Expert Autism Therapy in Dallas, TX

Serving Southwest Orlando Dr Phillips & Windermere Florida

Ever felt like you’re speaking a different language from your child?

You try to connect—ask questions, offer comfort—but something’s just not clicking. Maybe they don’t look up when you call their name. Maybe they repeat the same phrase over and over. Or maybe they’re happiest when they’re alone, lining up blocks or watching the same video again and again.

You love them deeply. You see how brilliant, curious, and unique they are. But you also sense they’re navigating a world that doesn’t always feel built for them.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and your child isn’t either.

Therapist playing with her autistic client

Autism Therapy is about more than treatment. It’s about understanding. It’s about creating a safe, supportive space where your child can be themselves, while learning how to connect with the world in a way that feels right for them.

Here in Dallas, places like UT Southwestern and the Children’s Health℠ Center for Autism Care are leading the way in personalized, compassionate autism care. Families come from near and far to find answers—and to feel hope.

Because every child deserves the chance to be seen, heard, and supported. And every parent deserves a partner on that journey. Book your consultation now!

What Is Autism Therapy?

Autism Therapy isn’t just one thing—it’s a whole range of supportive, science-backed practices designed to help children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) build a better quality of life. Because ASD affects every child differently, therapy isn’t about checking boxes—it’s about meeting your child exactly where they are and helping them grow from there.

Whether your child is working through challenges with social interaction, communication, or repetitive behaviors, the right therapy can make a world of difference. And it’s not all about addressing difficulties—it’s also about celebrating strengths and encouraging what makes your child wonderfully them.

Here in Dallas, TX, families are fortunate to have access to top-tier care. Trusted centers like UT Southwestern and Children’s Health℠ Center for Autism Care are known for their compassionate, expert approach—supporting even the most complex cases with tailored treatment plans. Families from across Texas (and even beyond) come here to find the support, tools and hope they’ve been looking for.

So whether you’re just starting out or looking to explore new options, know this: great care is within reach—and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

The therapy processes, which include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), begin with a thorough evaluation of each child’s health status and needs. Therapy strategies are constantly updated to utilize modern techniques suitable for children as young as 18 months. For instance, there is an ongoing exploration into innovative gene therapies which target genes associated with autism symptoms to potentially reduce them.

What Is The Importance of Autism Therapy in Dallas, TX?

Support that makes a difference.
Autism therapy helps children build communication, social skills, and emotional resilience—opening doors to meaningful connection and growth.

Here in Dallas, families have access to leading ABA programs and personalized care tailored to every child’s needs.

Here is the importance of Autism Therapy in Dallas.

Availability of Services in Dallas

The city of Dallas, TX has a wide array of autism therapy services:

  • Diagnostic Evaluations: Clinics offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for children between 18 months to 3 years, which lay the foundation for devising individualized treatment plans.
  • Behavioral Intervention: Firms provide the renowned ABA Therapy, enabling children to enhance their social and communication skills.
  • Speech and Occupational Therapy: This is offered in childcare centers, hospitals, and special education schools to help children develop necessary life skills.
  • Neurodevelopmental Neurology: Experts diagnose and treat learning challenges and other medical conditions frequently accompanying autism.

These services are provided to cater to diverse budgets, backgrounds, and insurance statuses. Dallas also stands unique in its ability to handle complex cases, such as adolescents with autism exhibiting tendencies for aggression or self-harm, which points to the city’s commendable depth in expertise and resources.

Local Expertise and Specialized Centers

Dallas, TX takes pride in being home to top-rated centers and exceptional local experts who have dedicated their lives to autism therapy. Organizations like UT Southwestern and Children’s Health℠ Center for Autism Care are helmed by specialists with extensive experience in their respective fields, paving the way for bespoke care for each child visiting their establishment. Their team approach ensures that each child’s needs are addressed in a comprehensive manner, offering treatments that extend to a wide spectrum of developmental disabilities. Apart from ABA, they also incorporate Neurodevelopmental Neurology, Psychiatry, Psychology, Neuropsychology, and Social work therapies to provide all-around support to children and families affected by ASD.

Local therapists are adept at incorporating cutting-edge research findings into their practice to yield better outcomes. For instance, exploration into gene therapies is currently underway to potentially alleviate ASD symptoms by targeting the relevant genes. It is the calibre of such professionals and the presence of specialized centers that make Dallas, TX an attractive location for seeking autism therapy.

Initial Steps for Autism Therapy in Dallas

The first step towards initiating autism therapy in Dallas, TX involves conducting extensive evaluations of the child’s health and needs. The team of psychiatric professionals, like those at UT Southwestern and Children’s Health℠ Center for Autism Care, performs meticulous tests to correctly diagnose autism and any accompanying developmental disabilities. Based on these evaluations, detailed treatment plans are created with a focus on ABA therapy, intellectual challenges, and behavioral management techniques tailored specifically to suit the child’s needs.

Autism Diagnostic Evaluations

Here’s a brief overview of the Diagnostic Evaluation procedure:

Step

Description

Identification

Initially, parental concerns about their child’s social interaction, speech and language skills, and repetitive behaviors are acknowledged. Professionals further observe the child’s behavior patterns.

In-depth Evaluation

It involves exhaustive screening via various tools like the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).

Discussion

Findings from the clinical evaluation are discussed with the parents, followed by extensive consultation on potential therapeutic approaches.

Development of Treatment Plan

A specialized treatment plan is fashioned that suits the unique needs of each child.

These diagnostic evaluations provide a clear picture of your child’s areas of strength alongside the challenges, serving as a guidepost for devising an effective plan of action.

Types of Autism Therapies Offered in Dallas, TX

At Total Life Counseling in Dallas, we know that every child with autism is unique—and their therapy should be too.

That’s why we offer a mix of supportive, hands-on services designed to meet your child where they are. From ABA therapy that helps shape positive behaviors, to social skills groups that make it easier to build friendships, we focus on what matters most to your family.

Need help with communication or everyday tasks? Our speech and occupational therapists are here to guide your child step by step, helping them gain confidence and independence along the way.

We’re not just offering therapy—we’re walking alongside you in this journey.

Child playing with his toys

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy, available in Dallas, TX, is a scientifically validated method that aims at enhancing socially significant behaviors (for example, communication, academic competence,and social skills) while minimizing behaviors that may cause harm or interfere with learning. Experts at centers like UT Southwestern and Children’s Health℠ Center for Autism Care are trained to apply the principles of learning theory to bring about positive and meaningful changes in behavior.

These services can start introducing children as young as 18 months to the ABA program, comprising of therapy strategies encompassing everyday activities, which ensures learned skills are translatable to other settings like school and home. The process usually involves an initial assessment, based on which therapists develop target behaviors and intervention strategies. Regular evaluations are carried out to track progress and modify plans accordingly. The ultimate goal is to facilitate learning, reduce disruptive behaviors and improve communication, fostering independence in the child’s life.

Speech and Occupational Therapy

Dallas, TX boasts an excellent framework for Speech and Occupational Therapy providers who focus on the following areas:

  • Vocabulary: It aids in the development of better understanding and use of language.
  • Articulation Skills: Encourages better pronunciation and clarity of speech.
  • Social Interaction: Enhances a child’s ability to engage effectively with peers and adults.
  • Sensory Integration: Helps the child respond appropriately to different sensory experiences.

These aspects combined ensure that children on the autism spectrum can express their wants and needs efficiently and interact positively in various social situations. Therapists also work on fine motor skills necessary for daily tasks. By teaching kids how to respond appropriately to their sensory environment, they foster better interaction with the world around them, making them more independent and confident.

Social Skills Groups and Group Therapies

Social Skills Groups and Group Therapies in Dallas, TX play a significant role in-helping children with autism improve their social interactions, understand emotional cues, and build relationships. Therapists use an integrative approach of play methods, discussion, role-play, and group activities to cultivate essential social skills like making eye contact, using proper greetings, respecting personal space, recognizing emotions, taking turns, and working as part of a team.

Children also learn how to handle peer pressure, manage conflicts, and develop empathy. The meetings often encompass children of similar ages and developmental stages, providing ample opportunity for children to learn from each other. This structured, repetitive approach significantly enhances the child’s social behavior and emotional understanding, both of which are critical for long-term success.

You don’t have to navigate this alone.
Let’s work together to support your child’s strengths, needs, and growth.

OR

Why Choose Total Life Counseling For Autism Therapy

​Total Life Counseling Center (TLC) in Dallas offers specialized autism therapy services designed to support individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. Here are several reasons to consider TLC for autism therapy:​

  • Comprehensive Services: TLC provides a wide range of therapeutic services tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with ASD, including social skills groups, play therapy, and behavioral interventions.​
  • Experienced Professionals: The center’s team consists of licensed counselors and therapists with expertise in autism therapy, ensuring that clients receive informed and compassionate care.​
  • Holistic Approach: TLC emphasizes treating the “total” person by addressing emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual aspects, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with ASD and their families.​totallifecounseling.com
  • Community Recognition: TLC has an excellent reputation among schools, attorneys, doctors, and corporations, reflecting their commitment to quality care and community trust.​
  • Flexible Options: Understanding the diverse needs of families, TLC offers both in-person counseling in Dallas and telehealth services throughout Texas, providing accessibility and convenience.​

Choosing Total Life Counseling Center means partnering with a dedicated team focused on empowering individuals with autism and supporting their families through tailored, compassionate, and effective therapeutic services. Book your spot now!

Testimonials

Licensed Counselors & Therapists

Meet Our Team of Certified & Experienced Professionals

Total Life Counseling Center consists of Licensed Counselors, Masters Level Therapists, Espanol Counselors, Licensed Mental Health Counselors, Business Coaches, Image Enhancement Coaches who provide counseling for emotional, mental, physical and spiritual care including marriage, individual, family, substance abuse and more. Our team of certified and experienced professionals, dedicated to serving a comprehensive spectrum of mental health and relationship issues such as couples, women and men’s issues, children and teens with oppositional defiance, video game addiction, ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, and trauma survivors, is here to support and guide you through your journey towards healing and navigating life transitions. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of the counseling provided but also builds trust within the community and among potential clients, who may be seeking support.

We offer next level counselors specialized in areas such as relationships, video game & drug/alcohol addictions, abuse, trauma, depression, and ADHD. Our Therapists are EMDR (eye movement desensitization) trauma therapy trained, cognitive behavioral therapy, specialize in ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Children, and are also professional Gottman method marriage couples counselors to give the best results to couples and to provide the best comprehensive spectrum of mental health and relationship care for our clients.

Struggling with Anger? We offer 8 hour anger management group therapy!

Discounted Rates and the president of Total Life Counseling Center Jim West does not want to turn people away and we have counselors at various levels of experience at a discounted rate that are trained by our next level counselors!

Brandon Feinberg

MS, LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

Male Counselor, Licensed Mental Health Counselor specializing in ADHD, Asperger Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and more!

Valerie Ware

Psychologist and Behavioral Specialist

Psychological Evaluator, Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Anxiety, Gifted, Career Pathways, and emotional assessments.

Katherine Waldheim

Katherine Waldheim

MS, Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern

Trauma, anxiety, couples counseling, and child & adolescent counseling services and more!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of autism therapy in Dallas, TX?

The cost of Autism Therapy in Dallas, TX varies based on the type of therapy and service provider. It is advisable to check with individual centers, like UT Southwestern and Children’s Health℠ Center for Autism Care, and insurance providers for accurate details.

Do insurance plans cover autism therapy treatments?

Yes, most health insurance companies provide coverage for autism therapy treatments. However, the extent of coverage can vary widely based on your policy and provider. Always ensure to verify with your insurance company before beginning therapy.

How do I choose the best therapy center for my child?

Choose a center that offers a comprehensive range of services, like diagnostic evaluations, social skills groups, and various therapies. Also, consider their credibility, past success stories, the expertise of professionals, and the overall environment. Take the time to visit different centers before making your final decision.