Autism Treatment Centers in Northville, MI

Photo of Bluestone Children's Center, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Bluestone Children's Center
Treatment Center, MS, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167
Our clinic is a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary healthcare facility dedicated to providing a wide range of services to support mental and physical well-being. We specialize in counseling, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral therapy. Our team of professionals is equipped to assist patients with various conditions, including ADD, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and other disorders. We are committed to serving a diverse patient population, extending our services to both children and adults. Our goal is to enhance the quality of life for our patients by providing personalized, high-quality care in a welcoming environment. We are actively seeking to welcome more patients to benefit from our holistic healthcare approach.
Our clinic is a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary healthcare facility dedicated to providing a wide range of services to support mental and physical well-being. We specialize in counseling, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and behavioral therapy. Our team of professionals is equipped to assist patients with various conditions, including ADD, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and other disorders. We are committed to serving a diverse patient population, extending our services to both children and adults. Our goal is to enhance the quality of life for our patients by providing personalized, high-quality care in a welcoming environment. We are actively seeking to welcome more patients to benefit from our holistic healthcare approach.
(734) 875-9417 View (734) 875-9417
Photo of The Imagine Center for Psychological Health, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
The Imagine Center for Psychological Health
Treatment Center, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167
Many of us experience problems in living from time to time, as we manage our intimate relationships, careers, children, etc. Often times, these problems lead to feeling poorly about oneself or even to feelings of hopelessness or helplessness. Sometimes, these problems reach a magnitude where our level of distress or ability to function is affected. At these times, it can be very helpful to talk to a professional who can provide insight, support and perspective on these difficult issues. Although your issues may seem unmanageable to you now, with the right help, they can be overcome. Our therapists will help you solve your problems in living. In our work together, you will learn the sources of your difficulties, whether historical or related to current life circumstances, in order to more effectively manage and overcome them. Therapy shouldn't be a temporary solution to problems. Rather, it should produce meaningful and stable change. Our experienced and qualified clinicians have extensive clinical interests and areas of expertise. Many specialize in the evaluation and diagnosis of psychological disorders of childhood and adulthood, developmental problems, learning disorders, and more. Our therapists utilize the best-suited modality of treatment to best meet their clients' needs.
Many of us experience problems in living from time to time, as we manage our intimate relationships, careers, children, etc. Often times, these problems lead to feeling poorly about oneself or even to feelings of hopelessness or helplessness. Sometimes, these problems reach a magnitude where our level of distress or ability to function is affected. At these times, it can be very helpful to talk to a professional who can provide insight, support and perspective on these difficult issues. Although your issues may seem unmanageable to you now, with the right help, they can be overcome. Our therapists will help you solve your problems in living. In our work together, you will learn the sources of your difficulties, whether historical or related to current life circumstances, in order to more effectively manage and overcome them. Therapy shouldn't be a temporary solution to problems. Rather, it should produce meaningful and stable change. Our experienced and qualified clinicians have extensive clinical interests and areas of expertise. Many specialize in the evaluation and diagnosis of psychological disorders of childhood and adulthood, developmental problems, learning disorders, and more. Our therapists utilize the best-suited modality of treatment to best meet their clients' needs.
(313) 254-4927 View (313) 254-4927
Photo of University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF), Treatment Center in Northville, MI
University Center for the Child and Family (UCCF)
Treatment Center, PhD
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167
UCCF is a University of Michigan facility offering a comprehensive range of mental health services for children, adolescents, and families. Our facility was designed with families in mind; our waiting room includes a play room for children, and child care is available during appointments. We are strongly committed to helping children, teens, couples and families enjoy happier lives, more satisfying relationships, and increased success at school or work. Parking is conveniently located in the Liberty Square Parking Structure directly above us on 500 E. Washington Street.
UCCF is a University of Michigan facility offering a comprehensive range of mental health services for children, adolescents, and families. Our facility was designed with families in mind; our waiting room includes a play room for children, and child care is available during appointments. We are strongly committed to helping children, teens, couples and families enjoy happier lives, more satisfying relationships, and increased success at school or work. Parking is conveniently located in the Liberty Square Parking Structure directly above us on 500 E. Washington Street.
(734) 259-3184 View (734) 259-3184
Photo of Great Lakes Psychology Group, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Great Lakes Psychology Group
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
(248) 487-1519 View (248) 487-1519
Photo of U-M Psychological Clinic, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
U-M Psychological Clinic
Treatment Center, PhD
Verified Verified
Northville, MI 48167
The Psychological Clinic is a University of Michigan facility that provides a safe, confidential environment in which adults, 18 and older, can get the treatment they need to start enjoying happier lives. Our clinicians offer help to clients who are dealing with any number of concerns or difficulties, some of which include: anxiety, depression, sexual identity or preferences, bereavement & grief, issues with personal or professional relationships, and dealing with a traumatic event as well as psycho-social problems of aging. We are dedicated to providing an environment in which our clients feel open to sharing and receiving help, and we work to provide a culturally sensitive consultation for each individual.
The Psychological Clinic is a University of Michigan facility that provides a safe, confidential environment in which adults, 18 and older, can get the treatment they need to start enjoying happier lives. Our clinicians offer help to clients who are dealing with any number of concerns or difficulties, some of which include: anxiety, depression, sexual identity or preferences, bereavement & grief, issues with personal or professional relationships, and dealing with a traumatic event as well as psycho-social problems of aging. We are dedicated to providing an environment in which our clients feel open to sharing and receiving help, and we work to provide a culturally sensitive consultation for each individual.
(734) 469-3391 View (734) 469-3391

More Treatment Centers Nearby

Photo of Harbor Oaks Hospital Depression Treatment, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Harbor Oaks Hospital Depression Treatment
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Canton, MI 48187
We provide separate units for each age group as well as a specialized inpatient pediatric unit (SIPU) for children and adolescents who have autism spectrum disorder or an intellectual disability diagnosis.
At Harbor Oaks Hospital, we provide an efficient admissions process, with intake staff available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help people get the care they need quickly. Potential patients can contact our intake department by phone or through our website. Before admission to our depression treatment program, our team conducts an assessment for each potential patient that helps us determine if our facility is right for them. We can also verify benefits with their health insurance provider at this time. Following the individual’s evaluation, one of our doctors recommends the most appropriate level of care for them. Our team is dedicated to helping each person who turns to us for support take the first brave step toward a brighter, happier future. If we decide that another treatment center may be a better fit, we can make a referral to a vetted and trusted depression treatment provider in the area. To learn more about our depression treatment program and whether our comprehensive services can help you on your journey to healing, we encourage you to contact our team today.
We provide separate units for each age group as well as a specialized inpatient pediatric unit (SIPU) for children and adolescents who have autism spectrum disorder or an intellectual disability diagnosis.
At Harbor Oaks Hospital, we provide an efficient admissions process, with intake staff available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help people get the care they need quickly. Potential patients can contact our intake department by phone or through our website. Before admission to our depression treatment program, our team conducts an assessment for each potential patient that helps us determine if our facility is right for them. We can also verify benefits with their health insurance provider at this time. Following the individual’s evaluation, one of our doctors recommends the most appropriate level of care for them. Our team is dedicated to helping each person who turns to us for support take the first brave step toward a brighter, happier future. If we decide that another treatment center may be a better fit, we can make a referral to a vetted and trusted depression treatment provider in the area. To learn more about our depression treatment program and whether our comprehensive services can help you on your journey to healing, we encourage you to contact our team today.
(844) 203-1447 View (844) 203-1447
Photo of New Oakland Family Centers, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
New Oakland Family Centers
Treatment Center
Not Verified Not Verified
Livonia, MI 48150
New Oakland Family Centers has been serving southeast Michigan since 1990. We offer a full continuum of mental health services for adults, children and adolescents with locations in: Center Line, Clarkston, Clinton Township, Farmington Hills, Flint, Livonia, Okemos, Southgate, Bloomfield Hills, Port Huron, Portage and Warren. New Oakland provides a new, holistic and effective approach to mental health and immediate access to mental health services. New Oakland offers: *Fast access for psychiatric evaluations/med reviews *Crisis response/mobile deployment *Transportation *Diverse clinical team *Integration with physical health
New Oakland Family Centers has been serving southeast Michigan since 1990. We offer a full continuum of mental health services for adults, children and adolescents with locations in: Center Line, Clarkston, Clinton Township, Farmington Hills, Flint, Livonia, Okemos, Southgate, Bloomfield Hills, Port Huron, Portage and Warren. New Oakland provides a new, holistic and effective approach to mental health and immediate access to mental health services. New Oakland offers: *Fast access for psychiatric evaluations/med reviews *Crisis response/mobile deployment *Transportation *Diverse clinical team *Integration with physical health
(855) 782-1899 View (855) 782-1899
Photo of StoneCrest Center - Support Services, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
StoneCrest Center - Support Services
Treatment Center
Not Verified Not Verified
Westland, MI 48185
At StoneCrest Center, we understand that families are impacted when a loved one is struggling. We empathize with and support those who have a family member who is suffering from a mental health disorder, co-occurring addiction, or developmental concern. We also believe that patients can benefit from their families’ participation in the treatment process. Throughout programming, we provide family therapy sessions in virtual and in-person formats to help family members support their loved ones. In family therapy sessions, social workers and other behavioral health staff teach families better communication skills to repair and strengthen their relationships. We encourage families to express their feelings and thoughts. We focus on helping families understand what their loved ones may be experiencing, and we prepare them to provide the most effective support they can after their loved one completes treatment and returns home.
At StoneCrest Center, we understand that families are impacted when a loved one is struggling. We empathize with and support those who have a family member who is suffering from a mental health disorder, co-occurring addiction, or developmental concern. We also believe that patients can benefit from their families’ participation in the treatment process. Throughout programming, we provide family therapy sessions in virtual and in-person formats to help family members support their loved ones. In family therapy sessions, social workers and other behavioral health staff teach families better communication skills to repair and strengthen their relationships. We encourage families to express their feelings and thoughts. We focus on helping families understand what their loved ones may be experiencing, and we prepare them to provide the most effective support they can after their loved one completes treatment and returns home.
(855) 788-6686 View (855) 788-6686
Photo of Perspectives Therapy Services, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Perspectives Therapy Services
Treatment Center, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Lyon, MI 48178
A multi-site outpatient practice providing extraordinary care in the areas of emotional, mental, behavioral, and relationship health. Clinics are located in Lansing, Highland, Fenton, New Hudson, and Brighton, Michigan.
A multi-site outpatient practice providing extraordinary care in the areas of emotional, mental, behavioral, and relationship health. Clinics are located in Lansing, Highland, Fenton, New Hudson, and Brighton, Michigan.
(810) 277-9668 View (810) 277-9668
Photo of Sollars and Associates, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Sollars and Associates
Treatment Center, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
Providing counseling and psychotherapy services for more than 30 years. With support, encouragement and expert insight, many people begin to feel better after their first session. Please contact us to discuss whatever issue you are facing, and we can work together to help you overcome your obstacles. In addition to counseling and psychotherapy, we also offer psychological and educational evaluations for children and adults concerned about symptoms of Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorder, Developmental Delays and more. Further, we offer evaluations for work disability, psychological fitness for work, bariatric surgery evaluations, and other needs.
Providing counseling and psychotherapy services for more than 30 years. With support, encouragement and expert insight, many people begin to feel better after their first session. Please contact us to discuss whatever issue you are facing, and we can work together to help you overcome your obstacles. In addition to counseling and psychotherapy, we also offer psychological and educational evaluations for children and adults concerned about symptoms of Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorder, Developmental Delays and more. Further, we offer evaluations for work disability, psychological fitness for work, bariatric surgery evaluations, and other needs.
(248) 862-1171 View (248) 862-1171
Photo of Great Lakes Psychology Group, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Great Lakes Psychology Group
Treatment Center, PhD
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48375
The diverse GLPG network includes hundreds of licensed providers offering online and/or in-person therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families across the Midwest.
The diverse GLPG network includes hundreds of licensed providers offering online and/or in-person therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families across the Midwest.
(800) 693-1916 View (800) 693-1916

Online Treatment Centers

Photo of Harbor Oaks Hospital - Inpatient Program, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Harbor Oaks Hospital - Inpatient Program
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
New Baltimore, MI 48047
We offer several pediatric units, including a specialized unit for those who have an autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disability diagnosis.
Harbor Oaks Hospital provides inpatient treatment for adults age 18 and older who are in crisis. In our inpatient program, we offer round-the-clock care to help those who are battling mental health concerns and substance use disorders stabilize. Patients receive personal attention and 24/7 monitoring in a safe, secure therapeutic environment. Services may include medical care, medication management services, detox services, medication-assisted treatment, and individual, family, group, and experiential therapies. At the end of treatment, we provide patients with detailed aftercare plans that can help them continue making progress toward their goals. Our compassionate team of behavioral health professionals is committed to helping each person improve their overall functioning and make meaningful progress toward their long-term goals. For this reason, we work closely with our patients to determine the program duration that gives them enough time to build a solid foundation for wellness. Generally, people remain in the inpatient program for an average of seven to 10 days.
We offer several pediatric units, including a specialized unit for those who have an autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disability diagnosis.
Harbor Oaks Hospital provides inpatient treatment for adults age 18 and older who are in crisis. In our inpatient program, we offer round-the-clock care to help those who are battling mental health concerns and substance use disorders stabilize. Patients receive personal attention and 24/7 monitoring in a safe, secure therapeutic environment. Services may include medical care, medication management services, detox services, medication-assisted treatment, and individual, family, group, and experiential therapies. At the end of treatment, we provide patients with detailed aftercare plans that can help them continue making progress toward their goals. Our compassionate team of behavioral health professionals is committed to helping each person improve their overall functioning and make meaningful progress toward their long-term goals. For this reason, we work closely with our patients to determine the program duration that gives them enough time to build a solid foundation for wellness. Generally, people remain in the inpatient program for an average of seven to 10 days.
(586) 250-4140 View (586) 250-4140
Photo of Easterseals MORC, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Easterseals MORC
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Auburn Hills, MI 48326
Easterseals MORC has been offering disability services since 1920. As one of the largest providers of mental health services in the state, Easterseals MORC evolves to meet the ever-changing needs of the people they serve. By combining the latest mental health therapies along with cutting edge technology, Easterseals MORC is able to offer the best services for most mental health disabilities, serving individuals of all ages.
Easterseals MORC has been offering disability services since 1920. As one of the largest providers of mental health services in the state, Easterseals MORC evolves to meet the ever-changing needs of the people they serve. By combining the latest mental health therapies along with cutting edge technology, Easterseals MORC is able to offer the best services for most mental health disabilities, serving individuals of all ages.
(248) 602-2894 View (248) 602-2894
Photo of Michigan Psychological Care - Alma, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Michigan Psychological Care - Alma
Treatment Center, PsyD, LPC, LMSW, TLLP
Not Verified Not Verified
Alma, MI 48801
Our mission is to provide the highest quality mental health treatment. Our office has several mental health therapists who work along side our physician guided medical team to provide psychological services and medical care together. This allows us to provide treatment like no other facility in the area, offering both psychotherapy and medication management if necessary, but not required if you have a primary care that you like. We also offer psychological and neuropsychological evaluations through our doctorate level neuropsychologists who can perform testing to further understand diagnosis and brain function. We also offer substance abuse programs, and medication assisted substance abuse programs using Suboxone.
Our mission is to provide the highest quality mental health treatment. Our office has several mental health therapists who work along side our physician guided medical team to provide psychological services and medical care together. This allows us to provide treatment like no other facility in the area, offering both psychotherapy and medication management if necessary, but not required if you have a primary care that you like. We also offer psychological and neuropsychological evaluations through our doctorate level neuropsychologists who can perform testing to further understand diagnosis and brain function. We also offer substance abuse programs, and medication assisted substance abuse programs using Suboxone.
(989) 796-4555 View (989) 796-4555
Photo of Dennis, Moye, Branstetter & Associates, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Dennis, Moye, Branstetter & Associates
Treatment Center, LMSW, PhD, PsyD, MD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
We are a privately owned mental health clinic offering a full range of psychological services for children, adolescents, adults and older adults. The highly skilled and experienced staff is comprised of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and dieticians that have extensive clinical experience working with significant emotional, developmental, familial and relationship problems. The clinic has several nationally recognized researchers/clinicians that specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, ADD/ADHD and adolescent development.
We are a privately owned mental health clinic offering a full range of psychological services for children, adolescents, adults and older adults. The highly skilled and experienced staff is comprised of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and dieticians that have extensive clinical experience working with significant emotional, developmental, familial and relationship problems. The clinic has several nationally recognized researchers/clinicians that specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, ADD/ADHD and adolescent development.
(248) 728-6742 View (248) 728-6742
Photo of Birmingham Maple Clinic, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Birmingham Maple Clinic
Treatment Center, LMSW, ACSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Troy, MI 48084
Since 1972, Birmingham Maple Clinic’s therapists have been providing mental health services designed to meet the needs of individuals, couples, families, groups and the Metro-Detroit community. Birmingham Maple Clinic comprises the most highly experienced and qualified professionals in the fields of Psychiatry, Psychology and Social Work. After many years of experience in other agencies, hospitals and private practice, clinicians have chosen to join Birmingham Maple Clinic to continue their advanced professional practices. The clinic is nationally accredited by the Council On Accreditation.
Since 1972, Birmingham Maple Clinic’s therapists have been providing mental health services designed to meet the needs of individuals, couples, families, groups and the Metro-Detroit community. Birmingham Maple Clinic comprises the most highly experienced and qualified professionals in the fields of Psychiatry, Psychology and Social Work. After many years of experience in other agencies, hospitals and private practice, clinicians have chosen to join Birmingham Maple Clinic to continue their advanced professional practices. The clinic is nationally accredited by the Council On Accreditation.
(947) 217-6869 View (947) 217-6869
Photo of Life Skills Village, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Life Skills Village
Treatment Center, DO
Verified Verified
Oak Park, MI 48237
Life Skills Village is a premiere comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation and mental health program. We specialize in challenges, symptoms, and/or behaviors arising from Neurological and Psychological disorders. Our patients seek help in treating feelings of isolation, impulsivity, memory issues, disorganization, feeling stuck, lack of independence, career stagnancy, inability to maintain employment, depression... and other difficult conditions. Using evidenced based practices, Life Skills Village works with patients to overcome issues relative to specific personal goals and needs. Modalities of treatment include Psychology, Occupational Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology, and more. We additionally offer Psychological and Neuropsychological Evaluations to aid in accurate diagnoses and identification of appropriate treatment recommendations.
Life Skills Village is a premiere comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation and mental health program. We specialize in challenges, symptoms, and/or behaviors arising from Neurological and Psychological disorders. Our patients seek help in treating feelings of isolation, impulsivity, memory issues, disorganization, feeling stuck, lack of independence, career stagnancy, inability to maintain employment, depression... and other difficult conditions. Using evidenced based practices, Life Skills Village works with patients to overcome issues relative to specific personal goals and needs. Modalities of treatment include Psychology, Occupational Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology, and more. We additionally offer Psychological and Neuropsychological Evaluations to aid in accurate diagnoses and identification of appropriate treatment recommendations.
(947) 888-7435 View (947) 888-7435
Photo of Michigan Psychological Care - Howell, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Michigan Psychological Care - Howell
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
We're Here to Help! At Michigan Psychological Care (Midland), we strive to provide quality care to all individuals. We accept a variety of insurance plans and have several professionals to meet your needs. Our goal is to help you live the best life possible through developing coping strategies, encouraging personal growth, and assisting in the various changes that our lives go through.
We're Here to Help! At Michigan Psychological Care (Midland), we strive to provide quality care to all individuals. We accept a variety of insurance plans and have several professionals to meet your needs. Our goal is to help you live the best life possible through developing coping strategies, encouraging personal growth, and assisting in the various changes that our lives go through.
(517) 994-1536 View (517) 994-1536
Photo of A Healing Place, LLC, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
A Healing Place, LLC
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Jackson, MI 49201
At A Healing Place, LLC we have helped clients like you successfully address a wide variety of issues related to home and family as well as work and career including: Depression, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Abuse & Neglect Issues, Trauma, Grief & Loss, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Self Esteem Issues, Personality Disorders, ADHD/Conduct Disorder. A Healing Place, LLC provides a variety of services including: Individual Psychotherapy, Psychological Testing, Children/Adolescent Therapy, Family Therapy, Couples Therapy and Group Therapy for Eating Disorders.
At A Healing Place, LLC we have helped clients like you successfully address a wide variety of issues related to home and family as well as work and career including: Depression, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Abuse & Neglect Issues, Trauma, Grief & Loss, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Self Esteem Issues, Personality Disorders, ADHD/Conduct Disorder. A Healing Place, LLC provides a variety of services including: Individual Psychotherapy, Psychological Testing, Children/Adolescent Therapy, Family Therapy, Couples Therapy and Group Therapy for Eating Disorders.
(517) 998-4673 View (517) 998-4673
Photo of Silver Linings Counseling, Treatment Center in Northville, MI
Silver Linings Counseling
Treatment Center, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Sterling Heights, MI 48314
If the challenges in your life feel like they are uncontrollable, we encourage you to take the time for yourself by reaching out to us for support. It is the goal of Silver Linings Counseling to help you navigate through any obstacle you may have, because we know that life can be difficult and overwhelming. Our goal is to help you create positive change in your life to aid in your happiness and well-being. We believe in strong emotional support, a healthy perspective, and hard work.
If the challenges in your life feel like they are uncontrollable, we encourage you to take the time for yourself by reaching out to us for support. It is the goal of Silver Linings Counseling to help you navigate through any obstacle you may have, because we know that life can be difficult and overwhelming. Our goal is to help you create positive change in your life to aid in your happiness and well-being. We believe in strong emotional support, a healthy perspective, and hard work.
(586) 501-8065 View (586) 501-8065

See more therapy options for Northville

Autism Treatment Centers

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.