Autism

Autism is a perplexing lifelong neurological disorder that affects individuals of all backgrounds, socio-economic status, and geographical boundaries.  Fortunately, advances in research have led to a number of breakthrough publications made within the field of Autism.  Authorities have gained clarity in defining appropriate and effective early intervention practices. 

 

BHW adheres to what the research supports:

(a) intervention should be provided at the earliest possible age;

(b) intervention must be intensive;

(c) parent training and support should be a component of the program;

(d) the curriculum should focus on the social and communication domains;

(e) instruction should be systematic with individualized goals and objectives; and

(f) particular emphasis should be put on teaching for generalization.

 

Early Intervention Program  [Infant to 3 years]

Each child works one-on-one with a behavioral therapist on prescribed goals derived from the treatment plan.  Therapy is delivered in discrete trial training (DTT) and pivotal response training (PRT) of skills to be generalized across settings.  Each session varies on the needs of the child, but usually incorporates language acquisition, play skills, self- help skills, behavioral modification, and social skills trainings. 

 

Description of Service

A program is developed after observation of the child and upon completion of all required assessments.  Assessments will include a functional behavioral analysis and in some cases a developmental profile.  The customized program will target the child’s social skills, language skills, daily living skills and behavioral delays.  Additionally, replacement of inappropriate behaviors will also be targeted through the use of ABA strategies.  Specifically, BHW employs DTT as well as PRT to teach the child alternative/appropriate behaviors.  Behavioral management procedures are developed by case supervisors who work in close collaboration with the clinical director to address the child’s challenging behaviors.  An in-home program will be created with an initial orientation for the family member(s) and the therapist working with the child.  Following the orientation, BHW supervision is recommended weekly by a case supervisor and monthly during clinic meetings with the coordinator or clinical director.  The meetings serve to review the child’s progress, make necessary modifications to the program, staff development, parent education, and assure program fidelity.

 

Positive Behavioral Support Program  [K - 12th grade]

Our positive behavior support program is geared towards serving students in the school environment with an Individual Education Plan (IEP) that specifies the need for behavioral support.  Training is offered to primary individuals who are involved in the child’s life to address challenging behaviors.  Other common intervention strategies such as task analysis, token economy, and a visual schedule will be utilized to assist the child with their daily routine.

 

Some students require behavioral supports that are educationally relevant to their academic achievement as specified in their IEPs.  BHW consults and supports families and schools in the following ways:  (1) conducting behavioral assessments, (2) implementing behavioral support plans, and (3) providing one-on-one behavioral support for students in the school and/or community setting.