14.3 Behavioral and Educational Interventions in Children With ASD

Behavioral interventions play a critical role in optimal clinical outcomes for individuals with ASD. Child and adolescent psychiatrists are uniquely positioned to facilitate the implementation of evidence-based behavioral interventions by leading the treatment team, helping families navigate systems of care, and advocating for their patients. Beyond identifying evidence-based behavioral interventions, child and adolescent psychiatrists can help families access vital school services and accommodations that can positively impact their patients’ trajectory. The presenter will review current evidence on behavioral interventions for youth with ASD, including applied behavioral analysis (ABA), early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI), pivotal response training (PRT), CBT, Research Unit in Behavioral Intervention (RUBI) parent training, and social skills training (SST). The presenter will also provide an overview of the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process for individuals with ASD and discuss how child and adolescent psychiatrists can empower families to obtain essential school accommodations. Participants will be able to identify behavioral and educational interventions that lead to better developmental outcomes in children with ASD. Importantly, participants will also learn how to empower families in the actual implementation of these critical ASD services, which is itself a significant barrier facing many clinicians. Evidence-based behavioral and school interventions are critical to achieving optimal clinical outcomes for children with ASD. Clinicians who are knowledgeable in evidence-based nonpharmacological interventions will be well-positioned to lead treatment teams and advocate successfully for their patients and families impacted by ASD.