Autism Counselling in Brighton, VIC

Photo of Ayna Hennessy, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Ayna Hennessy
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Overwhelmed? I have lived experience & extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Issues, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain. My unique life with exposure to diversity and unexpected curveballs has shaped me into an insightful, reflective & understanding counsellor. My thirst for knowledge, hyper-focus skills and resolve to fight led to me seeking out my own answers surrounding my health. It paid off, & I hope it can now help you. I'm now mentored/supervised & trained by the MVPs in Neurodivergence & its heath complexities. I do not refuse vulnerable & complex clients; I used to be one.
Overwhelmed? I have lived experience & extensive knowledge of the complexities of ADHD, Sensory Issues, Autism, disordered eating & chronic pain. My unique life with exposure to diversity and unexpected curveballs has shaped me into an insightful, reflective & understanding counsellor. My thirst for knowledge, hyper-focus skills and resolve to fight led to me seeking out my own answers surrounding my health. It paid off, & I hope it can now help you. I'm now mentored/supervised & trained by the MVPs in Neurodivergence & its heath complexities. I do not refuse vulnerable & complex clients; I used to be one.
(03) 7003 2926 View (03) 7003 2926
Photo of Maree Paris, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Maree Paris
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
My services include early intervention, behaviour support and parenting support for children with developmental delay, autism, intellectual disability, ADHD and anxiety.
If you are a parent/carer of a young child with developmental delay, autism, ADHD and/or Intellectual Disability I am able to provide early intervention support. I am also able to support children who engage in Behaviour of Concern using positive behaviour support strategies and the development of a Behaviour Regulation Plan. In addition to this service, I am able to offer Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing therapy, for which I am currently in training. I am a certified Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) therapist and have participated in the Early Start Denver Model Parent Coaching Workshop at the UC Davis MIND Institute
My services include early intervention, behaviour support and parenting support for children with developmental delay, autism, intellectual disability, ADHD and anxiety.
If you are a parent/carer of a young child with developmental delay, autism, ADHD and/or Intellectual Disability I am able to provide early intervention support. I am also able to support children who engage in Behaviour of Concern using positive behaviour support strategies and the development of a Behaviour Regulation Plan. In addition to this service, I am able to offer Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing therapy, for which I am currently in training. I am a certified Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) therapist and have participated in the Early Start Denver Model Parent Coaching Workshop at the UC Davis MIND Institute
(03) 7003 2903 View (03) 7003 2903
Photo of Shelley Bernadette Thompson - Psychology Assessment Services, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Psychology Assessment Services
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Conduct a range of psychological assessments, including educational, cognitive, intellectual (IQ), academic, autism, adhd, dyslexia, and behavioural assessments. The most up-to-date gold standard assessments are utilised. Assessments are conducted in a friendly, caring, and respectful manner. Results help to identify a child's strengths and weaknesses, and guide what supports may best help a child at home and school. Psychology Assessment Services provides an assessment only service for children aged between 4 and 17 years.
Conduct a range of psychological assessments, including educational, cognitive, intellectual (IQ), academic, autism, adhd, dyslexia, and behavioural assessments. The most up-to-date gold standard assessments are utilised. Assessments are conducted in a friendly, caring, and respectful manner. Results help to identify a child's strengths and weaknesses, and guide what supports may best help a child at home and school. Psychology Assessment Services provides an assessment only service for children aged between 4 and 17 years.
(03) 5905 9791 View (03) 5905 9791
Photo of Nicola Addlem, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Nicola Addlem
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
I work with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and borderline personality disorder (BPD).
I help clients to manage anxiety, stress and depression. I take a collaborative approach to help you improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and build social connections. I work with children, adolescents and adults and their families. I have experience working in private practice, NDIS, and community psychology.
I work with adults and children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, and borderline personality disorder (BPD).
I help clients to manage anxiety, stress and depression. I take a collaborative approach to help you improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and build social connections. I work with children, adolescents and adults and their families. I have experience working in private practice, NDIS, and community psychology.
(03) 7003 2707 View (03) 7003 2707
Photo of Daniella Winik - Daniella Winik - People Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Daniella Winik - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Take the first step and book with Daniella today! Anxiety, Stress Management, Depression, School Issues & Counselling, Peer Relationships, Parenting Support, Issues & Guidance, Family Support, ASD ( Autism Spectrum Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Building Resilience, Social Difficulties, Adjustment Disorders, Grief and Loss / Bereavement, Coping Skills, Divorce Counselling, Life Transitions, Life Coaching, Self-Esteem, Self-Confidence, Self-Development, Suicidal Ideation and Relationships.
Take the first step and book with Daniella today! Anxiety, Stress Management, Depression, School Issues & Counselling, Peer Relationships, Parenting Support, Issues & Guidance, Family Support, ASD ( Autism Spectrum Disorder), ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Building Resilience, Social Difficulties, Adjustment Disorders, Grief and Loss / Bereavement, Coping Skills, Divorce Counselling, Life Transitions, Life Coaching, Self-Esteem, Self-Confidence, Self-Development, Suicidal Ideation and Relationships.
(03) 7003 2718 View (03) 7003 2718
Photo of Michaela Klabanova, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member, Psychologist
Michaela Klabanova
Psychologist, MPsych, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Michaela is trained in a range of assessments (1) Cognitive (2) Personality (3) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (4) Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Michaela is an open-minded psychologist and psychotherapist whose approach is tailored to the needs of each particular client. She is passionate about helping people grow and achieve their full potential. Michaela predominately works with complex mental health issues including trauma, addiction and neurodiversity. Furthermore, she is passionate about men’s mental health and relationship difficulties. Her experience includes working with children, youth and adults.
Michaela is trained in a range of assessments (1) Cognitive (2) Personality (3) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (4) Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Michaela is an open-minded psychologist and psychotherapist whose approach is tailored to the needs of each particular client. She is passionate about helping people grow and achieve their full potential. Michaela predominately works with complex mental health issues including trauma, addiction and neurodiversity. Furthermore, she is passionate about men’s mental health and relationship difficulties. Her experience includes working with children, youth and adults.
(03) 8797 2629 View (03) 8797 2629
Photo of Michela Burke, MPsych, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Michela Burke
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
My areas of interest include but are not limited to: Trauma & Stressor Related Disorders, Neurodivergent Presentations: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), LGBTQI+ Relationships Family Conflict, Anxiety Depression, Grief, Stress, Adjustment Disorders, Self Esteem, Work Issues.
What you can expect from working with me: is a warm, down-to-earth approach in a non-judgemental space that’s all about understanding you better and helping you grow through our journey together. I believe that gaining awareness and understanding of our thoughts, feelings and behaviour is a powerful tool to invite more choice and compassion into our lives. It is often key to enhancing the quality of our relationships, our engagement in the world around us and our ability to act in line with our values. As your therapist, I aim to offer practical skills that can be taken outside of sessions into your everyday life.
My areas of interest include but are not limited to: Trauma & Stressor Related Disorders, Neurodivergent Presentations: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), LGBTQI+ Relationships Family Conflict, Anxiety Depression, Grief, Stress, Adjustment Disorders, Self Esteem, Work Issues.
What you can expect from working with me: is a warm, down-to-earth approach in a non-judgemental space that’s all about understanding you better and helping you grow through our journey together. I believe that gaining awareness and understanding of our thoughts, feelings and behaviour is a powerful tool to invite more choice and compassion into our lives. It is often key to enhancing the quality of our relationships, our engagement in the world around us and our ability to act in line with our values. As your therapist, I aim to offer practical skills that can be taken outside of sessions into your everyday life.
(03) 9964 3755 View (03) 9964 3755
Photo of Corinne Mescher, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Corinne Mescher
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
I am a psychologist with 14 years experience, and I am interested in working therapeutically with adolescents from the age of 12 years up to adults. I have extensive experience in working with clients from all walks of life and presenting with a wide range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, fears and phobias, school refusal and autism/ADHD. In addition to providing therapy, I can assess for ADHD, intellectual disability, specific learning disorders (dyslexia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia) using the the WPPSI, WISC, WIAT for diagnostic purposes to provide learning interventions and school based support.
I am a psychologist with 14 years experience, and I am interested in working therapeutically with adolescents from the age of 12 years up to adults. I have extensive experience in working with clients from all walks of life and presenting with a wide range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, fears and phobias, school refusal and autism/ADHD. In addition to providing therapy, I can assess for ADHD, intellectual disability, specific learning disorders (dyslexia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia) using the the WPPSI, WISC, WIAT for diagnostic purposes to provide learning interventions and school based support.
(03) 9118 9089 View (03) 9118 9089
Photo of Alison Lubliner, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
Alison Lubliner
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
I do assessments for Autism and ADHD, and support all clients to better understand themselves and their way of being in the world so as they can feel well and live well.
I enjoy working with clients to promote their wellbeing and development, and helping them to better manage emotional distress and life challenges. I have extensive experience working with adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety, obsessive compulsive difficulties and/or depression. I offer warm, personalised and professional care focused on your needs. I draw on a wide variety of evidence based psychological treatments including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and commitment techniques (ACT).
I do assessments for Autism and ADHD, and support all clients to better understand themselves and their way of being in the world so as they can feel well and live well.
I enjoy working with clients to promote their wellbeing and development, and helping them to better manage emotional distress and life challenges. I have extensive experience working with adults and adolescents experiencing anxiety, obsessive compulsive difficulties and/or depression. I offer warm, personalised and professional care focused on your needs. I draw on a wide variety of evidence based psychological treatments including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and commitment techniques (ACT).
(03) 7003 2650 View (03) 7003 2650
Photo of Patrick Ruggles, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Patrick Ruggles
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Patrick is an experienced psychotherapist drawing on his studies in both Existential Psychotherapy and Lacanian Psychoanalysis. His approach assists individuals in working through somewhat insoluble issues to bring relief from existential malaise, depression, anxiety, repetitive interpersonal difficulties, and somatic disturbances. Patrick has worked in a multitude of professional settings with adolescents, adults, and couples. In addition, he has significant experience working with neurodiversity as well as gender and sexual diversity. Patricks experience has led to a deep appreciation of the complexities of being-in-the-world.
Patrick is an experienced psychotherapist drawing on his studies in both Existential Psychotherapy and Lacanian Psychoanalysis. His approach assists individuals in working through somewhat insoluble issues to bring relief from existential malaise, depression, anxiety, repetitive interpersonal difficulties, and somatic disturbances. Patrick has worked in a multitude of professional settings with adolescents, adults, and couples. In addition, he has significant experience working with neurodiversity as well as gender and sexual diversity. Patricks experience has led to a deep appreciation of the complexities of being-in-the-world.
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Photo of Kah Yan (Jasmine) Loo - Jasmine Loo Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jasmine Loo Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients across the lifespan (age 4 and above) to address a variety of life challenges, such as managing stress, anxiety and depression, as well as struggles with life transitions. Finding hope and recognising your resources can feel challenging when going through a rough patch. Through therapy sessions, I’ll support you in brainstorming for solutions to overcome your difficulties and celebrate your unique strengths. I also have a special interest in neurodiversity and the female presentation of ASD. Neurodiversity can often bring invisible challenges. Finding the right support from an understanding person is essential.
I work with clients across the lifespan (age 4 and above) to address a variety of life challenges, such as managing stress, anxiety and depression, as well as struggles with life transitions. Finding hope and recognising your resources can feel challenging when going through a rough patch. Through therapy sessions, I’ll support you in brainstorming for solutions to overcome your difficulties and celebrate your unique strengths. I also have a special interest in neurodiversity and the female presentation of ASD. Neurodiversity can often bring invisible challenges. Finding the right support from an understanding person is essential.
(03) 9068 5754 View (03) 9068 5754
Photo of Francesco Poci - People Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Francesco Poci - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, VIC 3186
Francesco can help with your issues or concerns such as anxiety, depression and phobias. Francesco also has a particular interest working with clients in regard to sexual health concerns. He can help you with workplace concerns, career counselling, life change and existential concerns. In addition to holding a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University, he also holds a Master of Science in Medicine (HIV, STIs and Sexual Health) from The University of Sydney. He is therefore interested in assisting clients in regard to couples counselling and sexual dysfunction.
Francesco can help with your issues or concerns such as anxiety, depression and phobias. Francesco also has a particular interest working with clients in regard to sexual health concerns. He can help you with workplace concerns, career counselling, life change and existential concerns. In addition to holding a Master of Professional Psychology from Monash University, he also holds a Master of Science in Medicine (HIV, STIs and Sexual Health) from The University of Sydney. He is therefore interested in assisting clients in regard to couples counselling and sexual dysfunction.
(03) 9070 3565 View (03) 9070 3565
Photo of Jessica Elberg, MA, AMHSW, Counsellor
Jessica Elberg
Counsellor, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Feeling overwhelmed by life? I am a warm, skilled and experienced counsellor, who will support you through life's challenges, I can help you deal with a broad range of concerns, supporting you to examine your core beliefs and understanding of issues affecting you. Adjusting thoughts, feelings and behaviours through evidence-based counselling techniques creates opportunities for authentic growth and long-lasting change. I will support you in adopting and maintaining effective approaches to any difficulties that your'e experiencing, creating a renewed sense of optimism and well-being.
Feeling overwhelmed by life? I am a warm, skilled and experienced counsellor, who will support you through life's challenges, I can help you deal with a broad range of concerns, supporting you to examine your core beliefs and understanding of issues affecting you. Adjusting thoughts, feelings and behaviours through evidence-based counselling techniques creates opportunities for authentic growth and long-lasting change. I will support you in adopting and maintaining effective approaches to any difficulties that your'e experiencing, creating a renewed sense of optimism and well-being.
(03) 7003 2920 View (03) 7003 2920
Photo of Clarissa Martinez, MC, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Clarissa Martinez
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton, www.ruclaptyltd.com. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling and Neurofeedback therapy.
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton, www.ruclaptyltd.com. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling and Neurofeedback therapy.
(03) 7003 2286 View (03) 7003 2286
Photo of Steven Colbran - Steven Colbran - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Steven Colbran - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Steven is registered psychologist who provides primarily afterhours telehealth support and psychological interventions to adolescents and adults. Steven focuses on rapport and therapeutic relationships by spending time building relationships with clients to ensure best practice ethical and professional services to support their betterment of mental health and life’s daily challenges. A values based natural rapport leader with an expertise area spanning various life situations and demographics, Steven emphasises getting to know the individual in all situations.
Steven is registered psychologist who provides primarily afterhours telehealth support and psychological interventions to adolescents and adults. Steven focuses on rapport and therapeutic relationships by spending time building relationships with clients to ensure best practice ethical and professional services to support their betterment of mental health and life’s daily challenges. A values based natural rapport leader with an expertise area spanning various life situations and demographics, Steven emphasises getting to know the individual in all situations.
(03) 9994 1710 View (03) 9994 1710
Photo of Xuan Tan - Xuan Tan - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Xuan Tan - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Xuan (pronounced Shen) provides evidence-based and person-centred treatment with adolescents, adults, couples and families from diverse cultural, linguistic, and economic backgrounds. Xuan has multilingual skills and can deliver services in English or in Mandarin 说中文 She aims to provide a warm space where clients could form an in-depth understanding of themselves, to reflect on existing or past experiences, and to learn and grow at a pace that suits them.
Xuan (pronounced Shen) provides evidence-based and person-centred treatment with adolescents, adults, couples and families from diverse cultural, linguistic, and economic backgrounds. Xuan has multilingual skills and can deliver services in English or in Mandarin 说中文 She aims to provide a warm space where clients could form an in-depth understanding of themselves, to reflect on existing or past experiences, and to learn and grow at a pace that suits them.
(03) 7003 2350 View (03) 7003 2350
Photo of Jo-Elle Warhurst - Jo-Elle Warhurst - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jo-Elle Warhurst - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Jo-Elle is a Registered Psychologist with over twenty years experience specialising in supporting clients, children (5-12 years), teenagers (13-17 years) and adults, to overcome their psychological symptoms to achieve recovery and personal growth. Through the application of CBT, ACT and Mindfulness principles, Jo-Elle is able to assist clients to stabilise anxiety, mood fluctuation, insomnia, social withdrawal and rebuild their self esteem. Jo-Elle quickly establishes rapport with clients across a broad range of sectors and backgrounds to explore their challenges and equip them with the tools to resolve their presenting concerns.
Jo-Elle is a Registered Psychologist with over twenty years experience specialising in supporting clients, children (5-12 years), teenagers (13-17 years) and adults, to overcome their psychological symptoms to achieve recovery and personal growth. Through the application of CBT, ACT and Mindfulness principles, Jo-Elle is able to assist clients to stabilise anxiety, mood fluctuation, insomnia, social withdrawal and rebuild their self esteem. Jo-Elle quickly establishes rapport with clients across a broad range of sectors and backgrounds to explore their challenges and equip them with the tools to resolve their presenting concerns.
(03) 7003 2532 View (03) 7003 2532
Photo of Pavel (Paul) Golod, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Pavel (Paul) Golod
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Paul from Clear Perspectives Psychology, and I'm hoping to work with those committed to improving their mental wellbeing and who are ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier life. Whether facing issues relating to anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I welcome you to contact me for professional support. I use evidence-based practical tools and strategies, which are personally tailored to your strengths and circumstances, to provide focused and optimal care. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to help with your specific challenges and needs.
Hi, I'm Paul from Clear Perspectives Psychology, and I'm hoping to work with those committed to improving their mental wellbeing and who are ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier life. Whether facing issues relating to anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I welcome you to contact me for professional support. I use evidence-based practical tools and strategies, which are personally tailored to your strengths and circumstances, to provide focused and optimal care. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to help with your specific challenges and needs.
(03) 7003 2734 View (03) 7003 2734
Photo of Tori Orit Brand - Brand Counselling Services, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Brand Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
I believe that loving one’s self is a prerequisite to loving others: our relationships with others are all mirrors of our relationship with ourselves. As a counsellor with over 15 years of experience, I understand that life can be challenging sometimes, and we can lose our way in it. I treat my clients with warmth, empathy, and unconditional support, giving them the space and confidence that they need to walk through the pains of their growth and once again find their love for their true self.
I believe that loving one’s self is a prerequisite to loving others: our relationships with others are all mirrors of our relationship with ourselves. As a counsellor with over 15 years of experience, I understand that life can be challenging sometimes, and we can lose our way in it. I treat my clients with warmth, empathy, and unconditional support, giving them the space and confidence that they need to walk through the pains of their growth and once again find their love for their true self.
(03) 7500 5808 View (03) 7500 5808
Photo of Dr Fernanda Barros, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Fernanda Barros
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Dr Fernanda Barros has worked as a psychologist for over 16 years across different settings. She is registered with APHRA and holds a doctorate in Existential Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy. As a practitioner her approach is client focused utilising a range of evidence based methods including schema therapy and existential phenomenology.
Dr Fernanda Barros has worked as a psychologist for over 16 years across different settings. She is registered with APHRA and holds a doctorate in Existential Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy. As a practitioner her approach is client focused utilising a range of evidence based methods including schema therapy and existential phenomenology.
(03) 9111 5330 View (03) 9111 5330
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Autism Counsellors

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.