Autism Therapists in Lawrenceville, NJ

Photo of Christopher Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MA, LPC, ACS
Christopher Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MA, LPC, ACS
11 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or a major life transition? I'm Chris, founder of Holistic Counseling Solution and a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience helping adults create meaningful, lasting change. Many clients come to therapy feeling stuck, emotionally exhausted, or uncertain about what's next. Together, we'll uncover what's holding you back, develop practical strategies, strengthen resilience, and help you build a more balanced, confident, and fulfilling life.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or a major life transition? I'm Chris, founder of Holistic Counseling Solution and a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 25 years of experience helping adults create meaningful, lasting change. Many clients come to therapy feeling stuck, emotionally exhausted, or uncertain about what's next. Together, we'll uncover what's holding you back, develop practical strategies, strengthen resilience, and help you build a more balanced, confident, and fulfilling life.
(609) 804-5949 View (609) 804-5949
Photo of Michala Glassman, Associate Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC, CTP
Michala Glassman
Associate Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC, CTP
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating eating disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PMDD, self harm, ADHD, trauma, autism, and addiction.
I am very passionate about working with the LGBTQAI+ population by providing an inclusive and safe place for all individuals to express themselves fully and are met with unconditional acceptance. I support clients in cultivating empowerment while helping them reconnect with joy, meaning, and a sense of inner peace in their lives.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating eating disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, PMDD, self harm, ADHD, trauma, autism, and addiction.
I am very passionate about working with the LGBTQAI+ population by providing an inclusive and safe place for all individuals to express themselves fully and are met with unconditional acceptance. I support clients in cultivating empowerment while helping them reconnect with joy, meaning, and a sense of inner peace in their lives.
(609) 844-0452 x713 View (609) 844-0452 x713
Photo of Beth Fier, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS
Beth Fier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, ACS
7 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Hi there! Welcome to my practice, SEED Services: Partners for Counseling & Wellness. We use evidence based approaches, including Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Gottman Method for couples counseling. Our therapists will tailor treatment to your specific concerns, and we specialize in working with issues related to self-criticism, shame, and the patterns of avoidance that are often associated with trauma, anxiety, depression, and problem perfectionism. We also particularly enjoy helping couples build, renew or restore their relationship with one another.
Hi there! Welcome to my practice, SEED Services: Partners for Counseling & Wellness. We use evidence based approaches, including Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Gottman Method for couples counseling. Our therapists will tailor treatment to your specific concerns, and we specialize in working with issues related to self-criticism, shame, and the patterns of avoidance that are often associated with trauma, anxiety, depression, and problem perfectionism. We also particularly enjoy helping couples build, renew or restore their relationship with one another.
(609) 422-5434 View (609) 422-5434
Photo of Judy Prichason - New Jersey Institute For Neurofeedback, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
New Jersey Institute For Neurofeedback
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Judy, director for The New Jersey Institute For Neurofeedback, has always had a passion for helping people. First as a Critical Care Nurse and now as a therapist, Judy has supported and encouraged people of all ages in their efforts to grow and change. Studying the brain and behavior has been her passion for years. Trained as a Family Therapist and Neurofeedback Specialist, Judy and her team will partner with you on an exciting journey to attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing through this wonderful and innovate treatment approach.
Judy, director for The New Jersey Institute For Neurofeedback, has always had a passion for helping people. First as a Critical Care Nurse and now as a therapist, Judy has supported and encouraged people of all ages in their efforts to grow and change. Studying the brain and behavior has been her passion for years. Trained as a Family Therapist and Neurofeedback Specialist, Judy and her team will partner with you on an exciting journey to attain the personal growth you are committed to accomplishing through this wonderful and innovate treatment approach.
(732) 595-8929 View (732) 595-8929
Photo of Emily Anne Mattek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Emily Anne Mattek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
My primary specialties are LGBTQ+ issues, particularly working with Trans and NB youth, and working with folks that are neurodivergent, and where these two overlap!
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
My primary specialties are LGBTQ+ issues, particularly working with Trans and NB youth, and working with folks that are neurodivergent, and where these two overlap!
I believe in meeting clients where they are at! Every person is resilient. I intend our collaboration to remind you of your strengths, provide you tools to weather the storms of life, and a safe space to gain insight into your truest self. I come to social work from a social justice background and recognize that trauma and oppression are often intertwined. Acknowledging systemic issues is a vital part of my practice, particularly for youth and families directly impacted by it. Teaching you to advocate successfully on your own behalf, whether it be in your relationships or larger systems, is also essential.
(609) 303-5875 View (609) 303-5875
Photo of Sandra Weldon - Sandra Weldon LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Sandra Weldon LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am firm believer in the philosophy that the only constant in life is change. I work together with my patient to allow them to recognize that accepting change is an important quality for a successful and happy life. I value specifically tailoring a treatment plan to the individual to ensure we have a compassionate and understanding relationship on the road towards personal betterment/growth. I treat children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. I also provide counseling to couples and families.
I am firm believer in the philosophy that the only constant in life is change. I work together with my patient to allow them to recognize that accepting change is an important quality for a successful and happy life. I value specifically tailoring a treatment plan to the individual to ensure we have a compassionate and understanding relationship on the road towards personal betterment/growth. I treat children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. I also provide counseling to couples and families.
(609) 422-5270 View (609) 422-5270
Photo of Geraldine V Oades-Sese, Psychologist, PhD
Geraldine V Oades-Sese
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
I provide comprehensive evaluations for autism (toddlers through adults; ADOS-2, ADI-R), ADHD, giftedness, and learning differences, including testing for extended time on exams (SAT, ACT, GRE, LSAT, MCAT).
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit.
I provide comprehensive evaluations for autism (toddlers through adults; ADOS-2, ADI-R), ADHD, giftedness, and learning differences, including testing for extended time on exams (SAT, ACT, GRE, LSAT, MCAT).
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit.
(732) 387-4209 View (732) 387-4209
Photo of Ellen Herr-Israel, Psychologist, MA, MBA, PhD
Ellen Herr-Israel
Psychologist, MA, MBA, PhD
Serves Area
I provide evaluation, diagnosis and treatment/educational recommendations for developmental disorders or delays including intellectual disability, specific learning disability, autism, and Fragile X syndrome.
Intergenerational family dysfunction is not inevitable. I work with adults and children to untangle relational and behavioral patterns that are often foundational to the presenting problem. I take an integrative, strength-based approach and help the client identify perceptions and attributions that may be interfering with optimal self development and fulfilling relationships. This therapeutic approach is helpful in changing dysfunctional relational dynamics to those that promote growth and well-being.
I provide evaluation, diagnosis and treatment/educational recommendations for developmental disorders or delays including intellectual disability, specific learning disability, autism, and Fragile X syndrome.
Intergenerational family dysfunction is not inevitable. I work with adults and children to untangle relational and behavioral patterns that are often foundational to the presenting problem. I take an integrative, strength-based approach and help the client identify perceptions and attributions that may be interfering with optimal self development and fulfilling relationships. This therapeutic approach is helpful in changing dysfunctional relational dynamics to those that promote growth and well-being.
(908) 386-5142 View (908) 386-5142
Photo of Christina Taylor - Creative Arts Therapies Services, LLC, Art Therapist, ATCS, ATR-BC, LPAT, LPC, LCAT
Creative Arts Therapies Services, LLC
Art Therapist, ATCS, ATR-BC, LPAT, LPC, LCAT
Serves Area
What is Art Therapy? This is the number one question asked of us. The American Art Therapy Association defines Art Therapy as, "a mental health profession in which clients, facilitated by the art therapist, use art media, the creative process, & the resulting artwork to explore their feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior & addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, & increase self-esteem. The creative process lends itself readily to meeting the individual where they are at in the present moment.
What is Art Therapy? This is the number one question asked of us. The American Art Therapy Association defines Art Therapy as, "a mental health profession in which clients, facilitated by the art therapist, use art media, the creative process, & the resulting artwork to explore their feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior & addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, & increase self-esteem. The creative process lends itself readily to meeting the individual where they are at in the present moment.
(609) 336-4003 View (609) 336-4003
Photo of Jasmine Ueng-McHale, Psychologist, PhD
Jasmine Ueng-McHale
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I have extensive training in the following research-supported approaches: psychodynamic therapy, EFT for couples, IFS, EMDR, DIR/Floortime model with clients with autistic spectrum diagnoses, ADHD, and LD, and neuropsychological/developmental assessments.
With compassion and acceptance, I guide clients through a therapeutic process towards change, healing and growth. Supportive and direct, I will strive to work collaboratively with you to support your development and to help you to build strong connections with others, to discover new insights, and to find relief from feelings of depression, anxiety, harsh self-criticism, or difficulties in relationships, work, or marital conflict. I respect the unique background that each person brings, and I work together with my clients to individualize treatment to meet their needs.
I have extensive training in the following research-supported approaches: psychodynamic therapy, EFT for couples, IFS, EMDR, DIR/Floortime model with clients with autistic spectrum diagnoses, ADHD, and LD, and neuropsychological/developmental assessments.
With compassion and acceptance, I guide clients through a therapeutic process towards change, healing and growth. Supportive and direct, I will strive to work collaboratively with you to support your development and to help you to build strong connections with others, to discover new insights, and to find relief from feelings of depression, anxiety, harsh self-criticism, or difficulties in relationships, work, or marital conflict. I respect the unique background that each person brings, and I work together with my clients to individualize treatment to meet their needs.
(201) 561-8427 View (201) 561-8427

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Crystal Beckwith, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Crystal Beckwith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in counseling for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism, and Trauma.
As a licensed professional counselor, I specialize in Anxiety, Autism, Depression, ADHD, and Trauma therapy, with strategies and tools to get real results for people in and outside of therapy, such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based CBT. This is a safe and open-minded space for minorities, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community.
I specialize in counseling for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism, and Trauma.
As a licensed professional counselor, I specialize in Anxiety, Autism, Depression, ADHD, and Trauma therapy, with strategies and tools to get real results for people in and outside of therapy, such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based CBT. This is a safe and open-minded space for minorities, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community.
(732) 204-8195 View (732) 204-8195
Photo of Crystal Beckwith, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Crystal Beckwith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma, Autism, and Depression counseling.
As a licensed professional counselor, who has worked for over fifteen years in the mental health field, I specialize in talk therapy, coping skills, and effective strategies for anxiety, depression. overwhelm, panic, and neurodiversity. These strategies and tools get real results for people in and outside of therapy.
I specialize in ADHD, Anxiety, Trauma, Autism, and Depression counseling.
As a licensed professional counselor, who has worked for over fifteen years in the mental health field, I specialize in talk therapy, coping skills, and effective strategies for anxiety, depression. overwhelm, panic, and neurodiversity. These strategies and tools get real results for people in and outside of therapy.
(732) 204-8195 View (732) 204-8195
Photo of Dr. Anton Shcherbakov, Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA
Dr. Anton Shcherbakov
Psychologist, PsyD, BCBA
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, autism, OCD, and related conditions.
Accepting new patients! Are you tired of feeling anxious, stressed, or stuck in your life? If so, I'm here to help. I LOVE working with people that are ready to make a change! You see, effective therapy takes work. The type of therapy that I do, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is very active, collaborative, and educational. During our sessions, we'll practice new skills ("tools") to help you reduce anxiety, improve mood, and feel more in control of your life. The advantage of this approach is that many people experience notable improvements in just 3-4 months. This is many times faster than traditional "talk" therapy.
I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety, autism, OCD, and related conditions.
Accepting new patients! Are you tired of feeling anxious, stressed, or stuck in your life? If so, I'm here to help. I LOVE working with people that are ready to make a change! You see, effective therapy takes work. The type of therapy that I do, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is very active, collaborative, and educational. During our sessions, we'll practice new skills ("tools") to help you reduce anxiety, improve mood, and feel more in control of your life. The advantage of this approach is that many people experience notable improvements in just 3-4 months. This is many times faster than traditional "talk" therapy.
(856) 544-2461 View (856) 544-2461
Photo of Goldie Rabaev - Life Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LAC, LSW
Life Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LAC, LSW
2 Endorsed
Metuchen, NJ 08840
LIFE PSYCHOTHERAPY is a private psychotherapy practice offering counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, elderly, couples, families, and groups. Since each person is unique, the approach to therapy is unique as well, combining existential philosophy with cognitive behavioral tools. The outcome empowers a person to feel empowered to take concrete actions in order to change or cope with their current level of distress, and achieve success in improving his/her life. Along with Psychotherapy we provide a variety of psycho-educational workshops to enhance personal growth and development without any stigma attached to psychotherapy.
LIFE PSYCHOTHERAPY is a private psychotherapy practice offering counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, elderly, couples, families, and groups. Since each person is unique, the approach to therapy is unique as well, combining existential philosophy with cognitive behavioral tools. The outcome empowers a person to feel empowered to take concrete actions in order to change or cope with their current level of distress, and achieve success in improving his/her life. Along with Psychotherapy we provide a variety of psycho-educational workshops to enhance personal growth and development without any stigma attached to psychotherapy.
(732) 595-4204 View (732) 595-4204
Photo of Brittany Lyman, Psychologist, PsyD
Brittany Lyman
Psychologist, PsyD
Marlton, NJ 08053
I am a clinical psychologist who provides evaluation, therapy, and consultation services to individuals impacted by autism spectrum disorder ( ASD).
We take a strengths-based focus supporting individuals on the autism spectrum across the lifespan. Our philosophy is that ASD is a diagnosis that impacts the entire family. We are committed to conducting comprehensive evaluations, using evidence-based diagnostic tools and treatments, and working collaboratively with other providers.
I am a clinical psychologist who provides evaluation, therapy, and consultation services to individuals impacted by autism spectrum disorder ( ASD).
We take a strengths-based focus supporting individuals on the autism spectrum across the lifespan. Our philosophy is that ASD is a diagnosis that impacts the entire family. We are committed to conducting comprehensive evaluations, using evidence-based diagnostic tools and treatments, and working collaboratively with other providers.
(267) 323-4918 View (267) 323-4918
Photo of Sarah Beth Woldoff, Psychologist, PhD, BCBA
Sarah Beth Woldoff
Psychologist, PhD, BCBA
Serves Area
I have extensive experience diagnosing toddlers, children, and adults on the autism spectrum using a gold-standard evaluation battery, including the ADOS-2 ( Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) and related assessment tools.
Specialities include concussion and TBI, ADHD, Learning Disability (including test accomodations), Autism, and other conditions. We offer Neuropsychological,and Psychoeducational Evaluations, Autism Evaluations, School Consultations, Independent Evaluations including expert testimony, Executive Skills Coaching, Functional Behavior Assessments, CBT.
I have extensive experience diagnosing toddlers, children, and adults on the autism spectrum using a gold-standard evaluation battery, including the ADOS-2 ( Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) and related assessment tools.
Specialities include concussion and TBI, ADHD, Learning Disability (including test accomodations), Autism, and other conditions. We offer Neuropsychological,and Psychoeducational Evaluations, Autism Evaluations, School Consultations, Independent Evaluations including expert testimony, Executive Skills Coaching, Functional Behavior Assessments, CBT.
(856) 523-2504 View (856) 523-2504
Photo of Sharon Davis - Target Interventions, MA , CJ/ABA, BCBA, CLC
Target Interventions
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a BCBA, Educator, and Advocate, I'm here to partner with your family through the challenges and opportunities of special needs, including the IEP process. With experience in grades K-12 & Behavior Analysis, I offer practical solutions, whether it be related to your child's initial developmental concerns, learning/social challenges, or how to advocate effectively in meetings. We'll develop personalized, evidence-based strategies for focus, organization, and emotional regulation for students with ADHD/ ASD, to improve academic performance and personal growth. Together, we'll ensure you're empowered to champion your child's success!
As a BCBA, Educator, and Advocate, I'm here to partner with your family through the challenges and opportunities of special needs, including the IEP process. With experience in grades K-12 & Behavior Analysis, I offer practical solutions, whether it be related to your child's initial developmental concerns, learning/social challenges, or how to advocate effectively in meetings. We'll develop personalized, evidence-based strategies for focus, organization, and emotional regulation for students with ADHD/ ASD, to improve academic performance and personal growth. Together, we'll ensure you're empowered to champion your child's success!
(609) 798-0329 View (609) 798-0329
Photo of Karen A Saporito, Psychologist, PhD
Karen A Saporito
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
I specialize in diagnosing and supporting Autism Spectrum Conditions and ADHD in adults across the lifespan and across the gender spectrum.
I have been working with children and adults for over 25 years, diagnosing and treating mental health issues. I believe there is a very large range of "normal" and we all struggle with life at times. My professional goal is to provide a safe atmosphere to identify and discuss stumbling blocks and guide others to a place where they can confidently be themselves, fulfill their potential and find joy. It can be challenging to ask for help, but taking that risk and facing your fears opens up a world of possibilities.
I specialize in diagnosing and supporting Autism Spectrum Conditions and ADHD in adults across the lifespan and across the gender spectrum.
I have been working with children and adults for over 25 years, diagnosing and treating mental health issues. I believe there is a very large range of "normal" and we all struggle with life at times. My professional goal is to provide a safe atmosphere to identify and discuss stumbling blocks and guide others to a place where they can confidently be themselves, fulfill their potential and find joy. It can be challenging to ask for help, but taking that risk and facing your fears opens up a world of possibilities.
(856) 266-9634 View (856) 266-9634
Photo of Heather DeBenedetto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Heather DeBenedetto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults facing a wide range of issues—anxiety, depression, ASD, emotional dysregulation, substance use, trauma, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder.
You're exhausted—mentally, emotionally, maybe even spiritually. You’ve tried to keep everything together, but it feels like no one truly sees what you’re carrying. Whether you're an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, or a parent navigating your child’s behavioral or emotional challenges, you’re looking for answers, peace, and support. You want a therapist who “gets it”—someone who will listen without judgment, help make sense of the chaos, and guide you toward real change. You’re not looking for a quick fix—you want to grow, heal, and feel more like yourself again.
I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults facing a wide range of issues—anxiety, depression, ASD, emotional dysregulation, substance use, trauma, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder.
You're exhausted—mentally, emotionally, maybe even spiritually. You’ve tried to keep everything together, but it feels like no one truly sees what you’re carrying. Whether you're an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, or a parent navigating your child’s behavioral or emotional challenges, you’re looking for answers, peace, and support. You want a therapist who “gets it”—someone who will listen without judgment, help make sense of the chaos, and guide you toward real change. You’re not looking for a quick fix—you want to grow, heal, and feel more like yourself again.
(201) 389-9429 View (201) 389-9429
Photo of Sarah Contor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT
Sarah Contor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
If you’re experiencing anxiety or a new parent navigating anxiety—whether you’re adjusting to life with a new baby or supporting a child with ASD—you’re not alone.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with certification in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT), I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety and stress through DBT-informed coping skills. Whether you're struggling with racing thoughts, emotional dysregulation, burnout, or people-pleasing, I’ll help you build skills to feel more in control.
If you’re experiencing anxiety or a new parent navigating anxiety—whether you’re adjusting to life with a new baby or supporting a child with ASD—you’re not alone.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with certification in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT), I specialize in helping individuals manage anxiety and stress through DBT-informed coping skills. Whether you're struggling with racing thoughts, emotional dysregulation, burnout, or people-pleasing, I’ll help you build skills to feel more in control.
(201) 579-0483 View (201) 579-0483

See more therapy options for Lawrenceville

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.