A multidisciplinary approach BY CRYSTAL COLLETTE, MS, BCBA, LBA MANAGER, AUTISM SERVICES
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he prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is skyrocketing. Considered the fastest growing developmental disability, ASD in American children ages 3 to 17 has increased almost 120 percent from one in 150 in the year 2000 to one in 68 in 2014.
Research confirms that the earlier these children have access to treatment, the more likely they are to progress. Advancements in the field also show that children with ASD and their families see even greater benefits when there is a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. This approach enables continuity of care, resulting in more rapid progression by the patient and a complete toolbox of strategies for the family.
Highly trained professionals provide diagnostic evaluations, medication management, therapy and specialized parental training and support — all under the same roof. Multidisciplinary teams can consist of a psychiatrist, psychologist, behavior analyst, behavior technician, speech therapist, occupational therapist, individual and family therapists as well as the child’s parent(s) or guardian. Working together, they create and implement comprehensive, individualized treatment plans that help patients make developmental improvements more rapidly in key functioning areas. Various tools are used to assess and diagnose ASD across age, developmental level and language skills. After a child is diagnosed, each team member involved continued on next page
