Individual Therapy for Adolescents and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) 

The UW Autism Center provides individualized psychotherapy for autistic adolescents and adults. Eligibility for therapy is determined on a case-by-case basis. Therapists typically use a cognitive-behavioral therapy approach (CBT) while drawing from other therapy approaches as indicated. CBT recognizes how thoughts, emotions, and actions are interconnected and uses problem-solving strategies and psychoeducation to increase awareness and enable change. Family involvement is often encouraged, as it is an important part of generalizing new skills. Depending on the needs of the individual, the focus of therapy may include one or more of the following:

• Increasing awareness of emotional responses and developing emotion regulation skills  
• Developing coping skills for frustration 
• Instruction and practice in problem-solving skills 
• Increasing understanding of social situations and appropriate social interaction skills through role-play and rehearsal

To request services, see Intake & Scheduling