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Autism Therapy Comparison Guide

A side-by-side comparison of the most common autism therapies: ABA, OT, Speech, Floortime, CBT, and social skills groups. Includes what each treats, typical hours, cost considerations, and questions to ask.

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Choosing therapies for your child shouldn't require a medical degree. This guide puts the most common autism therapies side by side so you can compare them clearly and decide where to start.

What's Inside

Therapy-by-Therapy Breakdown

Each therapy section covers:

  • What it stands for and what it is in plain language
  • What it helps with (specific skills and challenges)
  • What a typical session looks like
  • Recommended frequency and session length
  • Age range it's best suited for
  • Insurance coverage considerations
  • What to look for in a good provider
  • Red flags to watch for
  • Questions to ask before committing

Therapies Covered

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

  • Focus: Communication, daily living skills, behavior, social skills
  • Typical hours: 5-40 hours/week (varies widely)
  • Provider: BCBA (designs program), RBT (delivers sessions)
  • Best for: Skill building, behavior support, early intervention

Occupational Therapy (OT)

  • Focus: Sensory processing, fine/gross motor skills, self-care, regulation
  • Typical hours: 1-3 sessions/week, 30-60 min each
  • Provider: Licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR/L)
  • Best for: Sensory challenges, motor skills, daily routines

Speech-Language Therapy (SLP)

  • Focus: Communication (verbal and nonverbal), social language, AAC
  • Typical hours: 1-3 sessions/week, 30-60 min each
  • Provider: Licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (CCC-SLP)
  • Best for: Language delays, communication challenges, feeding issues

DIR/Floortime

  • Focus: Emotional development, social engagement, relationship building
  • Typical hours: Varies; formal sessions plus parent-led at home
  • Provider: DIR-certified therapist or trained parent
  • Best for: Young children, relationship building, child-led approach

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Focus: Anxiety, rigid thinking, emotional regulation, coping strategies
  • Typical hours: 1 session/week, 45-60 min
  • Provider: Psychologist or licensed therapist with autism experience
  • Best for: School-age children and teens with anxiety or emotional challenges

Social Skills Groups

  • Focus: Peer interaction, conversation skills, reading social cues
  • Typical hours: 1 session/week, 60-90 min
  • Provider: SLP, psychologist, or trained facilitator
  • Best for: Children who want peer connections but struggle with social rules

Quick-Reference Comparison Table

A one-page table comparing all therapies across key dimensions:

  • Primary focus area
  • Typical weekly time commitment
  • Average cost per session (with and without insurance)
  • Evidence base strength
  • Best starting age
  • Parent involvement level
  • Can be done at home?

Decision-Making Flowchart

A simple flowchart to help you prioritize:

  • "My child's biggest challenge is..." leads to recommended starting therapies
  • Helps you avoid taking on too much at once
  • Includes guidance on when to add additional therapies

Who Is This For?

Newly diagnosed families trying to figure out where to start, and existing families considering adding or changing therapies. Print it out, bring it to your pediatrician appointment, and use it as a conversation starter with your child's care team.