Emotion emoticons used by a psychologist during a therapy session with a child with an autism spectrum disorder.
The most commonly used therapy for autism therapy north Vancouver is applied behaviour analysis (ABA). This approach has been shown to improve communication, social and academic skills. However, it has been controversial in some cases.
Matthew So, MAc, OT(BC), Reg OT(BC) is an occupational therapist with expertise in Autism. He recently completed his master’s degree at UBC.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is a health profession that uses everyday activities, or occupations, to treat mental, developmental, and physical ailments. It is an evidence-based, person-centered approach to care that is holistic in nature.
Unlike physiotherapy, which treats physical function, occupational therapy treats the functions that make up your life. For example, a nurse may help you after surgery, but an occupational therapist will help you learn to do things like bathe and dress yourself again.
Occupational therapy can be used to address a wide range of problems, including communication issues, sensory difficulties, and problem behaviours. It is particularly effective for children with autism, but it can be beneficial for all ages and abilities. It can improve motor skills and balance, teach coping strategies, and promote independence in daily tasks. It can also be used to develop social and communication skills. Applied behaviour analysis is the most common treatment approach. Other therapies include psychotherapy, floortime, and sensory integration techniques.
Music Therapy
Music is a powerful medium for communication and expression of feelings. It can influence the brain and body’s rhythms and alter our moods, which in turn influences behavior. It can also be used to promote relaxation, improve attention, and increase social interaction.
Certified music therapists are skilled in using music to address the physical, emotional and cognitive needs of individuals. They may use vocal and instrumental improvisation, songwriting, musical games or lessons, guided imagery, and other expressive modalities in sessions.
Research suggests that people with mental health and emotional issues benefit from music therapy, especially in the areas of depression, anxiety and stress reduction. It can also help them build self-esteem and improve relationships with family members and friends. Music therapy is a safe way to explore difficult emotions, memories and experiences. People of all ages can participate in music therapy, regardless of whether they are a virtuoso or tone deaf. In addition to reducing stress and tension, music can help to improve sleep quality and boost confidence and mood.
Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive behavioural therapy is an effective approach that focuses on understanding how your thoughts and feelings influence your behaviour. It also uses practical self-help strategies that are designed to improve your quality of life.
Behavioral therapy is often used in conjunction with other treatment methods to address mental health issues, such as anxiety and anger management. Typically, this involves learning about your triggers so that you can adapt your responses and cope with challenging situations.
ABA is most often used for children with autism spectrum disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It helps to teach new skills, reduce negative behaviours, and increase positive behaviours. It is a highly individualized treatment, because each child has unique needs. ABA treatment techniques include Pivotal Response Training, Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention, and Discrete Trial Teaching. These approaches are usually implemented by a trained behaviorist or autistic disorder specialist. These professionals are able to assess each child and develop a personalized intervention plan for them.
Counselling
Counselling is a type of talk therapy where a licensed counsellor sits with you in a private and confidential session to discuss your problems. They’ll help you figure out the root cause of your issues and provide you with a plan to overcome them. They’ll also offer you a variety of tools to use in the future.
A counselling therapist will listen to you without judgment and help you explore your thoughts and feelings. It’s important to choose a qualified therapist, so you should look for one with a strong track record and a good reputation. You should also find out whether they’re a member of a professional organisation, and which PSA-accredited bodies they belong to.
Applied Behaviour Analysis is the most commonly used treatment for autism spectrum disorders in Canada, and it’s effective at changing behaviours and raising IQ. However, it’s controversial among people with autism, who say it causes lasting trauma. Children with autism often experience trauma, and they have increased vulnerability to it.
