We seek to advance research that improves the quality of life of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). To improve outcomes, a whole child approach is essential and collaboration between parents and caregivers, family members, teachers, and therapists is vital.

 

Our research involves the development and testing of intervention protocols as well as the study of current services and outcomes of interventions.

 

With funding from NIMH, we have obtained preliminary research support for the effectiveness of a parent-teacher conjoint consultation intervention called the Collaborative Model for Promoting Competence and Success (COMPASS). COMPASS puts into practice our values and beliefs of the importance of collaborative decision-making between parents and professionals, the necessity of understanding how ASD affects each person individually, and how personal and environmental strengths are considered to offset challenges.