Autism Treatment Center in Nawanshahr
Nawanshahr's Best Autism Services
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Current treatments for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) seek to reduce symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and quality of life.1 ASD affects each person differently, meaning that people with ASD have unique strengths and challenges and different treatment needs.1 Therefore, treatment plans usually involve multiple professionals and are catered toward the individual.
Autism Treatment Center in Nawanshahr
Treatments can be given in education, health, community, or home settings, or a combination of settings. It is important that providers communicate with each other and the person with ASD and their family to ensure that treatment goals and progress are meeting expectations.
Types of Treatments
There are many types of treatments available. These treatments generally can be broken down into the following categories, although some treatments involve more than one approach:
- Behavioral
- Developmental
- Social-Relational
- Pharmacological
- Psychological
Behavioral Approaches (ABA/CBT)
Behavioral approaches focus on changing behaviors by understanding what happens before and after the behavior. Behavioral approaches have the most evidence for treating symptoms of ASD. They have become widely accepted among educators and healthcare professionals and are used in many schools and treatment clinics. A notable behavioral treatment for people with ASD is called Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ABA encourages desired behaviors and discourages undesired behaviors to improve a variety of skills. Progress is tracked and measured.
Two ABA teaching styles are Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Pivotal Response Training (PRT).
DTT uses step-by-step instructions to teach a desired behavior or response. Lessons are broken down into their simplest parts, and desired answers and behaviors are rewarded. Undesired answers and behaviors are ignored.
PRT takes place in a natural setting rather than a clinic setting. The goal of PRT is to improve a few “pivotal skills” that will help the person learn many other skills. One example of a pivotal skill is to initiate communication with others.
Developmental Approaches
Developmental approaches focus on improving specific developmental skills, such as language skills or physical skills, or a broader range of interconnected developmental abilities. Developmental approaches are often combined with behavioral approaches.
The most common developmental therapy for people with ASD is Speech and Language Therapy. Speech and Language Therapy helps to improve the person’s understanding and use of speech and language. Some people with ASD communicate verbally. Others may communicate through the use of signs, gestures, pictures, or an electronic communication device.
Occupational Therapy teaches skills that help the person live as independently as possible. Skills may include dressing, eating, bathing, and relating to people. Occupational therapy can also include:
Sensory Integration Therapy to help improve responses to sensory input that may be restrictive or overwhelming.
Physical Therapy can help improve physical skills, such as fine movements of the fingers or larger movements of the trunk and body.
The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a broad developmental approach based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. It is used with children 12-48 months of age. Parents and therapists use play, social exchanges, and shared attention in natural settings to improve language, social, and learning skills.
Social-Relational Approaches
Social-relational treatments focus on improving social skills and building emotional bonds. Some social-relational approaches involve parents or peer mentors.
The Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based model (also called “Floor time”) encourages parents and therapists to follow the interests of the individual to expand opportunities for communication.
The Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) model involves activities that increase motivation, interest, and abilities to participate in shared social interactions.
Pharmacological Approaches
There are no medications that treat the core symptoms of ASD.
It is important to work with a professional who has experience in treating people with ASD when considering the use of medication. This applies to both prescription medication and over-the-counter medication. Individuals, families, and doctors must work together to monitor progress and reactions to be sure that negative side effects of the medication do not outweigh the benefits.
Psychological Approaches
Psychological approaches can help people with ASD cope with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) is one psychological approach that focuses on learning the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. During CBT, a therapist and the individual work together to identify goals and then change how the person thinks about a situation to change how they react to the situation.
Beneficial Therapies for Autism treatment
It is essential to note that autism is a spectrum disorder, and the effectiveness of treatments can vary from person to person. Here are some common therapies used for autism treatment:
Behavioral Therapy (ABA)
Behavioral therapies, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), are widely used to teach and reinforce positive behaviors while reducing problem behaviors. ABA focuses on breaking down tasks into smaller steps and using positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a type of talk therapy that helps individuals manage anxiety, repetitive behaviors, and emotional regulation by changing negative thought patterns.
Speech Therapy
Many individuals with autism experience difficulties with communication and language. Speech therapy can help improve communication skills, including speech, language, and nonverbal communication (e.g., gestures, facial expressions).
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy aims to help individuals develop and improve skills necessary for daily living, such as self-care, fine motor skills, and sensory processing.
Social Skills Training
This therapy focuses on helping individuals with autism learn appropriate social skills, including understanding social cues, developing friendships, and engaging in conversations.
Sensory Integration Therapy
Many individuals with autism have sensory processing issues. Sensory integration therapy aims to help individuals cope with sensory input and improve their responses to sensory stimuli.
Parent Training and Support
Parents and caregivers can benefit from training and support to learn effective strategies for managing the challenges associated with autism.
It is crucial for individuals with autism and their families to work closely with healthcare professionals, including psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and behavioral therapists, to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses specific needs and challenges. As research in autism continues to evolve, new therapies and interventions may emerge to improve the overall well-being of individuals with ASD.