More Options for Children with Autism

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) often have complexity in modifiable responses to sensations and specific stimuli. Children may use self-stimulation to recompense for limited sensory input or to keep away from overstimulation resulting in functional behavioral limitations.

Adventure-based Psychotherapy, which combines outdoor rock climbing with psychotherapy, provides sensory input and promotes sensory integration through the mechanisms endemic to the outdoor rock climbing experience. The act of rock climbing naturally provides tactile (pressure, pain, temperature), vestibular (equilibrium and movement), proprioceptive (joints, tendons, ligaments, connective tissue and muscle), and auditory inputs that advance the functioning of the central nervous system.

One study found that therapies that promote sensory input and integration are effective in the treatment of autistic children as it helps those children to become more independent and participate in everyday activities.

Given these findings, parents of children with ASD now have more options than ever before.