An orange balloon with a string attached to it on a white background.
The logo for steady strides aba is blue and orange.

Can Autism Get Worse If Untreated?

If your child has recently been diagnosed with autism, it’s natural to wonder what happens if they don’t receive therapy. The truth is, autism itself doesn’t “get worse.” 


However, without the right support, the challenges that come with autism can become harder to manage over time.


Autism is a lifelong condition, but early and consistent support makes a big difference. Without therapy, children may:


  • Struggle more with communication and social skills
  • Experience increased frustration or behavioral challenges
  • Have a harder time keeping up in school or making friends
  • Miss opportunities to build independence


It’s not that autism progresses like an illness — it’s that important skills may not develop as strongly without guidance and practice.


Research shows that starting therapy early can help kids learn language, social, and daily living skills more effectively. ABA therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy give children tools to better navigate the world around them. The earlier the support begins, the greater the long-term benefits.


At Steady Strides ABA, we’re here to help families across Texas and New Mexico with personalized autism services, including:



If you want your child to reach their full potential, don’t wait. Contact Steady Strides ABA today and take the first step toward a brighter future.


FAQs



  • 1. Does untreated autism get worse with age?

    Not exactly — autism itself doesn’t worsen, but lack of support can make challenges more noticeable.


  • 2. What happens if autism is left untreated in adults?

    Adults may face difficulties with work, relationships, and independence without support, but progress is always possible.


  • 3. Is it too late to start therapy if my child is older?

    No! While early intervention helps, therapy at any age can improve skills and quality of life.


Reading about ABA is one thing. Experiencing your child’s progress is another.

Talk with one of our Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) to learn how therapy can help your child grow, communicate, and thrive — at home or in the community.

No commitment required.

Looking for Guidance?

We're Here for You!

Our dedicated professionals are committed to helping your child thrive. Connect with us to learn how our ABA therapy can make a difference.

Get In Touch With Our ABA Experts Today

A child with autism smiling while wearing a virtual reality headset in ABA therapy.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director November 28, 2025
Virtual reality offers a unique, engaging way to help children with autism develop essential life skills. Learn how this technology is transforming therapy.
A bored student with autism staring into the distance while a teacher writes on the chalkboard.
By Jane Miller November 28, 2025
Learn how to address classroom behavioral challenges in kids with autism using proven strategies. Explore effective techniques for better behavior in school.
A BCBA and little girl with autism laughing together on the living room floor during ABA therapy.
By Jane Miller November 27, 2025
Autism is gaining more attention, but it’s not just a trend. Learn about the shift in understanding & why embracing neurodiversity is so important for society.
A toddler lying on the floor laughing and holding a toy car.
By Jane Miller November 27, 2025
Discover how sensory needs affect children with autism and the best ways to address these challenges. Explore tips that can improve their daily experiences.
A teen girl with autism talking with a BCBA on a couch.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director November 27, 2025
Discover how ABA therapy can continue to benefit teenagers with autism, helping them improve social skills, manage emotions, and prepare for independence.
A BCBA and young boy with autism smiling while baking together in the kitchen.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director November 27, 2025
Learn how negative reinforcement in ABA therapy encourages positive behaviors in children by removing negative stimuli. Learn more about its role and benefits.
A little boy with autism smiling and reaching toward the camera by a window.
By Jane Miller November 27, 2025
Is ADHD or autism more difficult for kids? Explore the challenges of each condition and discover how behavioral therapies can help children succeed and grow.
A young boy with autism facing a wall with one hand raised and the other on the wall.
By Jane Miller November 27, 2025
Discover how to help an autistic child who hits themselves with actionable tips, emotional support, and professional ABA therapy from Steady Strides ABA.
Smiling parents sitting on a couch with their autistic baby.
By Jane Miller November 24, 2025
Discover key autism risk factors that every parent should know. Our blog explores the crucial aspects that may influence autism development in children.
Young girl with autism laughing while working on homework with an ABA therapist.
By Tova Leibowitz, BCBA, Clinical Director November 24, 2025
Explore how ABA interventions can improve reading, math, attention, and classroom behavior. See how ABA creates lasting changes in the classroom and beyond.
Show More