What treatments and therapies are there for ASD?

When a child is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), parents often receive conflicting recommendations; they may be told to try speech therapy, ABA, OT, school supports, and more. All that information can quickly become overwhelming.

The truth is that there is no single treatment plan that works for everyone with autism. Different therapies help with different challenges, and the right support depends on your child's unique needs.

Here are possible struggles your child may be dealing with and the forms of treatment that can help children overcome those struggles: 

If your child struggles to communicate...

Speech therapy can help. For one child, that may mean learning their first words. For another, it can mean learning how to express feelings, understand social cues, or carry a conversation.

If your child becomes overwhelmed by noise, clothing textures, or daily routines...

Occupational therapy (OT) may be beneficial. OT helps children manage sensory challenges and develop fine motor skills. A child who refuses certain clothing, struggles with handwriting, or cannot handle too much stimulation may benefit from this type of support.

If your child struggles with flexibility, safety, or everyday skills...

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy commonly recommended for children with ASD. It focuses on building practical skills and reducing behaviors that interfere with daily life. Goals may include communication, self-care, safety awareness, flexibility, and following routines.

If your child has difficulty connecting with others...

Some developmental and relationship-based therapies help children communicate, play, learn, and build relationships with people in their life. These approaches often involve parents and caregivers. Some families also explore relationship-based programs such as Son-Rise.

If your child is struggling in school...

‍School-based support may help. These can include an IEP (Individualized Education Program), speech therapy, occupational therapy, classroom accommodations, or additional support throughout the school day. A child can receive sensory breaks, help with transitions, or support navigating social situations.

If your child struggles with anxiety or strong emotions…‍

Mental health support can help children and adults understand their feelings, manage stress, and develop coping skills. This category can include individual therapy, family therapy, peer support, and other forms of counseling.

If your child needs support outside of therapy sessions...

OPWDD services can provide additional help. Depending on eligibility, services such as Community Habilitation (Com Hab), respite, vocational support, and day programs can help build skills, independence, and participation in community life.

Finding the right support for your child often involves trial and error. What works well for one child may not be the best fit for another, and what works for a 5-year-old may no longer be effective in adolescence. 

The goal, though, is always the same: to work with your child’s strengths and needs, and give them tools to communicate, gain skills, and manage daily life to the best of their ability.