In general, behavior management therapy works to reinforce wanted behaviors and reduce unwanted behaviors. At the same time, these methods also suggest what caregivers should do before or between episodes of problem behaviors, and what to do during or after these episodes. Behavioral therapy is often based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Different applications of ABA commonly used for people with autism include: Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBS), Pivotal Response Training (PRT), Incidental Teaching, Milieu Therapy, Verbal Behavior, and Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT), among others.

Keep in mind that other therapies, beyond ABA, may also be effective for persons with autism. Talk to your health care provider about the best options for your child.

A variety of health care providers can also help individuals with ASDs and their families to work through different situations.

• Speech­language therapists can help people autism improve their general ability to communicate and interact with others effectively, as well as develop their speech and language skills. These therapists may teach non­verbal ways of communicating and may improve social skills that involve communicating with others. They may also help people to better use words and sentences, and to improve rate and rhythm of speech and conversation.

• Occupational therapists can help people with autism find ways to adjust tasks and conditions that match their needs and abilities. Such help may include finding a specially designed computer mouse and keyboard to ease communication, or identifying skills that build on a person's interests and individual capabilities. Occupational therapists may also do many of the same types of activities as physical therapists do (see below).

• Physical therapists design activities and exercises to build motor control and to improve posture and balance. For example, they can help a child who avoids body contact to participate in activities and games with other children.

Special services are often available to preschool and school­aged children, as well as to teens, through the local public school system. In many cases, services provided by specialists in the school setting are free. More intense and individualized help is available through private clinics, but the family usually has to pay for private services, although some health insurance plans may help cover the cost.