Collaboration strategies for OTPs and BCBAs: Enhancing outcomes in children with ASD

In the United States, approximately 1 in 36 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2022). It is a complex diagnosis characterized as a developmental disorder causing social, behavioral, and communicational deficits, such as repetitive play with atypical objects or difficulties using gestural communication signs (Masi et al., 2017; McPartland & Volkmar, 2012). ASD may impact a child’s ability to perform daily occupations, including self-care, leisure, or play tasks. Individuals diagnosed with ASD will present differently, leading each child to be unique in their symptoms. Children with ASD often receive behavioral services, occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and/or early intervention services (CDC, 2022; Gasiewski et al., 2021).