forward, and put practical strategies into action, to empower you to create the life you want for yourself. In me, you'll have a collaborator who will listen and follow your lead but also be willing to challenge you and continue to motivate you towards achieving your goals. Let's figure out the next steps together.
(646) 762-5092 View (646) 762-5092
Photo of Tiffany Ann Avon - Perfect Fit Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Perfect Fit Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Manhasset, NY 11030
Dr. Avon attended Stony brook U. There she trained under the late Dr. Edward Carr in Behavioral Therapy, with a focus on, Applied Behavioral Analysis. She then continued her education at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, FL where she received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. There she spent many years under the supervision of Dr. Charles Golden refining her skills in Neuropsychology serving a variety of children with learning disorders and developmental disabilities. After completing graduate school, Dr. Avon pursued further training in the areas of Autism Spectrum Disorders and other Developmental Disabilities.
Dr. Avon attended Stony brook U. There she trained under the late Dr. Edward Carr in Behavioral Therapy, with a focus on, Applied Behavioral Analysis. She then continued her education at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, FL where she received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. There she spent many years under the supervision of Dr. Charles Golden refining her skills in Neuropsychology serving a variety of children with learning disorders and developmental disabilities. After completing graduate school, Dr. Avon pursued further training in the areas of Autism Spectrum Disorders and other Developmental Disabilities.
(516) 306-5202 View (516) 306-5202
Photo of Kristen Memoli, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristen Memoli
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of issues related to anxiety, autism, emotion dysregulation, family conflict, and technology, as well as parental stress and frustration.
Are you a parent noticing your child struggling at home, school, or with friends? Do you have a suspicion that your child might be on the autism spectrum or perhaps in the grip of a cycle of anxiety or anger? Does your child spend too much time online and not enough time connecting with others and the world around them? Perhaps you are not seeking support for a child, but instead for yourself. Many adults struggle with these very issues. All of these things can lead to a great amount of stress for children, adults, and their loved ones. I'm glad you're here and I'm here to help.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of issues related to anxiety, autism, emotion dysregulation, family conflict, and technology, as well as parental stress and frustration.
Are you a parent noticing your child struggling at home, school, or with friends? Do you have a suspicion that your child might be on the autism spectrum or perhaps in the grip of a cycle of anxiety or anger? Does your child spend too much time online and not enough time connecting with others and the world around them? Perhaps you are not seeking support for a child, but instead for yourself. Many adults struggle with these very issues. All of these things can lead to a great amount of stress for children, adults, and their loved ones. I'm glad you're here and I'm here to help.
(516) 513-8327 View (516) 513-8327
Photo of Samantha L. Maietta, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha L. Maietta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmingdale, NY 11735
Samantha L. Maietta, LCSW is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in treatment of complex and/or co-occurring mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, which include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and other behavioral, emotional, and social difficulties across the lifespan. She received her Master's degree from New York University's Silver School of Social Work. Samantha's clinical training has entailed providing evidence-based treatment at Einstein College of Medicine and Lenox Hill Hospital.
Samantha L. Maietta, LCSW is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in treatment of complex and/or co-occurring mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions, which include Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and other behavioral, emotional, and social difficulties across the lifespan. She received her Master's degree from New York University's Silver School of Social Work. Samantha's clinical training has entailed providing evidence-based treatment at Einstein College of Medicine and Lenox Hill Hospital.
(631) 302-7969 View (631) 302-7969
Photo of Kimberly Canino, BCBA, LBA, MSEd
Kimberly Canino
BCBA, LBA, MSEd
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I am a New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a Master's Degree in Special Education. Currently practicing with 10 years experience, in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, and specializing in working with individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I am a New York State Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA) and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a Master's Degree in Special Education. Currently practicing with 10 years experience, in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, and specializing in working with individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
(631) 230-6239 View (631) 230-6239
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See more therapy options for Nassau 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.