Susan Long is a Master prepared therapist as well as a board certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner. She is the owner of The Rested Mind and founded it in 2010 to serve the South Shore Massachusetts area. We have a relationship with the Archdiocese of Boston and provides services to abuse survivors. We are also honored to see active duty military and veterans ( Tricare Accepted) as well as Police, Fire and First responders. The practice was originally started for children but we expanded our services and now sees patients up to age 65 ( no medicare/medicaid). We are open 9am in the morning until 10pm at night Mon-Thursday, Friday 10am to 4pm and Sundays 10am to 6pm to accommodate those who cannot leave work during normal business hours. We are closed Saturdays.
Susan Long is a Master prepared therapist as well as a board certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner. She is the owner of The Rested Mind and founded it in 2010 to serve the South Shore Massachusetts area. We have a relationship with the Archdiocese of Boston and provides services to abuse survivors. We are also honored to see active duty military and veterans ( Tricare Accepted) as well as Police, Fire and First responders. The practice was originally started for children but we expanded our services and now sees patients up to age 65 ( no medicare/medicaid). We are open 9am in the morning until 10pm at night Mon-Thursday, Friday 10am to 4pm and Sundays 10am to 6pm to accommodate those who cannot leave work during normal business hours. We are closed Saturdays.
Full Service Center with Multi-Disciplinary Team in One Centralized Location -Diagnoses Treated Anxiety and Related Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence Mood Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence Behavior Disorders • ADD/ADHD • Autism Spectrum Disorder Eating Disorders • Developmental Disorders Learning Disorders • Communication Disorders
To be committed to the wellness of children, their families, and the community through prevention, intervention, treatment, and education. Children are offered a comfortable, safe environment in which they can develop a therapeutic relationship with their therapist, identify the problem that is causing them difficulty, and strengthen coping skills to manage their feelings. Parents will often be seen either by the same therapist or by another therapist to assist them in their child's therapy. Duration of treatment varies. Training Site for William James School of Professional Psychology.
Full Service Center with Multi-Disciplinary Team in One Centralized Location -Diagnoses Treated Anxiety and Related Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence Mood Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence Behavior Disorders • ADD/ADHD • Autism Spectrum Disorder Eating Disorders • Developmental Disorders Learning Disorders • Communication Disorders
To be committed to the wellness of children, their families, and the community through prevention, intervention, treatment, and education. Children are offered a comfortable, safe environment in which they can develop a therapeutic relationship with their therapist, identify the problem that is causing them difficulty, and strengthen coping skills to manage their feelings. Parents will often be seen either by the same therapist or by another therapist to assist them in their child's therapy. Duration of treatment varies. Training Site for William James School of Professional Psychology.
More Treatment Centers Nearby
Behavioral Connections services individuals between the ages of 0-21 with an autism diagnosis.
Behavioral Connections provides advanced Verbal Behavior/Applied Behavior Analysis services for children with an autism diagnosis. While the instruction is advanced, there are some simple pillars to our treatment. First, we always emphasize pairing ourselves and our teaching environments. In other words, we make sure that no what's going on, our learners are always having fun. Second, we emphasize language development over all other treatments. When language emerges, things like problem behavior and living skills quickly fall into place. Third, our goal is to discharge (but not before they're ready). Once they've developed the language to make it a meaningful experience, we want our learners back to where kids should be, like schools and playgrounds. Fourth, we are a restraint, seclusion, and punishment-free facility. Fifth, our staff are highly trained and credentialed. Sixth, our supervisors usually have no more than six kids per case.
Behavioral Connections services individuals between the ages of 0-21 with an autism diagnosis.
Behavioral Connections provides advanced Verbal Behavior/Applied Behavior Analysis services for children with an autism diagnosis. While the instruction is advanced, there are some simple pillars to our treatment. First, we always emphasize pairing ourselves and our teaching environments. In other words, we make sure that no what's going on, our learners are always having fun. Second, we emphasize language development over all other treatments. When language emerges, things like problem behavior and living skills quickly fall into place. Third, our goal is to discharge (but not before they're ready). Once they've developed the language to make it a meaningful experience, we want our learners back to where kids should be, like schools and playgrounds. Fourth, we are a restraint, seclusion, and punishment-free facility. Fifth, our staff are highly trained and credentialed. Sixth, our supervisors usually have no more than six kids per case.
We offer licensed therapists, prescription management, psychiatry, autism care, and more.
Psychiatric Services for Adults and Children—We treat major depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and more using prescribed medication and scientifically valid therapies. • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy—For children on the autism spectrum, ABA therapy can target areas to improve quality of life for the client and family. • MAT (Medication Assisted Treatment)—Our experienced team uses FDA-approved medications and other therapies to treat addiction. • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy—The most advanced technology for treating severe depression, TMS is similar to an MRI, using painless magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain. • Biofeedback—Specialized equipment allows us to help you improve your physical and mental health by managing symptoms of many conditions. • Wellness Therapies—Complementary therapies including yoga, nutrition counseling, meditation and more address the mind-body connection.
We offer licensed therapists, prescription management, psychiatry, autism care, and more.
Psychiatric Services for Adults and Children—We treat major depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and more using prescribed medication and scientifically valid therapies. • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy—For children on the autism spectrum, ABA therapy can target areas to improve quality of life for the client and family. • MAT (Medication Assisted Treatment)—Our experienced team uses FDA-approved medications and other therapies to treat addiction. • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy—The most advanced technology for treating severe depression, TMS is similar to an MRI, using painless magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain. • Biofeedback—Specialized equipment allows us to help you improve your physical and mental health by managing symptoms of many conditions. • Wellness Therapies—Complementary therapies including yoga, nutrition counseling, meditation and more address the mind-body connection.
Our clients typically have ADHD, autism, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, isolation, and other factors that impact their ability to be successful.
We provide in-person and virtual executive function coaching, therapeutic coaching, and a summer intensive college preparatory program, which includes a supervised independent living track for students who do not live local to Boulder, CO. We specialize in supporting students and non-students alike who are struggling with executive function deficits and mental health due to reasons related to neurodevelopment and mental health challenges. We include parents in our coaching services to collaborate and update on progress.
Our clients typically have ADHD, autism, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, isolation, and other factors that impact their ability to be successful.
We provide in-person and virtual executive function coaching, therapeutic coaching, and a summer intensive college preparatory program, which includes a supervised independent living track for students who do not live local to Boulder, CO. We specialize in supporting students and non-students alike who are struggling with executive function deficits and mental health due to reasons related to neurodevelopment and mental health challenges. We include parents in our coaching services to collaborate and update on progress.
Strattus..TILL’s Mental Health Clinic has been serving the communities of Massachusetts since 1986. At Strattus, we have a team of experienced clinicians, clinical interns, psychiatrist, and dedicated administrative staff providing exceptional services and support to those with and without specialized needs.
Strattus..TILL’s Mental Health Clinic has been serving the communities of Massachusetts since 1986. At Strattus, we have a team of experienced clinicians, clinical interns, psychiatrist, and dedicated administrative staff providing exceptional services and support to those with and without specialized needs.
We support adults, children, and families coping with life’s ups and downs. For more than 30 years, Advocates counseling clinics have supported people experiencing difficulties in life. Our Lawrence and Peabody locations became part of Advocates in July 2024, when Family Continuity merged with Advocates. Like all of our counseling locations, these sites offer services for both individuals and families.
Whether it's support during a difficult time, help coping with the stresses of everyday life, or treatment for addiction or mental health issues, our team of caring and compassionate providers is here for you.
We support adults, children, and families coping with life’s ups and downs. For more than 30 years, Advocates counseling clinics have supported people experiencing difficulties in life. Our Lawrence and Peabody locations became part of Advocates in July 2024, when Family Continuity merged with Advocates. Like all of our counseling locations, these sites offer services for both individuals and families.
Whether it's support during a difficult time, help coping with the stresses of everyday life, or treatment for addiction or mental health issues, our team of caring and compassionate providers is here for you.
We offer compassionate, culturally sensitive care for issues such as racial trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, immigration stress, adoption, neurodivergence, ADHD, autism, childhood behavioral issues, and stress.
At Therapists of Color New England, we offer a range of programs tailored to meet the unique needs of our diverse clients. We provide individual, family, and group therapy for toddlers, children, teens, adults, and families. Our evidence-based treatments include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy, mindfulness practices, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD, gender-affirming care, and therapy for ADHD. Additionally, we offer free monthly healing circles for those who have experienced racial trauma and race-based traumatic stress. Our approach is centered on culturally sensitive care that respects and honors each client's lived experience. We create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their feelings, build resilience, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. Everyone is welcome at Therapists of Color New England.
We offer compassionate, culturally sensitive care for issues such as racial trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, immigration stress, adoption, neurodivergence, ADHD, autism, childhood behavioral issues, and stress.
At Therapists of Color New England, we offer a range of programs tailored to meet the unique needs of our diverse clients. We provide individual, family, and group therapy for toddlers, children, teens, adults, and families. Our evidence-based treatments include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy, mindfulness practices, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD, gender-affirming care, and therapy for ADHD. Additionally, we offer free monthly healing circles for those who have experienced racial trauma and race-based traumatic stress. Our approach is centered on culturally sensitive care that respects and honors each client's lived experience. We create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their feelings, build resilience, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. Everyone is welcome at Therapists of Color New England.
We have 19 therapists with many different approaches and specialties. We take almost all insurances including Mass Health. We have day, after school, evening and weekend appointments for the convenience of our clients. We have been providing mental health services in North Reading for 23 years. We specialize in child and adolescent issues but also have expertise in family issues and adult problems. To refer yourself or someone else, call our main number and ask for a referral coordinator. They will take some basic information about what you are looking for and match you with a therapist who has experience in your particular problem, has appointments when you need them, and can take your insurance. We are 100% telehealth at this time and don't anticipate in person sessions going forward.
We have 19 therapists with many different approaches and specialties. We take almost all insurances including Mass Health. We have day, after school, evening and weekend appointments for the convenience of our clients. We have been providing mental health services in North Reading for 23 years. We specialize in child and adolescent issues but also have expertise in family issues and adult problems. To refer yourself or someone else, call our main number and ask for a referral coordinator. They will take some basic information about what you are looking for and match you with a therapist who has experience in your particular problem, has appointments when you need them, and can take your insurance. We are 100% telehealth at this time and don't anticipate in person sessions going forward.
Our specializations include working with clients who are neurodiverse ( ASD, ADHD), clients experiencing Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and more.
Social Sparks offers therapeutic services for all ages including, children (ages 5 and older), teens, and adults. We now accept daytime (before 3 pm) clients for in-person or telehealth therapy! Please submit your information on our website at www.socialsparksri.com/new-clients. Submit the electronic referral form to be added to our short waitlist. You will be contacted to schedule your intake appointment.
Our specializations include working with clients who are neurodiverse ( ASD, ADHD), clients experiencing Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and more.
Social Sparks offers therapeutic services for all ages including, children (ages 5 and older), teens, and adults. We now accept daytime (before 3 pm) clients for in-person or telehealth therapy! Please submit your information on our website at www.socialsparksri.com/new-clients. Submit the electronic referral form to be added to our short waitlist. You will be contacted to schedule your intake appointment.
Uniquely situated within the natural beauty of New England, both Ridge residential teen treatment centers in New Hampshire and Maine are specialized mental health treatment programs designed for teens, ages 12-18, requiring therapeutic assessment and enhanced support for mental, emotional, and behavioral health issues. The Ridge RTC provides a supportive and caring environment for teens who need more intense care than they can receive at home, at school, or in a traditional outpatient setting. Our programming focuses on stabilizing, evaluating, and preparing teenagers for a happier and more productive life beyond the program. We are proud to offer one of the most intensive treatment programs in the country. Our teen residential program offers 4 individual therapy sessions per week, group therapy multiple times a day, and a comprehensive family therapy component. Our holistic program includes psychiatric care, medication management, physical exercise, nutrition and other recreational activities. At The Ridge RTC, accessibility matters. With a commitment to extending high-quality treatment to as many families as possible, we are in-network with most major insurance carriers.
Uniquely situated within the natural beauty of New England, both Ridge residential teen treatment centers in New Hampshire and Maine are specialized mental health treatment programs designed for teens, ages 12-18, requiring therapeutic assessment and enhanced support for mental, emotional, and behavioral health issues. The Ridge RTC provides a supportive and caring environment for teens who need more intense care than they can receive at home, at school, or in a traditional outpatient setting. Our programming focuses on stabilizing, evaluating, and preparing teenagers for a happier and more productive life beyond the program. We are proud to offer one of the most intensive treatment programs in the country. Our teen residential program offers 4 individual therapy sessions per week, group therapy multiple times a day, and a comprehensive family therapy component. Our holistic program includes psychiatric care, medication management, physical exercise, nutrition and other recreational activities. At The Ridge RTC, accessibility matters. With a commitment to extending high-quality treatment to as many families as possible, we are in-network with most major insurance carriers.
Brighton-Allston Mental Health Association (BAMHA), a program of Italian Home for Children (IHC) is a diverse community mental health agency that has been servicing the Brighton/Allston community and surrounding Metro Boston area since 1964. BAMHA also has an outpatient satellite office in Jamaica Plain. We offer individual and group therapy treatment, psychopharmacology, as well as family and couples counseling services. BAMHA services clients ages 4-80+. Our BAMHA clinicians are trained in various treatment modalities including: traditional psychotherapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive therapy, and play therapy. We also offer In-Home Therapy, Therapeutic Mentoring, In-Home Behavioral services for children ages 4-20 through our partner Community Based Programs (CBP) at Italian Home. Our clinicians speak over a dozen languages, including Spanish. We now have immediate openings in all of our CBP programs, and offer telehealth services for your convenience and safety.
Brighton-Allston Mental Health Association (BAMHA), a program of Italian Home for Children (IHC) is a diverse community mental health agency that has been servicing the Brighton/Allston community and surrounding Metro Boston area since 1964. BAMHA also has an outpatient satellite office in Jamaica Plain. We offer individual and group therapy treatment, psychopharmacology, as well as family and couples counseling services. BAMHA services clients ages 4-80+. Our BAMHA clinicians are trained in various treatment modalities including: traditional psychotherapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive therapy, and play therapy. We also offer In-Home Therapy, Therapeutic Mentoring, In-Home Behavioral services for children ages 4-20 through our partner Community Based Programs (CBP) at Italian Home. Our clinicians speak over a dozen languages, including Spanish. We now have immediate openings in all of our CBP programs, and offer telehealth services for your convenience and safety.
You may feel like you are managing life in pieces. Perhaps your child is anxious and struggling to communicate, or you are navigating a major life transition but feel "stuck" without practical skills. We serve children, teens, and adults who need more than just talk therapy—they need a coordinated team. Our clients often face complex intersections of anxiety, trauma, sensory processing differences, or speech challenges that hold them back from connecting with others. You are looking for a place where your mental health, physical skills, and voice are seen, validated, and treated as one complete picture.
You may feel like you are managing life in pieces. Perhaps your child is anxious and struggling to communicate, or you are navigating a major life transition but feel "stuck" without practical skills. We serve children, teens, and adults who need more than just talk therapy—they need a coordinated team. Our clients often face complex intersections of anxiety, trauma, sensory processing differences, or speech challenges that hold them back from connecting with others. You are looking for a place where your mental health, physical skills, and voice are seen, validated, and treated as one complete picture.
PSYCHē is a private network of expert therapists specializing in hand-selecting top psychologists and counselors across multiple states. Our goal is to match you with YOUR perfect therapist, whether you're seeking individual, couples, family, or another specialty. Let us handle the personalized matchmaking that sets us apart from traditional directories. Sign up for a Consultation Package now.
PSYCHē is a private network of expert therapists specializing in hand-selecting top psychologists and counselors across multiple states. Our goal is to match you with YOUR perfect therapist, whether you're seeking individual, couples, family, or another specialty. Let us handle the personalized matchmaking that sets us apart from traditional directories. Sign up for a Consultation Package now.
VOAMASS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving those most in need. We give members of the community the services, support and skills they need to create a fresh start for themselves. Behavioral health is fundamental to all the services we provide at VOAMASS. We know that unless people have control over themselves emotionally and psychologically, they can’t reach the level of progress they aspire to. Behavioral Health Services is VOAMASS’ outpatient treatment service. It includes both Telehealth and in-person offices conveniently located in Quincy and Taunton. Our clinical care team is committed to identifying your individual needs, working through barriers, and developing proactive strategies. VOAMASS follows a whole-person approach that treats anxiety, depression, self-esteem, school problems, substance use disorders, and a range of other issues. Behavioral Health Services involves both prevention and intervention – and believes mental well-being to be an integral piece in achieving a healthy lifestyle.
VOAMASS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving those most in need. We give members of the community the services, support and skills they need to create a fresh start for themselves. Behavioral health is fundamental to all the services we provide at VOAMASS. We know that unless people have control over themselves emotionally and psychologically, they can’t reach the level of progress they aspire to. Behavioral Health Services is VOAMASS’ outpatient treatment service. It includes both Telehealth and in-person offices conveniently located in Quincy and Taunton. Our clinical care team is committed to identifying your individual needs, working through barriers, and developing proactive strategies. VOAMASS follows a whole-person approach that treats anxiety, depression, self-esteem, school problems, substance use disorders, and a range of other issues. Behavioral Health Services involves both prevention and intervention – and believes mental well-being to be an integral piece in achieving a healthy lifestyle.
DJS Psychiatry & Services serves a diverse range of clients from various age groups and backgrounds, each with unique mental health needs. The facility works with individuals dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more complex conditions like schizoaffective disorder and personality disorders. They also support clients navigating grief, life transitions, family and relational difficulties, trauma, and personal growth challenges. The clients at DJS Psychiatry come from a variety of cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and the facility offers interpretation services to make treatment accessible to all. Many clients seek help for issues related to emotional regulation, coping skills, self-esteem, and managing mental health symptoms that impact their daily lives, work, or academic performance. The facility recognizes that each client’s needs are distinct, and the intake team carefully matches clients with providers who can address these needs effectively, ensuring a personalized and culturally sensitive approach. Our dedicated team(Myself Amber, Silvia, Amanda, Susan Nikki, Amelia and Stacy will ensure your loved one is well taken care.
DJS Psychiatry & Services serves a diverse range of clients from various age groups and backgrounds, each with unique mental health needs. The facility works with individuals dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and more complex conditions like schizoaffective disorder and personality disorders. They also support clients navigating grief, life transitions, family and relational difficulties, trauma, and personal growth challenges. The clients at DJS Psychiatry come from a variety of cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and the facility offers interpretation services to make treatment accessible to all. Many clients seek help for issues related to emotional regulation, coping skills, self-esteem, and managing mental health symptoms that impact their daily lives, work, or academic performance. The facility recognizes that each client’s needs are distinct, and the intake team carefully matches clients with providers who can address these needs effectively, ensuring a personalized and culturally sensitive approach. Our dedicated team(Myself Amber, Silvia, Amanda, Susan Nikki, Amelia and Stacy will ensure your loved one is well taken care.
Community Services Institute is committed to providing comprehensive mental health services to clients of all ages. We understand that individuals and families may face various challenges in their lives, and we strive to provide effective therapeutic interventions to support their physical and emotional well-being. Our services include family therapy, marriage counseling, child/teen therapy, and geriatric counseling. Through family therapy, we help families improve their communication skills and strengthen their relationships. Our marriage counseling services aim to enhance marital relationships and resolve conflicts. With a focus on child and teen therapy, we help them overcome their emotional and behavioral difficulties, and improve their overall development and well-being. We understand that our clients may face various issues and have different needs, such as social anxiety and communication skills challenges. Therefore, we offer tailored interventions to address the specific concerns of each client. We are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment, where clients can feel comfortable and confident in sharing their experiences.
Community Services Institute is committed to providing comprehensive mental health services to clients of all ages. We understand that individuals and families may face various challenges in their lives, and we strive to provide effective therapeutic interventions to support their physical and emotional well-being. Our services include family therapy, marriage counseling, child/teen therapy, and geriatric counseling. Through family therapy, we help families improve their communication skills and strengthen their relationships. Our marriage counseling services aim to enhance marital relationships and resolve conflicts. With a focus on child and teen therapy, we help them overcome their emotional and behavioral difficulties, and improve their overall development and well-being. We understand that our clients may face various issues and have different needs, such as social anxiety and communication skills challenges. Therefore, we offer tailored interventions to address the specific concerns of each client. We are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment, where clients can feel comfortable and confident in sharing their experiences.
We offer immediate, intensive, short-term treatment for people experiencing acute psychiatric issues. We provide full day programming with a comprehensive range of services including daily individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and care coordination. We take pride in being person centered, solution focused, and evidence based. We primarily utilize third-wave cognitive behavioral therapies which incorporate acceptance and mindfulness strategies. Overall, our mission is to deliver comprehensive, compassionate, and high-quality care.
5 tracks: General, PTSD, emotion regulation, dual diagnosis and young adult.
We offer immediate, intensive, short-term treatment for people experiencing acute psychiatric issues. We provide full day programming with a comprehensive range of services including daily individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and care coordination. We take pride in being person centered, solution focused, and evidence based. We primarily utilize third-wave cognitive behavioral therapies which incorporate acceptance and mindfulness strategies. Overall, our mission is to deliver comprehensive, compassionate, and high-quality care.
5 tracks: General, PTSD, emotion regulation, dual diagnosis and young adult.
Are you or a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, or life’s overwhelming challenges? At Windward Mental Health in Dedham, MA, we understand the urgency of your needs.
Our clients—adults in Metro West—seek rapid, effective relief from mental health struggles without delay or hospitalization.
What sets us apart is our innovative IOP program, offering personalized care in a supportive, relaxed environment. Unlike traditional options, we prioritize swift access to treatment, connecting you with our expert team within hours or days, not weeks, to start your healing journey.
Are you or a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, or life’s overwhelming challenges? At Windward Mental Health in Dedham, MA, we understand the urgency of your needs.
Our clients—adults in Metro West—seek rapid, effective relief from mental health struggles without delay or hospitalization.
What sets us apart is our innovative IOP program, offering personalized care in a supportive, relaxed environment. Unlike traditional options, we prioritize swift access to treatment, connecting you with our expert team within hours or days, not weeks, to start your healing journey.
The Triumph Center in Reading, Massachusetts, serves children, adolescents, and young adults. Our clients face a range of developmental, emotional, and behavioral challenges. They require personalized support to navigate life's transitions and challenges. Issues may include social skill deficits, emotional regulation difficulties, learning disabilities, and anxiety. Our services address these needs through counseling, social skills groups, comprehensive evaluations, and consultation. We focus on building strengths, fostering resilience, and promoting lifelong development in a safe, supportive environment.
The Triumph Center in Reading, Massachusetts, serves children, adolescents, and young adults. Our clients face a range of developmental, emotional, and behavioral challenges. They require personalized support to navigate life's transitions and challenges. Issues may include social skill deficits, emotional regulation difficulties, learning disabilities, and anxiety. Our services address these needs through counseling, social skills groups, comprehensive evaluations, and consultation. We focus on building strengths, fostering resilience, and promoting lifelong development in a safe, supportive environment.
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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.