Autism is a spectrum disorder that is characterized by challenges in social skills, speech, nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors.1 Autism manifests differently in each child. The best therapy for autism may vary from one individual to another. An individualized treatment plan tailored to each child’s unique needs is ideal when exploring therapy for an autistic child.
Autism therapy for children can enhance daily functioning skills and improve quality of life.2 Among the types of therapy for autism, each has a focus and method, making some more suitable for certain children than others. There is also a growing awareness and a wider range of therapy options that are tailored to varying development stages, including early-stage interventions.3
Explore the different types of therapy for autism to learn more about available options.
Most Common Types of Therapy for Autism
Given how diverse the symptoms of autism can be for children, the types of therapy for autism are also varied to match the different autistic traits that a child may exhibit.1, 2
There is no single best therapy for autism. The most effective approach depends on each child. The following are common types of therapy for autism that can often yield positive results.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is an approach to autism therapy for children that focuses on developing social skills, enhancing good behavior and improving language competency through positive reinforcement. It’s ideal for behavior management and improved communication.4
Speech and Language Therapy
Speech and language therapy builds verbal, non-verbal and social communication.5 By improving a child’s communication skills, they can overcome social isolation and enhance self-expression. Techniques used by a speech pathologist within speech and language therapy for kids with autism include alternative augmentative communication (AAC) and social language skills.5
Occupational Therapy (OT)
Occupational therapy (OT) helps children with autism boost self-care and learn everyday skills such as eating, dressing and bathing to live more independently and improve their mental health.6, 7 Some techniques occupational therapists leverage during autism therapy for children include motor skill development and sensory processing exercises.
Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)
Relationship development intervention (RDI) teaches children how to form bonds with their parents and other family members. This therapy for a child with autism focuses on social, psychological and flexible thinking, teaching them how to cope with change and transitions.8
Through most RDI programs, parents undergo instruction and become the child’s primary therapist.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy for kids with autism that can help them manage anxiety by learning how to identify and change thoughts that lead to problem feelings or behaviors.9 CBT involves the continual refinement of techniques to best meet the child’s needs.
Which Therapy is the Most Effective for Children with Autism?
When choosing the best therapy for autism, there are many factors to consider.
The first is the child’s unique needs and goals. A child who needs help with speech skills may benefit from a different form of autism therapy for children than a child who experiences challenges with feeding or dressing independently. Every child’s journey is unique—some may flourish with a blend of therapeutic approaches, while others thrive with a single, focused intervention.2 Beginning with an evaluation of a child’s strengths, challenges and goals can provide a solid foundation for selecting the most appropriate therapy for an autistic child.
Choosing the best therapy for autism may depend on the expertise and experience of therapists. This is especially true if you find a therapist with experience working with children who share the same strengths, challenges and goals as your child.
Finally, you’ll want to consider the setting of autism therapy for children – whether in-person, at home or at school. Depending on your child’s objectives, certain settings may be more appropriate for addressing those goals, such as boosting academic capabilities at school or improving social and language outcomes in natural settings, like at home.2
Considering a Multidisciplinary Approach to Autism Therapy for Children
Many children on the autism spectrum have varied needs and personal goals that may be well-served by a range of therapeutic approaches. Since every person with autism has unique strengths and challenges, combining therapies can support progress in multiple areas—improvements in one skill can lead to gains in another while addressing co-occurring medical conditions can enhance learning and behavior. 10
For instance, combining ABA, OT and speech therapy for kids with autism allows them to improve their behaviors, independence and speech. The success and improvements seen in one therapy can often translate to the other. 11 Instead of focusing on just one set of skills, addressing all three areas enables the child to reach their full potential and enhance their overall quality of life.
When it comes to combining types of therapy for autism, a coordinated care plan is crucial to effectively try them and ensure they all support the child’s goals. Sometimes, a bit of trial and error is needed to find the right combination based on the child’s preferences. However, this is a worthwhile process because once the right approach is discovered, the child can experience comprehensive growth.
Furthermore, a coordinated care plan ensures that all therapists work collaboratively. This allows multiple experts to combine their knowledge when providing therapy for a child on the autism spectrum.
Therapy for Kids with Autism
There are many choices of autism therapy for children, including applied behavior analysis, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, relationship development intervention and cognitive behavioral therapy. Each type of therapy for kids with autism includes a specific set of skills for them to work on, which opens the door for a multidisciplinary approach that supercharges the child’s success.
The sooner autism therapy for children begins, the earlier children can have the chance to explore, develop and nurture their skills.
If you’re interested in careers that can help support individuals on the autism spectrum, including children and young adults, explore the graduate health sciences degree programs at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS), including our Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) and Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), as well as our Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) program.
References
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Autism Speaks, 2024, https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism.
- Treatment and Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder, CDC, 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/autism/treatment/index.html
- Intervention and Therapies, Autism Society, 2025, https://autismsociety.org/resources/intervention-and-therapies.
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Autism Speaks, 2024, https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis
- Speech Therapy, Autism Speaks, 2024, https://www.autismspeaks.org/speech-therapy.
- Occupational therapy, Autism Speaks, 2024, https://www.autismspeaks.org/occupational-therapy.
- Kirby, A. V., Morgan, L., & Hilton, C., “Autism and Mental Health: The Role of Occupational Therapy,” The American Journal of Occupational Therapy (AJOT), March 24, 2023: 77(2). https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2023.050303.
- Relationship Development Intervention (RDI), Autism Speaks, 2024, https://www.autismspeaks.org/relationship-development-intervention-rdi.
- You, X.-R., Gong, X.-R., Guo, M.-R., & Ma, B.-X, “Cognitive behavioural therapy to improve social skills in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials,” Journal of Affective Disorders, 2023: 344, 8–17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2023.10.008
- Autism therapy and intervention, Autism Speaks, 2024, https://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-therapies.
- Bista, “How ABA, Speech, and Occupational Therapy Work Together to Improve Outcomes,” Bista, 2025, https://www.bistacenter.org/how-aba-speech-and-occupational-therapy-work-together-to-improve-outcomes.
