Thus far, no other educational treatment approach has been subject to as much well-controlled research. Several studies have suggested little or no benefit from other treatments. This is not to say that other treatments do not have merit, simply that many treatments have not yet been systematically examined through research. As stated, Autism New Jersey promotes treatments that have been extensively studied in accordance with professional standards and determined reliable in improving the abilities of people with autism. Should other treatments yield demonstrated benefit, they would systematically be incorporated into the agency’s advocacy and clinical service efforts.
What methods are not recommended by Autism New Jersey? Unfortunately, some methods that have been proposed to treat autism have not been proven effective for individuals with autism. A review of the available research on best practices leads Autism New Jersey to not recommend certain treatments: Psychoanalysis 1 , Facilitated Communication, Auditory Integration Training/Therapy, and Secretin (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association,
Unfortunately, some methods have been proven ineffective for individuals with autism.
2004; Smith, 1996; Green, 1996; Green & Shane, 1994; Sandler et al., 1999). While it is possible that an individual will benefit from these approaches, research evidence suggests that the majority of individuals will not benefit in a meaningful way, or at all. Research information on these methods will be made available upon request. What is Autism New Jersey’s position on treatments not mentioned above? This section applies to all other treatments except those that Autism New Jersey recommends (Applied Behavior Analysis and Positive Behavior Supports) and does not recommend (Auditory Integration Training/Therapy, Facilitated Communication, Psychoanalysis, and Secretin). Clearly, Autism New Jersey recommends treatment approaches that have been systematically evaluated and found to be beneficial; the more research conducted on a particular treatment, the more information available to the consumer to determine the best course of action. Without this information,
Autism New Jersey suggests that consumers proceed with caution and utilize the resources listed below to evaluate these options. Autism New Jersey recognizes that the autism community is comprised of individuals who respond differently to various interventions. For this reason, parents and professionals must work together to develop the most appropriate and effective plan. The great number of proposed treatments for autism often complicates this task. Some view these proposed treatments as oppor- tunities while others view them as experimental endeavors. Autism New Jersey views these options as experimental
Autism New Jersey recommends treatment approaches that have been systematically evaluated and found to be beneficial; the more research conducted on a particular treatment, the more information available to the consumer to determine the best course of action.
because the term conveys caution. Caution is appropriate in these endeavors because such interventions could lead to improvement, no change, or harm. Autism New Jersey recommends that consumers also adopt a hopeful skepticism to navigate these options.
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