Therapeutic Interventions for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder - Clinical Science Perspective

Current clinical research goes beyond the question: ‘what works?’ to ask also ‘for whom?’, ‘under what circumstances?’, ‘for what outcomes?’, ‘in what dose?’, and so on. In this course, we will ask these questions to review a broad array of behavioral interventions for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They will include early intervention (ABA, developmental, NDBIs), social skills training, sensory and technology-based interventions, as well as programs for adolescents and adults (e.g. vocational training, psychoeducation, and psychotherapy).

The course will combine clinical and methodological perspectives. Each class will begin with a brief overview of the specific therapeutic approach (often using audiovisual materials), followed by a student presentation (5-10 minutes) of an empirical paper, and a whole-group discussion on the methods used to ascertain the treatment efficacy. You will read empirical literature and learn to identify common problems with sampling, research design (single-cases, quasi-experimental, randomized-controlled trial), outcomes, as well as intervention feasibility. In class, we will raise current topics in clinical research such as the use of biomarkers, individualizing treatment, or participatory and ethical considerations.