What Are the Different Autism Therapies

Autism spectrum disorder is an idiopathic disease, which means there is no cause. Unfortunately, it also has no cure. There are many treatments that can help reduce the symptoms. Using autism therapies is the most common form of treatment.

Behavioral modification is the most commonly used autism therapy. This autism therapy is sometimes referred to as educational intervention and is divided into different practices. Applied behavior analysis is usually the first therapy performed. It uses the principles of response and reward to teach one-on-one tasks. It is known that rewarded behavior is more likely to be repeated, then non-rewarded behavior. This autism therapy is very intense and requires a lot of one-on-one attention. All positive behavior must be rewarded and all negative behavior must not be. This type of autism therapy is best used in a controlled environment.

Another behavioral modification autism therapy is sensory integration therapy. Many autistic children have sensitivity to light, sounds and touch. Introducing different textures, sounds and surroundings can lessen the sensitivity. If a child is already familiar with the object, they are less likely to react negatively. Affection falls under sensory therapy as well. A hug machine is sometimes used in this form of autism therapy. Children with autism have difficulty showing affection and do not like to be hugged or touched. The hug machine shows them that it is normal to show affection and that affection should be welcomed.

Communication intervention is another form of autism therapy. Working with a speech therapist is usually the first step. Many children that have autism do not speak at all or only speak a little, so having speech therapy may help them form the words and begin to speak. Visual communication is also part of the autism therapy. Giving autistic children a visual way of speaking will help them communicate better and will reduce frustration and anger.