Autism Treatment Centers in Farmington Hills, MI

Photo of Franklin R Sollars - Sollars and Associates, Treatment Center, PhD, LP
Sollars and Associates
Treatment Center
Serves Area
I am a licensed psychologist as well as the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement, and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. Our therapists possess a great deal of experience in evaluating and working with children, adolescents, and families dealing with a variety of issues.
I am a licensed psychologist as well as the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement, and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. Our therapists possess a great deal of experience in evaluating and working with children, adolescents, and families dealing with a variety of issues.
(248) 862-1171 View (248) 862-1171
Photo of Courtney Shannon Greulich - Bluestone Children's Center, Treatment Center, MS, BCBA, LBA
Bluestone Children's Center
Treatment Center
Serves Area
Our team of professionals is equipped to assist patients with various conditions, including ADD, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and other disorders.
Bluestone offers confidential counseling for individuals, families, and groups of all ages. Our goal is to empower clients to overcome challenges, build coping skills, and improve well-being. Clinicians use an integrative approach tailored to each child’s needs, including play therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing, talk therapy, and more.
Our team of professionals is equipped to assist patients with various conditions, including ADD, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and other disorders.
Bluestone offers confidential counseling for individuals, families, and groups of all ages. Our goal is to empower clients to overcome challenges, build coping skills, and improve well-being. Clinicians use an integrative approach tailored to each child’s needs, including play therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing, talk therapy, and more.
(734) 875-9417 View (734) 875-9417

More Treatment Centers Nearby

Photo of Intake Specialist - United Psychological Services, Treatment Center
At United Psychological Services you'll find an experienced staff offering a wide array of therapeutic services in a supportive and professional environment. We are a multidisciplinary clinic and pride ourselves on offering a depth of neuropsychological testing and analysis leading to a precise diagnosis, cutting edge therapy and treatment options. We see patients of all ages ranging from the very young to the elderly. Our staff is comprised of professional therapists who offer years of experience in the field and practice several therapeutic specialties such as ADD/ADHD, Alzheimer's and dementia disorders, sleep issues, depression, anxiety, marriage counseling, autism spectrum, teen issues and traumatic brain injury. We also provide general therapy for individuals, couples and families. Our treatment plans are highly individualized and include interactive metronome training as well as a cognitive training program for treatment of memory issues and traumatic brain injury that is unlike any other. Our clinic offers flexible appointment times and days. Please call us at 586.323.3620 or visit our website at www.unitedpsychologicalservices.com for a complete overview of our clinic and the ways that we can be of help to you, a friend or family member.
At United Psychological Services you'll find an experienced staff offering a wide array of therapeutic services in a supportive and professional environment. We are a multidisciplinary clinic and pride ourselves on offering a depth of neuropsychological testing and analysis leading to a precise diagnosis, cutting edge therapy and treatment options. We see patients of all ages ranging from the very young to the elderly. Our staff is comprised of professional therapists who offer years of experience in the field and practice several therapeutic specialties such as ADD/ADHD, Alzheimer's and dementia disorders, sleep issues, depression, anxiety, marriage counseling, autism spectrum, teen issues and traumatic brain injury. We also provide general therapy for individuals, couples and families. Our treatment plans are highly individualized and include interactive metronome training as well as a cognitive training program for treatment of memory issues and traumatic brain injury that is unlike any other. Our clinic offers flexible appointment times and days. Please call us at 586.323.3620 or visit our website at www.unitedpsychologicalservices.com for a complete overview of our clinic and the ways that we can be of help to you, a friend or family member.
(586) 372-8994 View (586) 372-8994
Photo of Harbor Oaks - Harbor Oaks Hospital- Behavioral Health Inpatient, Treatment Center
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 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 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 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 program and whether our comprehensive services can help you on your journey to healing, we encourage you to contact our team today.
(586) 838-1474 View (586) 838-1474
Photo of Stonecrest Center Support Services - StoneCrest Center - Support Services, Treatment Center
StoneCrest Center - Support Services
Treatment Center
Detroit, MI 48205
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 Nadine Ali - Living and Learning Enrichment Center, Treatment Center, M.A,, LBA, LLP
The Living and Learning Enrichment Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized therapeutic, social, and community-based services for adolescents and adults on the autism spectrum.
We offer both in-person and virtual therapy options, creating flexible access to care that meets individuals where they are. Our team of mental health therapists provides therapeutic services in a historic home in Northville, creating a unique and comfortable experience.
The Living and Learning Enrichment Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized therapeutic, social, and community-based services for adolescents and adults on the autism spectrum.
We offer both in-person and virtual therapy options, creating flexible access to care that meets individuals where they are. Our team of mental health therapists provides therapeutic services in a historic home in Northville, creating a unique and comfortable experience.
(248) 230-4766 View (248) 230-4766
Photo of Smita Nagpal - Still Waters Counseling, Treatment Center, PhD, LP
Still Waters Counseling
Treatment Center
Saline, MI 48176
Still Waters Counseling is a diverse, family-friendly practice, founded in 2000. Today we offer outpatient counseling and psychological services for clients in 3 communities: Saline, Ann Arbor, and Adrian, Michigan. Still Waters Counseling is led by the husband-wife team of, Smita Nagpal, Ph.D and Brian Pearson, Ph.D., both dually licensed as psychologists and counselors. Together they supervise a multidisciplinary team of licensed psychologists, social workers and counselors to provide services to clients of all ages and backgrounds. The name Still Waters represents our aim to be still and reflective as therapists. It also speaks to the peace and calm we hope our clients will attain through counseling.
Still Waters Counseling is a diverse, family-friendly practice, founded in 2000. Today we offer outpatient counseling and psychological services for clients in 3 communities: Saline, Ann Arbor, and Adrian, Michigan. Still Waters Counseling is led by the husband-wife team of, Smita Nagpal, Ph.D and Brian Pearson, Ph.D., both dually licensed as psychologists and counselors. Together they supervise a multidisciplinary team of licensed psychologists, social workers and counselors to provide services to clients of all ages and backgrounds. The name Still Waters represents our aim to be still and reflective as therapists. It also speaks to the peace and calm we hope our clients will attain through counseling.
(734) 944-3446 View (734) 944-3446
Photo of Various Staff - Easterseals MORC, Treatment Center
Easterseals MORC
Treatment Center
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 Michael E Behen - The Imagine Center for Psychological Health, Treatment Center, PhD, LP
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 Bryan Weinstein - Life Skills Village, Treatment Center, DO
Life Skills Village
Treatment Center
Oak Park, MI 48237
Life Skills Village is a premier outpatient rehabilitation and mental health facility. We help patients overcome medical, physical, cognitive, vocational and social challenges. We treat neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, neurological conditions, mental health disorders, muscular and movement disorders, and more. We treat individuals of all ages, from pediatrics to older adults, with the same care and compassion we would want for our own loved ones. Services include psychotherapy, occupational, speech, and physical therapy, as well as Psychological and Neuropsychological Evaluations
Life Skills Village is a premier outpatient rehabilitation and mental health facility. We help patients overcome medical, physical, cognitive, vocational and social challenges. We treat neurodevelopmental disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, neurological conditions, mental health disorders, muscular and movement disorders, and more. We treat individuals of all ages, from pediatrics to older adults, with the same care and compassion we would want for our own loved ones. Services include psychotherapy, occupational, speech, and physical therapy, as well as Psychological and Neuropsychological Evaluations
(947) 888-7435 View (947) 888-7435
Photo of Lori Edelson - Birmingham Maple Clinic, Treatment Center, LMSW, ACSW, LMFT
Birmingham Maple Clinic
Treatment Center
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 Birgit Amann - Behavioral Medical Center - Troy, Treatment Center, MD
Behavioral Medical Center - Troy
Treatment Center
Troy, MI 48083
The staff at the Behavioral Medical Center work with children, adolescents and adults with the goal of optimizing individuals overall level of functioning. We have physicians, nurse practitioners and therapists that work together collaboratively in order to help our patients and their families achieve their goals for personal growth and emotional improvements. We strive to provide a comfortable, supportive environment.
The staff at the Behavioral Medical Center work with children, adolescents and adults with the goal of optimizing individuals overall level of functioning. We have physicians, nurse practitioners and therapists that work together collaboratively in order to help our patients and their families achieve their goals for personal growth and emotional improvements. We strive to provide a comfortable, supportive environment.
(248) 975-7322 View (248) 975-7322
Photo of Dennis Moye Branstetter Associates - Dennis, Moye, Branstetter & Associates, Treatment Center, LMSW, PhD, PsyD, MD, LMFT
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 Franklin R Sollars - Sollars and Associates, Treatment Center, PhD, LP
Sollars and Associates
Treatment Center
Auburn Hills, MI 48326
I am a licensed psychologist as well as the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement, and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. Our therapists possess a great deal of experience in evaluating and working with children, adolescents, and families dealing with a variety of issues.
I am a licensed psychologist as well as the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement, and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. Our therapists possess a great deal of experience in evaluating and working with children, adolescents, and families dealing with a variety of issues.
(248) 862-1171 View (248) 862-1171
Photo of Lara N Hakamaki - Michigan Psychological Care - Howell, Treatment Center
Michigan Psychological Care - Howell
Treatment Center
Howell, MI 48843
At Michigan Psychological Care (Howell), we know that life can be tricky. Whether you’re seeking support for your child, navigating a personal hurdle, or looking for a fresh start, our Howell team is here. From therapy and psychological evaluations to medication management, we offer local, compassionate care for the whole family. We accept most insurances to ensure your path to growth is seamless. Let’s build your best life, together.
At Michigan Psychological Care (Howell), we know that life can be tricky. Whether you’re seeking support for your child, navigating a personal hurdle, or looking for a fresh start, our Howell team is here. From therapy and psychological evaluations to medication management, we offer local, compassionate care for the whole family. We accept most insurances to ensure your path to growth is seamless. Let’s build your best life, together.
(517) 994-1536 View (517) 994-1536
Photo of Various Staff - Easterseals MORC, Treatment Center
Easterseals MORC
Treatment Center
Southfield, MI 48075
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) 870-3175 View (248) 870-3175
Photo of A Healing Place - A Healing Place, LLC, Treatment Center
A Healing Place, LLC
Treatment Center
Serves Area
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) 418-6448 View (517) 418-6448

Online Treatment Centers

Photo of Lara Hakamaki - Michigan Psychological Care, Treatment Center, LP
Michigan Psychological Care
Treatment Center
Jackson, MI 49202
Michigan Psychological Care is an outpatient mental health facility. We offer a wide variety of services from individual therapy, group therapy, family and couples counseling, psychological evaluations, substance abuse treatment, and so much more. We work with those struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, and more. Our licensed clinicians are here to help. With five offices and the option of telemedicine, Michigan Psychological Care can reach anyone in Michigan. We are able to accept all major insurances. To get more information, call us today or visit our website. We hope to hear from you soon. (989) 510-7626. www.Michiganpsychologicalcare.com
Michigan Psychological Care is an outpatient mental health facility. We offer a wide variety of services from individual therapy, group therapy, family and couples counseling, psychological evaluations, substance abuse treatment, and so much more. We work with those struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, and more. Our licensed clinicians are here to help. With five offices and the option of telemedicine, Michigan Psychological Care can reach anyone in Michigan. We are able to accept all major insurances. To get more information, call us today or visit our website. We hope to hear from you soon. (989) 510-7626. www.Michiganpsychologicalcare.com
(517) 901-7060 View (517) 901-7060
Photo of Valencia Agnew - Adolescent & Family Behavioral Health Services, Treatment Center, PhD
Adolescent & Family Behavioral Health Services
Treatment Center
1 Endorsed
Saginaw, MI 48638
At Adolescent & Family Behavioral Health Services, we consider it a privilege and an honor every time someone works with us. We specialize in serving adults, young adults, adolescents, children, families and couples who are facing life’s toughest challenges. Whether you are struggling with overwhelming emotions, feeling stuck, or seeking to rebuild trust and connection, we are here to walk alongside you. Our clients often face issues like intense emotions, disruptive moods, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, family conflicts, marriage conflict, or difficulty navigating transitions. We understand the pain and uncertainty these struggles can bring, and we’re dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment where healing begins.
At Adolescent & Family Behavioral Health Services, we consider it a privilege and an honor every time someone works with us. We specialize in serving adults, young adults, adolescents, children, families and couples who are facing life’s toughest challenges. Whether you are struggling with overwhelming emotions, feeling stuck, or seeking to rebuild trust and connection, we are here to walk alongside you. Our clients often face issues like intense emotions, disruptive moods, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, family conflicts, marriage conflict, or difficulty navigating transitions. We understand the pain and uncertainty these struggles can bring, and we’re dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment where healing begins.
(616) 747-8755 View (616) 747-8755
Photo of Leon Austin - Michigan Psychological Care - Alma, Treatment Center, PsyD
Michigan Psychological Care - Alma
Treatment Center
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

See more therapy options for Farmington Hills

Nearby Autism Treatment Centers Searches for Farmington Hills

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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.