Autism and Asperger Syndrome

Treatment Plans to Attain Goals

Autism and Asperger syndrome are closely linked conditions that
fall under pervasive developmental disorders (PDD). While these conditions have a lot more than symptoms in common, they have some very distinct differences as well!

One of the most significant issues that people face with autism and Asperger syndrome and other PDD conditions is their deficits in social skills. Other problematic issues include sensory problems and a dependence on routine and order. Each of these troubles can be treated effectively with specific interventions.

Who belongs to a PDD condition treatment team?

Children diagnosed with Aspergers or autism benefit from interventions created by a treatment team. The child's treatment is family-centered, and the child’s parents are active members of the team. The more the parents invest in the program, the better the results will be.

The treatment team consists of ...

• the parents,
• a case manager,
• behavior specialist, and
• therapeutic staff support worker (TSS).

Typically, Asperger and autistic children see a psychologist or psychiatrist every three months for evaluation and further intervention suggestions.

What are some objectives of the goal-oriented treatment plan?

This caring and skilled team develops a treatment plan for the child with Aspergers or autistic disorder. This collaborative effort centers on the parents' specific goals for their child. The goals are broken down into smaller objectives that can be achieved in a systematic approach.

The objectives for the treatment plan also work to create viable interventions that will help the child achieve his or her objectives and goals.

Common categories for goals and objectives include:

• communication
• play
• social skills
• attention
• compliance
• behavior

Each treatment plan is catered to the child's needs and strengths. The focus is on measurable, observable behavior that falls into the above mentioned categories, and each treatment plan is individualized.

What type of interventions are used to help attain goals?

The treatment team also develops interventions that will be used to reach the desired goals. For example, if behavior is an issue the team will develop a plan of action to help the child improve in that area. A common intervention for behavior is sensory integration.

A treatment plan would read something like this:

Each treatment plan will be accompanied with shift reports and progress notes that collect data and track progress. The plan is revised accordingly every three months.

It's important to remember that no two treatment plans will be identical. Children with autism and Asperger syndrome are each unique in their needs and setting of goals.

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