| Become as informed as possible
when deciding on any proposed treatment approach, medication,
dietary intervention or complementary therapy - especially where
there may be little or no scientific research to support the
treatment. |
Some parents and educators feel that in
addition to any necessary treatments, complementary therapies can
be useful tools to improve communication and reduce some of the
behavioural symptoms and sensitivities associated with autism. Complementary
therapies including art, music and animal therapy are sometimes
used as part of another treatment program or on their own as additional
activities for an individual. These complementary activities may
help in developing self-esteem and in building social and communication
skills. They are sometimes used to build trust in a therapy relationship.
Examples of complementary therapies:
- The Alert Program is used to help teach self-regulation
awareness. The
program supports children, teachers, parents and therapists to
choose appropriate strategies to change or maintain states of
alertness.
- Patterning is also known as the Doman-Delacato Treatment.
This approach was developed during the 1950s and is offered
at the Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential (IAHP)
in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, among other locations. Patterning
is a neurological development technique which provides sensory
input and stimulation to the brain in an effort to reprogram proper
operation of a deficient functional area. The philosophy behind
patterning is that in order to help a child overcome their disability,
one must deal directly where problem lies, which is in the brain.
- Neurodevelopmental Therapy was developed by Svea
J. Gold, MLS. A functional therapeutic whole brain technique
for teachers and parents.
- Cranio-sacral Therapy (CST) is a hands-on method of evaluating
and enhancing the functioning of a physiological body system called
the craniosacral system - comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal
fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Using
a soft touch generally no greater than 5 grams, or about the weight
of a nickel, practitioners release restrictions in the craniosacral
system to improve the functioning of the central nervous system.
- Art and music provide tactile, visual and auditory stimulation.
Music, especially song, can be a tool for speech development and
language comprehension. Painting, art and craft therapy may offer
an important means of expression for a non-verbal child with autism.
- Therapeutic horseback riding
is said to improve coordination
and motor development while creating a sense of well-being and
increasing self-confidence.
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