Autism Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Katrina Evans, PsyD, Psychologist
Katrina Evans
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I provide psychological assessments for children, teens, and adults. I assist clients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns. Common concerns include: autism, intellectual and learning differences, anxiety and depression, trauma-related presentations (e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder or PTSD), life transitions (e.g., high school to college), obsessions and compulsions, and executive functioning differences.
I provide psychological assessments for children, teens, and adults. I assist clients who are experiencing a range of presenting concerns. Common concerns include: autism, intellectual and learning differences, anxiety and depression, trauma-related presentations (e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder or PTSD), life transitions (e.g., high school to college), obsessions and compulsions, and executive functioning differences.
(971) 314-5922 View (971) 314-5922
Photo of Natasha Laumei, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natasha Laumei
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I also provide Level 1 adult autism evaluations through Empower Psychological Services.
I provide psychotherapy, clinical supervision and consultation, EMDR consultation, and EMDR intensives for adults in the states of Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. I work from a person-centered and collaborative foundation, supporting clients looking to process and heal from trauma, develop further personal insight, improve relationships with self and others, and explore opportunities for growth, empowerment, and deepened quality of life.
I also provide Level 1 adult autism evaluations through Empower Psychological Services.
I provide psychotherapy, clinical supervision and consultation, EMDR consultation, and EMDR intensives for adults in the states of Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. I work from a person-centered and collaborative foundation, supporting clients looking to process and heal from trauma, develop further personal insight, improve relationships with self and others, and explore opportunities for growth, empowerment, and deepened quality of life.
(503) 610-4414 View (503) 610-4414
Photo of Tiffany Arden Bryce, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Arden Bryce
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I frequently provide care to those experiencing parenting stress, autism, anxiety, depression and who have a history of trauma.
Hi, my name is Arden Bryce. I'm a clinician licensed in Oregon and Washington. I'm glad you've stopped by and are considering taking the first steps toward creating change in your life. I have a master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Pacific University. I specialize in providing therapeutic support to children/youth who are differently wired and their parents/caregivers. I often work with parents to assist them in developing and maintaining their resilience on their journey as a parent including overcoming blocked care and shifting from a behavioral-based lens to a brain-based lens.
I frequently provide care to those experiencing parenting stress, autism, anxiety, depression and who have a history of trauma.
Hi, my name is Arden Bryce. I'm a clinician licensed in Oregon and Washington. I'm glad you've stopped by and are considering taking the first steps toward creating change in your life. I have a master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Pacific University. I specialize in providing therapeutic support to children/youth who are differently wired and their parents/caregivers. I often work with parents to assist them in developing and maintaining their resilience on their journey as a parent including overcoming blocked care and shifting from a behavioral-based lens to a brain-based lens.
(971) 396-1680 View (971) 396-1680
Photo of Krispin Mayfield, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krispin Mayfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have certification in Religious Trauma Studies, and certification as an Autism Clinical Specialist,.
I love supporting adults who are considering going low or no-contact with their parents, or simply want to have clearer boundaries, as well as those who have experienced religious trauma. I work well with intellectualizers who struggle to feel, or make sense of their emotions. I also have lots of experience working with ADHDers who find that their neurodivergent traits are impacting their relationship. I provide couples therapy, with a focus on couples where one or both partners are ADHD or Autistic.
I have certification in Religious Trauma Studies, and certification as an Autism Clinical Specialist,.
I love supporting adults who are considering going low or no-contact with their parents, or simply want to have clearer boundaries, as well as those who have experienced religious trauma. I work well with intellectualizers who struggle to feel, or make sense of their emotions. I also have lots of experience working with ADHDers who find that their neurodivergent traits are impacting their relationship. I provide couples therapy, with a focus on couples where one or both partners are ADHD or Autistic.
(503) 213-6990 View (503) 213-6990
Photo of Erin L Cook, PsyD, Psychologist
Erin L Cook
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I provide psychological assessments for depression, anxiety, intellectual disability, learning disorders, personality disorders, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Immediate availability (within two weeks) for psychological assessment. I am currently accepting new clients for assessment. My psychological assessments are comprehensive and address the multifaceted aspects of each person I evaluate. Each assessment includes recommendations and individualized feedback. Testing can help to clarify treatment goals, improve therapeutic outcomes, increase self-awareness, and provide recommendations for accommodations at work and/or school.
I provide psychological assessments for depression, anxiety, intellectual disability, learning disorders, personality disorders, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Immediate availability (within two weeks) for psychological assessment. I am currently accepting new clients for assessment. My psychological assessments are comprehensive and address the multifaceted aspects of each person I evaluate. Each assessment includes recommendations and individualized feedback. Testing can help to clarify treatment goals, improve therapeutic outcomes, increase self-awareness, and provide recommendations for accommodations at work and/or school.
(971) 571-5396 View (971) 571-5396
Photo of Cassandra Miasnikov, MA, LPCA
Cassandra Miasnikov
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
As an LGBTQ+ neurodivergent therapist, I know it’s not easy living in a world that wasn’t built for you. Are you sick of being overlooked by doctors because you don’t match their outdated image of someone with ADHD, autism, OCD, or bipolar? Does your brain oscillate between overstimulated and understimulated? Are you tired of getting brushed off because you’re not struggling "enough,” but you’re still struggling with tasks like hygiene, grocery shopping, navigating the airport, or feeling lonely?
As an LGBTQ+ neurodivergent therapist, I know it’s not easy living in a world that wasn’t built for you. Are you sick of being overlooked by doctors because you don’t match their outdated image of someone with ADHD, autism, OCD, or bipolar? Does your brain oscillate between overstimulated and understimulated? Are you tired of getting brushed off because you’re not struggling "enough,” but you’re still struggling with tasks like hygiene, grocery shopping, navigating the airport, or feeling lonely?
(971) 385-5780 View (971) 385-5780
Photo of Yasaman Kashani - Honeycomb Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Honeycomb Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
At Honeycomb Psychology we specialize in diagnostic assessments and evaluation for ADHD, autism, learning disorders, and anxiety/depression and providing evidence-based treatment to children, teens, and college age youth. We strive to provide a personalized experience to each family while taking into consideration every aspect of your child’s life.
At Honeycomb Psychology we specialize in diagnostic assessments and evaluation for ADHD, autism, learning disorders, and anxiety/depression and providing evidence-based treatment to children, teens, and college age youth. We strive to provide a personalized experience to each family while taking into consideration every aspect of your child’s life.
(971) 290-2172 View (971) 290-2172
Photo of Lori Looney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Looney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Is problematic or compulsive sexual behavior causing problems in your relationships, job or other important areas of your life? Perhaps you or a loved one are concerned and would like help learning more constructive ways to deal with stress, life transitions, anxiety or depression. My expertise includes working with adult males (both adjudicated and non-adjudicated), adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (both high and lower functioning), intellectual disabilities, histories of trauma and problematic pornography use.
Is problematic or compulsive sexual behavior causing problems in your relationships, job or other important areas of your life? Perhaps you or a loved one are concerned and would like help learning more constructive ways to deal with stress, life transitions, anxiety or depression. My expertise includes working with adult males (both adjudicated and non-adjudicated), adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (both high and lower functioning), intellectual disabilities, histories of trauma and problematic pornography use.
(458) 219-8817 View (458) 219-8817
Photo of Stephanie MacDonald, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie MacDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
Stephanie (she/her) emphasizes a collaborative therapeutic relationship at the core of her practice and works to provide a safe, inviting, and accepting relationship with each of her clients. Stephanie’s approach to counseling is client-centered and strengths-based. She integrates theories such as Interpersonal Neurobiology, Child-Centered Play Therapy, Synergetic Play Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, and attachment science, and utilizes a feminist and social justice-focused lens. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a play therapist, a relationship therapist, and a Certified Autism Clinical Specialist.
Stephanie (she/her) emphasizes a collaborative therapeutic relationship at the core of her practice and works to provide a safe, inviting, and accepting relationship with each of her clients. Stephanie’s approach to counseling is client-centered and strengths-based. She integrates theories such as Interpersonal Neurobiology, Child-Centered Play Therapy, Synergetic Play Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, and attachment science, and utilizes a feminist and social justice-focused lens. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a play therapist, a relationship therapist, and a Certified Autism Clinical Specialist.
(503) 295-9764 View (503) 295-9764
Photo of Caitlin (Caity) Lynch, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caitlin (Caity) Lynch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Our time together may touch on trauma healing/PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship stress, ADHD, Autism, grief/loss, changes in late adulthood, coming out later in life, spiritual abuse, spiritual growth, improving relationship skills, overcoming infidelity, step-families, and any other areas of interest to you, your family, or your partner(s).
You're here because you need something to shift in yourself, your relationships, or your life. I have ADHD, I am queer and genderqueer and work from a strengths-based perspective, utilizing insight-oriented therapeutic change models (Narrative Therapy, EFIT, IFS) and brain/emotion understanding through psychoeducation, CBT, and DBT and self-in-context understanding (social model of disability, self-compassion work of Drs. Kristin Neff and Tara Brach) to help you imagine and take steps toward a life aligned with who you are. >NOTE: I don't offer ADHD or Autism Assessments, this can be obtained through a psychologist or your PCP. <
Our time together may touch on trauma healing/PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship stress, ADHD, Autism, grief/loss, changes in late adulthood, coming out later in life, spiritual abuse, spiritual growth, improving relationship skills, overcoming infidelity, step-families, and any other areas of interest to you, your family, or your partner(s).
You're here because you need something to shift in yourself, your relationships, or your life. I have ADHD, I am queer and genderqueer and work from a strengths-based perspective, utilizing insight-oriented therapeutic change models (Narrative Therapy, EFIT, IFS) and brain/emotion understanding through psychoeducation, CBT, and DBT and self-in-context understanding (social model of disability, self-compassion work of Drs. Kristin Neff and Tara Brach) to help you imagine and take steps toward a life aligned with who you are. >NOTE: I don't offer ADHD or Autism Assessments, this can be obtained through a psychologist or your PCP. <
(971) 257-1636 View (971) 257-1636
Photo of Jennifer Walker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you or a loved one are navigating the complexities of ADHD or Autism and are looking for a path towards improvement and understanding, I'm here to help.
ADHD and Autism each bring unique challenges, from difficulty focusing and impulsivity to struggles in social interactions and sensory sensitivities. These conditions can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. My practice is devoted to understanding the individual needs of those with ADHD and Autism, providing a supportive environment to explore these challenges. Together, we'll work on strategies to navigate daily life with greater ease, aiming to enhance your ability to engage with the world around you in a more fulfilling way.
If you or a loved one are navigating the complexities of ADHD or Autism and are looking for a path towards improvement and understanding, I'm here to help.
ADHD and Autism each bring unique challenges, from difficulty focusing and impulsivity to struggles in social interactions and sensory sensitivities. These conditions can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. My practice is devoted to understanding the individual needs of those with ADHD and Autism, providing a supportive environment to explore these challenges. Together, we'll work on strategies to navigate daily life with greater ease, aiming to enhance your ability to engage with the world around you in a more fulfilling way.
(971) 366-2847 View (971) 366-2847
Photo of Stephanie Caballero, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Caballero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Waitlist for new clients
As a DIR Floortime Specialist, I understand the impact of having a family member on the Autism Spectrum.
It is not uncommon to feel lost at different points in life. Life can be complicated: Family dynamics, career fulfillment, managing multiple responsibilities, understanding your partner, overwhelmed from transitions, making sense of the past. I believe that together we can process your experiences which can lead to a meaningful life and personal growth. It's a huge step attending therapy and I welcome you into this space with sensitivity and compassion. I am a Latinx therapist dedicated to working with adults. I am licensed in Oregon (T1596) and California (111592). I am currently seeing clients for individual therapy.
As a DIR Floortime Specialist, I understand the impact of having a family member on the Autism Spectrum.
It is not uncommon to feel lost at different points in life. Life can be complicated: Family dynamics, career fulfillment, managing multiple responsibilities, understanding your partner, overwhelmed from transitions, making sense of the past. I believe that together we can process your experiences which can lead to a meaningful life and personal growth. It's a huge step attending therapy and I welcome you into this space with sensitivity and compassion. I am a Latinx therapist dedicated to working with adults. I am licensed in Oregon (T1596) and California (111592). I am currently seeing clients for individual therapy.
(971) 233-2471 View (971) 233-2471
Photo of Roxana I Zakhary, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Roxana I Zakhary
PhD, BCBA-D, LBA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I provide evidence-based treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) ages 2-12, and coaching to parents and teachers working with children on the spectrum. I use an intervention model grounded in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and knowledge of child developmental milestone. I have 20 years of experience working directly with children building communication, play, social, and academic skills. I am open to collaborate with other professionals and consult on any concerns related to ASD. We have immediate openings for children who can be seen in the mornings and early afternoon.
I provide evidence-based treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) ages 2-12, and coaching to parents and teachers working with children on the spectrum. I use an intervention model grounded in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and knowledge of child developmental milestone. I have 20 years of experience working directly with children building communication, play, social, and academic skills. I am open to collaborate with other professionals and consult on any concerns related to ASD. We have immediate openings for children who can be seen in the mornings and early afternoon.
(503) 479-4478 View (503) 479-4478
Photo of Dr. Marcia Zumbahlen, PhD, IMHS, Psychologist
Dr. Marcia Zumbahlen
Psychologist, PhD, IMHS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I specialize in neuro-development, with a particular focus on autism and associated conditions (e.g., sensory processing difficulties, ADHD, Nonverbal Learning Disorder, Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder). My training in Developmental Psychology, Infant Mental Health, and Clinical Neuropsychology, and my 30+ years experience, have taught me to put parents first, intervene early, and collaborate with medical doctors, developmental therapists, and schools for the strongest outcomes in these conditions.
I specialize in neuro-development, with a particular focus on autism and associated conditions (e.g., sensory processing difficulties, ADHD, Nonverbal Learning Disorder, Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder). My training in Developmental Psychology, Infant Mental Health, and Clinical Neuropsychology, and my 30+ years experience, have taught me to put parents first, intervene early, and collaborate with medical doctors, developmental therapists, and schools for the strongest outcomes in these conditions.
(503) 483-8658 View (503) 483-8658
Photo of Emily Haygeman, PhD, Psychologist
Emily Haygeman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I work with neurodivergent individuals and families. I work with those seeking clarity and a way forward. I am currently accepting new clients for psychological evaluation (including for autism, ADHD, giftedness, learning disabilities, and more) and Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE). I offer a compassionate and integrated approach. My psychological evaluations result in a comprehensive psychological report, and I aim to "tell the story" of an individual rather than simply assign a label. All evaluations yield individualized recommendations, and I provide client-centered, in-depth feedback sessions aimed at empowerment.
I work with neurodivergent individuals and families. I work with those seeking clarity and a way forward. I am currently accepting new clients for psychological evaluation (including for autism, ADHD, giftedness, learning disabilities, and more) and Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE). I offer a compassionate and integrated approach. My psychological evaluations result in a comprehensive psychological report, and I aim to "tell the story" of an individual rather than simply assign a label. All evaluations yield individualized recommendations, and I provide client-centered, in-depth feedback sessions aimed at empowerment.
(503) 486-3920 View (503) 486-3920
Photo of Lisa Sarver, Counselor
Lisa Sarver
Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97220
Accepting New Clients! I work with children and teens struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, school issues, Autism, behavioral issues, family issues, etc... Younger kids may struggle with big emotions, staying focused, or making friends, while teens often face school pressures, social challenges, or navigating the road to independence. Every child deserves to feel understood, capable and accepted for who they are. I provide a supportive space where kids can work through these challenges, develop skills to manage emotions, stay organized, and build meaningful relationships.
Accepting New Clients! I work with children and teens struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, school issues, Autism, behavioral issues, family issues, etc... Younger kids may struggle with big emotions, staying focused, or making friends, while teens often face school pressures, social challenges, or navigating the road to independence. Every child deserves to feel understood, capable and accepted for who they are. I provide a supportive space where kids can work through these challenges, develop skills to manage emotions, stay organized, and build meaningful relationships.
(360) 868-8917 View (360) 868-8917
Photo of Dana Mortensen, LPC, MA, BFA, LEED AP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Mortensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, BFA, LEED AP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Counseling gives you an opportunity to express yourself with an enlightened witness: an ethical professional who listens carefully, and with acceptance and positive regard, and with the intention of promoting your wellbeing through insights, associations, and skills building. Ideal clients are those who want to understand what lies beneath symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health diagnoses to examine your personal triggers for nervous system dysregulation. The source of your angst may include past trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders ( Autism, ADHD, etc.) or physical health conditions, and often, all three.
Counseling gives you an opportunity to express yourself with an enlightened witness: an ethical professional who listens carefully, and with acceptance and positive regard, and with the intention of promoting your wellbeing through insights, associations, and skills building. Ideal clients are those who want to understand what lies beneath symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health diagnoses to examine your personal triggers for nervous system dysregulation. The source of your angst may include past trauma, neurodevelopmental disorders ( Autism, ADHD, etc.) or physical health conditions, and often, all three.
(719) 657-6326 View (719) 657-6326
Photo of Jonathan Montoya - Safe Haven Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Safe Haven Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, mania, trauma, psychosis, grief, substance use, autism, and ADHD.
I have a passion for providing high quality therapy and helping others to achieve their goals in life. My approach involves client-centered, strengths based, and evidence based treatment. I primarily utilize CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I have been trained in other modalities as well and believe in personalizing the approach depending on what works best for you. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process. You are the expert on your own experience and I am here to work with you to achieve whatever you want most out of life.
I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, mania, trauma, psychosis, grief, substance use, autism, and ADHD.
I have a passion for providing high quality therapy and helping others to achieve their goals in life. My approach involves client-centered, strengths based, and evidence based treatment. I primarily utilize CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I have been trained in other modalities as well and believe in personalizing the approach depending on what works best for you. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process. You are the expert on your own experience and I am here to work with you to achieve whatever you want most out of life.
(971) 318-2887 View (971) 318-2887
Photo of Allie Patton, MT-BC, NCC
Allie Patton
Professional Counselor Associate, MT-BC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a nationally board-certified & Oregon licensed music therapist, and registered professional counselor associate. I care deeply about connection, and helping people discover and accept their genuine inner self through creative arts and psychotherapy. I am currently working under the supervision of Andrew K Lundgren, M.A., LMFT, LPC at Dirkse Counseling & Consulting, Inc., in working towards my full licensure. In addition to therapy, I also offer neurodivergent-affirming assessment for Autism and ADHD. My assessment type cannot be used to obtain certain disability services. Please note there is a waitlist for assessment services.
I’m a nationally board-certified & Oregon licensed music therapist, and registered professional counselor associate. I care deeply about connection, and helping people discover and accept their genuine inner self through creative arts and psychotherapy. I am currently working under the supervision of Andrew K Lundgren, M.A., LMFT, LPC at Dirkse Counseling & Consulting, Inc., in working towards my full licensure. In addition to therapy, I also offer neurodivergent-affirming assessment for Autism and ADHD. My assessment type cannot be used to obtain certain disability services. Please note there is a waitlist for assessment services.
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Photo of Dr. Benjamin J. Neeley - Neeley Psychological Services, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Neeley Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Among her specialties are Autism and ADHD assessments for children and teens.
Neeley Psychological Services specializes in adult (18+) diagnostic evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). We offer an assessment process that is unparalleled in speed and efficiency, with most evaluations completed within 1-2 months. Most private insurance is accepted (no state/Medicaid), and we will handle the preauthorization process if needed. We strive to be neurodiversity-affirming and warmly welcome all social/cultural/gender identities to our practice. We have just opened our second office in Camas, WA, and now have multiple clinicians available to assist you.
Among her specialties are Autism and ADHD assessments for children and teens.
Neeley Psychological Services specializes in adult (18+) diagnostic evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). We offer an assessment process that is unparalleled in speed and efficiency, with most evaluations completed within 1-2 months. Most private insurance is accepted (no state/Medicaid), and we will handle the preauthorization process if needed. We strive to be neurodiversity-affirming and warmly welcome all social/cultural/gender identities to our practice. We have just opened our second office in Camas, WA, and now have multiple clinicians available to assist you.
(360) 718-3360 View (360) 718-3360
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Autism Therapists

What is the most effective treatment for autism?

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

How does ABA work?

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

How does treatment for autism work?

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

How long does therapy for autism take?

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