There is an introductory workshop for parents shortly after the start of intervention. The workshop is required for parents. Extended family members and others who may spend significant portions of time with the child should be encouraged to attend as well.

Topics covered during the Introductory Workshop include basic Applied Behavior principles and procedures (including shaping, reinforcement and discrimination training as used in discrete trial methodology), patterns of typical and atypical speech and language development, and ways to capitalize on existing communicative intent. In addition, a summary of current research findings regarding the causes and treatment of Pervasive Developmental Spectrum Disorder is presented.

Other aspects of intervention, including parent training, development and refinement of parent-implemented intervention procedures at home and in the community specific for each child take place during the regular meetings between Clinical Staff and each child’s parents.