Please contact us for more information about our Autism Assessment and Therapy Services.
Autism Assessment and Therapy Services
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder, starts in childhood and affects the development in the areas of social interaction, communication and behaviour. Autism symptoms range in type, intensity and severity and sometimes can be confused with the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, learning disabilities, and intellectual disabilities. Diagnosis requires a specialized assessment by a psychologist who will determine where the type of autism falls on what is called the autism spectrum which ranges from mild to severe. Asperger Syndrome and PDD-NOS are less severe disorders than full autism and also part of the spectrum.
After autism is diagnosed it is essential, as early as possible, to provide the intensive therapy which will maximize the potential of the child or youth. These behavioural and educational interventions are focused on the needs of the individual, and are based on the principles of Applied Behavioural Analysis which is a systematic way of modifying behaviours as part of a learning or treatment process.
PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT FOR AUTISM
The psychological assessment determines where the child/youth falls on the Autism Spectrum scale or whether is better described by another diagnosis. If the child/youth is diagnosed with autism or an autism spectrum disorder considered to be on the severe end of the spectrum, the child/youth is eligible for Ontario government funding for an Autism Intervention Program including provisions of Intensive Behaviour Intervention (IBI) services. The assessment may be used as part of the Application process for an individualized IBI Direct Funding Program.
The Assessment Report describes the child’s/youth’s behaviour and skills in the areas of communication and language development, social skills; daily living skills; education; and unusual and problem behaviours.
The Psychological Assessment will also provide guidance on priority skill development areas and the development of an Applied Behaviour Management Program.
The psychologist can also complement the autism assessment with a psycho-educational assessment that will assess intellectual capacity and provide guidance on educational needs and programs.
Intensive Behavioural Intervention Services
Based on the psychological assessment, behavioural observations, and consultation with the parents, the senior behavioural therapist will determine the child’s/youth’s baseline skill level in the areas of language, social skill, play and daily living. The therapist then develops a program to address the individualized and priority needs of the child/youth.
IBI is a one to one method of teaching individuals with autism based on the child’s/youth’s unique strengths and needs. It is the only method that has been proven to produce ongoing and lasting progress in children and youth with autism. The teaching is provided in a systematic way to address communication, social learning, academic and daily living skills. Progress is monitored and recorded on a regular basis to inform future learning sequences and priorities.
IBI is an intense therapy which is best provided for 20 to 25 hours a week over the course of two or three years. If the child/youth has been approved for IBI direct funding from the Ontario government, the IBI program will be based on the resources provided by the government program and will average about 20 hours a week.
However, if the family is on the waiting list for government funding, which can be a wait over three years, the program may be provided for fewer hours a week based on the resources available to the family at the time. Private health insurance can be used to cover a portion of this cost. When government funding is approved, the therapist can continue providing the service at a higher intensity according to the amount of new funds available.
After approval of the program by the family, the therapist will provide IBI on a schedule convenient for the family and client. Therapy will generally be provided in the home and local community settings. IBI will focus on such things as decreasing challenging behaviours, receptive and expressive language, social skills, academic skills, daily living and play skills. The program also includes a family instruction component to help parents and other family members assist the child/youth in reaching their goals.
We would be pleased to meet with you to discuss our services, provide recommendations regarding Psychological Assessment, the development of an Applied Behaviour Program, Intensive Behavioural Intervention Services, and funding options.
For more information about our Autism Assessment and Therapy Services please contact us.
FOR A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION CALL:
613-966-4262 or email reception@qxplore.com
