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Among the most esteemed Doctors is Angela Nelson, a prominent leader in the field of Autism research. In an interview with KevinMD, she took the time to share with parents and listeners at large the crucial role of parental involvement in achieving success for Autism intervention programs.

Through her vast experience, she enlightens healthcare professionals on how to effectively work alongside parents, while also navigating the challenges presented by balancing evidence-based practices and parental preferences.

The biggest challenge parents face

But first, she highlights an all-too-common obstacle that parents face in today’s digital age—the overwhelming amount of information available on the Internet. Although there are countless valuable resources online, there is also a vast sea of misinformation and unproven claims that can easily lead well-intentioned parents astray.

As a result, they may unknowingly invest time and money into approaches that are not effective or even harmful to their child’s progress. Healthcare professionals need to guide and support parents in navigating this potential pitfall, as too many treatments claim to be “miracles” or “cures” without scientific backing.

Evidence-based practices

She also sheds light on evidence-based practices and why they should be the cornerstone of any treatment plan for individuals with autism. Evidence-based practices involve using scientific research to inform and guide interventions rather than relying on anecdotal or unproven methods. These practices also consider environmental factors and how they can impact behavior in individuals with autism.

By understanding these influences, professionals can better tailor interventions to meet each individual’s needs and promote beneficial behaviors while reducing harmful ones. One of the most well-known evidence-based practices for autism is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), which involves using positive reinforcement and manipulating environmental factors to teach new skills and reduce problematic behaviors.

However, ABA is not limited to just treating autism; it can be applied in various areas of psychology as a way to study human behavior and its relationship with different environmental influences.

Elevating parental preference

Angela Nelson offers a unique perspective on ABA. Using her background in clinical psychology she explains how building good rapport and trust with parents is crucial in creating a positive partnership. This includes avoiding using clinical jargon and instead being approachable.

Additionally, she discusses the importance of cultural humility, an advanced stage of cultural competency, in working with diverse families. She emphasizes the significance of setting goals together, obtaining frequent feedback from parents, and regularly reassessing progress to ensure effective treatment for individuals with autism.

Treatment and support

Here at Illinois Autism Center, we deeply understand and value the significant role of parents in Autism therapy. We strive to work alongside families and recognize and incorporate their preferences into treatment plans while also utilizing evidence-based practice, chiefly ABA. Let us work together to empower families and create brighter futures for children with autism.

Do you need assistance with autism therapy for your child? Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your child reach their full potential.