Biomedical Treatments for Autism 101: An Introduction to Scientifically Based Medical Treatment Options
Dr. Lauren Underwood, PhD
Tulane University , LA (USA)
Dr. Lauren Underwood received her MS and PhD in biology (developmental neurobiology) from Tulane University. Following graduation, she was awarded a National Institute of Health Post-Doctoral Training Grant Fellowship in Vision Research.
Dr. Underwood is the parent of a child recovering from autism and, as a result of this, became a health educator and biomedical consultant for families of autistic children. She is also concurrently employed as a Senior Staff Scientist for SSAI, Inc. supporting NASA. Additionally, Dr. Underwood is a C.A.R.D., Center for Autism and Related Disorders, IRB Board member, a USAAA, US Autism and Asperger Association, Advisory Board (Scientific) member, and a scientific advisor for the International Hyperbarics Association (IHA).
Dr. Underwood has presented a poster on the "Best Practices" approach for the treatment of autism that that was presented at the 2008 Pangea Conference (Pediatric Integrative Medicine Conference (PIMC) for the Integrative Pediatrics Council. Dr. Underwood was also honored and privileged to be invited to co-author several chapters in a recently published book by Dr. Stephen Shore titled Understanding Autism for Dummies.
Biomedical and Behavioral Therapies Together: A Best Practice Model for Treating Autism
Abstract
A best practice is a technique, method, or process that is believed to be more effective at achieving a particular outcome. Behavioral as well as biomedical approaches have individually been established as effective modalities for treating children with autism. However, optimization of best possible successful outcomes can achieved when these interventions are implemented together, as a joint behavioral-biomedical treatment.
This model suggests that, if indicated, biomedical interventions should be utilized concurrently with behavioral therapies in an attempt to stabilize the child's medical conditions so that an overall improved state of health is achieved. By doing so, a healthier, happier child is more responsive to therapy; the child's learning potential is maximized, thereby increasing their receptiveness and consequently their acquisition of skills.
An overview explaining the synergy between these treatment modalities will be presented which support the application of this best practice model for treating autism.