Top Therapy for Autism: Effective Approaches for Support and Growth

When your child is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, you can begin to feel overwhelmed trying to figure out what steps to take to ensure that they get all the help they may need in managing this condition. While there is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, certain treatments and therapies are available that can help children and teens develop stronger communication and social skills, limit repetitive behaviors, and function more effectively.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. Every child with ASD is unique, and treatment options should be tailored to their individual needs. Some symptoms of autism spectrum disorder include:

• Difficulty making eye contact
• Having difficulties with back and forth conversation
• Facial expressions and movements that do not match what's being said
• Developmental milestones may be delayed
• Difficulty adjusting behavior to social interactions
• Unresponsive or slow to respond to verbal instructions
• Overly focused interests
• Sensitivity to sensory input
• Sleep disorders

Autism spectrum disorder may be diagnosed by a healthcare provider or mental health professional using the criteria found in the diagnostic and statistical manual (DSM-5). It may co-occur with other mental health disorders, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Early intervention and diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment and support. While treatment options can help people of all ages, children with autism spectrum disorder have often been shown to dramatically benefit from early intensive behavioral intervention.

Therapy Approaches for Autism

A combined treatment approach that incorporates several different types of therapy is often the most effective for those with autism spectrum disorder.

Autism therapies focus on reducing problematic behaviors, building communication and social skills, and addressing sensory integration problems.

Common autism treatments may include behavior therapy, speech therapy, play-based therapy, physical therapy, social skills training, occupational therapy, and nutritional therapy.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based approach that is highly adaptable, can meet the needs of each child, and is commonly offered to children with autism.

ABA aims to encourage desired behaviors through positive reinforcement and reduce unwanted behaviors using techniques set out by applied behavior analysis. A therapist who practices ABA for autism treatment may work in a clinic or a school and work with individual goals around social, communication, motor, and developmental abilities to help the child become as independent as possible.

Occupational Therapy for Autism

Occupational therapy can support a child's development and help those with autism spectrum disorder build everyday skills such as feeding, grooming, and dressing themselves. Occupational therapy may also help children with ASD develop skills such as social interaction, behavior, and classroom performance. Occupational therapists work with both fine and gross motor skills to help improve overall physical function.

Occupational therapy services are available privately, through a statewide early childhood intervention program, or at school. Often, an occupational therapy professional will work with speech therapy and physical therapy to develop an overarching treatment plan.

Speech-Language Therapy for Autism

Speech therapy can help children with ASD improve their verbal and nonverbal communication skills. A speech-language therapist may use exercises to improve language skills such as speech rhythm, sentence structure, and vocabulary.

Nonverbal communication skills such as sign language and eye contact can also be improved through speech-language therapy.

Additional Therapies for Autism

Physical therapy can help children with ASD build motor skills and improve their overall physical abilities, while nutritional therapy may help children with ASD meet their nutritional needs and improve their overall health if they have sensitivities to food tastes and textures.

Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) can help children with ASD understand how thoughts influence behavior and may help with the treatment of co-occurring mental health disorders.

Other potential therapies that can help build desired behavior and prevent unwanted behavior include pivotal response treatment (based on the principles of ABA), the early start Denver model (to help close developmental gaps), relationship development intervention, and a method of teaching children with autism known as discrete trial training.

Some parents may choose to also pursue complementary and alternative treatments for autism, but these should be discussed with their child's primary care doctor first.

Choosing the Right Therapy for Autism

Choosing the right therapy for a person with autism involves thoughtful consideration of key factors, including assessment, goals, and family participation.

It is essential to ensure that the chosen therapy enhances family participation and collaboration between therapy providers, educators, and caregivers. A healthcare provider can and should help identify and manage co-occurring medical and mental health conditions.

Getting the Most Out of Therapy for Autism

Early intervention during preschool years can help your child learn critical skills and help close or narrow any developmental gaps that may be present.

Another important part of autism treatment is parent or caregiver participation. Following through with therapies at home can help your child generalize new skills and behaviors.

Establishing a consistent schedule can help your child feel more secure, reduce anxiety, and recognize your child’s strengths to help build on their abilities and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Coping and Support for Autism

Raising a child with autism spectrum disorder can be physically and emotionally draining, especially in more severe cases or those with other mental health issues. Seeking support from family, friends, and healthcare providers is important.

Consider joining a support group or online community for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Ask for help from friends and relatives, even if it's just for a little break. Prioritize self-care and seek help when needed.

Planning for the Future

Children with autism spectrum disorder typically require some level of support throughout life, and planning for their future opportunities, such as employment and independence, is important. This plan should include services and support to help your child achieve their goals.

A healthcare provider can help develop a plan for your child’s future. Complementary and alternative treatments may offer some benefit, but it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new therapies. Participating in a clinical trial may provide access to new treatments and therapies., although you should consult with a healthcare provider before participating in a clinical trial.

Supplementing Autism Treatment in Brooklyn

There is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, and treatment aims to maximize your child’s ability to function. For those who may be experiencing co-occurring mental health issues or negative behaviors, talk therapy can help build healthy coping skills, provide stress management, and offer tools for anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances.

At Williamsburg Therapy Group, our team of doctoral-level Williamsburg psychotherapists offers a number of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to talk therapy that offer the tools necessary for creating a healthy environment for your child or adolescent with autism and sharing techniques that can benefit the whole family.

If you are having trouble helping your child with autism, call our service coordinator to be matched with a therapist that can offer social support, treat any comorbid mental disorders that may be contributing, facilitate healthy communication, and in general improve the mental health and well-being of your child.