Research-based Treatment

	RESEARCH-BASED TREATMENT
	SPECIAL EMPHASES
	OVERVIEW
	STAGES OF INTERVENTION

Therapeutic PATHWAYS uses research-based practices documented to be effective in more than 300 research studies with young children with autism and other pervasive developmental disorders.

The field of Applied Behavior Analysis has identified many of the specific teaching and treatment components, which consistently lead to higher levels of functioning.

Maurice, Green and Luce (1996) have concluded, that while many questions remain about the treatment of autism spectrum disorders, current research indicates that:

Intensive intervention based upon Applied Behavior Analysis is the treatment of choice.
The treatment must be delivered by therapists with training in Applied Behavior Analysis.
The therapists must be under the supervision of professionals who have advanced training and experience in the principles and procedures of Applied Behavior Analysis.
Similar conclusions have been drawn by the New York State Department of Health, Early Intervention Program's Clinical Practice Guideline Development Panel (1999, Clinical Practice Guideline, Report of the Recommendations, Autism/Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Assessment and Intervention for Young Children). See this report at: www.health.state.ny.us/nysdoh/eip/menu.htm.

See also the endorsement of intensive treatment based on Applied Behavior Analysis by the US Surgeon General at:
www.surgeongeneral.gov/library/mentalhealth/chapter3/sec6.html
The cost of providing intensive behavioral treatment for a young child with autism is substantial. However, intensive early intervention is not only consistent with Federal Legislation (i.e., I.D.E.A.), and The Lanterman Disabilities Act, it is also cost effective.
The estimated cost of a 3-year intensive treatment program for a child diagnosed with autism can range from $150,000 - $210,000. However, this is substantially lower than the cost of treating autistic adults. The minimum estimated average cost of providing services in California for one adult diagnosed with autism, between the ages 21 and 45, alone, is more than $1.5 million. Jacobson, Mulick & Green, 1998, have projected similar savings from intensive treatment, based on a range of outcomes (normal functioning, more independent but still requiring adult support services, etc.