Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Published on: April 22, 2015
Therapeutic Relationship Between Occupational Therapists, Autistic Clients, and Their Caregivers: Pediatric
Felicia B Bernhard1, Camille Skubik-Peplaski2, Jenny M Dorich1,3
1Division of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to understand how to develop and maintain a therapeutic relationship with autistic children and their caregivers. Ten pediatric occupational therapists participated in this descriptive qualitative study by engaging in semi-structured interviews, answering open-ended questions about their clinical practice working with autistic children and their caregivers. Data was analyzed with thematic analysis resulting in three themes. The first theme describes a relationship-based therapeutic process that allows the occupational therapy practitioner to partner with the caregiver and to utilize co-regulation to support the autistic child. The second theme highlighted the importance of the occupational therapy practitioner as a facilitator or barrier to the development of the relationship. Lastly, several external factors were found to limit a relationship-based approach and to challenge therapists' well-being and longevity in clinical practice settings. This study identified that the therapeutic relationship is dynamic and critical for the success of occupational therapy with autistic children and their caregivers.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Interdisciplinary Care: The Health Care Team-II
Physical Therapist
A physical therapist (PT) aims to restore function or prevent additional impairment in a patient following an injury or disease. Massage, heat, cold, water, sonar waves, exercises, and electrical stimulation are some treatments used by PTs to treat...
Therapeutic Communication
Verbal communication depends on language or a prescribed way of using words so that people can share information effectively. The critical aspects of verbal...
Elements Crucial for Effective Psychotherapy
The Therapeutic Alliance
The therapeutic alliance refers to the relationship between the therapist and the client. The alliance strengthens when the therapist and the client engage in a nurturing, supportive, trusting, empathetic, and respectful relationship, improving therapeutic outcomes. Therapists must monitor this relationship...
Operant Conditioning Intervention
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.

