The Autism Society Event and Education Recordings Archive

Behavioral therapy has been the accepted standard in dealing with developmental disabilities for decades. But in the case of cognitively capable individuals, is it enough? Dialectic Behavioral Therapy can be used to create a more effective paradigm of treatment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Applied Behavioral Therapy is the go to method in the field of developmental disabilities.  It lends itself well to evidentiary proof that it is having an effect and is, indeed, quite effective with many individuals.  However, in the case of individuals with high functioning autism I question its value as a best practice approach.  No doubt the behavioral approaches are effective, but are they as effective as other approaches with this population?  My proposal is both a review of research and a call to do more research in the area of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and its potential for use among this population.  I propose that the methods and core structures of DBT therapy could produce better and more significant positive life changes for individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome.

                Having worked in the field of developmental disabilities with individuals who are diagnosed with high functioning autism or Asperger’s Syndrome for the past 20 years I have noticed certain trends.    Most troublesome is the tendency to use one size fits all therapy models for individuals with Autism and include very little personalization for the individual (there are only so many ways to set up token economies).   The model of DBT is to begin by validating the individual’s experience and learned coping mechanisms, move on to mindfulness techniques that keeps them grounded in what is going on in the present and teach new coping methods and skills that leave them feeling more empowered and in control of their own lives.

                There is mounting research showing that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a powerful therapy for individuals with Asperger’s and on the high end of the spectrum.  As an offshoot of CBT therapies created by Marsha Linehan, Dialectical Behavior Therapy combines mindfulness skills and a focus on retaining the client’s interest in the process with DBT validation techniques.   DBT begins by recognizing that the client’s behaviors have served (and may still serve) a purpose, thus validating them and the idea that they can have a positive effect in their own lives and life choices.  This is a powerful place to begin with adolescents and young adults used to being in a society that focuses primarily on their deficits and what they cannot do for themselves. 

                Attendees will leave being able to meet the following objectives:

1.  Identify the challenges of therapy with individuals coping with high functioning Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome in adolescence and young adulthood.
2. Identify current methods being used in teaching social and behavioral skills.
3. Identify the methods of DBT and how they can improve on the skills training for social and behavioral skills while retaining clients for a longer period, thus allowing improved retention.

Attendees will leave with a stronger understanding of DBT and the promise of its approach in the lives of individuals struggling with Asperger’s and Autism.

Learning Objectives: