While the Autism Society of North Carolina - Durham County Chapter does not endorse any one treatment option or plan, we do try to provide our parents with as much information about various options as possible. It has often been said that if you have met one child with autism, you have met one child with autism. So, what may work for one person may not necessarily work for another. The information provided here is for information only and NOT an endorsement.
Therapeutic Approaches
Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH):
"The TEACCH approach is a family-centered, evidence-based practice for autism, based on a theoretical conceptualization of autism, supported by empirical research, enriched by extensive clinical expertise, and notable for its flexible and person-centered support of individuals of all ages and skill levels...The long-term goals of the TEACCH approach are both skill development and fulfillment of fundamental human needs such as dignity, engagement in productive and personally meaningful activities, and feelings of security, self-efficacy, and self-confidence. To accomplish these goals, TEACCH developed the intervention approach called 'Structured Teaching'." - TEACCH website
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA):
"Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA, is based on the premise that appropriate behavior - including speech, academics, and life skills - can be taught using scientific principles. ABA assumes that children are likely to repeat behaviors or responses that are rewarded (or "reinforced"), and they are less likely to continue behaviors that are not rewarded. Eventually, the reinforcement is reduced so the child can learn without constant rewards." - www.autismweb.com
Specialized Diets:
Gluten / Casein Free Diet
"Gluten is the protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Casein is the protein found in milk. Both products are thought to produce toxic effects in the brains of children with autism. It may also be that these children have gastroenterological problems which the diet can alleviate, making them more comfortable." - Gluten Free Chef
Feingold Diet
"The Feingold Diet is based on the premise that allergic reactions or sensitivities to certain types of foods cause or contribute to ADD/ADHD symptoms, such as problems with health, learning, and behavior." - Everyday Diet
DIR / Floortime:
"The Developmental, Individual Difference, Relationship-based (DIR/Floortime) Model is a framework that helps clinicians, parents, and educators conduct a comprehensive assessment and develop an intervention program tailored to the unique challenges and strengths of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental challenges. The objectives of the DIR/Floortime Model are to build healthy foundations for social, emotional, and intellectual capacities rather than focusing on skills and isolated behaviors." - Interdisciplinary Council on Developmental and Learning Disorders Website
Relationship Development Intervention (RDI):
"A comprehensive set of developmentally sequenced steps, the RDI Program for ASD is committed to re-building the Guided Participation Relationship as the cornerstone for neural development. Families under the guidance of a certified consultant slowly and carefully construct opportunities for their child’s neural growth while adding complexity. Over time, parents create a formidable impact on their child’s ability to form reciprocal friendships, mature emotional relationships, conduct successful collaborations, engage in flexible/adaptive thought and master problem-solving abilities necessary for job attainment and success in the 21st century world." - RDI Connect Website
Sensory Integration Therapy:
"The goal of Sensory Integration Therapy is to facilitate the development of the nervous system's ability to process sensory input in a more typical way. Through integration the brain pulls together sensory messages and forms coherent information upon which to act . SIT uses neurosensory and neuromotor exercises to improve the brain's ability to repair itself. When successful, it can improve attention, concentration, listening, comprehension, balance, coordination and impulsivity control in some children." - Autism Speaks Website
Speech Therapy:
"The goal of speech therapy is to improve all aspects of communication. This includes: comprehension, expression, sound production, and social use of language. Speech therapy may include sign language and the use of picture symbols. At its best, a specific speech therapy program is tailored to the specific weaknesses and the environment of the individual child." - Healing Thresholds Website
Occupational Therapy:
"Through occupational therapy methods, a person with autism can be aided both at home and within the school setting by teaching activities including dressing, feeding, toilet training, grooming, social skills, fine motor and visual skills that assist in writing and scissor use, gross motor coordination to help the individual ride a bike or walk properly, and visual perceptual skills needed for reading and writing."- Autism Speaks Website