Treatment and Intervention Services for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Table of Contents

Treatments for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) aim to reduce symptoms that impact daily life and overall quality of life. Since ASD affects each person differently, individuals with ASD have unique strengths, challenges, and treatment needs. As a result, treatment plans are tailored to the individual and often involve collaboration among multiple professionals.

Treatments can take place in various settings, including schools, healthcare facilities, communities, homes, or a combination of these. Clear communication among providers, individuals with ASD, and their families is essential to ensure that treatment goals are being met and progress is being tracked effectively.

As individuals with ASD transition out of high school and into adulthood, additional services may be needed to support their health, daily functioning, and participation in social and community activities. Some individuals may also require assistance with continuing education, completing job training, finding employment, and securing housing and transportation to maintain independence and improve their quality of life.

Types of Treatments

There are many different treatments available. These treatments can generally be divided into the following categories, although some may involve multiple approaches:

Behavioral
Developmental
Educational
Social-Relational
Pharmacological
Psychological
Complementary and Alternative

Behavioral Approaches

Behavioral approaches focus on understanding and changing behaviors by analyzing what happens before and after the behavior. These methods have the most evidence supporting their effectiveness in treating ASD symptoms. They are widely accepted by educators and healthcare professionals and are commonly used in schools and treatment clinics.

One well-known behavioral treatment for individuals with ASD is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ABA aims to encourage desired behaviors while reducing undesired ones to help improve various skills. Progress is closely tracked and measured to ensure effectiveness.

Two common teaching styles within ABA are Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Pivotal Response Training (PRT):

DTT involves breaking lessons into simple steps to teach a specific behavior or response. Correct behaviors and answers are rewarded, while undesired behaviors or responses are ignored.
PRT is conducted in natural settings instead of clinical environments. Its goal is to enhance a few key “pivotal skills” that can help the individual acquire additional skills. For example, one pivotal skill might be learning to initiate communication with others.

Both methods aim to build meaningful skills and improve daily functioning for individuals with ASD.

Developmental Approaches

Developmental approaches focus on enhancing specific skills, such as language or physical abilities, or addressing a broader range of interconnected developmental areas. These approaches are often combined with behavioral methods to achieve better outcomes.

The most common developmental therapy for individuals with ASD is Speech and Language Therapy. This therapy aims to improve the understanding and use of language and speech. While some individuals with ASD communicate verbally, others may use alternative methods such as signs, gestures, pictures, or electronic communication devices.

Occupational Therapy helps individuals develop skills to live as independently as possible. These skills may include dressing, eating, bathing, and interacting with others. Occupational therapy can also involve:

Sensory Integration Therapy, which focuses on improving responses to sensory input that may feel restrictive or overwhelming.
Physical Therapy, which works on enhancing physical skills, including fine motor movements (e.g., fingers) and gross motor movements (e.g., the trunk or entire body).

The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a comprehensive developmental approach grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis principles. It is designed for children aged 12-48 months and involves parents and therapists using play, social interactions, and shared attention in natural environments to boost language, social, and learning skills.

Educational Approaches

Educational treatments are implemented in classroom settings to support learning and development. One example is the Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication-Handicapped Children (TEACCH) approach. This method is based on the principle that individuals with autism benefit from consistency and visual learning.

TEACCH provides teachers with strategies to modify the classroom environment and enhance both academic and behavioral outcomes. For instance, daily routines can be displayed as written or illustrated schedules placed in visible locations. Learning stations can have clear boundaries to provide structure. Additionally, verbal instructions can be supported with visual aids or physical demonstrations to improve understanding.

This approach aims to create a predictable and structured learning environment, helping students with autism thrive.

Social-Relational Approaches

Social-relational treatments aim to enhance social skills and strengthen emotional connections. Many of these approaches involve participation from parents or peer mentors.

The Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based (DIR) model, commonly known as "Floor time," encourages parents and therapists to follow the individual’s interests. This approach creates more opportunities for meaningful communication.
The Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) model focuses on activities designed to boost motivation, interest, and the ability to engage in shared social interactions.
Social Stories offer simple explanations to help individuals understand and prepare for social situations.
Social Skills Groups provide a structured setting where individuals with ASD can practice and refine their social skills.

These treatments are designed to build confidence and foster meaningful connections in social environments.

Pharmacological Approaches

There are currently no medications available to directly treat the core symptoms of ASD. However, some medications can help manage co-occurring symptoms, making it easier for individuals with ASD to function. For example, medications may be prescribed to address high energy levels, difficulties focusing, or self-injurious behaviors like head banging or hand biting. Additionally, medications can be used to manage co-occurring psychological conditions, such as anxiety or depression, or medical issues like seizures, sleep disturbances, or gastrointestinal problems.

It is essential to consult a doctor experienced in treating individuals with ASD when considering medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter. Careful monitoring by the individual, their family, and the doctor is critical to ensure that the benefits of the medication outweigh any potential negative side effects. Collaboration among all parties helps track progress and make adjustments if needed.

Psychological Approaches

Psychological approaches are used to help individuals with ASD manage mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. One widely used method is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which focuses on understanding the connections between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

During CBT sessions, the therapist works with the individual to set specific goals. Together, they identify patterns in thinking and develop strategies to shift how the person views a situation. These changes in perspective can help adjust emotional responses and behaviors in a positive way.

Complementary and Alternative Treatments

Some individuals and families explore treatments that fall outside the more traditional categories. These are referred to as complementary and alternative treatments. These methods are often used alongside conventional approaches and may include special diets, herbal supplements, chiropractic care, animal-assisted therapy, arts-based therapies, mindfulness practices, or relaxation techniques. Individuals and families should consult with a doctor before beginning any complementary or alternative treatment to ensure safety and compatibility with other therapies. Other treatment options may also be available for individuals with ASD. To learn more, it is recommended to speak with a doctor or healthcare provider.