Developing Therapeutically Attuned Relationships with Autistic Children and Their Caregivers

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy
• Developmental psychology
• Neurodiversity studies

Background:

• Current occupational therapy models for autistic children require reevaluation to align with neurodiversity-affirming practices.
• Neurodiversity-affirming care is strengths-based, collaborative, and prioritizes the autistic child's and caregiver's needs and goals.
• Understanding sensory processing and emotional regulation is crucial for effective interventions with autistic children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose the Intentional and Attuned Therapeutic Relationship Model.
• To emphasize an intentional and attuned therapeutic relationship among therapist, autistic child, and caregiver.
• To align occupational therapy practices with the neurodiversity-affirming paradigm.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on sensory processing and emotional regulation in autistic children.
• Discussion of the Intentional Relationship Model and the concept of attunement.
• Integration of these concepts to propose a novel therapeutic relationship model.

Main Results:

• The proposed model combines the Intentional Relationship Model with attunement.
• This integration aims to foster a stronger, more effective therapeutic relationship.
• The model supports a neurodiversity-affirming approach in pediatric occupational therapy.

Conclusions:

• The Intentional and Attuned Therapeutic Relationship Model offers a framework for neurodiversity-affirming practice.
• This model can enhance therapeutic outcomes for autistic children and their caregivers.
• Further research and application of the model are warranted in occupational therapy settings.