Shreyas Saride

ISM

10/22/2018

Research Assessment #7

Subject:​​ Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)

MLA Citation:

Autism Speaks. "Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)." ​Autism Speaks​,

www.autismspeaks.org/early-start-denver-model-esdm.

The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a behavioral therapy for children with autism

between the ages of 12-48 months. It is based on the methods of applied behavior analysis

(ABA). Parents and therapists use play to build positive and fun relationships. Through play and

joint activities, the child is encouraged to boost language, social and cognitive skills. When

trying to treat Autism, one must focus on trying to increase social and cognitive skills. Although

these skills may not be completely fixed, it is important to try and reduce the symptoms of

Autism Spectrum Disorder as much as possible. Also, another fact that is noticeable is the

structure of treatments for ASD. All of these treatments are stemmed from Applied Behavior

Analysis, meaning they all essentially target the same thing, increasing social and cognitive

skills. The Early Start Denver Model is specifically targeted towards younger children, trying to

build the skills early, to reduce the effects in the long run. ESDM is also geared to universalizing

a form of treatment for patients with ASD

 ESDM is important to pediatric neurology and my ISM topic because it is one of the most

common treatments of Autism in the United States. It is the therapy that is used by almost every

social worker that comes to help with ASD patients. Knowing the process of how this therapy

works is a huge part of pediatric neurology. Personally, I have seen this method in person, with

the applications having a lot of variety. From applications on iPad to people physically coming to

assist with any needs the child needs, Early Start Denver Model is in effect. People can get

certified in ESDM by attending a training workshop, submitting a video showing them using

ESDM techniques in therapy sessions, and demonstrating they can use these techniques correctly

and reliably.

I also have some questions regarding ESDM. How effective is this method in comparison

to other forms of Applied Behavior Analysis? Is there an approach geared towards older people?
What is the Early Start Denver Model?
The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a behavioral therapy for children with autism

between the ages of 12-48 months. It is based on the methods of applied behavior

analysis (ABA).

Parents and therapists use play to build positive and fun relationships. Through play

and joint activities, the child is encouraged to boost language, social and cognitive skills.

● Based on understanding of normal toddler learning and development

● Focused on building positive relationships

● Teaching occurs during natural play and everyday activities

● Uses play to encourage interaction and communication

ESDM therapy can be used in many settings, including at home, at a clinic, or in school.

Therapy is provided in both group settings and one-on-one.

It has been found to be effective for children with a wide range of learning styles and

abilities. ESDM can help children make progress in their social skills, language skills,

and cognitive skills. Children who have significant learning challenges can benefit just

as much as those without learning challenges.

Parent involvement is a key part of the ESDM program. Therapists should explain and

model the strategies they use so that families can practice them at home.

Who provides Early Start Denver Model

services?
An ESDM therapist may be any of the following:

● Psychologist

● Behavior specialist (BCBA)

● Occupational therapist

● Speech and language pathologist

● Early intervention specialist

● Developmental pediatrician

All therapists must have specific training and certification in EDSM. This process

requires them to:

● Attend a training workshop

● Submit video showing them using ESDM techniques in therapy sessions

● Demonstrate they can use these techniques correctly and reliably

This ensures that a certified professional has the knowledge and skills to successfully

use the teaching strategies with children with autism.

Details on training qualifications and the certification process can be found ​here.​ You

can also visit the ​Early Start Denver Model website​ to learn more.

What is the evidence that the Early Start Denver

Model works?
Over a dozen studies​ have demonstrated the benefits of ESDM as an early intervention

for autism among children as young as 18 months. These studies included children

across a wide range of learning abilities.

Many of these studies looked at ESDM delivered by trained therapists in one-on-one

sessions with the child. One looked at ESDM delivered to groups of children in

childcare. Others looked at the benefits of training parents to deliver ESDM therapy at

home.

Benefits include improved learning and language abilities and adaptive behavior and

reduced symptoms of autism. ​Research​ using brain scans suggests that ESDM

improves brain activity associated with social and communication skills.

Is Early Start Denver Model covered by

insurance?
Sometimes. Many types of private health insurance are required to cover services for

autism. This depends on what kind of insurance you have, and what state you live in.

All Medicaid plans must cover treatments that are medically necessary for children

under the age of 21. If a doctor recommends ESDM and says it is medically necessary

for your child, Medicaid must cover the cost.

Some young children receive ESDM through their Early Intervention program. Early

intervention is offered in each state to children under age 3 who are not growing and

developing at the same rate as others. These services are free or low-cost based on

your family income.

Please see our ​insurance resources​ for more information about insurance and coverage

for autism services.

You can also ​contact the Autism Response Team​ if you have difficulty obtaining

coverage, or need additional help.

Where do I find Early Start Denver Model

services?
Visit the ​Autism Speaks Directory​ to search for providers near you.

The ​UC Davis Mind Institute​ maintains a list of certified ESDM therapists.

What questions should I ask?

The following questions can help you learn more about ESDM before you begin. It can

also help you learn whether a particular therapist is a good fit for your family:

1. Who will be working with my child?

2. What training will you offer to parents?

3. Where do you hold therapy sessions?

4. How do you determine program goals?

5. Are you trained to offer ESDM therapy?

6. Can parents participate in therapy sessions?

7. Will sessions be one-on-one, or held in a group?

8. How do you handle challenging behavior?

9. How do you measure progress?

10. What type of progress should we expect?