Photo of Caron Starobin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Caron Starobin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Olney, MD 20832
We have expertise in autism; anxiety; depression; trauma; family conflict; parenting, sibling, and peer relationship challenges; self esteem issues; and partner and marital challenges.
Starobin Counseling collectively offers over 30 years of experience providing counseling for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We regard relationships as central to the therapeutic process and help people repair and strengthen their relationships. Some challenges in life are purely personal, but most problems express themselves in the intersections with other people. Therapy helps people understand feelings, listen to their best thinking, and helps people gain new or alternative perspectives. We help people strengthen their own vitality and repair difficult ruptures to unlock their capacity for meaningful connections.
We have expertise in autism; anxiety; depression; trauma; family conflict; parenting, sibling, and peer relationship challenges; self esteem issues; and partner and marital challenges.
Starobin Counseling collectively offers over 30 years of experience providing counseling for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We regard relationships as central to the therapeutic process and help people repair and strengthen their relationships. Some challenges in life are purely personal, but most problems express themselves in the intersections with other people. Therapy helps people understand feelings, listen to their best thinking, and helps people gain new or alternative perspectives. We help people strengthen their own vitality and repair difficult ruptures to unlock their capacity for meaningful connections.
(301) 273-7346 View (301) 273-7346
Photo of Griff Doyle, Psychologist in Montgomery County, MD
Griff Doyle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20825  (Online Only)
My involvement with autism involves a 30 year deep immersion in practicing, teaching, and endlessly learning how to effectively improve developmental trajectories for children and adults with neurological-developmental disorders through relationship-based, dyadic interventions.
I have spent 42 years treating adults and couples suffering from depression, disabling anxiety, repeated relational problems, trauma, and grief.I also speciaize in child developmental and play therapies with a range of challenges for which I design treatment plans individually. I determine the course of child treatment according to my assessment of their level of development. I involve parents to varying extents in the therapy. Over the years, I have become most specialized working with separation/divorce, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral, and neuro-developmental, and adoption difficulties for children and their families.
My involvement with autism involves a 30 year deep immersion in practicing, teaching, and endlessly learning how to effectively improve developmental trajectories for children and adults with neurological-developmental disorders through relationship-based, dyadic interventions.
I have spent 42 years treating adults and couples suffering from depression, disabling anxiety, repeated relational problems, trauma, and grief.I also speciaize in child developmental and play therapies with a range of challenges for which I design treatment plans individually. I determine the course of child treatment according to my assessment of their level of development. I involve parents to varying extents in the therapy. Over the years, I have become most specialized working with separation/divorce, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral, and neuro-developmental, and adoption difficulties for children and their families.
(301) 652-8308 View (301) 652-8308
Photo of Comeback Counseling: Trauma-Informed Therapy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Montgomery County, MD
Comeback Counseling: Trauma-Informed Therapy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP-II, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level Two (CCTP-II), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
Certified trauma-informed therapist with training in EMDR, IFS, DBT, and CPT. I specialize in work with adult/adolescent clients with a history of trauma, whether single incident or complex. These clients may present with PTSD, cPTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and more. My goal is to assist my clients with not only recovering after trauma, but enabling growth toward the person they want to be. I see survival as a strength, and the adaptations that allowed for that survival should be recognized as such to increase self-compassion and facilitate the next step.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Level Two (CCTP-II), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP).
Certified trauma-informed therapist with training in EMDR, IFS, DBT, and CPT. I specialize in work with adult/adolescent clients with a history of trauma, whether single incident or complex. These clients may present with PTSD, cPTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and more. My goal is to assist my clients with not only recovering after trauma, but enabling growth toward the person they want to be. I see survival as a strength, and the adaptations that allowed for that survival should be recognized as such to increase self-compassion and facilitate the next step.
(240) 474-9205 View (240) 474-9205
Photo of Azhia-Lin Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Azhia-Lin Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or trapped in life and need a non-judgmental person to talk to, give me a call to see if we'd be a good fit. I provide therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, school related concerns and life stressors. I am experienced in working with children with autism and sensory disorders. I can offer useful skills and knowledge for navigating the school system, as well as suggestions for how the family can best support their child. My treatment approach is kind, conversational, and engaging.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or trapped in life and need a non-judgmental person to talk to, give me a call to see if we'd be a good fit. I provide therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, school related concerns and life stressors. I am experienced in working with children with autism and sensory disorders. I can offer useful skills and knowledge for navigating the school system, as well as suggestions for how the family can best support their child. My treatment approach is kind, conversational, and engaging.
(240) 820-2606 View (240) 820-2606
Photo of Courtney Schaefer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Courtney Schaefer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
My specific areas of expertise include issues related to anxiety, depression, divorce, death and dying, ADD/ADHD, Autism, trauma, attachment issues, school and learning issues, behavior and social skills.
Are you looking for support for a young person or need your own support? Does your person have trouble finding people and or places who get them? Do you need support wading through the educational processes required to make sure your child's needs. I am honored to have worked for more than thirty years supporting skill development for dealing with a variety of emotional and developmental issues, while at the same time supporting families. I also have a unique understanding of special education from both inside the system (Special Education Social Worker) and as a parent of a student with a neurodifferent brain.
My specific areas of expertise include issues related to anxiety, depression, divorce, death and dying, ADD/ADHD, Autism, trauma, attachment issues, school and learning issues, behavior and social skills.
Are you looking for support for a young person or need your own support? Does your person have trouble finding people and or places who get them? Do you need support wading through the educational processes required to make sure your child's needs. I am honored to have worked for more than thirty years supporting skill development for dealing with a variety of emotional and developmental issues, while at the same time supporting families. I also have a unique understanding of special education from both inside the system (Special Education Social Worker) and as a parent of a student with a neurodifferent brain.
(301) 900-5987 View (301) 900-5987
Photo of Brittaney Wood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montgomery County, MD
Brittaney Wood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LGPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
After years of working with children with autism in various settings I have found my passion in working with children with autism and their families.
We often feel the need to alter how we present in the world to make others more comfortable but when we find ways to show up more authentically ourselves and communicate with those around us we find much more joy. I enjoy helping people figure out who they are and how they want to show up in the world. Whether you are interested in changing your relationships or planning for the future it can be helpful to explore what is truly you. When working with individuals with autism and their families I enjoy exploring how to communicate our experiences to others and gaining a deeper understanding for those around us.
After years of working with children with autism in various settings I have found my passion in working with children with autism and their families.
We often feel the need to alter how we present in the world to make others more comfortable but when we find ways to show up more authentically ourselves and communicate with those around us we find much more joy. I enjoy helping people figure out who they are and how they want to show up in the world. Whether you are interested in changing your relationships or planning for the future it can be helpful to explore what is truly you. When working with individuals with autism and their families I enjoy exploring how to communicate our experiences to others and gaining a deeper understanding for those around us.
(443) 879-7041 View (443) 879-7041
Photo of Sophia Sgarlat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Sophia Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20816
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
(508) 859-9492 View (508) 859-9492
Photo of Megan M Herbets, Licensed Professional Counselor in Montgomery County, MD
Megan M Herbets
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20816
She has experience working with children diagnosed with a range of learning disabilities, Autism and Asperger’s.
Oftentimes, we lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
She has experience working with children diagnosed with a range of learning disabilities, Autism and Asperger’s.
Oftentimes, we lose sight of what we truly want for ourselves. Megan’s goal is to empower you to focus on your own experiences rather than on what others expect of you. Born and raised in the Washington Metro area, Megan understands firsthand how the stress of the DMV lifestyle can affect one’s personal life, work life and home life. Clients describe Megan as being creative, quirky, empathetic and reliable. Megan has seven years of experience helping children and adults work through behavioral and emotional struggles related to depression, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, family and sexuality.
(202) 743-7505 View (202) 743-7505
Photo of Classen-Miller and Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Classen-Miller and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
(301) 918-5312 View (301) 918-5312
Photo of Nathaniel Eckland, Psychologist in Montgomery County, MD
Nathaniel Eckland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
I am also interested in neurodiversity and autism (helping clients navigate diagnoses, process/identify difficult emotions, and cope with anxiety), especially among young adults.
Problems like depression and anxiety can hold us back from living the life we want. Therapy can be challenging but the rewards are often worth the investment. Through therapy we can learn to change habits (thinking and behavioral) that no longer serve us and learn to accept and face life’s difficulties rather than avoid them. My role is supporting you in envisioning and working towards a fulfilling life. I work to create a warm, collaborative, nonjudgmental environment where you can be comfortable expressing and challenging yourself.
I am also interested in neurodiversity and autism (helping clients navigate diagnoses, process/identify difficult emotions, and cope with anxiety), especially among young adults.
Problems like depression and anxiety can hold us back from living the life we want. Therapy can be challenging but the rewards are often worth the investment. Through therapy we can learn to change habits (thinking and behavioral) that no longer serve us and learn to accept and face life’s difficulties rather than avoid them. My role is supporting you in envisioning and working towards a fulfilling life. I work to create a warm, collaborative, nonjudgmental environment where you can be comfortable expressing and challenging yourself.
(240) 366-2339 View (240) 366-2339
Photo of Sapna Singh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Sapna Singh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Hi, my name is Sapna (she/her) and I am a trauma-informed therapist and licensed social worker in Washington, D.C. and Maryland. I was a special education elementary school teacher for 5 years before I switched careers, so I especially love working with children and adolescents with special learning needs (ADD/ADHD, Autism, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Emotional Disturbance, & learning, developmental, or intellectual disabilities). I am also passionate about working with young adults, couples, and families dealing with grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges.
Hi, my name is Sapna (she/her) and I am a trauma-informed therapist and licensed social worker in Washington, D.C. and Maryland. I was a special education elementary school teacher for 5 years before I switched careers, so I especially love working with children and adolescents with special learning needs (ADD/ADHD, Autism, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Emotional Disturbance, & learning, developmental, or intellectual disabilities). I am also passionate about working with young adults, couples, and families dealing with grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges.
(240) 376-3229 View (240) 376-3229
Photo of Sam Klotz, Counselor in Montgomery County, MD
Sam Klotz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Waitlist for new clients
I provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic, and safe space for clients. I work collaboratively in areas such as anxiety, depression, and relationship issues through a focus on self-awareness, self-acceptance, and communication skills. I utilize creative interventions personalized to each individual or family. As a licensed school counselor and professional therapist, I work closely with children, families, and adults around topics of gender identity, non-traditional family structures, and neurodiversity. I often work with autism, ADHD, school or workplace accommodations, relationship issues, life skills, and major transitions.
I provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic, and safe space for clients. I work collaboratively in areas such as anxiety, depression, and relationship issues through a focus on self-awareness, self-acceptance, and communication skills. I utilize creative interventions personalized to each individual or family. As a licensed school counselor and professional therapist, I work closely with children, families, and adults around topics of gender identity, non-traditional family structures, and neurodiversity. I often work with autism, ADHD, school or workplace accommodations, relationship issues, life skills, and major transitions.
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Photo of Brenden Stinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Brenden Stinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
I specialize in crisis intervention and enjoy helping individuals with trauma disorders, stress management, autism, and life transitions.
For me, there is no ideal client. To some extent, everyone is on a spectrum of depression and anxiety, and I seek to work with clients who need assistance becoming oriented toward improvement. I have personal and professional experience and understand how difficult it is to find someone patient enough to grow alongside a client through the therapeutic process. I want to work alongside you to help you live a happy, meaningful life with these conditions.
I specialize in crisis intervention and enjoy helping individuals with trauma disorders, stress management, autism, and life transitions.
For me, there is no ideal client. To some extent, everyone is on a spectrum of depression and anxiety, and I seek to work with clients who need assistance becoming oriented toward improvement. I have personal and professional experience and understand how difficult it is to find someone patient enough to grow alongside a client through the therapeutic process. I want to work alongside you to help you live a happy, meaningful life with these conditions.
(240) 616-4320 View (240) 616-4320
Photo of Deborah A Williams, Psychologist in Montgomery County, MD
Deborah A Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
These assessments include ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Mood Disorders, Guardianship, Adoption readiness, and diagnostic clarification.
Whether through therapy or assessment, I strive to excel in my work with each client. A caring relationship and a safe space to be open are the cornerstones to a successful therapeutic experience. I look to provide that tailored experience to each one of my clients, and hope to work with you to aid in your growth and development. My goal is to help you reach your best self, and to improve your happiness.
These assessments include ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Mood Disorders, Guardianship, Adoption readiness, and diagnostic clarification.
Whether through therapy or assessment, I strive to excel in my work with each client. A caring relationship and a safe space to be open are the cornerstones to a successful therapeutic experience. I look to provide that tailored experience to each one of my clients, and hope to work with you to aid in your growth and development. My goal is to help you reach your best self, and to improve your happiness.
(240) 317-3693 View (240) 317-3693
Photo of Breighone Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I can help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I can help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(240) 434-0568 View (240) 434-0568
Photo of Marina Kerlow, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Montgomery County, MD
Marina Kerlow
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LGMFT
Verified Verified
Takoma Park, MD 20912  (Online Only)
I work with adults, children, teens and families struggling with trauma, anxiety, neurodiversity (ADHD and autism), relationship issues and adjusting to life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck in old patterns and confusion? I can help you break old cycles that no longer serve you and develop more productive and healthier ways of being - whether that's individually or as a family. I provide therapy for improving relationships, healing from trauma, and exploring identity. I draw from my background working in research on child development and family resilience, evidence-based practices, my clinical expertise, and own lived experiences.
I work with adults, children, teens and families struggling with trauma, anxiety, neurodiversity (ADHD and autism), relationship issues and adjusting to life transitions.
Are you feeling stuck in old patterns and confusion? I can help you break old cycles that no longer serve you and develop more productive and healthier ways of being - whether that's individually or as a family. I provide therapy for improving relationships, healing from trauma, and exploring identity. I draw from my background working in research on child development and family resilience, evidence-based practices, my clinical expertise, and own lived experiences.
(301) 804-2658 View (301) 804-2658
Photo of Carol Lee Hilewick Phd, Psychologist in Montgomery County, MD
Carol Lee Hilewick Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902
My goal is to help patients learn to be responders and to be in charge of themselves. Throughout treatment, a functional medicine approach is employed. Care collaboration is valued. Patients with cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges benefit from a variety of cognitive behavioral, neurobehavioral, and psychophysiological modalities. Patients with such conditions as emotional and physical trauma, chronic pain, addictions, brain injuries and disorders (autism, Asperger's, ADD/ADHD, motor and balance challenges, for example), sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression are treated. Individuals with neurological, autoimmune, metabolic, endocrinological, and other complex medical conditions find that the treatment modalities promote healing.
My goal is to help patients learn to be responders and to be in charge of themselves. Throughout treatment, a functional medicine approach is employed. Care collaboration is valued. Patients with cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges benefit from a variety of cognitive behavioral, neurobehavioral, and psychophysiological modalities. Patients with such conditions as emotional and physical trauma, chronic pain, addictions, brain injuries and disorders (autism, Asperger's, ADD/ADHD, motor and balance challenges, for example), sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression are treated. Individuals with neurological, autoimmune, metabolic, endocrinological, and other complex medical conditions find that the treatment modalities promote healing.
(301) 327-2544 View (301) 327-2544
Photo of Breighone Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(240) 376-2638 View (240) 376-2638
Photo of Breighone Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montgomery County, MD
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(240) 635-9195 View (240) 635-9195
Photo of Lopez Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor in Montgomery County, MD
Lopez Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
You are someone that maybe confused as to what's next. You maybe burnt out and unsure how to find support and move forward in your life. Life may have you in a transition and adapting can be hard. I see clients that struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, spirituality, self-esteem, autism, and the latina first-gen experience. If you need someone to show up for you authentically open, honest, and steps to get you to where you want to go-that's what I offer.
You are someone that maybe confused as to what's next. You maybe burnt out and unsure how to find support and move forward in your life. Life may have you in a transition and adapting can be hard. I see clients that struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, spirituality, self-esteem, autism, and the latina first-gen experience. If you need someone to show up for you authentically open, honest, and steps to get you to where you want to go-that's what I offer.
(301) 939-0277 View (301) 939-0277

See more therapy options for Montgomery County

Autism Therapists

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.