Descriptions of Different Autism TreatmentsApplied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Applied Behavior Analysis is one of the most widely used autism treatments.
More information about this autism treatment can be found by clicking on the link above or clicking on the navigation bar titled Behavior Analysis.
Biomedical TreatmentsBiomedical treatments of autism are becoming more and more popular and for good reason. Recently, I have been reading an exceptional book about a doctor in New York that has been helping to recover children with autism, ADHD, allergies and asthma. His methods include an extensive medical profile with special attention to mercury and/or lead poisoning, yeast overgrowth, gluten/casein sensitivities and PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcus).He provides great insight for what tests can be done to identify these as contributing factors or possibly even causes for symptoms of autism and how to go about treatment for them. I highly recommend checking out his book with his groundbreaking program for the 4-A Disorders. Floortime
Floortime involves the interaction of an adult with the child at his or her current developmental level with a focus on the child’s particular strengths. Created by Stanley Greenspan, a child psychiatrist, the goal is to help the child through the six basic developmental milestones that are considered essential for emotional and intellectual development.
The six steps on the developmental ladder Greenspan describes for this autism treatment include(1): This autism treatment is referred to as Floortime because the parent is asked to engage in an activity with the child on the floor. This technique does not concentrate on specific behaviors or language skills, but more on the child’s emotional development.
www.stanleygreenspan.com Play Therapy
Play therapy is a similar autism treatment to Floortime because of it’s primary focus on playing with the child.
During this therapy the child is encouraged to choose an activity he or she desires from provided materials while the therapist attempts to bring out any feelings or emotions the child is having. The thought is that by bringing out these feelings during play, the professional will be able to help them develop coping skills. This is a therapy normally done by psychologists and counselors. Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is a common autism treatment that focuses on fine motor skills such as writing, using eating utensils, or tying shoes. It may also include gross motor skills such as jumping, climbing, or kicking a ball.
The therapist concentrates on the specific needs of the child and different areas that are showing a developmental delay. One therapy, referred to as sensory integration therapy (listed below), may also be part of the treatment regimen for a child if sensory processing is an issue. Sensory Integration Therapy
For some children diagnosed with autism or other developmental disorders, there can be a sensory integration disorder. Sensory integration therapy is an autism treatment that attempts to correct or at least limit this dysfunction.
The five senses that are required to respond to our environment are typically used and analyzed within our brain before making a response. However, if that information is perceived incorrectly, it can cause a delay in learning and development as well as behavioral challenges. Glutein Free Casein Free Diet
One of the most frequently used autism treatments is a special autism diet, or more specifically, a Gluten Free Casein Free Diet. This involves the removal of all gluten, a protein found in barley, rye, oats, and wheat, and casein, a protein found in dairy. The philosophy behind this diet is not based on an allergic response, but that when the proteins are absorbed by the children, they release a false opiate-like chemical in the brain(1).However, in my experience in working with children that have been placed on the diet, there were other signs that indicated it may be due to an allergic reaction as well. Some of these signs were excessive hyperactivity and diarrhea after having eaten a food item with gluten or casein. If your child has these symptoms on a regular basis it may be very worthwhile to at least try this diet. Although, it is said that the child must be on the diet for at least one year before there are noticeable differences in behavior. This same child that I consulted for was on the diet for over one year during my time working with the family. Despite his continued limitations in verbal communication, his eye contact increased substantially, along with his use of pictures to communicate and social skills. This child did not have any consistent discrete trial training that focused on these behaviors during this time. In spite of this, there aren’t any scientific studies supporting the use of this diet as an autism treatment. Relationship Development Intervention
The autism treatment referred to as Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) is based on the work of psychologist Steven Gutstein and focuses on six core problems including(1):1) Emotional Referencing: Using the emotional feedback system to learn from the subjective experiences of another person.Dr's Gutstein offers a Family Guided Participation Program that involves a consultant working with parents to teach them RDI. You can find more information at RDI Connect. Speech Therapy
The autism treatment, speech therapy, is conducted by a certified speech therapist. Depending on the child’s level of needs it may include working on articulation, conversation skills, receptive language (following directions), developing better muscle strength in the mouth, and/or engaging in imaginative play with a focus on verbal behavior.
Music Therapy
Children with autism are usually very interested in music, which is what makes this autism treatment such a desirable therapy. Music therapy can be used to enhance memory, improve communication, decrease stress, promote wellness, and physical rehabilitation(2). This may include listening to music while prompting the child to engage in various hand movements or simply using soothing music to promote relaxation when a child is upset.
Music therapists will assess emotional well-being, physical health, social functioning, communication skills, and cognitive skills through musical responses; design music sessions for individuals and groups based on client needs using song writing, music improvisation, lyric discussion, receptive music listening, music and imagery, music performance, and learning through music; participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning, ongoing evaluation, and follow up(2). Developmental Disorders Autism Spectrum DisorderAttention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Signs of ADHDBehavior Disorders Oppositional Defiant DisorderSensory Processing Disorders Tactile DefensivenessSchool Behavior Listening SkillsApplied Behavior Analysis Discrete Trial TrainingPrintable Behavior Charts More free behavior chartsBehavior Help Using social storiesWork at home jobs Virtual call center Jobs
Got an inspirational Autism success story?Has your child or someone you know experienced miraculous improvements in their Autism symptoms after treatment? Did your child suddenly begin speaking in sentences after receiving treatment? This is where you can encourage others on their journey by sharing a success story. References1. Treatments for Autism. Autism Speaks. www.autismspeaks.org. 11-22-09 2. Frequent asked questions about music therapy. American Music Therapy Association. www.musictherapy.org. 11-23-09
|
