DAY TWENTY-THREE
What is the most concerning or destructive thing that is going on right now in your child’s world? Where to look for HELP?
UNDER... “Who May Help?" You want to understand about CAMs.
< My Thoughts > “…understand about CAMs.”
Approach all of these Complementary & Alternative Medicine treatments with CAUTION. None have been approved for use for children and/or adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and could be life threatening. I offer this only as an attempt to give you some information as to what you may hear or see when investigating Programs, Therapies & Interventions. A tip of the iceberg, so to speak. Now it’s up to you to investigate them thoroughly, before you move forward with a plan.
Protect your child and your wallet. And remember… that as well as creating a Therapy Program, the principal of the program has created a business which is bound by city, county, state, and/or federal business restrictions. This means that they must meet all professional standards, certification, and licensing requirements. It’s up to you to find out if they do. And… you are bound by any contractual agreements that you sign.
Note: Luker, S. (2024). Read more about CAMs in UNIT 7 – 4 Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAMs)
Section 4: CAMs PART 1 –
1. acupuncture
2. animal assisted therapy
a. Dog Assisted Therapy
b. Dolphin Assisted Therapy
c. Horse Assisted Therapy
PART 1 –
1. acupuncture
What is the most concerning or destructive thing that is going on right now in your child’s world? Where to look for HELP?
UNDER... “Who May Help?" You want to understand about CAMs.
< My Thoughts > “…understand about CAMs.”
Approach all of these Complementary & Alternative Medicine treatments with CAUTION. None have been approved for use for children and/or adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and could be life threatening. I offer this only as an attempt to give you some information as to what you may hear or see when investigating Programs, Therapies & Interventions. A tip of the iceberg, so to speak. Now it’s up to you to investigate them thoroughly, before you move forward with a plan.
Protect your child and your wallet. And remember… that as well as creating a Therapy Program, the principal of the program has created a business which is bound by city, county, state, and/or federal business restrictions. This means that they must meet all professional standards, certification, and licensing requirements. It’s up to you to find out if they do. And… you are bound by any contractual agreements that you sign.
Note: Luker, S. (2024). Read more about CAMs in UNIT 7 – 4 Complementary & Alternative Medicine (CAMs)
Section 4: CAMs PART 1 –
1. acupuncture
2. animal assisted therapy
a. Dog Assisted Therapy
b. Dolphin Assisted Therapy
c. Horse Assisted Therapy
PART 1 –
1. acupuncture
1. Acupuncture
Autism Treatment through Traditional Chinese Medicine
The acupuncturist must meet national and state standards through examination and certification process; according to the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
‘Tongue’ diagnosis is a central piece of the Chinese medical diagnostic system, because the tongue is the only organ that can be seen externally.
Ming, X., Chen, X., et al. (2012) say – Some studies used acupuncture and behavioral therapy simultaneously within the same subjects. One study used massage at acupoints without actual needling. Another study used both acupuncture and acupoints massage. In conclusion, all the clinical trials reported superior effects of acupuncture over comparison treatment. All reported high tolerability to acupuncture, including severely autistic children with behavioral symptoms. However, the studies reviewed have inherent weaknesses that made it difficult to interpret efficacy and safety.
< My Thoughts > “…made it difficult to interpret efficacy and safety.”
There have been more recent studies about autism and acupuncture, globally and in other countries. If you are considering this method, my hope is that you will do your research; qualify and verify all information, as well as always consulting your child’s healthcare provider
Autism Treatment through Traditional Chinese Medicine
The acupuncturist must meet national and state standards through examination and certification process; according to the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
‘Tongue’ diagnosis is a central piece of the Chinese medical diagnostic system, because the tongue is the only organ that can be seen externally.
Ming, X., Chen, X., et al. (2012) say – Some studies used acupuncture and behavioral therapy simultaneously within the same subjects. One study used massage at acupoints without actual needling. Another study used both acupuncture and acupoints massage. In conclusion, all the clinical trials reported superior effects of acupuncture over comparison treatment. All reported high tolerability to acupuncture, including severely autistic children with behavioral symptoms. However, the studies reviewed have inherent weaknesses that made it difficult to interpret efficacy and safety.
< My Thoughts > “…made it difficult to interpret efficacy and safety.”
There have been more recent studies about autism and acupuncture, globally and in other countries. If you are considering this method, my hope is that you will do your research; qualify and verify all information, as well as always consulting your child’s healthcare provider
2. Animal Assisted Therapy
a. Dog Assisted Therapy
b. Dolphin Assisted Therapy
c. Horse Assisted Therapy
Wijker, C., & Leontjevas, R. (2019) want you to know that of the 27 participants and therapists evaluating the animal-assistance program, most saw it as satisfying, feasible, and relevant for adults with ASD. Some reported decreases in self-reported stress, and those with agoraphobia felt positive effects of having animal assistance. While these statements are positive, it is suggested that health professionals and researchers also need information which shows, both internal and external validity of the program. They should provide a sample of the quality, fidelity, and professional health care providers evaluation, of each particular program. And, it was noted that animal-assistance program interventions for autism, have not been regulated worldwide.
< My Thoughts > “…evaluation, of each particular program.”
As a parent, considering any program for your child, please perform due-diligence, when choosing that program.
Rudy, L. J. (2020) advises Animal-Assisted Therapy, such as therapeutic horseback riding or service dogs, has been found to have a significant positive impact on children with autism. Some fees are even paid for by insurance companies, but many expenses may be considered out-of-pocket.
a. Dog Assisted Therapy
b. Dolphin Assisted Therapy
c. Horse Assisted Therapy
Wijker, C., & Leontjevas, R. (2019) want you to know that of the 27 participants and therapists evaluating the animal-assistance program, most saw it as satisfying, feasible, and relevant for adults with ASD. Some reported decreases in self-reported stress, and those with agoraphobia felt positive effects of having animal assistance. While these statements are positive, it is suggested that health professionals and researchers also need information which shows, both internal and external validity of the program. They should provide a sample of the quality, fidelity, and professional health care providers evaluation, of each particular program. And, it was noted that animal-assistance program interventions for autism, have not been regulated worldwide.
< My Thoughts > “…evaluation, of each particular program.”
As a parent, considering any program for your child, please perform due-diligence, when choosing that program.
Rudy, L. J. (2020) advises Animal-Assisted Therapy, such as therapeutic horseback riding or service dogs, has been found to have a significant positive impact on children with autism. Some fees are even paid for by insurance companies, but many expenses may be considered out-of-pocket.
a. Dog Assisted Therapy
Butterly, et al. (2013) interviewed “five providers who prepared dogs to work with a wide range of conditions and behaviors, mainly Asperger’s syndrome, autism, and communication disorders. The majority felt that after placement of the service dog, the recipient had improved attention span, communication skills, and increased familial cohesion.”
Gardner, N. (2008) guarantees that Henry was no ordinary dog. He did the extraordinary: he gave me hope when I had none. It was Henry who freed my tormented son. And, it was Henry who would throw us both the lifeline we needed. “Mum, due to Henry I am not scared any more of being an adult. I have decided that for the rest of my life I am never going to let my amazing dog down, so that he will be proud of me, as I will always be of him.”
Gardner, N. (2013) tells us that puppy in training Thomas, a younger version of beloved Henry, would curl up to sleep, wedged under the computer desk, warming his master’s feet. He claimed two-thirds of the bed, sprawled out, snoring drunkenly; tail thudding as he dreamed. However long Dale worked on his assignments, neither dog moved an inch until Dale had finished. Their deep restful breathing had a calming influence which helped him work longer.
I became aware of a real need for some kind of dog-autism program in our area.
b. Dolphin Assisted Therapy
About Dolphin Assisted Therapy, Rollins, J. (2010) reveals that according to legends from around the world, the fascination and enchantment with dolphins goes back to time immemorial. Part of this euphoric and joyful experience could be based on the dolphins’ gentle behavior toward humans, she says.
She continues that although some research is available, most claims of the ‘healing power’ of dolphins are anecdotal. However, the immersion in water and the buoyant forces of flotation, are known to have a way in releasing certain brain chemicals. And, that the environment in which these interactions take place, may also hold a key to the impact of finding freedom from gravity for humans as well as dolphins.
The programs she talks about involve both dolphins in captivity, and in the wild. Therapy includes interactions at poolside – such as a swim offered as a reward for the completion of a task; or, a dorsal fin ride. More structured interactions are activities, where the participant is made to feel s/he is ‘looking after’ the dolphin, by feeding or grooming it.
< My Thoughts > “…‘looking after’ the dolphin…”
Visiting dolphins near you, let alone finding a Dolphin Assisted Therapy near you, could be a challenge! One U.S. program that I found was named for, and continued in the name of, a deceased person. No actual person in the organization had the deceased person’s necessary professional credentials. The principal was there in ‘name’ only. Remember, to search out the most qualified hands, when choosing any program for your child.
b. Dolphin Assisted Therapy
About Dolphin Assisted Therapy, Rollins, J. (2010) reveals that according to legends from around the world, the fascination and enchantment with dolphins goes back to time immemorial. Part of this euphoric and joyful experience could be based on the dolphins’ gentle behavior toward humans, she says.
She continues that although some research is available, most claims of the ‘healing power’ of dolphins are anecdotal. However, the immersion in water and the buoyant forces of flotation, are known to have a way in releasing certain brain chemicals. And, that the environment in which these interactions take place, may also hold a key to the impact of finding freedom from gravity for humans as well as dolphins.
The programs she talks about involve both dolphins in captivity, and in the wild. Therapy includes interactions at poolside – such as a swim offered as a reward for the completion of a task; or, a dorsal fin ride. More structured interactions are activities, where the participant is made to feel s/he is ‘looking after’ the dolphin, by feeding or grooming it.
< My Thoughts > “…‘looking after’ the dolphin…”
Visiting dolphins near you, let alone finding a Dolphin Assisted Therapy near you, could be a challenge! One U.S. program that I found was named for, and continued in the name of, a deceased person. No actual person in the organization had the deceased person’s necessary professional credentials. The principal was there in ‘name’ only. Remember, to search out the most qualified hands, when choosing any program for your child.
c. Horse Assisted Therapy
Isaacson, R. (2009) insists – the first time I took Rowan to the barn to saddle Betsy up, he ran amok; yelling, and screaming, and swinging his Woody and Jessie dolls around and around, in both hands. I kept saddling Betsy, tightening the cinch and grabbing at her lower lip, as I slipped the bit into her mouth.
“Do you want to get up on Betsy?” I asked him, not expecting a response.
“Up!”
It was the first time I’d received a direct answer to a direct question. I bent down, scooped him up, and put him in the saddle.
His grin was so wide it seemed to stretch off the sides of his face, and into the air on either side.
I put my foot in the stirrup, and swung up behind him.
“Go!” said Rowan, impatient. “You want Betsy to go?” “Go!” he confirmed. This was amazing.
Raj, A. (2012) revels that in some isolated cases, the motion of the animal may help correct rhythm coordination problems. A Colorado study revealed that the cause of autism, could well be ‘rhythmic coordination’ issues; especially because of their need for repetitive behavior, and their difficulty in communicating. The horse plays a role in sensory calming, and may even serve as a substitute motor system.
Along with ‘program qualifications’, the Equine Assisted Therapist requires an understanding of both horses and humans. The horse itself, must complete a rigorous training program and be battle-tested.
Some of the therapist competency requirements are listed here –
< My Thoughts > “…’program qualifications’…”
Remember – As well as creating a practice or program, the program principals must meet all qualifying professional standards, certification, and licensing. It’s up to you to find out if they do, before your place your child in their hands; or, in this case, on their horses.
As parents, we can look around us to see what we might be missing. There are groups which do horse therapy, drum therapy, music and dance therapy, swimming with dolphins, and even healing mud baths. Who knows, there just may be that exotic moment when our child connects with something magical. It may not be a cure-all, or happen repeatedly, but if it happens once isn’t it worth it?
We took Sonny to an Indian Pow Wow which was open to the public. People said…”Okay, now that’s one of your crazier ideas!” But you know what? Sonny ate a whole fried taco and danced in a Tribal Circle of Dance with a beautiful Indian Princess.
References:
Butterly, F., Percy, C., et al. (2013). Brief Report: Do Service Dog Providers Placing Dogs with Children with Developmental Disabilities Use Outcome Measures and, if so, What Are They?; Journal of Autism Developmental Disorders; V43, p 2720-2725.
Gardner, N. (2008). A Friend Like Henry; eBook Edition.
Gardner, N. (2013). All Because of Henry: My Story of Struggle & Triumph with Two Autistic Children & the Dogs that Unlocked Their World; eBook Edition.
Isaacson, R. (2015). The Long Ride Home: The Extraordinary Journey of Healing That Changed a Child’s Life; eBook Edition.
Ming, X., Chen, X., et al. (2012). Acupuncture for Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders; Retrieved online from –
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3235695/
Raj, A. (2012). Horses Soothe Kids with Autism; Scientific American Mind; V23:3, p14.
Rollins, J. (2010). Swimming with the Dolphins; Letter to the Editor; Pediatric Nursing; V36:5, p234-234.
Rudy, L. J.(2020). What is the Best Treatment for Autism?; Very Well Health Online; Retrieved online from – https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-best-treatment-for-autism/
Wijker, C., & Leontjevas, R. (2019). Process Evaluation of Animal-Assisted Therapy: Feasibility & Relevance of a Dog-Assisted Therapy Program in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder; Animals Journal MDPI, Netherlands; V9:1103, p1-14.
Note: DISCLAIMER – Autism ‘intervention’, as with the phrase ‘Early Detection / Early Intervention’, may simply mean to attempt an ‘action’, or attempt to ‘change a course’ or ‘trajectory’ of the person’s autism. Any expectation for a successful ‘change’ must have the cooperation of the participant, the parent, and/or the assigned therapist. Words such as, ‘intervention’, ‘treatment’, ‘therapy’, ‘service’, or ‘program’ imply ‘cure’, or ‘long-term’ positive effect. That is NOT my intention here, and all information is presented without intent or suggestion of status or effectiveness.
End of DAY TWENTY-THREE.
Note: Excerpts from the books – (13% indicates location in the Kindle version of the eBook, instead of page numbers).
Sharing of my website and BLOG Comments welcomed. Thank-you to those of you who have sent comments... much appreciated!
Regards,
Sara Luker
Isaacson, R. (2009) insists – the first time I took Rowan to the barn to saddle Betsy up, he ran amok; yelling, and screaming, and swinging his Woody and Jessie dolls around and around, in both hands. I kept saddling Betsy, tightening the cinch and grabbing at her lower lip, as I slipped the bit into her mouth.
“Do you want to get up on Betsy?” I asked him, not expecting a response.
“Up!”
It was the first time I’d received a direct answer to a direct question. I bent down, scooped him up, and put him in the saddle.
His grin was so wide it seemed to stretch off the sides of his face, and into the air on either side.
I put my foot in the stirrup, and swung up behind him.
“Go!” said Rowan, impatient. “You want Betsy to go?” “Go!” he confirmed. This was amazing.
Raj, A. (2012) revels that in some isolated cases, the motion of the animal may help correct rhythm coordination problems. A Colorado study revealed that the cause of autism, could well be ‘rhythmic coordination’ issues; especially because of their need for repetitive behavior, and their difficulty in communicating. The horse plays a role in sensory calming, and may even serve as a substitute motor system.
Along with ‘program qualifications’, the Equine Assisted Therapist requires an understanding of both horses and humans. The horse itself, must complete a rigorous training program and be battle-tested.
Some of the therapist competency requirements are listed here –
- human psychology/human development
- facilitation skills, with focus on client’s safety
- group dynamics, focused on managing the group, & conflict & safety
- equine psychology, behavior & welfare
- horsemanship skills
- management, technique & application of horse equipment
- supervision, mentoring, and assessment of client
< My Thoughts > “…’program qualifications’…”
Remember – As well as creating a practice or program, the program principals must meet all qualifying professional standards, certification, and licensing. It’s up to you to find out if they do, before your place your child in their hands; or, in this case, on their horses.
As parents, we can look around us to see what we might be missing. There are groups which do horse therapy, drum therapy, music and dance therapy, swimming with dolphins, and even healing mud baths. Who knows, there just may be that exotic moment when our child connects with something magical. It may not be a cure-all, or happen repeatedly, but if it happens once isn’t it worth it?
We took Sonny to an Indian Pow Wow which was open to the public. People said…”Okay, now that’s one of your crazier ideas!” But you know what? Sonny ate a whole fried taco and danced in a Tribal Circle of Dance with a beautiful Indian Princess.
References:
Butterly, F., Percy, C., et al. (2013). Brief Report: Do Service Dog Providers Placing Dogs with Children with Developmental Disabilities Use Outcome Measures and, if so, What Are They?; Journal of Autism Developmental Disorders; V43, p 2720-2725.
Gardner, N. (2008). A Friend Like Henry; eBook Edition.
Gardner, N. (2013). All Because of Henry: My Story of Struggle & Triumph with Two Autistic Children & the Dogs that Unlocked Their World; eBook Edition.
Isaacson, R. (2015). The Long Ride Home: The Extraordinary Journey of Healing That Changed a Child’s Life; eBook Edition.
Ming, X., Chen, X., et al. (2012). Acupuncture for Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders; Retrieved online from –
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3235695/
Raj, A. (2012). Horses Soothe Kids with Autism; Scientific American Mind; V23:3, p14.
Rollins, J. (2010). Swimming with the Dolphins; Letter to the Editor; Pediatric Nursing; V36:5, p234-234.
Rudy, L. J.(2020). What is the Best Treatment for Autism?; Very Well Health Online; Retrieved online from – https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-best-treatment-for-autism/
Wijker, C., & Leontjevas, R. (2019). Process Evaluation of Animal-Assisted Therapy: Feasibility & Relevance of a Dog-Assisted Therapy Program in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder; Animals Journal MDPI, Netherlands; V9:1103, p1-14.
Note: DISCLAIMER – Autism ‘intervention’, as with the phrase ‘Early Detection / Early Intervention’, may simply mean to attempt an ‘action’, or attempt to ‘change a course’ or ‘trajectory’ of the person’s autism. Any expectation for a successful ‘change’ must have the cooperation of the participant, the parent, and/or the assigned therapist. Words such as, ‘intervention’, ‘treatment’, ‘therapy’, ‘service’, or ‘program’ imply ‘cure’, or ‘long-term’ positive effect. That is NOT my intention here, and all information is presented without intent or suggestion of status or effectiveness.
End of DAY TWENTY-THREE.
Note: Excerpts from the books – (13% indicates location in the Kindle version of the eBook, instead of page numbers).
Sharing of my website and BLOG Comments welcomed. Thank-you to those of you who have sent comments... much appreciated!
Regards,
Sara Luker
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