Effective Collaboration: Maximizing Outcomes in Autism Intervention in an Interdisciplinary Model

Abstract

Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential to effective intervention for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As the needs of individuals with ASD are complex, they benefit from the expertise of numerous disciplines. In addition, outcomes are enhanced when professionals from different fields of study work together in intervention. Collaboration across disciplines, however, is not always easily achieved. Differences in approaches to treatment, definitions of evidence, and worldview can make it difficult to find common ground and to agree on intervention paths. For behavior analysts, the firm commitment to evidence-based interventions can add to the dilemmas encountered. Behavior analysts need strategies both to help them adhere to their ethical requirements and to engage in interdisciplinary team collaboration. Skills that need to be emphasized in the training of behavior analysts include soft skills, such as listening and conflict resolution, minimizing the use of jargon, appreciating the contributions of other professions, and translating interventions into behavioral principles. In addition, behavior analysts need to become familiar with resources that are available to assist teams in treatment decisions, including position statements from allied disciplines and treatment resources for parents. There has been a call to collaborative practice in ASD treatment, including within behavior analysis. As collaboration is emphasized in the education and training of behavior analysts, more effective interdisciplinary treatment will occur, and outcomes of individuals with ASD will be maximized.KeywordsCollaborationAutismInterdisciplinaryEvidence-based practiceSoft skills