ABA is a big money spinner, and somewhat cultish, in my view. Despite being endorsed by the government in the US, it’s long-term efficacy is contested. It’s empirical claims tend to bipass children who regress after treatment stops - i.e. children at the lower end of the spectrum. There are other therapeutic and educational approaches which can have a significant impact on quality of life of children with autism (rather than just ‘integration’, as per ABA). Son-Rise is one - although that’s not cheap, either. There is less empirical evidence to support Son-Rise, but the anecdotal evidence that it improves quality of life for both child and parents is substantial and compelling. A similar approach - intensive interaction - is more accessible, and may be similarly suitable for children with profound autism.

There is NOT a single approach in either education or therapy that is suitable for even MOST children with autism, never mind all. Find the approach that suits your child - it may be ABA. Listen to professionals, but remember, the experts on the individual child are the parents.

In short, I recommend research before committing to anything or forking out cash. And be very careful - autism has a long history of charlatans promising the earth. Facilitated Communication and Holding therapy are just two examples of approaches that have fooled many, only to be latter rubbished.

http://theloudounproject.ning.com/

If you’re on Wall Street, you get a bailout. If you an honest, hardworking, tax paying citizen, you get nothing.

Also, if you really want to express sympathy, never end it with a “but”, because it negates every bit of sympathy you thought you were expressing.

Best

Don’t get me wrong I sympathise with the plight, but if others from around the world keep sending money to the US what incentive do they have to pass reform.

The US spends more on heath care per head of population than any other country and a higher proportion of their GDP than any other country yet they don’t have universal coverage - go figure!