Autism is the most common of the Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) and it is increasingly being referred to as one of the Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). These disorders are characterized by delays in the development of children, such as socialization and communication. Autism itself is generally characterized by:

1. Delays in social interaction
2. Delays in language as used in social communication
3. Delayed development of symbolic or imaginative play.

The specific causes of autism are unknown, although genetic factors are becoming more prevalent with further research, among other possible causes. There is no cure for autism, but with early assessment, intense therapies, practice, and appropriate schooling, some children may improve on their skills to the point of children without autism.

Psychological Assessment

The first step is to determine whether your child has or does not have autism. Understanding a person’s intellectual and adaptive functioning as well as their potential to learn is essential. An assessment for autism can be completed by a competent psychologist or psychological associate with training in pervasive developmental disorders.

» More information about Psychological Assessments

What is ABA?

“Applied behaviour analysis is the science in which procedures derived from the principles of behaviour are systematically applied to improve socially significant behaviour to a meaningful degree and to demonstrate experimentally that the procedures employed were responsible for the improvement in behaviour” (Cooper, Heron & Heward, 1987).

What is IBI?

IBI stands for Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI), which is based on the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). IBI is an initiative that is intended to provide services for children with autistic disorder toward the more severe end of the PDD spectrum

The ABA/IBI approach:

1. Uses systematic behavioural teaching methods
2. Has clearly defined strategies & goals;
3. Is individualized to the needs of each child;
4. Incorporates changes based upon direct measurement of each child’s learning
5. Teaches children one-on-one or in small groups

In Ontario, publicly funded Intensive Behaviour Intervention (IBI) services are made available for children with autism

ABA/IBI Services at TPS

ABA/IBI services at TPS are supervised by a psychologist or psychological associate who is a member of the College of Psychologist of Ontario. ABA/IBI services at TPS include the following:

• Psychological assessment and diagnosis
• Clinical Supervision of ABA/IBI cases. The service is suited to parents who have chosen the Direct Funding Option (DFO) or parents interested in securing private supervision for their child’s case. The TPS clinical supervisor is responsible for overseeing, monitoring, and evaluating the intensive behavioural intervention program, as well as overseeing assessments and Individual Service Plans. A psychologist or psychological associate is a clinical supervisor who will manage and supervise senior therapists, junior therapists and support the overall quality and consistency of the behavioural intervention approach. It will also involve responsibility for fulfillment of the provincial information and evaluation requirement.
• TPS may soon provide on-site ABA/IBI services for autistic children. Call to learn more.

Limitation to service

Parents with children with severe autism know only too well that it can be a challenge to find a qualified psychologist to supervise an IBI program. Due to time constraints and a significant client list, it is seldom possible for the TPS clinical supervisor to travel to private homes/offices of other caregivers. Consequently, it is important for parents to understand and agree that meetings with the clinical supervisor and themselves will take place almost exclusively at our west Toronto office.