Frequently Asked Questions

Does RDI® work with individuals who are more severely impacted by ASD?

Yes! Because RDI® addresses the core deficits which are universal among all individuals on the spectrum to a lesser or greater degree, it has proven to be effective on those who are mildly affected and on those who are affected to a greater extent.

Does RDI® help an individual gain language?

RDI® goes beyond teaching the skill of language and focuses first on the development of the ability to effectively communicate.  Once the foundation of communication is in place, language often follows - language that is REAL, meaningful, and serves the purpose of sharing thoughts and feelings with others.  Often with ASD other co-occurring conditions are present.  If this is the case, other therapies may be beneficial to help with the development of language.

 

Who will work with my child?

Because RDI® is a parent based program, parents are taught by an RDI® certified consultant how to effectively guide their child to think and communicate in order to be successful in real life situations.

 

Is RDI® a social skills program?

RDI® is a thinking skills program.  Being able to think flexibly and understand others’ perspectives are critical to being able to effectively function in social situations.

How is RDI® different from other therapies?

Many therapists that treat autism depend on a behavioral approach.  RDI uses a cognitive model that follows the natural process of typical development.  Although foundational skills are important and are covered within the RDI program, RDI goes beyond the teaching of these skills to actually changing the way one’s brain thinks. 

Most importantly the RDI method is taught to the parents by the consultant so that the parents are the ones who are instrumental in bringing about the positive changes in their child’s life.  By implementing the RDI program into their everyday lifestyles, parents learn how to restore the parent/child relationship which is so often impaired by autism.  Once this relationship is in place, parents can then guide their child using clear and specific objectives that are developmentally appropriate for their son or daughter.  As these objectives are mastered, the core deficits (see “RDI and Core Deficits”) caused by autism become less of an obstacle to that individual’s quality of life.

 

Will this interfere with other therapies my child  receives?

It depends on the therapy.  RDI often compliments other speech and occupational therapies but as with all cases, each situation would need to be assessed on an individual level.

 

Is my child too old?

Research has shown that the brain changes throughout life.  Because RDI® builds new neurological pathways in the brain it has proven to be effective on individuals of all ages.

 

What if only one parent is able to participate? 

It is highly desirable for both parents to participate but as with all real life situations this is not always a possibility.  I have worked with single parent families and grandparents as well. The success of the RDI® program depends largely on the commitment level of the caregiver(s) no matter who they may be.

Will it still work if they aren't doing it at school?

RDI begins as a home based therapy, meaning the parents must lay the ground work at home.  Once the foundations are in place RDI® can be utilized at school as well.

Can you work with my family if we do not live near you?

Yes, the RDI® program is set up in such a way that families can work with consultants who do not live in their immediate area.

What do I need to get started?

You will need access to high speed internet and a video camera.  If you do not have a video camera you can rent one from me.

For more answers to questions you may have please contact me at autismconnect.oaks@gmail.com.