The 5 Best Therapies for Those on the Autism Spectrum

Autism is a mental health disorder that affects both children and adults. It causes people to behave in certain ways that are considered “abnormal” and make interaction with others very difficult. While there is no cure for autism, there are treatments that have been shown to help people, including children, improve their social interactions. The following are five of the best-known therapies for those on the autism spectrum.

Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) works very well in helping children and adults. The therapy uses a reward system to encourage positive behaviors. ABA offers a handful of different treatment options, namely:

• Discrete trial training
• Early intensive behavioral intervention
• Pivotal response training
• Verbal behavior intervention
• Positive behavior support

A trained therapist will be able to assess your loved one to determine which of these types of ABA may be the most suitable.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy that has been effective in treating both kids and adults with autism. Often, certain thought patterns or emotions can trigger negative behavior in someone with autism. CBT helps individuals identify which thoughts and feelings may be the culprit.

Social Skills Training

Social skills training (SST) is very helpful in guiding individuals in developing their social skills. Social interaction can be extremely difficult for those on the autism spectrum. But SST can help them learn how to interact with others in a positive and comfortable way.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy is an effective tool for helping people with autism communicate better. Not only will it help children learn how to use words correctly, but it can also help adults improve HOW they communicate their thoughts and feelings.

Sensory Integration Therapy

People with autism are often affected by sensory input such as smells, sounds, or light. Sensory integration therapy (SIT) works by controlling an individual’s response to light, sounds, and smells. If you would like to explore any of these treatment options for your loved one please get in touch with me. Sheila Simchon, LCSW Sheila has served as a Learning Disabilities Specialist since 2006, training professionals in higher education on the best practices of working with students with learning disabilities. She has also been providing clients with psycho-educational assessments to obtain appropriate accommodations and services, and providing individual support to teens and young adults struggling in school, career, and life. In addition to Learning Disabilities, Sheila has done extensive research and has developed programs that support adults with disabilities looking to transition to adulthood. Support includes; career development, social skills, self-care, and independent living skills. Sheila has also provided support to individuals struggling with life and looking for personal growth, couples looking to strengthen their relationship, and families looking to cope with stressful transitions that impact the family as a whole. For more information, visit: https://caringtherapistsofbroward.com/staff/sheila-simchon-lcsw/   SOURCES:

• https://www.webmd.com/brain/autism/therapies-to-help-with-autism
• https://www.healthline.com/health/autism-treatment
• https://www.verywellhealth.com/psychology-as-a-treatment-for-autism-260060