If your child has been diagnosed with autism, it is not the time to despair. There are many levels of autism, so your child may not be among the most severe cases. Today, there are therapies available to those diagnosed with this condition as well as applications available for your child. So, while you may feel angst over your child’s condition, there are plenty of tools to help him develop as many skills as possible for a self-sufficient life, later.
Here are three behavioral therapies available for individuals diagnosed with autism.
Applied Behavior Analysis
Applied Behavior Analysis, ABA, has been used by medical professionals for at least 50 years. The goal of this therapy is to teach autistic children behavior and skills that will allow them to co-exist with their peers. Children and young adults with autism often exhibit challenging behavior. It is usually a result of their brains being wired a little differently from the rest of the population. They may have trouble sleeping, filtering their actions and ignore requests. ABA breaks down simple life skills into components so that the patient can learn them in an encouraging environment.
Verbal Behavior Therapy
Verbal Behavior Therapy, VBT, works with children who are not communicating verbally. They may be able to communicate non-verbally, but they must be encouraged to speak, too. Children are shown objects they enjoy. The professional will use positive reinforcement to get the child to verbally name the objects they are being shown.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT, was introduced in the 1960s. It deals with children who are not severe cases of autism, but experience challenging behavior when triggered.
