How is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Treated?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is treated with a number of therapeutic approaches, including
the following:
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a highly regarded treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder
(ASD). It is used for all levels of severity on the autism spectrum. ABA is a learning-based
approach that is designed to teach children and adults how to reduce or eliminate maladaptive
patterns of behavior and learn skills that are necessary for success in life. ABA is used to teach
social skills, reduce anxiety, manage emotions, help with learning problems and academic
underachievement, and treat sleep issues and eating disorders.
Life Skills Behavioral Therapy
Life Skills Behavioral Therapy uses methods of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach
children with high functioning autism to cope effectively with the demands and challenges of
life. Life skills include decision-making and problem-solving, coping with difficult emotions and
stress, self-awareness, and the development of empathy.
Social and Interpersonal Skills Training
Social and Interpersonal Skills Training is extremely important in the treatment of children and
adults with autism. This approach helps people with autism learn conversational skills, as well as
non-verbal communication through eye contact, facial expressions, and body language.
Play Therapy
Play therapy benefits children with autism in several ways. It helps children practice communication skills
and essential social skills, allowing them to become more comfortable expressing themselves. Play therapy can help children learn to manage their
emotions. It also enables children to increase their motor skills. Very importantly, play therapy provides a calming
and secure environment that can reduce anxiety and stress, while making learning fun.
Parent Training
Parent training is a type of behavior therapy that teaches parents and other caregivers specific
techniques for reducing their child’s problem behavior and replacing it with behavioral skills that
lead to increased success at school, at home, and in important relationships.
Behavioral Self-Management Training
Behavioral Self-Management Training uses specific methods of instruction and practice to
increase independence and teach new skills. For children who are high functioning on the autism
spectrum, this training is also used to reduce anxiety, manage anger, develop more effective
organizational skills, and improve relationships.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) may be very helpful to children with high-functioning
autism. CBT is based on the idea that the way a person thinks or feels affects the way they
behave. The goal of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is to identify and change maladaptive thought
patterns in order to cope more effectively with difficult situations. This approach may be helpful
in the treatment of children with autism who experience anxiety and depression.
Family Therapy
Family Therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on improving relationships among
family members. A lack of knowledge about the nature of autism can be a source of frustration.
In Family Therapy, problems related to autism are explained, and family members are taught
specific ways of helping and providing emotional support to the child.
