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Micai M, Caruso A, Gila L, Campanella F, Colombi C, Funari F, Scordino V, Sogos C, Veronesi C, Zili V, Fulceri F, Scattoni ML. Effectiveness, implementation settings, and research priorities of telemedicine-delivered interventions for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 166:105875. [PMID: 39255913 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
This systematic review aims to examine evidence on telemedicine-delivered interventions for autistic children and adolescents, considering diverse approaches, settings, and modalities used to address core symptoms and co-occurring conditions. A comprehensive search strategy consulted PubMed and PsycInfo databases from inception to March 2023. PROSPERO registration: CRD42023404111. Each work was screened, and two blind authors extracted data. Out of 6010 studies, 19 publications with 366 participants (305 carers and 61 autistic children/adolescents) were included. Combined findings from observational and experimental studies indicate telemedicine-delivered interventions are comparable in effectiveness to traditional "in-person" treatments and involve lower costs. Tele-intervention outcomes show promise in facilitating interventions, actively engaging parents, and generalizing the socio-communicative behaviors of children. While the enforced adoption of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted clinicians to assess its role in the field of autism, a comprehensive understanding of its efficacy, benefits, and associated costs has yet to be fully established. Future studies should prioritize rigorous experimental methodologies, including subgroup analyses based on child/adolescent and family characteristics, aiding intervention implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Micai
- Coordination and Promotion of Research, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, Rome, Italy.
| | - Angela Caruso
- Coordination and Promotion of Research, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, Rome, Italy.
| | - Letizia Gila
- Coordination and Promotion of Research, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesco Campanella
- Laboratory of Observation, Diagnosis, and Training, Department of Psychology and Cognitive Sciences, Università di Trento, via Calepina, 14, Trento, Italy; Cooperativa Socio-Sanitaria Albero Blu, Via delle Scuole 7, 38012 Coredo, Predaia, Trento, Italy.
| | - Costanza Colombi
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, viale del Tirreno, 331, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Federica Funari
- CRC - Centro Ricerca e Cura, viale Beethoven, 56, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Carla Sogos
- Department of Human Neurosciences - Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Valeria Zili
- CRC - Centro Ricerca e Cura, viale Beethoven, 56, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Fulceri
- Coordination and Promotion of Research, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, Rome, Italy.
| | - Maria Luisa Scattoni
- Coordination and Promotion of Research, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, Rome, Italy.
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Shang C, Xie W, Zeng J, Osman N, Sun C, Zou M, Wang J, Wu L. E-Health Family Interventions for Parents of Children With Autism Aged 0-6 Years: A Scoping Review. Psychiatry Investig 2024; 21:925-937. [PMID: 39155555 PMCID: PMC11421919 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2023.0399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with onset in infancy. Early intervention is critical to improve the prognosis for these children. E-health interventions have tremendous potential. This review aimed to determine the status and effectiveness of family interventions for parents of children aged 0-6 years with ASD in the context of e-health. METHODS The review methodology was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. PubMed, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched from inception to June 2022. The searches were limited to children with ASD of the age range between 0 and 6 years. We collated the available information and used descriptive statistics to analyze the synthesized data. RESULTS Our initial search identified 3,672 articles, of which 30 studies met the inclusion criteria. The 30 articles selected were released between 2012 and 2022. All articles are in English. Most articles reviewed were from high-income countries (27/30, 90.0%), especially from the United States (16/30, 53.3%). Four major themes emerged from the 30 studies that matched the inclusion criteria, as follows: 1) type of e-health interventions, 2) duration of interventions, 3) clinical aspects of e-health interventions, and 4) evidence for intervention effectiveness, looking into the positive, negative, and mixed findings of previous studies. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that a wide variety of e-health interventions may actually help support both children with ASD aged 0-6 years and their parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuang Shang
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jinpeng Zeng
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Nour Osman
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Caihong Sun
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Mingyang Zou
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jianli Wang
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Centre for Clinical Research, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Lijie Wu
- Department of Children's and Adolescent Health, Public Health College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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Adelson RP, Ciobanu M, Garikipati A, Castell NJ, Barnes G, Tawara K, Singh NP, Rumph J, Mao Q, Vaish A, Das R. Family-Centric Applied Behavior Analysis Promotes Sustained Treatment Utilization and Attainment of Patient Goals. Cureus 2024; 16:e62377. [PMID: 39011193 PMCID: PMC11247253 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.62377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social communication difficulties and restricted repetitive behaviors or interests. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) has been shown to significantly improve outcomes for individuals on the autism spectrum. However, challenges regarding access, cost, and provider shortages remain obstacles to treatment delivery. To this end, parents were trained as parent behavior technicians (pBTs), improving access to ABA, and empowering parents to provide ABA treatment in their own homes. We hypothesized that patients diagnosed with severe ASD would achieve the largest gains in overall success rates toward skill acquisition in comparison to patients diagnosed with mild or moderate ASD. Our secondary hypothesis was that patients with comprehensive treatment plans (>25-40 hours/week) would show greater gains in skill acquisition than those with focused treatment plans (less than or equal to 25 hours/week). Methods: This longitudinal, retrospective chart review evaluated data from 243 patients aged two to 18 years who received at least three months of ABA within our pBT treatment delivery model. Patients were stratified by utilization of prescribed ABA treatment, age, ASD severity (per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition), and treatment plan type (comprehensive vs. focused). Patient outcomes were assessed by examining success rates in acquiring skills, both overall and in specific focus areas (communication, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social skills). RESULTS Patients receiving treatment within the pBT model demonstrated significant progress in skill acquisition both overall and within specific focus areas, regardless of cohort stratification. Patients with severe ASD showed greater overall skill acquisition gains than those with mild or moderate ASD. In addition, patients with comprehensive treatment plans showed significantly greater gains than those with focused treatment plans. CONCLUSION The pBT model achieved both sustained levels of high treatment utilization and progress toward patient goals. Patients showed significant gains in success rates of skill acquisition both overall and in specific focus areas, regardless of their level of treatment utilization. This study reveals that our pBT model of ABA treatment delivery leads to consistent improvements in communication, emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social skills across patients on the autism spectrum, particularly for those with more severe symptoms and those following comprehensive treatment plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert P Adelson
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Madalina Ciobanu
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Anurag Garikipati
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Natalie J Castell
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Gina Barnes
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Ken Tawara
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Navan P Singh
- Engineering, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Jodi Rumph
- Clinical Team, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Qingqing Mao
- Research and Development, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Anshu Vaish
- Clinical Team, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
| | - Ritankar Das
- Executive Leadership, Montera, Inc. DBA Forta, San Francisco, USA
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Mishra A. A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Face-to-Face Versus Remote Delivery of Low-Tech Augmentative and Alternative Communication in Nonspeaking Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. JOURNAL OF SPEECH, LANGUAGE, AND HEARING RESEARCH : JSLHR 2024; 67:1478-1489. [PMID: 38502053 DOI: 10.1044/2024_jslhr-23-00390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Thirty percent of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) do not develop spoken language. To provide a means of communication for this subset of the population, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems are often utilized. Low-tech options have traditionally been delivered through the in-person modality. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, changes to service delivery models have been required. This randomized controlled trial was conducted in order to assess the efficacy of low-tech AAC delivered face-to-face versus remotely on communication outcomes in nonspeaking children with ASD. CONCLUSIONS Both participant groups demonstrated similar gains in AAC proficiency, number and type of nonspeaking acts, and number of spoken communication acts. Remote delivery of low-tech AAC treatment is a viable alternative to face-to-face instruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avinash Mishra
- Department of Communication Disorders, Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, CT
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5
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Kolb RL, McComas JJ, Girtler SN, Simacek J, Dimian AF, Unholz-Bowden EK, Shipchandler AH. Teaching Requesting to Individuals with Rett Syndrome Using Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) Through Caregiver Coaching via Telehealth. JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL AND PHYSICAL DISABILITIES 2023; 35:1063-1090. [PMID: 38053943 PMCID: PMC10697698 DOI: 10.1007/s10882-023-09894-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Rett syndrome is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder that results in both motor and language skill regression with a wide range of severity in symptom presentation. Communication intervention may be particularly challenging for this population due to the decline in speech, motor skills, and motor planning difficulties that characterize the disorder (Townend et al., 2020), often resulting in the need for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) technology. Very limited research has evaluated communication interventions for individuals with Rett syndrome and even fewer have targeted expressive communication, an important skill required for improved autonomy and quality of life (Sigafoos et al., 2009; Townend et al., 2020). The current study sought to systematically replicate the Simacek et al. (2017) mand training procedures to teach three girls with Rett Syndrome to use AAC to make requests through caregiver coaching by researchers via telehealth. Results suggest that mand training was successful in increasing AAC use for all three participants. Barriers to intervention for this population and implications of results for future research and clinical practice are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L. Kolb
- Department of Educational Psychology, The University of Minnesota, 56 River Rd E., Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
| | - Jennifer J. McComas
- Department of Educational Psychology, The University of Minnesota, 56 River Rd E., Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
| | - Shawn N. Girtler
- Department of Educational Psychology, The University of Minnesota, 56 River Rd E., Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
| | - Jessica Simacek
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, 2025 E River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
| | - Adele F. Dimian
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, 2025 E River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
| | - Emily K. Unholz-Bowden
- Department of Educational Psychology, The University of Minnesota, 56 River Rd E., Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
| | - Alefyah H. Shipchandler
- Department of Educational Psychology, The University of Minnesota, 56 River Rd E., Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA
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6
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Ogourtsova T, Boychuck Z, O'Donnell M, Ahmed S, Osman G, Majnemer A. Telerehabilitation for Children and Youth with Developmental Disabilities and Their Families: A Systematic Review. Phys Occup Ther Pediatr 2023; 43:129-175. [PMID: 36042567 DOI: 10.1080/01942638.2022.2106468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIM To determine the level of evidence for the effectiveness of telerehabilitation against comparison interventions in improving child- and parent-related outcomes in children and youth with developmental disabilities. METHOD A systematic approach, comprised of a comprehensive search; transparent study selection, data extraction, quality assessment by independent reviewers; and synthesis of sufficiently similar data (per diagnostic group, health profession, and overall level of evidence for each outcome) was undertaken. RESULTS Fifty-five studies (29 randomized trials) were included across six diagnostic groups and ten health professions. Common telerehabilitation targets varied across diagnostic groups and included motor function, behavior, language, and parental self-efficacy. Telerehabilitation was found to be either more effective or as effective versus comparison intervention in improving 46.9% or 53.1% of outcomes, respectively. It was never found to be detrimental or less effective. Strong to moderate, limited, and insufficient levels of evidence were found for 36.5%, 24.5%, and 38.6% of the outcomes, respectively. CONCLUSION There is sufficient evidence suggesting that telerehabilitation is a promising alternative when face-to-face care is limited. It is comparable to usual care and is more effective than no treatment. Blending in-person and telerehabilitation approaches could be beneficial for the post-pandemic future of rehabilitation in pediatric care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Ogourtsova
- Research Center of the Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, CISSS (Center Intégré de Santé et de Services Sociaux) Laval, Site of CRIR, Quebec, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal (CRIR), Montreal, Canada
| | - Zachary Boychuck
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,CanChild Center for Childhood Disability Research and Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maureen O'Donnell
- Provincial Health Services Authority BC, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sara Ahmed
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal (CRIR), Montreal, Canada.,Center for Outcome Research and Evaluation (CORE), Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Galil Osman
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Annette Majnemer
- Research Center of the Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital, CISSS (Center Intégré de Santé et de Services Sociaux) Laval, Site of CRIR, Quebec, Canada.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Center for Outcome Research and Evaluation (CORE), Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
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7
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Kingsdorf S, Pancocha K, Vadurova H, Dosedel T. Piloting an E-Learning Applied Behavior Analysis Course for Caregivers of Children with Autism in the Czech Republic. JOURNAL OF BEHAVIORAL EDUCATION 2022; 33:1-32. [PMID: 36097521 PMCID: PMC9452282 DOI: 10.1007/s10864-022-09493-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The telehealth model can allow for cost-effective supports in areas where limited applied behavior analysis (ABA) services are available. As a result, e-learning programs for parents of children with autism have become part of the telehealth paradigm. In the Czech Republic, one of the many places where there are limited ABA supports and no available ABA e-learning courses for families, the development of an e-learning course that is freely available, and linguistically and culturally appropriate, is needed. It was anticipated that this course could mirror some of the free e-learning materials available to English-speaking caregivers and provide foundational knowledge to later support more intensive ABA services. Therefore, a pilot study was developed to assess an ABA e-learning course for caregivers in the Czech Republic with the aim of validating its efficacy and assessing whether a synchronous component was needed for the best outcomes. The materials were not meant to replace best practices in more intensive caregiver training but provide foundational skills for later more successful local services. Results demonstrated that a total of 33 caregivers completed the course, making statistically significant gains in their ABA knowledge and rating the course highly. Interestingly, the addition of the synchronous component only impacted the knowledge gain outcome. Suggestions for supporting caregivers in e-learning course completion and directions for future research are additionally explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheri Kingsdorf
- Institute for Research in Inclusive Education, Faculty of Education, Masaryk University, Poříčí 31a, 603 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Pancocha
- Institute for Research in Inclusive Education, Faculty of Education, Masaryk University, Poříčí 31a, 603 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Helena Vadurova
- Institute for Research in Inclusive Education, Faculty of Education, Masaryk University, Poříčí 31a, 603 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Dosedel
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Studies, Masaryk University, Poříčí 31a, 603 00 Brno, Czech Republic
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Dörttepe ZÜ, Duman ZÇ. Examination of Telemental Health Practices in Caregivers of Children and Adolescents with Mental Illnesses: A Systematic Review. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2022; 43:625-637. [PMID: 35021018 DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2021.2013366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
In this systematic review, effects of telemental health (TMH) practices' on caregivers of children/adolescents with mental illnesses were investigated. The literature review included databases, and reference lists of published studies. All studies published until September 2021 were reviewed. Eleven studies were included. Several services were provided via TMH: education, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), parent training, caregiver behavior training, family CBT. The effectiveness of TMH interventions on caregivers varied from low to high. Most reproducible findings were on caregivers' satisfaction, stress, therapeutic alliance and caregiver burden. Studies had a low to high bias risk. Most studies had small samples. Results built on the small but growing literature support TMH interventions' promising role in caregivers of children with mental illness. Future studies should estimate outcomes with medium to low effect size. Other caregiver groups, rarely considered in previous studies, should be included. Bias risk should be minimized. Larger, more methodologically rigorous studies should be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zümra Ülker Dörttepe
- Medical Services and Techniques Department, Vocational School of Health Sciences, Uşak University, Uşak, Turkey
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9
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Duncan A, Liddle M, Stark LJ. Iterative Development of a Daily Living Skills Intervention for Adolescents with Autism Without an Intellectual Disability. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2021; 24:744-764. [PMID: 34196895 PMCID: PMC8247110 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-021-00360-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Daily living skill deficits commonly co-occur in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These deficits in adolescence are associated with poor outcomes, in both employment and independent living skills as adults. Currently, there are no interventions that directly target daily living skill acquisition in adolescents with ASD without an intellectual disability to facilitate a successful transition to adulthood. In this paper, we discuss the development, refinement, and initial efficacy studies of Surviving and Thriving in the Real World (STRW), a 14-session group treatment for both adolescents with ASD and their parent/caregiver that promotes attainment of critical daily living skills. We summarize initial feasibility studies that have been instrumental in the iterative development of STRW. The structure, core treatment elements, and content of STRW are described in detail. Lastly, we discuss the transition of the in-person STRW intervention to STRW-telehealth, which allows for adolescents with ASD to work on daily living skills in their own home with support from a therapist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amie Duncan
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039 USA
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH USA
| | - Melissa Liddle
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039 USA
| | - Lori J. Stark
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039 USA
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH USA
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10
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Johnsson G, Bulkeley K. Practitioner and Service User Perspectives on the Rapid Shift to Teletherapy for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum as a Result of COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11812. [PMID: 34831567 PMCID: PMC8620428 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182211812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Prior to COVID-19, research into teletherapy models for individuals on the autism spectrum was slowly progressing. Following the onset of COVID-19, teletherapy became a necessity for continuity of services, however, research was still emerging for how to translate best practice autism support to the online environment. The aim of this research was to gain insight into the rapid shift to teletherapy for practitioner and service users and the implications for the broader disability sector. Survey responses were collected from 141 allied health practitioners (speech pathologists, occupational therapists, psychologists, educators, and social workers) from four Australian states and territories. A total of 806 responses were collected from service users following an individual teletherapy session. Five themes were identified during the qualitative analysis; (1) technology-love it or hate it; (2) teletherapy as a "new normal"; (3) short term pain, for long term gain; (4) the shape of service delivery has changed; (5) is teletherapy always an option? Data from the quantitative analysis provided further insights into the first two themes. While COVID-19 has brought forward significant advances in telehealth models of practice, what is needed now is to delve further into what works, for who, and in which context, and explore the potentiality, efficiencies, and scalability of a post-pandemic hybrid approach. This will inform practice guidelines and training, as well as information for service users on what to expect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve Johnsson
- Individual and Community Services, Autism Spectrum Australia, Sydney 2153, Australia
- Centre for Disability Research and Policy, University of Sydney, Sydney 2153, Australia;
| | - Kim Bulkeley
- Centre for Disability Research and Policy, University of Sydney, Sydney 2153, Australia;
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Ellison KS, Guidry J, Picou P, Adenuga P, Davis TE. Telehealth and Autism Prior to and in the Age of COVID-19: A Systematic and Critical Review of the Last Decade. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2021; 24:599-630. [PMID: 34114135 PMCID: PMC8191715 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-021-00358-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
There has been growing interest in the use of telehealth; however, the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent isolation and restrictions placed on in-person services have fast-tracked implementation needs for these services. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been particularly affected due to the often-intensive service needs required by this population. As a result, the aim of this review was to examine the evidence base, methodology, and outcomes of studies that have used telehealth for assessment and/or intervention with children and adolescents with ASD as well as their families over the last decade. Further, the goal is to highlight the advances in telehealth and its use with this special population. A systematic search of the literature was undertaken, with 55 studies meeting inclusion criteria and quality analysis. Specified details were extracted from each article, including participant characteristics, technology, measures, methodology/study design, and clinical and implementation outcomes. Services provided via telehealth included diagnostic assessments, preference assessments, early intervention, applied behavior analysis (ABA), functional assessment and functional communication training, and parent training. Findings, although still emerging, encouragingly suggested that services via telehealth were equivalent or better to services face-to-face. Results support the benefits to using telehealth with individuals with ASD. Future research should continue to explore the feasibility of both assessments and interventions via telehealth with those having ASD to make access to assessment services and interventions more feasible for families, while acknowledging the digital divide it could create.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly S Ellison
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, 236 Audubon Hall, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
| | - Jerrica Guidry
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, 236 Audubon Hall, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
| | - Paige Picou
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, 236 Audubon Hall, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
| | - Paige Adenuga
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, 236 Audubon Hall, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
| | - Thompson E Davis
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, 236 Audubon Hall, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA.
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Pi HJ, Kallapiran K, Munivenkatappa S, Kandasamy P, Kirubakaran R, Russell P, Eapen V. Meta-Analysis of RCTs of Technology-Assisted Parent-Mediated Interventions for Children with ASD. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:3325-3343. [PMID: 34318434 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05206-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Technology-assisted parent-mediated interventions improve accessibility and are acceptable but not proven to be effective. We conducted a systematic search of 6 databases. We included and analysed results from studies on social and communication outcomes. Sixteen Randomised-Controlled-Trials (RCTs) with 748 participants were included. Most studies were rated as of good quality. Meta-analysis suggested that interventions were probably effective in improving emotion recognition. No significant differences were found in social communication, social functioning or language outcomes. At present, isolated tech interventions do not fulfil criteria for promising or established evidence-based interventions for ASD. Future research needs to focus on improving the effectiveness of technology-assisted parent-mediated interventions for ASD. Prospero Registration Number: CRD42020162825.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Ji Pi
- Darling Downs Health Service, The Toowoomba Hospital, Toowoomba, QLD, Australia
| | - Kannan Kallapiran
- Gold Coast Health Service, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia. .,Southport Health Precinct, 16-30 High Street, Gold Coast, QLD, 4215, Australia.
| | | | | | - Richard Kirubakaran
- Prof BV Moses Center for Evidence-Informed Health Care and Health Policy, Vellore, India
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de Nocker YL, Toolan CK. Using Telehealth to Provide Interventions for Children with ASD: a Systematic Review. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2021; 10:82-112. [PMID: 34306962 PMCID: PMC8282771 DOI: 10.1007/s40489-021-00278-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
As the need for accessible interventions for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) grows, empirically supported telehealth interventions become increasingly necessary. With the current COVID-19 public health crisis, in-person interventions have become largely infeasible; therefore, it is crucial that providers have information regarding the effectiveness of telehealth interventions. This systematic review evaluates and synthesizes existing group design research on telehealth ASD interventions. Sixteen articles were evaluated on implementer and child-level intervention outcomes as well as factors that promote equitable access to intervention. Findings suggest that telehealth programs are highly acceptable, comparable to face-to-face interventions, and can be an effective method of training implementers in interventions. Recommendations for future research and for maximizing equitable access to telehealth interventions are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanicka L. de Nocker
- Center for Autism Research and Treatment, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), 300 UCLA Medical Plaza, Box 956967, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
| | - Christina K. Toolan
- Center for Autism Research and Treatment, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), 300 UCLA Medical Plaza, Box 956967, Los Angeles, CA 90095 USA
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14
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The Effect of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Improving Psychological Well-Being in Parents of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11070880. [PMID: 34209171 PMCID: PMC8301771 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11070880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has been demonstrated as effective in improving psychological well-being in several clinical domains, but there is no evidence regarding the parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, we evaluated the efficacy of the ACT matrix behavioral protocol in comparison to the Parent Training (PT) program, measuring several primary and secondary outcomes prior to and following treatments. Twelve parents were randomly and equally assigned to two demographically matched groups wherein individuals underwent 24 weekly meetings of ACT protocol (experimental group) or conventional PT (control group). Results: Parents enrolled in the ACT protocol demonstrated significant improvement in psychological flexibility, awareness states, personal values in everyday life, and parental stress, whereas reduced scores were elicited in parents’ perceptions of their child’s disruptive behaviors. Conclusions: The results of this randomized controlled trial, if repeated with a large number of subjects, could open the way to include ACT protocols in daily practice to support the development of new parenting skills.
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15
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Kingsdorf S, Pančocha K. Looking at Europe's recent behavioral telehealth practices for children and families impacted by neurodevelopmental disabilities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 69:147-162. [PMID: 37025332 PMCID: PMC10071975 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2021.1925403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
There is a widespread lack of behavioral professionals available to support children and families affected by neurodevelopmental disabilities. As a result of limited availability, services that can be provided from a distance have developed. Telehealth is a modality that can increase access to services, lessen financial constraints, and support assessments of generalization. Using either synchronous or asynchronous components it can foster evaluation and coaching. Guidelines for usage have surfaced in North America and been integrated into the continent's existing model of behavioral care. However, in Europe where all modalities of behavioral services are fighting to receive funding, frameworks are scarce. Understanding more about telehealth in behavioral care, its various applications throughout Europe, and the local context into which it can be applicable may promote system growth. To support this cause, a scoping review of recent behavioral telehealth practices for children and families impacted by neurodevelopmental disabilities in Europe was undertaken; looking specifically to assess types of studies, their targets and outcomes, telehealth modality components, barriers, and directions for future work. Although few studies surfaced, valuable conclusions can be drawn about the model's empirical validation, creating a groundwork for sustainability, and the need for developing policy and standardized application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheri Kingsdorf
- Institute for Research in Inclusive Education, Faculty of Education, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Pančocha
- Institute for Research in Inclusive Education, Faculty of Education, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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16
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Sadeghi S, Pouretemad HR, Shalani B. Internet-based versus face-to-face intervention training for parents of young children with excessive screen-time and autism spectrum disorder-like symptoms: a comparative study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 68:744-755. [PMID: 36210895 PMCID: PMC9542763 DOI: 10.1080/20473869.2021.1895699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Internet-based intervention approach is one novel strategy to train. However, only a few clinical trials have compared internet-based parent training intervention with an equal face-to-face intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-like symptoms. The primary aim of this study was to compare treatment outcomes of an internet-based intervention with a face-to-face intervention for young children with excessive screen-time and ASD-like symptoms. A total of 40 mother-young children with excessive screen-time and ASD-like symptoms dyads were assigned to the Internet-based (n = 20) and to the face-to-face intervention (n = 20). Parents in both groups received intervention that involves 7 sessions (one session per week). Primary outcome measures were the Gilliam autism rating scale - second edition (GARS-2), repetitive behavior scale- revised (RBS-R) and parenting stress index (PSI). The analysis yielded no significant between-group difference for any of the pre- to post-intervention measurements. At post-intervention both intervention conditions revealed significant symptoms changes compared to before the intervention. Also, the parental stress was significant related to the child's autism symptoms and repetitive behaviors severity. Internet-based parent training intervention for young children with excessive screen-time and ASD-like symptoms and their parents is equally beneficial to regular face-to-face parent training intervention. These findings support the potential for using telehealth to provide research-based parent training interventions to any family that has access to the Internet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Sadeghi
- Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
- Center of Excellence in Cognitive Neuropsychology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Pouretemad
- Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
- Center of Excellence in Cognitive Neuropsychology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bita Shalani
- Department of Psychology, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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17
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Neely L, MacNaul H, Gregori E, Cantrell K. Effects of telehealth‐mediated behavioral assessments and interventions on client outcomes: A quality review. J Appl Behav Anal 2021; 54:484-510. [DOI: 10.1002/jaba.818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Neely
- Department of Educational Psychology University of Texas at San Antonio
| | - Hannah MacNaul
- Department of Educational Psychology University of Texas at San Antonio
| | - Emily Gregori
- Department of Special Education University of Illinois at Chicago
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18
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The Challenging Heterogeneity of Autism: Editorial for Brain Sciences Special Issue "Advances in Autism Research". Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10120948. [PMID: 33297430 PMCID: PMC7762320 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10120948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
My personal experience as Guest Editor of the Special Issue (SI) entitled "Advances in Autism Research" began with a nice correspondence with Andrew Meltzoff, from the University of Washington, Seattle (WA, USA), which, in hindsight, I consider as a good omen for the success of this Special Issue: "Dear Antonio… [...].
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