Adults with autism spectrum disorder often face challenges when trying to live independently. They may have difficulty finding and keeping jobs, managing relationships or coping with social situations. They can also suffer from depression and anxiety. Therapy for adults with autism can help them learn to manage these symptoms and better function in their daily lives.
Psychiatry, psychotherapy and counseling are some of the most common treatment options for adults with autism. They are a safe and non-judgmental way for adults to work with a psychologist or other mental health professional to address emotional or behavioral issues.
Cognitive behavior therapy is an approach to psychotherapy that focuses on changing patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving to improve your life. This type of therapy is especially helpful for people with autism who have problems describing or labelling their emotions and beliefs. It can help them learn how to change their behaviors, which can reduce negative emotional states and increase positive ones.
Individual, family and group therapy are other forms of counseling that may be a good fit for adults with autism. These therapies can be individualized for each person, and may focus on a specific area of life or a particular issue.
Counseling is also an effective option for improving relationships and helping you build a support network. Many therapists are trained in autism and can provide support and guidance to you and your loved ones.
Other treatments for autism include medication, dietary changes and complementary and alternative therapies, such as yoga, meditation or chiropractic care. These therapies can help improve physical health and ease pain or stress.
Medication can be used to treat symptoms of autism, such as irritability or low self-esteem. Some medications can help with social skills and behavior, as well. They can also be used to treat depression, anxiety and other common co-occurring disorders that are related to autism.
Occupational therapy is a form of therapeutic intervention that can be helpful for adults with autism. It involves learning to interact with the environment around you so that your sensory needs are met and you feel comfortable in it. This can help to decrease the intensity of those relationships and situations that cause you stress or lead to depression and anxiety.
Another form of therapy for adults with autism is ABA. This treatment uses behavior modification techniques and constant feedback to change negative behaviors. This type of therapy is most often used with children, but it can be applied to adults as well.
Early intensive behavioral intervention helps adults develop communication skills and reduce problematic behavior, including self-harm or aggression. This strategy involves working one-on-one with a therapist over a period of several years.
Pivotal response training teaches a person with autism pivotal skills, such as the motivation to initiate communication or get things they want. It is a type of behavior therapy that can be done in an individual’s home or in an educational setting.
Relationship development intervention (RDI) is a type of behavioral intervention that encourages therapists to follow their clients’ interests, which can help expand opportunities for communication. This can help people with autism communicate their thoughts and feelings, which in turn can improve their relationships with others.