Autism: Multidisciplinary Evaluation and Treatment. The LADDERS Model

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, delayed and disordered communication skills and isolated areas of interest. There is a growing appreciation that ASD is more complex than previously appreciate and in many cases, involves multiple organ systems beyond the brain. Those affected require intensive therapeutic services as well as skilled medical diagnosis and supervision. This paper describes a multidisciplinary clinical model in which the many services and interventions needed by ASD patients can be provided in a single site, reducing fragmentation of care and providing skilled diagnostic care and ongoing supervision.