The Social Enrichment Center was founded to support individuals, families, schools, & community organizations. Our mission is to help individuals with social, emotional, & behavioral needs through various services. Our team utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Social Skills, Applied Behavior Analysis techniques, & a blend of other treatment modalities to personalize treatment plans to each individual's goals. We work closely with caregivers to support our clients' success. The SEC also consults with educators & school districts to help clients generalize skills learned in the center & provide valuable feedback & recommendations.
The Social Enrichment Center was founded to support individuals, families, schools, & community organizations. Our mission is to help individuals with social, emotional, & behavioral needs through various services. Our team utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Social Skills, Applied Behavior Analysis techniques, & a blend of other treatment modalities to personalize treatment plans to each individual's goals. We work closely with caregivers to support our clients' success. The SEC also consults with educators & school districts to help clients generalize skills learned in the center & provide valuable feedback & recommendations.
TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), is a safe, non-invasive, effective treatment option for individuals suffering from Major Depressive Disorder who have not seen satisfactory results from antidepressants. These pulses will feel like tapping on the scalp. When delivered at the correct frequency and intensity, the pulses create localized electromagnetic fields which have the ability to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. Although treatment plans are individualized, the typical course of treatment is 5 times a week, for 6 weeks. Each individual treatment session takes approximately 20 minutes to complete, and patients can resume daily activities immediately after treatment. TMS does not use anesthesia, and patients are fully alert for the duration of the treatment session. TMS can be used as a stand-alone therapy, or in conjunction with medication and psychotherapies. TMS does not have the same side effects as traditional medications, and is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are mild headache and sensitivity at the site of stimulation.
TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), is a safe, non-invasive, effective treatment option for individuals suffering from Major Depressive Disorder who have not seen satisfactory results from antidepressants. These pulses will feel like tapping on the scalp. When delivered at the correct frequency and intensity, the pulses create localized electromagnetic fields which have the ability to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. Although treatment plans are individualized, the typical course of treatment is 5 times a week, for 6 weeks. Each individual treatment session takes approximately 20 minutes to complete, and patients can resume daily activities immediately after treatment. TMS does not use anesthesia, and patients are fully alert for the duration of the treatment session. TMS can be used as a stand-alone therapy, or in conjunction with medication and psychotherapies. TMS does not have the same side effects as traditional medications, and is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are mild headache and sensitivity at the site of stimulation.
PhIIRST is a uniquely specialized practice dedicated to resolving sexual problems and enhancing sexual relationships. Sexual problems are so prevalent, that nearly two thirds of all men and women will experience them at some time during their lives.
PhIIRST is a uniquely specialized practice dedicated to resolving sexual problems and enhancing sexual relationships. Sexual problems are so prevalent, that nearly two thirds of all men and women will experience them at some time during their lives.
The Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Center provides comprehensive mental health care services to individuals 18 & up who are experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns. Our clients come from diverse backgrounds and have varying degrees of severity of their mental health challenges. We provide treatment for a wide range of mental health issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and eating disorders. We also offer specialized treatment for individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. The needs of our clients vary widely, and we strive to provide personalized and individualized care to meet their unique needs. Many of our clients require assistance with medication management, therapy, and counseling to address their mental health concerns. Others may require more intensive treatment, such as inpatient hospitalization, to address acute symptoms and prevent the risk of harm to themselves or others.
The Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Center provides comprehensive mental health care services to individuals 18 & up who are experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns. Our clients come from diverse backgrounds and have varying degrees of severity of their mental health challenges. We provide treatment for a wide range of mental health issues, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and eating disorders. We also offer specialized treatment for individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. The needs of our clients vary widely, and we strive to provide personalized and individualized care to meet their unique needs. Many of our clients require assistance with medication management, therapy, and counseling to address their mental health concerns. Others may require more intensive treatment, such as inpatient hospitalization, to address acute symptoms and prevent the risk of harm to themselves or others.
High Focus Centers in Radnor, PA, serves individuals in Montgomery and Delaware Counties struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, and other mental health challenges. Our outpatient programs include individual therapy and group counseling, using evidence-based techniques to provide high-quality care. Conveniently located near Villanova University, we accept commercial insurance and self-pay options, ensuring accessible, flexible treatment for a diverse community seeking compassionate mental health support.
High Focus Centers in Radnor, PA, serves individuals in Montgomery and Delaware Counties struggling with anxiety, depression, stress management, and other mental health challenges. Our outpatient programs include individual therapy and group counseling, using evidence-based techniques to provide high-quality care. Conveniently located near Villanova University, we accept commercial insurance and self-pay options, ensuring accessible, flexible treatment for a diverse community seeking compassionate mental health support.
Tower Behavioral Health is a leading provider of inpatient mental health treatment in Reading, Pennsylvania. In our adult inpatient program, we serve patients age 18 and older who are suffering from mental health concerns, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder. Our team also treats people who are struggling with addictions to substances such as alcohol, opioids, marijuana, and cocaine. The goal of our adult inpatient program is to help individuals stabilize, learn how to manage their symptoms, and gain a sense of hope for their futures. The typical length of stay in this level of care is between 10 and 14 days but can vary depending on the progress a person makes during treatment. During this time, patients can participate in group therapy, family meetings, and leisure time. Depending on their unique needs, a person’s treatment plan may also include one-on-one meetings with mental health professionals, psychoeducation, and dance/movement therapy.
Tower Behavioral Health is a leading provider of inpatient mental health treatment in Reading, Pennsylvania. In our adult inpatient program, we serve patients age 18 and older who are suffering from mental health concerns, including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder. Our team also treats people who are struggling with addictions to substances such as alcohol, opioids, marijuana, and cocaine. The goal of our adult inpatient program is to help individuals stabilize, learn how to manage their symptoms, and gain a sense of hope for their futures. The typical length of stay in this level of care is between 10 and 14 days but can vary depending on the progress a person makes during treatment. During this time, patients can participate in group therapy, family meetings, and leisure time. Depending on their unique needs, a person’s treatment plan may also include one-on-one meetings with mental health professionals, psychoeducation, and dance/movement therapy.
Tower Behavioral Health is an outpatient mental health treatment center that offers partial hospitalization programming for adults who are struggling with mental health disorders and co-occurring addictions. Our partial hospitalization program (PHP) is designed to provide a structured environment for patients who need comprehensive services but do not require 24/7 supervision. We treat a variety of mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and addiction. Admissions decisions for the program are made on an individual basis after each patient completes a thorough assessment. This assessment allows our staff to gather information regarding all aspects of a person’s medical, psychological, and social history so that we can determine if our program offers the type of care that will address their specific treatment needs. The average length of stay in our PHP is eight to 12 days.
Tower Behavioral Health is an outpatient mental health treatment center that offers partial hospitalization programming for adults who are struggling with mental health disorders and co-occurring addictions. Our partial hospitalization program (PHP) is designed to provide a structured environment for patients who need comprehensive services but do not require 24/7 supervision. We treat a variety of mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and addiction. Admissions decisions for the program are made on an individual basis after each patient completes a thorough assessment. This assessment allows our staff to gather information regarding all aspects of a person’s medical, psychological, and social history so that we can determine if our program offers the type of care that will address their specific treatment needs. The average length of stay in our PHP is eight to 12 days.
Since 1932, Council for Relationships has provided therapy and psychiatry services to those in Pennslyvania and New Jersey. Our Staff Clinicians offer individual, relationship (sometimes called "couples"), family, and sex therapy online and in person. We make the best therapy services accessible to everyone. Our 80+ Staff Therapists & Psychiatrists specialize in over 45 specialties and provide comprehensive mental health care and medicine management. We see clients of all ages, backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexualities. We believe that thriving relationships foster flourishing communities. Let us help you thrive.
Since 1932, Council for Relationships has provided therapy and psychiatry services to those in Pennslyvania and New Jersey. Our Staff Clinicians offer individual, relationship (sometimes called "couples"), family, and sex therapy online and in person. We make the best therapy services accessible to everyone. Our 80+ Staff Therapists & Psychiatrists specialize in over 45 specialties and provide comprehensive mental health care and medicine management. We see clients of all ages, backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexualities. We believe that thriving relationships foster flourishing communities. Let us help you thrive.
Sanare Today offers Outpatient Individual and Group Therapy, Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization for individuals in crisis or who are struggling with maintaining emotional stability or sobriety. Treatment ranges from one day per week to daily group programming. Groups are offered for tweens, adolescents and adults with a focus on mental health, substance use, DBT, trauma and LGBTQ-specific populations. Family support is encouraged throughout the treatment process to ensure accountability outside of the treatment space. Sanare Today offers day and evening programs in several different office locations throughout Pennsylvania, Delaware and North Carolina.
Sanare Today offers Outpatient Individual and Group Therapy, Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization for individuals in crisis or who are struggling with maintaining emotional stability or sobriety. Treatment ranges from one day per week to daily group programming. Groups are offered for tweens, adolescents and adults with a focus on mental health, substance use, DBT, trauma and LGBTQ-specific populations. Family support is encouraged throughout the treatment process to ensure accountability outside of the treatment space. Sanare Today offers day and evening programs in several different office locations throughout Pennsylvania, Delaware and North Carolina.
At Samaritan Counseling, Guidance, Consulting, we welcome ALL people, including those who are not able to pay. We counsel adults, children, adolescents, older people, couples (married or unmarried), and families via teletherapy and in-person counseling at multiple sites in Western Pennsylvania. Many folks seek our help because they are struggling from depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship problems, and numerous other conditions. They come to us to learn how to cope with challenges and difficulties of all kinds, including the effects of violence, sexual abuse and other traumatic events, as well as stress, gender identity issues, and strained or shattered relationships. Plus, people who are experiencing fears, doubts, and confusion that are spiritually and faith-related come to Samaritan to seek spiritual direction without being judged or preached to, regardless of their religious beliefs or lack thereof.
At Samaritan Counseling, Guidance, Consulting, we welcome ALL people, including those who are not able to pay. We counsel adults, children, adolescents, older people, couples (married or unmarried), and families via teletherapy and in-person counseling at multiple sites in Western Pennsylvania. Many folks seek our help because they are struggling from depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship problems, and numerous other conditions. They come to us to learn how to cope with challenges and difficulties of all kinds, including the effects of violence, sexual abuse and other traumatic events, as well as stress, gender identity issues, and strained or shattered relationships. Plus, people who are experiencing fears, doubts, and confusion that are spiritually and faith-related come to Samaritan to seek spiritual direction without being judged or preached to, regardless of their religious beliefs or lack thereof.
At Lenape Wellness Center, we understand that no two mental health journeys are the same. Located in the tranquility of Ford City, PA, our residential mental health facility offers a peaceful, luxurious retreat for individuals seeking comprehensive mental health care. With a holistic approach and a team of dedicated professionals, we offer a wide range of evidence-based therapies to guide you on the path to healing and long-term wellness.
At Lenape Wellness Center, we understand that no two mental health journeys are the same. Located in the tranquility of Ford City, PA, our residential mental health facility offers a peaceful, luxurious retreat for individuals seeking comprehensive mental health care. With a holistic approach and a team of dedicated professionals, we offer a wide range of evidence-based therapies to guide you on the path to healing and long-term wellness.
Life is work! We help with adults and teens who, due to life's issues and stressors, need assistance in developing the kinds of everyday coping skills that allow them to function more independently and bring confidence and happiness, to their lives. Our most successful program is a team of highly qualified therapists and psychiatrists experienced in working with children, adolescents, and adults with various issues. Through a variety of proven treatment modalities including groups and individual therapy, and supportive counseling, and with a large measure of caring and compassion, we help clients meet their life goals. At Hope Springs Behavioral Health Intensive Outpatient Program we carry 3 different licenses to show we go above and beyond just our reputation.
Life is work! We help with adults and teens who, due to life's issues and stressors, need assistance in developing the kinds of everyday coping skills that allow them to function more independently and bring confidence and happiness, to their lives. Our most successful program is a team of highly qualified therapists and psychiatrists experienced in working with children, adolescents, and adults with various issues. Through a variety of proven treatment modalities including groups and individual therapy, and supportive counseling, and with a large measure of caring and compassion, we help clients meet their life goals. At Hope Springs Behavioral Health Intensive Outpatient Program we carry 3 different licenses to show we go above and beyond just our reputation.
When dealing with life's challenges, most of us know how we'd like to feel and act, but sometimes we just can't seem to make it happen. We strongly believe that within us all there is a true self which is completely lovable and whole. However, past experiences can cause the emotional center of our brain (limbic system) to take control of our feelings and behaviors, pushing our true self into the background. While this emotional center is vital to our experience, it can also cause us to react based on fear or distress rather than reality. In your sessions, you'll focus on healing your brain's emotional center, and coming back in line with your true self. By working together with a therapist in a collaborative and non-judgmental dialog, you can uncover your true self as it was always meant to be: fulfilled and free.
When dealing with life's challenges, most of us know how we'd like to feel and act, but sometimes we just can't seem to make it happen. We strongly believe that within us all there is a true self which is completely lovable and whole. However, past experiences can cause the emotional center of our brain (limbic system) to take control of our feelings and behaviors, pushing our true self into the background. While this emotional center is vital to our experience, it can also cause us to react based on fear or distress rather than reality. In your sessions, you'll focus on healing your brain's emotional center, and coming back in line with your true self. By working together with a therapist in a collaborative and non-judgmental dialog, you can uncover your true self as it was always meant to be: fulfilled and free.
At Belmont Behavioral Health System, we offer acute inpatient treatment for teens ages 13-17 who are struggling with acute symptoms of mental health concerns. Inpatient treatment is designed to be a short-term level of care that can help individuals in crisis achieve stabilization. Generally, our adolescent inpatient program lasts for about two weeks, but each patient’s actual program duration is based on their needs. Adolescents in the inpatient program can benefit from round-the-clock supervision from a caring team of professionals. Our staff has a shared goal of helping each patient learn more about their diagnosis and gain the insight they need to improve overall functioning in school, at home, and in their community. We recognize the individual strengths of our patients and deliver customized care that can help them build on their inherent skills. When a young person takes part in our inpatient program, they can receive the focused support they need to make positive behavior changes and achieve to their highest potential.
At Belmont Behavioral Health System, we offer acute inpatient treatment for teens ages 13-17 who are struggling with acute symptoms of mental health concerns. Inpatient treatment is designed to be a short-term level of care that can help individuals in crisis achieve stabilization. Generally, our adolescent inpatient program lasts for about two weeks, but each patient’s actual program duration is based on their needs. Adolescents in the inpatient program can benefit from round-the-clock supervision from a caring team of professionals. Our staff has a shared goal of helping each patient learn more about their diagnosis and gain the insight they need to improve overall functioning in school, at home, and in their community. We recognize the individual strengths of our patients and deliver customized care that can help them build on their inherent skills. When a young person takes part in our inpatient program, they can receive the focused support they need to make positive behavior changes and achieve to their highest potential.
Ambler Counseling Center is a small, family-owned, private therapy practice, offering specialized mental health services to better your life, your relationships, and your sense of self. We believe in a modern, client-first approach; long gone are the days of laying on an uncomfortable couch while a shrink takes notes and offers little clinical help. Life can be stressful, and we are here to walk that journey with you. Whether you’re going through a life transition, struggling with consistent anxiety, moving forward from a traumatic experience, or simply want to learn more about yourself and your emotional nature, we are excited to meet you where you’re at and find the answers together. Our team specializes in a wide range of therapies, which we will personalize and cater toward your specific situation and therapeutic goals. We know that therapy can be a daunting step, and we appreciate your trust in our team. We strive to help our clients understand that anxiety, depression, and PTSD do not need to control your life. There is freedom from the thoughts and behaviors we relied on in different circumstances, and we are determined to help you find that freedom.
Ambler Counseling Center is a small, family-owned, private therapy practice, offering specialized mental health services to better your life, your relationships, and your sense of self. We believe in a modern, client-first approach; long gone are the days of laying on an uncomfortable couch while a shrink takes notes and offers little clinical help. Life can be stressful, and we are here to walk that journey with you. Whether you’re going through a life transition, struggling with consistent anxiety, moving forward from a traumatic experience, or simply want to learn more about yourself and your emotional nature, we are excited to meet you where you’re at and find the answers together. Our team specializes in a wide range of therapies, which we will personalize and cater toward your specific situation and therapeutic goals. We know that therapy can be a daunting step, and we appreciate your trust in our team. We strive to help our clients understand that anxiety, depression, and PTSD do not need to control your life. There is freedom from the thoughts and behaviors we relied on in different circumstances, and we are determined to help you find that freedom.
We are a specialized practice that offers outpatient treatment for children, adolescents, adults. We believe in delivering compassionate care and having the right team of clinicians focused on making a difference. Additionally, we have thoughtfully created a soothing environment for your sessions to take place to foster a more relaxing therapeutic experience. We understand the challenges your family may be faced with and are confident we can help ease those difficulties.
We are a specialized practice that offers outpatient treatment for children, adolescents, adults. We believe in delivering compassionate care and having the right team of clinicians focused on making a difference. Additionally, we have thoughtfully created a soothing environment for your sessions to take place to foster a more relaxing therapeutic experience. We understand the challenges your family may be faced with and are confident we can help ease those difficulties.
We work with individuals, couples and families and we specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, and depression disorders. These are big categories, and often include many other psychological struggles, such as relationships, ADHD, OCD, disordered eating, grief, and more. We are here to help you navigate the struggles that you're experiencing, offering you a space to be vulnerable and authentic. This space will help you open up and share whatever that comes to your mind, and overtime, our hope is that you'll be able to extend this vulnerability to other spaces in your life to help you have meaningful relationships and expand your sense of purpose and understanding of yourself and others. Having psychological symptoms get in the way of that can make things feel really bleak and hopeless, but you have already taking a very difficult step in searching for a therapist, so you are right on track!
We work with individuals, couples and families and we specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, and depression disorders. These are big categories, and often include many other psychological struggles, such as relationships, ADHD, OCD, disordered eating, grief, and more. We are here to help you navigate the struggles that you're experiencing, offering you a space to be vulnerable and authentic. This space will help you open up and share whatever that comes to your mind, and overtime, our hope is that you'll be able to extend this vulnerability to other spaces in your life to help you have meaningful relationships and expand your sense of purpose and understanding of yourself and others. Having psychological symptoms get in the way of that can make things feel really bleak and hopeless, but you have already taking a very difficult step in searching for a therapist, so you are right on track!
Level Up Treatment Lawrenceville: Innovative Addiction Treatment in New Jersey. Level Up Treatment Lawrenceville, which you may know as We Level Up Lawrenceville NJ, is a leading addiction treatment New Jersey facility. Located in the historically significant and beautiful Lawrenceville, our center offers a range of specialized treatments meant to address various substance abuse disorders. From detoxification to residential care, our programs encompass evidence-based therapies, dual diagnosis treatment, and personalized care plans. With a focus on practical recovery steps and a compassionate approach, we empower individuals to overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. At Level Up Treatment Lawrenceville, we're dedicated to guiding our clients toward a brighter, healthier future. Take the first step towards a life free from addiction. Contact us today to learn more about our addiction treatment services in New Jersey!
Level Up Treatment Lawrenceville: Innovative Addiction Treatment in New Jersey. Level Up Treatment Lawrenceville, which you may know as We Level Up Lawrenceville NJ, is a leading addiction treatment New Jersey facility. Located in the historically significant and beautiful Lawrenceville, our center offers a range of specialized treatments meant to address various substance abuse disorders. From detoxification to residential care, our programs encompass evidence-based therapies, dual diagnosis treatment, and personalized care plans. With a focus on practical recovery steps and a compassionate approach, we empower individuals to overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. At Level Up Treatment Lawrenceville, we're dedicated to guiding our clients toward a brighter, healthier future. Take the first step towards a life free from addiction. Contact us today to learn more about our addiction treatment services in New Jersey!
The Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy is an Atlanta-based group practice comprised of talented and experienced psychologists and therapists who are passionate about providing culturally-responsive, anti-oppressive psychological services to our communities. Our highly dedicated team of psychologists and therapists provides psychotherapy (individual, relationship, and group therapy) and psychological assessments to adolescents and adults. We believe that you deserve to work with a therapist who understands and affirms the complexities of your unique intersectional identities. We are committed to providing excellent therapy for all, with a special focus on those who hold marginalized identities, including Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), Latinx/Hispanic, Neurodivergent and the LGBTQ communities. Our practice is anti-racist/anti-oppressive, sex-positive, trauma-informed, weight-inclusive, Feminist-informed, and affirming of folks from LGBTQ+, Kink, and Polyamory/Consensual non-monogamy communities.
The Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy is an Atlanta-based group practice comprised of talented and experienced psychologists and therapists who are passionate about providing culturally-responsive, anti-oppressive psychological services to our communities. Our highly dedicated team of psychologists and therapists provides psychotherapy (individual, relationship, and group therapy) and psychological assessments to adolescents and adults. We believe that you deserve to work with a therapist who understands and affirms the complexities of your unique intersectional identities. We are committed to providing excellent therapy for all, with a special focus on those who hold marginalized identities, including Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), Latinx/Hispanic, Neurodivergent and the LGBTQ communities. Our practice is anti-racist/anti-oppressive, sex-positive, trauma-informed, weight-inclusive, Feminist-informed, and affirming of folks from LGBTQ+, Kink, and Polyamory/Consensual non-monogamy communities.
We are psychotherapists specializing in gender, sexuality, relationships, and sex therapy. We are committed to doing effective healing work informed by social justice values. We are members of the LGBTQIA2+ community, and many of our clients are, too. A primary focus of our practice is working with clients of diverse sexual, gender, and relationship identities, including (but not limited to) people who identify as: transgender, non-binary, gender-nonconforming, intersex, lesbian, gay, pansexual, bisexual, queer, asexual, kinky, and polyamorous. We operate from an anti-white-supremacy framework and welcome people of color. We recognize that clients’ identities may not be central to the reason they seek therapy. It can help to have a therapist who “gets it” so you can focus on what brings you to therapy.
We are psychotherapists specializing in gender, sexuality, relationships, and sex therapy. We are committed to doing effective healing work informed by social justice values. We are members of the LGBTQIA2+ community, and many of our clients are, too. A primary focus of our practice is working with clients of diverse sexual, gender, and relationship identities, including (but not limited to) people who identify as: transgender, non-binary, gender-nonconforming, intersex, lesbian, gay, pansexual, bisexual, queer, asexual, kinky, and polyamorous. We operate from an anti-white-supremacy framework and welcome people of color. We recognize that clients’ identities may not be central to the reason they seek therapy. It can help to have a therapist who “gets it” so you can focus on what brings you to therapy.
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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.