false

Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Service

People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, or learning difficulties think differently from others. Sometimes called neurodiversity, this thinking can affect all aspects of life. Mass General Brigham, which includes the renowned McLean Hospital, provides world-class, comprehensive care for all types of mental health and psychiatric concerns.

Expert care for autism, ADHD, and other disorders

ASD, ADHD, learning differences, and other neurodevelopmental disorders are lifelong conditions that affect how people think, learn, communicate, and connect with others. The experience and level of support needed can vary widely from person to person and across different stages of life.

Mass General Brigham is a leader in mental health and psychiatric care, with McLean Hospital serving as a world leader in care, research, and education.

center
tertiary
internal-arrow
Part of Mental Health and Psychiatric Services
/content/unified-xwalk/en/services/mental-health-psychiatry

Our approach to neurodevelopmental disorder care

We provide ongoing, compassionate care for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Our team works closely with you to understand your goals and select treatments.
Comprehensive supports for autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions

Neurodevelopmental disorders affect each person differently. We take time to understand each individual’s strengths, challenges, and needs, then create a personalized care plan that adapts as those needs change.

Supports for ASD may include:

  • Applied behavior analysis (ABA) to improve social skills and communication, and to help regulate emotions.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to recognize and change harmful feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
  • Interoceptive exposure therapy (IE) to bolster self-regulation skills by connecting sensations with emotions.
  • Medications for ADHD or co-occurring conditions like anxiety.
  • Occupational therapy to help with sensory processing, self-care, and social skills.
  • Physical therapy to improve motor skills, coordination, and balance.
  • Speech-language therapy to improve communication through spoken words, pictures, gestures, or devices.
  • Feeding therapy to address restricted food selection in patients with autism to develop safe and positive eating patterns.
  • Social skills groups to help build social competence in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Medication may be an option for patients with ADHD. However, there is currently no medication to treat autism spectrum disorder.

Dedicated services to help people thrive
We offer specialized services for children, adolescents, and adults with neurodevelopmental disorders. These services may include diagnostic evaluation, outpatient clinical care, skills-based programming, family education and support, and coordinated educational services to promote long-term success at home, school, and work.
Some people have more than one neurodevelopmental disorder, or they have co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression. Our experts diagnose, manage, and offer supportive care for all mental health needs.