Therapies - Autism Parent Resources

Therapy Options

Understanding different therapeutic approaches can help you make informed decisions about your loved one’s support team. Each therapy addresses different aspects of development.

Speech-Language Therapy

Helps develop communication skills, including verbal and non-verbal communication.

Benefits:

What to Expect:

Play-based activities boosting understanding, expression and social communication skills.

Occupational Therapy (OT)

Focuses on daily living skills, sensory processing, and fine motor development.

Benefits:

What to Expect:

Hands-on sensory play, fine motor tasks, and daily self-care practice.

Physical Therapy (PT)

Addresses gross motor skills, strength, balance, and coordination.

Benefits:

What to Expect:

Play-based activities for strength, balance, coordination and confident movement.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Data-driven therapy for teaching new skills and managing challenging behavior.

Benefits:

What to Expect:

Play-based learning with positive reinforcement and data collection.

Myofunctional Therapy

Addresses oral and facial muscle function, breathing, and swallowing patterns.

Benefits:

What to Expect:

Exercises and techniques to strengthen and coordinate oral muscles.

Music Therapy

Uses music to address communication, social, emotional, and cognitive goals.

Benefits:

What to Expect:

Musical activities tailored to individual goals and preferences.

Play Therapy

Uses play as a natural way to help children express themselves and learn new skills.

Benefits:

What to Expect:

Child-led play sessions with therapeutic guidance and support.

Social Skills Training

Teaches specific social skills and helps practice social interactions.

Benefits:

What to Expect:

Group or individual sessions practicing real-world social scenarios.

Equine-Assisted, Art, and Aquatic Therapies for Autism

Specialized approaches involving animals or creative arts to complement core therapies.

Benefits:

What to Expect:

Therapeutic activities which may include creative art projects, water-based exercises, or interactions with animals like horses or dogs.

Finding the Right Therapy Team

Remember that every individual with autism is unique. What works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to work with qualified professionals who understand your loved one’s specific needs and can adapt their approach accordingly. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and advocate for the best possible care.