🧩 Autism Therapy Roadmap Across the Lifespan

👶 Childhood (0–12 years) – Foundation Building

🎯 Goals: Communication, play, sensory regulation, early learning.

• Early Start Denver Model (ESDM): Builds joint attention, early communication, and play.

• ABA (modernized, play-based): Builds core skills without rigid compliance focus.

• DIR/Floortime: Emotional engagement and social development.

• Speech & Language Therapy with AAC: For verbal + nonverbal children.

• Occupational Therapy (Sensory Integration): Managing sensory sensitivities.
  ➡️ Emerging: Gamified learning apps, robots for social skills, AI-assisted AAC.

👦👧 Adolescence (13–18 years) – Identity & Independence

🎯 Goals: Mental health, peer relationships, independence skills.

• CBT (adapted for autism): Treats anxiety, depression, rigid thinking.

• Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Self-regulation and emotional resilience.

• Social Skills Groups (peer-mediated, in-person & virtual): Friendship, teamwork.

• TEACCH Transition Planning: Prepares for work or higher education.

• Inclusive Education (IEP / UDL): Tailored academic and vocational programs.
  ➡️ Emerging:

  • VR therapy → job interview prep, public speaking.

  • Digital mental health apps → accessible CBT, stress management.

  • Neurofeedback → early trials for focus and anxiety.

🧑‍🦱 Adulthood (18+) – Independence & Quality of Life

🎯 Goals: Employment, relationships, lifelong mental health, community integration.

• CBT & Mindfulness (adult-focused): Managing workplace stress, depression, relationships.

• Speech & AAC (if needed): Supports for independence in work/social life.

• Occupational Therapy (workplace ergonomics & sensory strategies): Long-term independence.

• Supported Employment & Vocational Programs: Structured job training and coaching.

• Community-Based Living Supports: Housing, life skills coaching.
  ➡️ Emerging:

  • VR & AR → practicing workplace and social scenarios.

  • AI-AAC → advanced personalized communication for nonverbal adults.

  • Wearables → stress detection, prompting calming strategies.

  • Genomics / Personalized Plans → matching therapy to individual biology.

🔄 Roadmap Progression (Simplified Flow)

• Childhood → Focus on building core communication, sensory, and play-based learning foundations.

• Adolescence → Shift toward mental health, peer relationships, and preparing for independence.

• Adulthood → Prioritize workplace support, long-term mental health, and self-determined living.