Evidence-Based Autism Therapies That Can Help Your Child

Proven treatments like ABA, speech, and occupational therapy can benefit kids with autism, while 'cures' and unproven therapies can be unsafe

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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With so much information (and misinformation) out there, it can be difficult for parents to determine which autism therapies are evidence-based and effective versus those that are unproven and potentially dangerous. Experts recommend focusing on therapies like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and occupational therapy, which are backed by research and can help children with autism build skills and become more independent. Parents should be wary of treatments that claim to 'cure' autism, as autism cannot be cured, and some alternative therapies can even be unsafe.

Why it matters

Choosing the right therapies is crucial for supporting the development and well-being of children with autism. Evidence-based treatments can make a significant difference, while unproven 'cures' not only fail to help but could potentially cause harm. It's important for parents to get guidance from qualified professionals to ensure their child receives safe, effective care.

The details

Several evidence-based therapies can benefit children with autism, including ABA, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. ABA therapy, considered the gold standard, focuses on reinforcing positive behaviors and teaching alternative skills to address challenges. Speech therapy supports communication methods, while occupational therapy works on motor skills and adaptive functioning. These therapies are typically delivered by trained clinicians and are recommended by major medical organizations. In contrast, unproven treatments like gluten-free diets, vitamin supplements, chelation therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy are not only ineffective but can also be dangerous. The FDA previously warned against these 'cures' but has since removed that guidance from its website, concerning experts who worry parents may turn to unsafe options.

  • In late 2025, the FDA removed a page from its website that warned parents about unproven and potentially dangerous autism treatments.

The players

Erik von Hahn, MD

The chief of developmental-behavioral pediatrics at Tufts Medical Center.

Anoop Takher, DO

The department chair of behavioral health and medical director of Child Psychiatry at Saint Anthony Hospital in Chicago.

Kelly Sheehan, BCBA

A board-certified behavior analyst and founder of Eligius Behavior LLC.

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What they’re saying

“The goal of ABA therapy is to reinforce acceptable behaviors while minimizing problematic behaviors.”

— Anoop Takher, DO, Department chair of behavioral health and medical director of Child Psychiatry at Saint Anthony Hospital in Chicago (parents.com)

“Our focus is on ensuring that the child can develop independence and participate more fully in their environment. Our job is to work ourselves out of a job by fading support over time, once new skills are consistent.”

— Kelly Sheehan, BCBA, Board-certified behavior analyst and founder of Eligius Behavior LLC (parents.com)

What’s next

Parents and families should continue to seek guidance from qualified professionals, such as their child's pediatrician and organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics, to ensure they are choosing safe and effective therapies for their child with autism.

The takeaway

While there is a lot of information available about autism treatments, it's crucial for parents to focus on evidence-based therapies like ABA, speech, and occupational therapy, which are backed by research and can help children with autism build skills and become more independent. Unproven 'cures' and alternative treatments, on the other hand, not only fail to help but can also be dangerous.