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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 out of every 68 children in the U.S. suffers from autism. Also known as autism spectrum disorder, autism is a developmental disability that affects how children communicate and relate to others. Although children with autism often experience difficulties learning to talk and in interacting with others, early diagnosis and treatment have been shown to improve symptoms and help these children reach their full potential. Read the following guide to learn some of the top treatment options for autism in Salt Lake City. Applied Behavioral Analysis Applied behavioral analysis (ABA) is a widely accepted treatment approach used by healthcare professionals, treatment clinics, and schools. This treatment option is designed to improve a variety of skills by encouraging positive behaviors and discouraging negative behaviors. The following are some of the most common types of ABA: - Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI): This treatment method is used to improve behavior in children as young as 3 years old.
- Discrete Trial Training (DTT): This teaching style breaks down lessons into simple steps and rewards correct answers and behavior while ignoring incorrect answers.
- Pivotal Response Training (PRT): This treatment method is designed to increase the child’s motivation to learn, communicate with others, and improve behavior.
- Verbal Behavioral Intervention (VBI): This teaching style focuses on teaching verbal skills.
Specialized Therapies The following are some of the specialized therapies used to help manage autism symptoms: - Speech Therapy: This specialized therapy is used to help autistic children improve their communication skills so they can better express their needs and desires. Speech therapy can also be used to help nonverbal autistic children learn to use gestures, pictures, or sign language to communicate.
- Occupational Therapy: This therapeutic option is used to treat sensory integration issues commonly associated with autism. Occupational therapists also work on improving social behavior, increasing independence, and teaching life skills such as dressing, writing, and using utensils.
- Physical Therapy: This type of therapy focuses on improving gross motor skills and handling sensory integration issues. Physical therapists help autistic children to improve physical skills such as sitting, walking, balance, and coordination.
Medications Although there are no medications that can cure autism, researchers have discovered several that can help improve symptoms of the disorder. The following are some of the medications commonly used: - SSRIs
- Tricyclics
- Psychoactive or anti-psychotic medications
- Stimulants
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Anti-convulsion medications
With the many available treatment options for autism in Salt Lake City, many parents should be able to find qualified care for their children who have autism.
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