Autism Treatment Centers in Florida

Photo of Health of Mind, Inc, Treatment Center in Florida
Health of Mind, Inc
Treatment Center, PsyD, LMHC, BCBA
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33134
There are many behavior analysis clinics to choose from, and we realize that today's care for children with Autism and behavioral problems in general has many options.
While parenthood brings immense amounts of joy, pride, and personal growth and other good things to those with children, it can also bring a lot of challenges. An effective way to start addressing this is by getting the help and support you need or at least exploring the resources available to you. We provide Applied Behavior Analysis services to children with behavioral problems. Treatment plans and approaches are developed according to your child's needs and available resources. We use functional-based interventions combined with a well designed skills acquisition program. Services are rendered primarily at home and/or doctor's office.
There are many behavior analysis clinics to choose from, and we realize that today's care for children with Autism and behavioral problems in general has many options.
While parenthood brings immense amounts of joy, pride, and personal growth and other good things to those with children, it can also bring a lot of challenges. An effective way to start addressing this is by getting the help and support you need or at least exploring the resources available to you. We provide Applied Behavior Analysis services to children with behavioral problems. Treatment plans and approaches are developed according to your child's needs and available resources. We use functional-based interventions combined with a well designed skills acquisition program. Services are rendered primarily at home and/or doctor's office.
(786) 574-5894 View (786) 574-5894
Photo of Crystal Minds New Beginning , Treatment Center in Florida
Crystal Minds New Beginning
Treatment Center, BCBA-D, PsyD,
Verified Verified
Doral, FL 33126
We are an In-Home and Centers-Based ABA Therapy private practice. We create therapeutic interventions aimed at improving an individual’s quality of life and enhancing their independence, happiness, and collaboration in the family and community. We treat children, adolescents, and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Down syndrome, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, and other disabling conditions. Our primary method for achieving these goals is in-home ABA therapy. ABA stands for Applied Behavioral Analysis, which is a set of techniques for assessing and then positively transforming an individual’s relationship to their environment, including and especially to the people around them. We use various behavioral, verbal, and adaptive assessments to evaluate the individual’s communication, independence, and social and academic skills. Then we work closely and intensively with parents or caregivers in the home, integrating ABA Therapy with techniques drawn from other methods like play therapy, verbal behavior, early childhood integration, and adaptive independent living skills.
We are an In-Home and Centers-Based ABA Therapy private practice. We create therapeutic interventions aimed at improving an individual’s quality of life and enhancing their independence, happiness, and collaboration in the family and community. We treat children, adolescents, and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Down syndrome, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, and other disabling conditions. Our primary method for achieving these goals is in-home ABA therapy. ABA stands for Applied Behavioral Analysis, which is a set of techniques for assessing and then positively transforming an individual’s relationship to their environment, including and especially to the people around them. We use various behavioral, verbal, and adaptive assessments to evaluate the individual’s communication, independence, and social and academic skills. Then we work closely and intensively with parents or caregivers in the home, integrating ABA Therapy with techniques drawn from other methods like play therapy, verbal behavior, early childhood integration, and adaptive independent living skills.
(786) 551-4554 View (786) 551-4554
Photo of Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI), Treatment Center in Florida
Neurobehavioral Institute (NBI)
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Weston, FL 33326  (Online Only)
We treat OCD and anxiety-related conditions, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, mood disorders, personality disorders and other diagnoses.
For over two decades, NBI has been a leading psychological assessment, treatment and training center that doctors and consultants can refer their most complex cases to with confidence. Patients and families rely on NBI’s high level of expertise in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other modalities including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Clinical Behavior Analysis (CBA) and Nutritional guidance. Services to support parents and families are integrated with patient care. Our patients suffer from debilitating anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), often in conjunction with one or more other difficult psychological conditions, such as depression or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We specialize in designing personalized, comprehensive care plans with specific time-frames that not only help our patients develop the skills they need to reduce their symptoms but also addresses the bigger picture what steps need to be taken in order for them to move forward in their lives.
We treat OCD and anxiety-related conditions, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, mood disorders, personality disorders and other diagnoses.
For over two decades, NBI has been a leading psychological assessment, treatment and training center that doctors and consultants can refer their most complex cases to with confidence. Patients and families rely on NBI’s high level of expertise in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other modalities including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Clinical Behavior Analysis (CBA) and Nutritional guidance. Services to support parents and families are integrated with patient care. Our patients suffer from debilitating anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), often in conjunction with one or more other difficult psychological conditions, such as depression or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We specialize in designing personalized, comprehensive care plans with specific time-frames that not only help our patients develop the skills they need to reduce their symptoms but also addresses the bigger picture what steps need to be taken in order for them to move forward in their lives.
(754) 704-6960 View (754) 704-6960
Photo of Psychology & Beyond, Inc, Treatment Center in Florida
Psychology & Beyond, Inc
Treatment Center, PsyD, LMHC, BCBA
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33134
Psychology & Beyond, Inc is a non-residential treatment facility established by a group of licensed psychologists and psychotherapists who work at different locations (i.e., schools, nursing and rehabilitation centers, client's residence (autism only), and community mental health centers, among other places including our own private practice. We work cooperatively with psychiatrists, primary care physicians, and specialists (when needed). We are experienced psychotherapist who provides individual counseling to children, adolescents, adults, and families with depression, anxiety, employment/academic problems, grief, parenting issues, dementia, suicide thoughts, acute/chronic health conditions, substance abuse, self-injury (autism), cognitive disorder (attention/memory), adolescent-parent conflicts, divorce, etc. In addition, we specialize in Neuropsychology and Applied Behavior Analysis.
Psychology & Beyond, Inc is a non-residential treatment facility established by a group of licensed psychologists and psychotherapists who work at different locations (i.e., schools, nursing and rehabilitation centers, client's residence (autism only), and community mental health centers, among other places including our own private practice. We work cooperatively with psychiatrists, primary care physicians, and specialists (when needed). We are experienced psychotherapist who provides individual counseling to children, adolescents, adults, and families with depression, anxiety, employment/academic problems, grief, parenting issues, dementia, suicide thoughts, acute/chronic health conditions, substance abuse, self-injury (autism), cognitive disorder (attention/memory), adolescent-parent conflicts, divorce, etc. In addition, we specialize in Neuropsychology and Applied Behavior Analysis.
(786) 933-8123 View (786) 933-8123
Photo of Synergy Wellness Centers , Treatment Center in Florida
Synergy Wellness Centers
Treatment Center, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hialeah, FL 33012
Customized quality care defines the team at Synergy Wellness. We specialize in innovative and integrative treatments using the latest tools like Biofeedback and Virtual Reality combined with face-to-face therapy sessions, to give our therapists and clients the opportunity to reach successful results at a faster pace. Our team is highly trained to treat mental health disorders, disabilities, autism, behavioral issues, substance abuse, individual, couples, family, group, and LGBTQIA+ therapies.
Customized quality care defines the team at Synergy Wellness. We specialize in innovative and integrative treatments using the latest tools like Biofeedback and Virtual Reality combined with face-to-face therapy sessions, to give our therapists and clients the opportunity to reach successful results at a faster pace. Our team is highly trained to treat mental health disorders, disabilities, autism, behavioral issues, substance abuse, individual, couples, family, group, and LGBTQIA+ therapies.
(786) 751-7600 View (786) 751-7600
Photo of Face To Face Mental Health Services, LLC, Treatment Center in Florida
Face To Face Mental Health Services, LLC
Treatment Center, MD/Psyc, LMHC, BCBA, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palmetto Bay, FL 33157
We want to promote individual wellness and family stability by compassionately serving our clients' mental health, addiction, physical health and community support needs. Face to Face Mental Health Services strives to be a national leader in providing an accessible, culturally responsive, integrated and best practice-based system to support of families, children and adults in achieving their goals.
We want to promote individual wellness and family stability by compassionately serving our clients' mental health, addiction, physical health and community support needs. Face to Face Mental Health Services strives to be a national leader in providing an accessible, culturally responsive, integrated and best practice-based system to support of families, children and adults in achieving their goals.
(786) 509-7191 View (786) 509-7191
Photo of Kinsler Psychology, Treatment Center in Florida
Kinsler Psychology
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Lutz, FL 33558
In our office we are proud to have a variety of specialties. Our expertise ranges from ASD, men's & women's issues, medication management, and so much more!
In our office we are proud to have a variety of specialties. Our expertise ranges from ASD, men's & women's issues, medication management, and so much more!
(813) 590-0765 View (813) 590-0765
Photo of Total Life Counseling Center, Treatment Center in Florida
Total Life Counseling Center
Treatment Center, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32835
Are you frustrated calling to find a counselor only to get voicemail or to be put on a waiting list? We answer the phones and can usually get clients in the same week! Having a hard time finding the right counselor? Our clients often say, "I wish we knew you years ago!" or "We tried 4 counselors before we found you and they did not give us a plan." "You gave us a plan on the 1st or 2nd session!" We take the guesswork out of finding a right counselor for Marriage, Trauma ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorder, ODD ASD. The media has interviewed us over 200 local & national news interviews like Fox, ABC, CBS, NBC, etc. Jim West, the president of Total Life Counseling Center, has a unique way of connecting quickly with children, adolescents and young adults through recreation therapy, interactive games, play therapy and traditional therapies. We offer individual social coaching groups have helped students mature 1-2 years socially and emotionally, and increase confidence, compliance, and improved leadership skills. Jim has also been invited to provide consultation to several accreditation boards, private and public schools in the state of Florida for ADHD and bullying.
Are you frustrated calling to find a counselor only to get voicemail or to be put on a waiting list? We answer the phones and can usually get clients in the same week! Having a hard time finding the right counselor? Our clients often say, "I wish we knew you years ago!" or "We tried 4 counselors before we found you and they did not give us a plan." "You gave us a plan on the 1st or 2nd session!" We take the guesswork out of finding a right counselor for Marriage, Trauma ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorder, ODD ASD. The media has interviewed us over 200 local & national news interviews like Fox, ABC, CBS, NBC, etc. Jim West, the president of Total Life Counseling Center, has a unique way of connecting quickly with children, adolescents and young adults through recreation therapy, interactive games, play therapy and traditional therapies. We offer individual social coaching groups have helped students mature 1-2 years socially and emotionally, and increase confidence, compliance, and improved leadership skills. Jim has also been invited to provide consultation to several accreditation boards, private and public schools in the state of Florida for ADHD and bullying.
(407) 494-2520 View (407) 494-2520
Photo of ABA Centers of America, Treatment Center in Florida
ABA Centers of America
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
ABA Therapy at ABA Centers of America involves the following basic steps: Assessment—skills and abilities are measured Goal Setting—specific, reachable objectives are set to address desired skills; Custom Planning—a program is developed to teach target skills; Evaluation—measuring targeted skills and making changes to the program if necessary. We help families create their future by guiding children to learn, grow and become members of their communities.
ABA Therapy at ABA Centers of America involves the following basic steps: Assessment—skills and abilities are measured Goal Setting—specific, reachable objectives are set to address desired skills; Custom Planning—a program is developed to teach target skills; Evaluation—measuring targeted skills and making changes to the program if necessary. We help families create their future by guiding children to learn, grow and become members of their communities.
(603) 255-5109 View (603) 255-5109
Photo of New Directions for Young Adults, Treatment Center in Florida
New Directions for Young Adults
Treatment Center, PhD
Verified Verified
We are committed to helping transitional young adults become successful and independent. We use a unique model, known as, Coordinated Multidisciplinary Treatment (CMT). Additionally, we create personalized treatment plans for each individual in our program. We are proud to say that New Directions has one of the highest success rates of any transitional program in the US.
We are committed to helping transitional young adults become successful and independent. We use a unique model, known as, Coordinated Multidisciplinary Treatment (CMT). Additionally, we create personalized treatment plans for each individual in our program. We are proud to say that New Directions has one of the highest success rates of any transitional program in the US.
(954) 246-3891 View (954) 246-3891
Photo of Cypress Wellness Center, Treatment Center in Florida
Cypress Wellness Center
Treatment Center, LMHC
Verified Verified
We are an inclusive therapeutic group offering services to individuals of all ages, couples, and families. Our clinicians come from different backgroups, use different approaches and therapeutic modalities, and have a variety of specializations. The therapeutic modalities include but are not limited to CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Art Therapy, and Narrative. Our clinicians use different approaches based on the needs and interests of their clients. Many implement mindfulness, somatic exercises, play therapy, and more. Our specialties include sex therapy, trauma treatment, couples and families, existential issues, depression and anxiety symptoms, and more. We offer sliding scale options and do not require income proof, you'd just let us know what rate you'd need within our offering and we'd help you find the best therapist match.
We are an inclusive therapeutic group offering services to individuals of all ages, couples, and families. Our clinicians come from different backgroups, use different approaches and therapeutic modalities, and have a variety of specializations. The therapeutic modalities include but are not limited to CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Art Therapy, and Narrative. Our clinicians use different approaches based on the needs and interests of their clients. Many implement mindfulness, somatic exercises, play therapy, and more. Our specialties include sex therapy, trauma treatment, couples and families, existential issues, depression and anxiety symptoms, and more. We offer sliding scale options and do not require income proof, you'd just let us know what rate you'd need within our offering and we'd help you find the best therapist match.
(727) 339-2474 View (727) 339-2474
Photo of ClearPath Health LLC, Treatment Center in Florida
ClearPath Health LLC
Treatment Center, LCSW, EMDR, CBT, DBT, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33759
ClearPath Health is an established local Florida based mental health provider with offices in Clearwater, Ocala, Port Saint Lucie and West Melbourne, with more in the works. We currently serve children ages five (5) and up and adults any age in all locations in-person and via telehealth. At ClearPath Health, we view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate setting and at their own pace. Clients who have completed treatment leave with new coping skills, a renewed sense of confidence and fresh perspectives on their lives. You have taken a huge step just by seeking out therapy. Now let's embark on this journey together! Reach out today for an appointment.
ClearPath Health is an established local Florida based mental health provider with offices in Clearwater, Ocala, Port Saint Lucie and West Melbourne, with more in the works. We currently serve children ages five (5) and up and adults any age in all locations in-person and via telehealth. At ClearPath Health, we view therapy as a collaborative process in which clients are encouraged to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate setting and at their own pace. Clients who have completed treatment leave with new coping skills, a renewed sense of confidence and fresh perspectives on their lives. You have taken a huge step just by seeking out therapy. Now let's embark on this journey together! Reach out today for an appointment.
(727) 353-0816 View (727) 353-0816
Photo of Pasadena Villa Outpatient - Orlando, Treatment Center in Florida
Pasadena Villa Outpatient - Orlando
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
In addition to our comprehensive residential services at Pasadena Villa Orlando, our outpatient services provide a full continuum of outpatient treatment options for adults struggling with complex mental health disorders. Clients may admit directly to our outpatient programs or utilize this as a step down from higher levels of care.
In addition to our comprehensive residential services at Pasadena Villa Orlando, our outpatient services provide a full continuum of outpatient treatment options for adults struggling with complex mental health disorders. Clients may admit directly to our outpatient programs or utilize this as a step down from higher levels of care.
(689) 888-7925 View (689) 888-7925
Photo of Family Center for Recovery, Treatment Center in Florida
Family Center for Recovery
Treatment Center, MD, FAPA, FASAM
Verified Verified
Lantana, FL 33462
At FCFR, we provide evidence-based treatment for patients with psychiatric disorders with or without substance use disorder. "We often treat patients that other treatment centers will no or cannot treat." Patients may have been suffering with a treatment-resistant psychiatric disorder such as, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder with suicidality, Schizoaffective Disorder, etc. This patient has travelled many traditional and non-traditional treatment avenues, to no avail. Patients suffering such a lifetime of struggle come to FCFR and have their hope restored, are taught coping skills, and learn to apply everything they are learning therapeutically while practicing every day adult daily living skills while at our transitional living facility. Patients such as these have been known to turn their lives around, purchase vehicles, go back to college, restore relationships with their families, and begin living a new positive, productive lifestyle. That is able to be sustained long-term. The same can be said for someone who is struggling with the chronic and progressive, potentially fatal disease of Substance Use Disorder.
At FCFR, we provide evidence-based treatment for patients with psychiatric disorders with or without substance use disorder. "We often treat patients that other treatment centers will no or cannot treat." Patients may have been suffering with a treatment-resistant psychiatric disorder such as, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder with suicidality, Schizoaffective Disorder, etc. This patient has travelled many traditional and non-traditional treatment avenues, to no avail. Patients suffering such a lifetime of struggle come to FCFR and have their hope restored, are taught coping skills, and learn to apply everything they are learning therapeutically while practicing every day adult daily living skills while at our transitional living facility. Patients such as these have been known to turn their lives around, purchase vehicles, go back to college, restore relationships with their families, and begin living a new positive, productive lifestyle. That is able to be sustained long-term. The same can be said for someone who is struggling with the chronic and progressive, potentially fatal disease of Substance Use Disorder.
(561) 559-7240 View (561) 559-7240
Photo of Center of Revitalizing Psychiatry, Treatment Center in Florida
Center of Revitalizing Psychiatry
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34237
Whether you are searching for an experienced therapist for yourself or your loved ones, a highly regarded psychiatrist who can guide you in managing your pharmacological needs, a dynamic group environment where you can find support and empathy for life's many challenges, we have it all! Our center has been serving the mental health needs of our patients for almost two decades, and our staff includes psychologists, psychotherapists, psychiatrists as well as a number of group and treatment programs, including in mental health and substance abuse.
Whether you are searching for an experienced therapist for yourself or your loved ones, a highly regarded psychiatrist who can guide you in managing your pharmacological needs, a dynamic group environment where you can find support and empathy for life's many challenges, we have it all! Our center has been serving the mental health needs of our patients for almost two decades, and our staff includes psychologists, psychotherapists, psychiatrists as well as a number of group and treatment programs, including in mental health and substance abuse.
(941) 841-1330 View (941) 841-1330
Photo of Hanley Center Counseling, Treatment Center in Florida
Hanley Center Counseling
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Hanley Center Counseling (HCC), a branch of Hanley Foundation’s treatment programs, offers several treatment options that allow our team to match patients with the care they need most. HCC offers partial hospitalization (day/night treatment), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and outpatient services to treat substance use disorders. We also provide intensive outpatient programs (IOP) and outpatient care for those diagnosed with primary mental health disorders. As with other serious illnesses, patients often start at a high-intensity level of care (such as detox or residential treatment) and move to lower, more flexible levels of care as they progress to wellness. Each patient has different needs on the path to recovery, so treatment varies from person to person. Like other health conditions, there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to treating substance use or mental health disorders. Our programming takes into account each person's individual needs and creates a personalized plan toward long-term healing and wellness.
Hanley Center Counseling (HCC), a branch of Hanley Foundation’s treatment programs, offers several treatment options that allow our team to match patients with the care they need most. HCC offers partial hospitalization (day/night treatment), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and outpatient services to treat substance use disorders. We also provide intensive outpatient programs (IOP) and outpatient care for those diagnosed with primary mental health disorders. As with other serious illnesses, patients often start at a high-intensity level of care (such as detox or residential treatment) and move to lower, more flexible levels of care as they progress to wellness. Each patient has different needs on the path to recovery, so treatment varies from person to person. Like other health conditions, there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to treating substance use or mental health disorders. Our programming takes into account each person's individual needs and creates a personalized plan toward long-term healing and wellness.
(561) 898-0186 View (561) 898-0186
Photo of Ketamine Health Centers, Treatment Center in Florida
Ketamine Health Centers
Treatment Center, MD, FAPA
Not Verified Not Verified
Coral Gables, FL 33146
We are committed to helping our patients live a happy, healthy, and positive life. We want to help those suffering from depression, fibromyalgia, post traumatic stress disorder, and other conditions to regain balance between the heart, body, and mind.
We are committed to helping our patients live a happy, healthy, and positive life. We want to help those suffering from depression, fibromyalgia, post traumatic stress disorder, and other conditions to regain balance between the heart, body, and mind.
(305) 676-7438 View (305) 676-7438
Photo of Live Well Therapy Group, Treatment Center in Florida
Live Well Therapy Group
Treatment Center, CPLC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33176
Live Well Therapy Group (LWTG) is a group private practice with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families & couples. At LWTG, we strongly believe in the support, confidence and hope a therapeutic relationship can provide. Whether you are exploring new ideas or going through a rough time, therapy offers both short-term support and long lasting benefits.
Live Well Therapy Group (LWTG) is a group private practice with extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families & couples. At LWTG, we strongly believe in the support, confidence and hope a therapeutic relationship can provide. Whether you are exploring new ideas or going through a rough time, therapy offers both short-term support and long lasting benefits.
(786) 629-7346 View (786) 629-7346
Photo of Florida Counseling and Evaluation Services, Treatment Center in Florida
Florida Counseling and Evaluation Services
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Florida Counseling and Evaluation Services is a group of competent and caring mental health providers whose goal is to assist individuals in resolving personal difficulties and in acquiring those skills, attitudes, and resources necessary to pursue productive and satisfying lives. We offer individual, couples/family, group, and intensive outpatient (IOP) treatment options for substance abuse (SA) and mental health (MH). We offer the only non-hospital based intensive mental health intensive outpatient program in the greater Jacksonville area.
Florida Counseling and Evaluation Services is a group of competent and caring mental health providers whose goal is to assist individuals in resolving personal difficulties and in acquiring those skills, attitudes, and resources necessary to pursue productive and satisfying lives. We offer individual, couples/family, group, and intensive outpatient (IOP) treatment options for substance abuse (SA) and mental health (MH). We offer the only non-hospital based intensive mental health intensive outpatient program in the greater Jacksonville area.
(904) 329-7518 View (904) 329-7518
Photo of Institute for Life Renovation, LLC IOP, Treatment Center in Florida
Institute for Life Renovation, LLC IOP
Treatment Center, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Institute for Life Renovation is a highly individualized Intensive Outpatient Program that treats complex individuals. We begin with a thorough assessment by a double Board-Certified Licensed Psychologist, which we use to develop a specialized treatment plan. Each patient's treatment vastly differs depending upon their needs. We have a comprehensive team of professionals for integrated care under one roof. We also have specialty tracks for those who struggle with disordered eating and/or substance abuse. Our program also has a comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) track and is fully-adherent and certified in DBT.
The Institute for Life Renovation is a highly individualized Intensive Outpatient Program that treats complex individuals. We begin with a thorough assessment by a double Board-Certified Licensed Psychologist, which we use to develop a specialized treatment plan. Each patient's treatment vastly differs depending upon their needs. We have a comprehensive team of professionals for integrated care under one roof. We also have specialty tracks for those who struggle with disordered eating and/or substance abuse. Our program also has a comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) track and is fully-adherent and certified in DBT.
(954) 398-5194 View (954) 398-5194

See more therapy options for Florida

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.