Treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Studies reveal the critical importance of early diagnosis and intense therapy of autism spectrum disorder in early childhood in significantly improving the quality of life and promoting social, communicative, and behavioral skills. Since autism is a neurological condition that manifests itself in a wide range of severity, therapy must be adapted to the level of function and personal needs of each and every individual with the help of professional intervention. Take, for example, people who are highly functioning and may primarily require social and emotional support, while others require more intense assistance in various areas of life.
The article below discusses the various methods currently available in Israel for the treatment of autism, the various therapeutic providers, and the eligibility provided under the law for these therapies. Most importantly, proper treatment of autism allows people with ASD to maximize their potential, help integrate into society, and allow them to live as independently as possible.
Therapy models
A large variety of therapies is available that can help people with ASD improve their quality of life: The following are several of the main therapeutic approaches and tools that are currently available:
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Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
This method focuses on improving desired behaviors, reducing undesired behaviors and learning new skills in children with ASD. The therapy is personalized and based on positive reinforcements.
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Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based Therapy (DIR)
Also known as the Greenspan Method or Floortime. A method for developmental advancement through interaction created during play. The goal is to help patients develop an emotional bond with the person across from them through creative play.
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Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication-Handicapped Children (TEACCH)
According to this approach, people with ASD have different patterns of behavior and ways of thinking that are characteristic of them. In order to treat them, a personalized plan that is suitable for the special needs must be created for each patient, in all areas of function.
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The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)
A therapeutic method designed for toddlers between the ages of one and four (sometimes even later) that emphasizes creating a meaningful relationship between the therapist and the child through play. Through play, children are encouraged to participate in social interactions and improve their ability to communicate with the environment.
Other therapies
Psychiatric and drug therapy: supervision and monitoring of a psychiatrist is occasionally required, as is the administration of medication to manage associated symptoms, such as anxiety, attention difficulties or sleep issues.
Other types of treatments
- Occupational therapy: therapy aimed at improving physical abilities, coordination and self-expression through body language, as well as increasing self-confidence.
- Speech therapy: in cases where there is a communication problem with the environment, the situation can improve through speech therapy, language development and work on self-expression.
- Family therapy: families that have a child with ASD often face challenges and various difficulties. Parental guidance and therapy for the entire family by specialists (largely in the field of psychology and social work), who can help improve the quality of family life and communication.
- Physical therapy: autism may be accompanied by various body movements. Physical therapy can help improve motor skills and coordination while strengthening muscles. Therapy is adapted to the unique needs of every child.
- Other forms of therapy: other professions can help children with ASD, such as art therapy (also known as expressive and creative therapy), that involves music, drama, movement, etc.; therapeutic riding, therapeutic swimming, etc.
Benefits
- Rehabilitation basket: adults with ASD are offered rehabilitative services that include personal mentoring, occupational training, recreational activity, etc.
- Special education: many children with ASD are integrated in special education frameworks or in communication classes in regular public schools, where they receive academic and therapeutic support.
- Employment support services: for adults, there are programs that help find suitable employment and assist them during the integration at work.
- Out-of-home residence: there are tailored residential frameworks for adults with ASD that provide support in daily living and encourage independence.
The diagnostic process and referral for therapy
A diagnosis of ASD is made by a multidisciplinary medical team including experts in psychology and from other disciplines, psychiatry, neurology and development. Following diagnosis, the staff can recommend a suitable therapeutic program. In Israel, children diagnosed on the autism spectrum are eligible for funding for therapy through the National Health Insurance Law. Adults can contact National Insurance to receive the rehabilitation services basket.
Individual therapy
The National Health Insurance Law (Hebrew) determined that every child between the ages of 3 and 7 who has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder is eligible to receive a therapeutic health care basket funded by the Ministry of Health. As part of the service, a personalized therapeutic plan will be created for each child that is adapted to the individual needs and includes individual and group therapy as well as parental guidance and, if necessary, also physical therapy.
Therapeutic health care is provided as part of the special education of children with ASD.
Rehabilitative daycare centers
Belong to the Ministry of Welfare and designed for children between the ages of 0-3. Therapy in these programs is administered through NPOs (Hebrew).
Special education preschools (communication preschools)
Belong to the Ministry of Education and designated for children aged 3-7 with ASD (known as “communication preschools”).
Supplemental therapy programs
Provide therapy for children with ASD who are integrated in regular preschools and daycare centers. These therapies supplement the educational-therapeutic system provided by the Ministry of Education as a comprehensive system for pupils and their families.
The care staff
Within these educational frameworks, the therapeutic staff is composed of professionals approved by the Ministry of Health who are trained in several mandatory disciplines as well as several supplementary disciplines (if necessary):
Mandatory healthcare professions
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Occupational therapy -
Speech pathology
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Emotional therapy
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Physical therapy based on a medical need
Other professions
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Art therapy
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Behavioral therapy, DIR and more
Challenges, coping and expectations of the future
ASD therapy is a long-term process that requires patience and persistence. There are sometimes periods of progress and sometimes periods of regression, but it is important to remember that every progress, even if it is small, is significant. In order to succeed, it is important to maintain family and community support.
Research on autism is constantly advancing, with new therapeutic methods being developed. Awareness is growing in Israel of the need to make services accessible and integrate people with ASD in all spheres of life. There is a discernible trend to develop more community support programs and expand employment as well as housing options.
Assisted in the preparation of the article: Ido Michaeli-Assor, speech pathologist, Autism Department at the Ministry of Health and director of the "Shavim" Center in Jerusalem.