Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA):
Applied Behavior Analysis is an intensive, very structured process of studying and modifying observable behavior through manipulation of a child's environment. ABA therapists break down lessons to stimulate positive behavior through repeated trials, allowing the therapist to discover and manipulate the functional relationship between behavior and environmental variables.
Local ABA Therapists:
DIR/Floortime Model:
The DIR/Floortime Model, developed by Stanley Greenspan MD, helps children with special needs and their families focus on building healthy foundations for social, emotional, and intellectual behaviors. This model has six milestones - self-regulation, engagement, two-way communication, complex communication, emotional ideas, and emotional thinking.
Local DIR/Floortime Practitioners:
Speech-Language Pathology (Speech Therapy):
The communication concerns associated with autism often depend on the intellectual and social development of the individual. Some may be completely unable to speak whereas others demonstrate well-developed vocabularies, but have difficulties in the pragmatic use of language such as knowing what to say, how to say it, and when to say it as well as how to interact socially with people. A well-trained Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) can develop an individually tailored speech therapy program.
Local SLPs :
** Inova Physical Therapy Center at Lansdowne Clinic is part of the not-for-profit Inova Health System. Their licensed Physical, Occupational and Speech-Language Pathologists treat most pediatric disorders including Autism. They are one of the very few pediatric rehabilitation centers in Loudoun County that accepts most insurance.
Occupational Therapy (OT):
Occupational therapists (OTs) help to maintain, improve, or introduce skills that allow an individual to participate as independently as possible in meaningful life activities. Occupational Therapy addresses a variety of skills, including, but not limited too: sensory integration and processing skills, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, cognitive and perceptual motor skills, and self help skills.
Local OTs:
Physical Therapy (PT):
Local PTs:
