In Part 3 of a 4-part series on Autism, the L.A. Times looks at treatment and outcome. The Times reporter visited Autism Partnership to see first hand how ABA treatment is implemented and interviewed our staff for the article. You can read the full article here and watch a video of two children during their therapy sessions with AP staff members Melanie Feazell and Rachel Mulder.Progam Coordinator Kathleen Tsuji provides background and Ron Leaf talks about outcomes.

As Dr. Leaf stated in the interview, “the ultimate goal of treatment is to improve the quality of life for children with autism and their families.” We can do this by helping improve their communication, social and play skills. While each child’s potential is different, the goal is to enable them to achieve to the full level of their capability. Besides unknown factors related to each child inherent level of ability, the degree of improvement is based upon several factors including the intensity and the quality of treatment. We think you will see in this videos a systematic and caring approach, carefully tailored to bring each child to the best that they can be.  We know that for some children this will mean shedding the autism label and fully blending into society. But even for those who remain affected by difficulties, they can have a vastly improved level of social and vocational success, be less dependent on others, and enjoy a rich and fulfilling life.