12/10/2025
Therapies for children on the autism spectrum.
CORE THERAPIES
These are the most essential and evidence based therapies that directly target communication, behavior, and daily living skills.
1. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy
Builds positive behaviors and reduces challenging ones.
Teaches communication, attention, social, and learning skills using structured methods and rewards.
2. Speech and Language Therapy (SLT)
Improves a child’s ability to communicate , whether through speech, gestures, or alternative systems
Helps with articulation, understanding words, and expressing needs.
3. Occupational Therapy (OT)
Focuses on independence in daily life.
Helps children with motor coordination, sensory processing, self-help skills (eating, dressing), and hand-eye coordination.
4. Social Skills Training
Teaches children how to play, take turns, make friends, and read social cues.
Often done in small groups to practice real-life interaction.
5. Play Therapy
Helps children learn through structured play.
Encourages imagination, emotional expression, and connection.
COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES
These therapies support emotional, sensory, and physical well-being , they work best when combined with core therapies.
6. Sensory Integration Therapy
Helps children who are overly sensitive (or under-sensitive) to sound, touch, or movement.
Uses swings, textures, and other sensory tools to help the child feel calm and focused.
7. Physical Therapy (PT)
Improves gross motor skills such as walking, running, jumping, and coordination.
Especially helpful for children with low muscle tone or poor balance.
8. Music Therapy
Uses rhythm and music to build attention, communication, and social interaction.
Encourages children to express themselves in fun, nonverbal