Raising a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) comes with unique joys and challenges. One of the most important steps after receiving a diagnosis is choosing the right therapy options to support your child’s development, communication, and social skills.
Because autism is a spectrum, every child is different—and so are their needs. This article outlines the most common and evidence-based therapy options available to help children with autism reach their full potential.
1. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
What it is:
ABA is a structured, evidence-based therapy that uses positive reinforcement to encourage helpful behaviors and reduce those that may interfere with learning.
Focus areas:
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Social skills
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Communication
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Daily living skills
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Behavior regulation
How it works:
Therapists break down skills into small, teachable steps and use repetition, prompts, and rewards to build mastery.
Pros:
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Backed by decades of research
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Individualized plans based on behavior and data
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Can be intensive and highly effective
Considerations:
Some families seek alternatives to ABA or prefer modified, child-led approaches like Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs).
2. Speech and Language Therapy
What it is:
Speech therapy helps children develop verbal and nonverbal communication skills.
Focus areas:
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Articulation and pronunciation
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Understanding and using language
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Social communication (pragmatics)
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Nonverbal methods (e.g., PECS, AAC devices)
How it helps:
Many autistic children face challenges with language, from delays to complete nonverbal expression. Speech therapists tailor sessions to help children express themselves, ask questions, and interact more effectively.
Tools used:
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Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
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Sign language
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Speech-generating devices
3. Occupational Therapy (OT)
What it is:
OT focuses on developing the skills children need to perform daily tasks and participate in life.
Focus areas:
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Fine motor skills (e.g., holding a pencil, buttoning clothes)
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Sensory integration (e.g., managing sound, touch, movement)
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Self-care tasks like eating, dressing, and grooming
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Emotional regulation
How it helps:
OT can be especially helpful for children with sensory sensitivities or difficulties in motor planning. It can also support behavior and focus by creating a sensory-friendly daily routine.
4. Physical Therapy (PT)
What it is:
PT supports gross motor development and coordination for children who have difficulty with movement.
Focus areas:
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Walking, running, jumping
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Balance and coordination
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Muscle strength and tone
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Posture and mobility
Who it helps:
Children on the spectrum with motor delays, low muscle tone, or difficulty with physical play benefit greatly from PT to enhance movement and independence.
5. Play Therapy
What it is:
Play therapy uses play as a medium for children to express emotions, build relationships, and learn problem-solving.
Focus areas:
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Emotional expression
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Imaginative play
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Social skills
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Coping with change or anxiety
How it helps:
For autistic children, especially those who struggle with traditional verbal therapies, play therapy offers a natural and less intimidating way to communicate and grow.
6. Social Skills Training
What it is:
Social skills groups or one-on-one sessions teach children how to interact, read social cues, and build friendships.
Focus areas:
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Making eye contact
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Starting conversations
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Turn-taking
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Understanding emotions
Where it happens:
Social skills training can be done in schools, clinics, or group settings, often using role-play, games, or peer modeling.
7. Developmental and Relationship-Based Therapies
These therapies focus on building meaningful relationships and supporting development through interaction and emotional connection.
Examples:
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DIR/Floortime: Encourages engagement through play and emotional connection
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SCERTS Model: Focuses on social communication, emotional regulation, and support systems
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Relationship Development Intervention (RDI): Trains caregivers to help their children think flexibly and form relationships
These are especially helpful for parents seeking a gentle, holistic approach to autism therapy.
8. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
What it is:
CBT helps older children and teens with autism understand how thoughts influence emotions and behaviors.
Used for:
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Anxiety
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Obsessive behaviors
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Emotional regulation
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Social understanding
CBT may be modified for autism by using visual aids, role-play, and concrete examples.
9. Parent-Mediated Interventions
Parents are powerful partners in therapy. Some interventions train caregivers to implement therapy strategies at home, such as:
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Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)
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PACT (Parent-mediated Communication Therapy)
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Hanen’s “More Than Words” program
These approaches ensure continuity of support outside therapy sessions.
Choosing the Right Therapies for Your Child
When selecting therapy options, consider:
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Your child’s age, strengths, and challenges
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The goals most important to your family
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Availability of licensed professionals in your area
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Willingness to combine multiple therapies for a holistic approach
In many cases, a combination of therapies—like speech therapy alongside occupational therapy—can be the most effective strategy.
Conclusion
There’s no one-size-fits-all therapy for autism. Every child is unique, and the best approach is one that supports their growth, values their individuality, and respects your family’s needs. With the right therapies in place, children on the autism spectrum can thrive, connect, and gain the tools they need to lead fulfilling lives.