Autism Resources
Behavioral Health Therapies & Support Services
Behavioral health therapy can assist with toilet training and other self-care activities, following directions at home, safety, etc. There different types of behavioral health therapy support:
Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)
Structured approach using positive and negative reinforcements to shape behavior towards predetermined goals selected by a therapist.A structured approach using positive and negative reinforcement to shape behaviors towards predetermined goals selected by the therapist. Historically offered at centers but now sometimes delivered in home.
Naturalistic Developmental Intervention (NDBI)
Uses ABA principles but incorporates developmental concepts and parent participation. Denver model, Pivotal Response Training. but incorporates developmental concepts and parent participation. Denver Model, Pivotal Response Training.
Developmental Relationship Based Intervention (DRBI)
Parent mediated approach, founded on appreciation for the link between affective interactions and learning. Through co-regulation with a parent, guided by a therapist, a child learns to work towards shared goals, beginning with joint attention and progressing up the developmental ladder. This is DIR Floor time, Play Projects. This is a relationship based intervention.
Occupational, Speech therapies
The school also provides OT and speech but with a focus on education. Sensory needs such as noise sensitivities, food textures issues, biting or mouthing objects, etc, are addressed with occupational therapy covered through insurance. Additional speech therapy can be provided through insurance.
Importance of genetics:
Genetic testing
The cause of autism and intellectual disability is at times due to genetic conditions. It is now standard of care to test for Fragile X and aCGH microarray(Chromosomal microarray) once a diagnosis of autism is made. This is beneficial for family planning and if siblings decide to have a family of their own. In addition, any results found with testing could help the family monitor for any current or future risks of medical conditions, such as cancer risk, heart disease, kidney failure, etc; also, positive results may help the family understand the child better and obtain additional support if needed. Genetic testing can be ordered by the pediatrician or primary care provider.
A medical bracelet is helpful for safety purposes especially for a child that elopes of runs away; this can be purchased on Amazon.
Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN):
The document”Start Here, a Guide for parents of Autistic kids” mentions a wonderful blog:
Resource list at end with books, video for kids, and advocacy organizations.
The podcast Uniquely Human
Books by Diane Cullinane MD.Co-Founder and Executive Director Professional Child Development Associates. Author of Behavioral Challenges in Children with Autism and Other Special Needs the Developmental Approach.