Speech and Language Therapists work to assess, diagnose and develop a programme of care to maximize the communication potential of the children under their care. When working with children who have an ASD, a Speech and Language Therapist will adapt the therapy given according to the presenting problem. It is likely that the Speech and Language Therapist will work on one of the following when giving therapy to a child with autism:
- listening and attention skills
- play skills
- social skills
- social understanding
- understanding of language
- expressive language
Each child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder may present with a different communication profile with strengths and needs in different area's. A Speech and Language Therapist will assess a child using various standardised assessments along with parental interview and clinical observations.
Claudine Ivers has worked on a consultancy basis with the Red Door School for the past 5 years. She works extensively with children with a range of developmental disabilities.
The Irish Association of Speech & Language Therapists (IASLT) can be contacted here.