What is the Best Therapy for Adults with Autism?

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How is autism treated in adults?

Therapy is not meant to "cure" autism because there is nothing to cure. Rather, therapy is a place to provide you with a framework to better understand your difficulties and strengths and work on strategies to better cope with difficulties, and focus on your strengths. After receiving an adult autism evaluation you may decide to work with a therapist who can help you better understand your feelings and help you cope with the new diagnosis. Autism therapy includes:

  • Learning best ways to cope with intense sensory issues

  • Skills to develop and deepen friendships and relationships

  • Focusing on becoming more flexible to help combat rigidity tendencies

  • Strategies to help with social or general anxiety

  • Understanding communication and how to communicate more effectively

  • Learning how to accept your differences and focusing on your strengths

What is the best treatment for autism?

The majority of research on adult autism treatment has focused on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and applied behavior analysis (ABA).

CBT is a type of talk therapy that can be effective in helping children and adults. During CBT sessions, people learn about the connections between feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. This may help to identify the thoughts and feelings that trigger negative behaviors. People also learn to identify unhelpful or negative thought patterns and change inaccurate beliefs.

ABA therapy is the most-researched intervention for autism, and has been used for more than 50 years. It is a highly structured, scientific approach that teaches play, communication, self-care, academic and social living skills, and reduces problematic behaviors.

What is the difference between CBT and ABA?

CBT takes a much broader approach to encourage wholesome and lasting development in the patient, while ABA addresses specific and immediate behavioral issues. Therapists often implement aspects of both disciplines in the course of their work, although some eventually specialize to advance their career.

Once you’ve decided you could benefit from autism therapy, read these frequently asked questions about therapy. Whether you want to try online autism therapy or find an autism specialist near near you, there are many options.

Our team at the Thriving Wellness Center is also always happy to answer any questions about autism therapy you may have. Whether you’re committed to the idea of trying therapy or you or your are not quite sure yet, we can help you figure out how to know if you need therapy and tell you more about the autism therapy process.

Please contact us to see how we can help you improve your life.

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