Finding successful interventions for children with autism and related disorders can be a daunting task. Some of the most common and proven interventions are those based on applied behavior analysis (ABA), relational skills, life skills, and communication skills (speech therapy and assisted communication). Parents depend upon child and adolescent psychiatrists for advice and support in choosing interventions and advocating for services, and thus a familiarity with autism treatment is central in providing support and guidance to these families. The objective of this session is to provide attendees with a directly applicable understanding of ABA, and other interventions, so they can enhance their confidence in referrals, consultation, and advocacy. Using video vignettes, lecture, and discussion, presenters offer clinical examples and research findings in order to illustrate treatment and referral decisions. Workshop content includes discussion of the specific educational and behavioral challenges common in autistic children, and identification and demonstration of basic principles and techniques of programs and their effectiveness.
Thursday, October 29, 2009: 11:00 AM-2:00 PM