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SCIENCE IN AUTISM TREATMENT
Vol. 11 No. 1

Winter 2014

Newsletter of the Association for Science in Autism Treatment

Letter From David Celiberti, PhD, BCBA-D
ASAT Executive Director

Happy New Year!
On behalf of ASAT, I hope 2014 brings you good things. I also hope that this year will bring to all a
deeper appreciation for the relevance of science in both grounding and guiding autism treatment,
greater expectations of accountability from alltreatment providers, more accuracy within media portrayals, and heightened awareness of thepitfalls, costs, and distractions of pseudoscience for there are, sadly, quite many.
As you may recall, my Co-Editor, Dr. Daniela Fazzio, shared many of our 2013 accomplishmentsin the Fall issue of Science in Autism Treatment(SIAT). As we welcome in the new year, we are
anticipating an even more productive 2014.
Therefore, it is with great pride and optimismthat I outline an array of goals and initiatives for2014: Increase our Science in Autism Treatment
subscriber base from 10,000 to 12,000 withTABLE OF CONTENTS

representation from 95 countries.
 Launch a new website this coming spring.
 Develop customized webpages for parents
with a newly-diagnosed child, media professionals, and medical professionals.
 Increase our Facebook fans to 9,500, Twitter followers to 1,200, and increase ASAT’s
presence on quality autism community blog
sites.

Letter from David Celiberti, Executive Director

1Partner-Sponsor Program Description

4

Interview with Little Star Center Executives

6

Clinical Corner on Preference Assessments

12

Shout Outs

15

Weight to Go Kettlebells 4 Autism

16

Consumer Corner: Autism Special Interest Group Guidelines

18

Interview with Dr. Joyce Mauk, Advisory Board Member

20

Research Review: Son-Rise Program Intervention Effects

232014 Sponsorship Initiative and 2013 Sponsors

Increase our presence within the medical
community, particularly among pediatricians
26 and family practice doctors, by making infor28 mation on ASAT and science-based treatment
33 readily available to them.

Media Watch

35

 Increase grant request submissions to sup-Team ASAT Crosses the Finish Line - NYC Marathon

36

port our important work.

2013 Donor Wall

37

 Increase ASAT’s presence at state, regional,

Coordinators, Externs, and Committee Members

38

4th Annual Rock’n 4 Autism Awareness Concert
International Interview: Nicole Rogerson, Australia(Continued on page 2)

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Letter From the Executive Director continued...
(Continued from page 1)

and international conferences.
 Provide information regarding ASAT and its resources to faculty in special education, psychology,

and speech-language pathology programs nationwide, as well as abroad.
 Expand coverage of genetics, epidemiology, assessment, and biologically-based treatment issues

in SIAT.
 More extensively tap into the wealth of experience and expertise of our Advisory Board members.

Volume 11.1 Winter 2014

 Recruit new writers and increase number of Media Watch respons-es to accurate and inaccurate portrayals of autism treatment, withheightened focus on international and lifespan issues.
 Hold bimonthly conference calls to advance an aggressive andcomprehensive 2014 strategic plan and conduct our annual board
meeting in Newark, NJ in October to finalize this plan.
 Host the 4th annual Rock’n 4 Autism Awareness benefit concert on
May 3rd in Hoboken, NJ.
I hope that you share our excitement in these goals and share ourbelief that ASAT’s commitment to promoting science-based researchplays a valuable role in the autism community. We cannot carry out
our important work without the support of generous sponsors anddonors. In fact, the ongoing success of ASAT is predicated on suchsupport. We are particularly grateful to the sponsorship from Little
Dr. Celiberti and his son trying toStar Center, Inc., which has been a tremendous friend to ASAT overscare away pseudosciencethe last few years and has generously renewed their sponsorship at
the Partner level! For that, we are dedicating this issue of the newsletter to them, an exemplary organization. In the pages of this issue, you will have the opportunity tolearn more about their important work. Please find a program description on page 4 and an interview
on page 6.
If you are affiliated with an organization, which shares ASAT’s commitment to science in the treatment of autism, please consider becoming a 2014 Real Science Real Hope Sponsor (http://
asatonline.org/about_asat/professional-sponsors). We are pleased to report that 45 organizations
participated last year. Please see page 37 for more info rmation about our sponsorship effort.
Also, please see page 35 for our 2013 Donor Wall. As we move into 2014, we also welcome the support of additional individual donors. If you recognize the need for accurate information about autism
treatment, believe in the relevance of science, and want to support our efforts to change the conversation about autism treatment, please donate online through Fundly (https://fundly.com/association-for-science-in-autism-treatment). Any amount, be it big or small, will be deeply appreciated and usedwisely to advance our initiatives. If you were kind enough to donate last year and you were inadvertently omitted from our donor wall, please let us know.
I wish you and yours a happy and healthy new year.
Warmly,David

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Science in Autism Treatment

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Mission:The mission of Little Star Center, Inc. is to provide a structured, child-friendly facility where children
with autism receive individualized therapeutic intervention. Based on the fundamental principles ofapplied behavior analysis (ABA), Little Star provides an atmosphere where children, therapists, andfamilies can interact, support each other and receive ongoing training so that each child can reachhis or her full potential at home and in a variety of settings outside of therapy.
History:
Started in Carmel, Indiana, Little Star Center is a non-profit organization founded in 2002 to serve
the needs of children and families affected by autism. A pioneer in the state of Indiana, our state-ofthe-art facility offers an environment where children receive individual intervention based on the fundamental principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Verbal Behavior. Families are provided
the support they need to face the challenges of autism and become integral partners in their child’s
success.
Little Star Center’s commitment to science-based treatment was evident from the very beginning.
Steele and Amy Gudal faced many challenges with their daughter, Gentry, who was diagnosed with
autism in 2001. They had done everything they were told to do – First Steps, private speech, andoccupational therapy, the school district’s developmental pre-school program, but still found that
Gentry struggled and made limited progress. After much research, the Gudals found the treatment
their daughter needed – Applied Behavior Analysis. ABA was (and still is) the only treatment for autism endorsed by the American Surgeon General and considered to be the best researched treatment by the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, the closest treatment facility was five statesaway – there were none in Indiana. Undaunted, the Gudals founded Little Star Center for their Gentry and for other families who needed the same intensive, medically necessary treatment for theirchildren. The Gudals created a center model so unique that families from Florida, Ohio, Sri Lanka,
Massachusetts and California have come to obtain services at Little Star.
Tragically, in the spring of 2006, Steele Gudal was killed in a small plane crash. Jim DeVoe, Steele’s
father-in-law (and Amy’s dad), was also killed. The contributions these two men made to all Hoosierfamilies affected by autism will never be forgotten and remain a significant inspiration for thosecommitted to continuing their important work
Little Star Center opened its second location in Lafayette, Indiana in March of 2011. Today, Little
Star has over 100 employees working toward the success of its clients and is continuing to grow tomeet the needs of even more children. Through this growth, however, Little Star has kept its core
mission as its top priority. Little Star Center provides year round therapeutic intervention and various
other programs for children with autism based on the science of ABA.
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Since its inception, Little Star has become a shining example of a grass-roots effort. Each year Little
Star serves more children and families and offers support to the Indiana autism community. Little
Star Center celebrated its 11th anniversary in September, 2013 as well as hit the million-dollar markin services that were provided to families at no charge.
In August of 2011, Little Star Center was named the 2011 Excellence in Direct Care award winner by
the Autism Society of Indiana. Little Star is the first and only center to win this title. LSC is currently inthe process of opening a center in Bloomington, Indiana, expected to open in 2014.
LSC Programs:
LSC is comprised of three distinct programs each targeting a specific age range. The Early Learner Program (ELP) serves individuals <5, LSC age 5-12, Middle Star Center (MSC) ages >12.
 Full day, part day or braided school/center/home
programs (i.e., components remain distinct)


12 month programCenter, Community and Home-Based, tailored tomeet the needs of each learner

1:1 intensive therapy provided by trained ABA therapistsGroup-based instructionBaseline assessment of skills

Individualized programming developed and monitored by a BCBA

Fully staffed training department to develop andmaintain skills for both BCBAs and ABA therapistsNatural environment, incidental teaching, and discrete trial instruction

Verbal behavior

Social skillsAssessment and deceleration of problem behaviorParent trainingTransition services

Collaboration with speech language pathologists,
occupational therapists and school personnel

Ongoing performance management for all staff

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Page 6

An Interview with Mary Rosswurm, Bill Bower and Michele Trivedi of the
Little Star Center
By David Celiberti, ASAT Executive Director
As part of this issue’s dedication to the Little Star Center, I had the opportunity to interview some of
the leaders of this program of excellence: Mary Rosswurm (Executive Director), Bill Bower (Board
President), and Michele Trivedi (Board Member and parent).
Mary, on behalf of ASAT’s board we would like tothank Little Star for many years of support as
one of our highest level sponsors. I was hoping
you could share a bit about your backgroundwith our readers. Can you tell us about your career path, and what got you into the field of autism treatment, and specifically, behavior analysis?
Well, I started out in speech therapy, but was
really getting dissatisfied with many of the trends
I was witnessing. It had changed and become, atleast for me, churn and burn. Get them in, 50
minutes, 10 minutes of paperwork and then see
you next week. When I went to school we wanted
to see kids three times a week for maybe 20 to
30 minutes, but now it was see a client for 50
minutes once a week. I wasn’t seeing the progress and I think, looking back, I was really motivated by their success. I had the opportunity tospend some time in the office of the clinic that I
was working at and found that I was really enjoying some of the more administrative and support
duties. Then the stars aligned (pun intended)and I had the opportunity to interview for a position with a struggling Applied Behavior Analysis(ABA) center. That was in 2004. I was able see
first-hand how behavior fit in with everything – itjust made sense to me and here I am, 10 years
later! As I became more involved with the business side of the center, I went back to schooland earned an MBA in 2006.

left to form a new center. The founder of thecenter was very hurt by the whole episode andpretty much wanted to close Little Star down, but

What an interesting career path, Mary. Tell us alittle about the Little Star Center (my turn withthe pun) and how the program has evolved.
When I started at Little Star, there were only fourfamilies left, as the center had gone through asplit and most of the families and clinical staff

Bill: I am very proud that Little Star has grownfrom a small single facility that operated as acooperative among parents trying to find therapeutic solutions for their children with autism toa three center (soon to be four) operation thatprovides a full spectrum of services from earlyMary Rosswurm, Executive Director

the remaining families wanted to keep going.
The founder turned Little Star over to the parents and it became a parent run co-op until
2008, when that model just didn’t work anymore
for such a growing organization. At that time, theparent co-op dissolved and the center’s Board of
Directors took over control again. We have 75
learners now across three centers in Carmel’s
two locations, and Lafayette as well as a newcenter opening in Bloomington in the spring.
Bill and Michele, you have been on the Board at
Little Star for a number of years. What makes
you want to volunteer your time to this organization?

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(Continued from page 6)childhood to adolescence and entry into adulthood. All of this has been done as a not-forprofit, which has allowed us to provide free or
reduced cost services to families in need. In
fact, over the last 18 months Little Star has given
over $250,000 in free or reduced services tofamilies in need!
Michele: When my daughter was diagnosed with
autism in 2000, there were only two choices toaccess ABA therapy in Indiana - use one of thetwo Lovaas Institute consultants that lived in thestate, or fly a consultant in from the coasts. For
parents to have a resource like Little Star at atime when their life is turned upside down is so
important. As a not-for-profit, the extra, nonbillable services families receive in terms of securing health insurance, navigating waivers, finding support groups, and having a knowledgeable
team to walk the journey with you is invaluable. I
am proud to be a small part of what Little Star
does to help parents and their children with autism. The community service that Little Star provides through its engaged and generous staff isanother reason why I am so willing to volunteer
for Little Star. From free community education
programs, to training future nurses and ABA providers at nocharge, tosupporting
local autism
advocacygroups, toleadership in
the local ABA
providergroups, Little
Star touches
many lives
well beyond
the families
that walkthrough ourdoors every
day.
Bill Bower, Board President

Bill and Michele, that is incredible! OK, all threeof you, what is your vision for the future of Little
Star Center?
Mary: I see Little Star continuing to grow, but inthe slow, planful fashion that has guided its evolution to date.
It’s really hard
to maintainquality when
you grow too
fast. Also, as
my son, who
has autism,has gotten older, he’s 23
now; I havebecome more
and moreaware of thelack of adultservices available. Our “little
stars” aregrowing up andthere’s not a
lot out there
Michele Trivedi, Board Member andfor them. That
Parentis an area weare looking at further.
Bill: We feel strongly that we have the best centers in Indiana for ABA services. I would like for
us to continue to grow and be able to help morefamilies, all while effectively navigating the everchanging medical and insurance environments.
Michele: I see a bright future for Little Star! We
will continue with controlled growth in underserved communities to increase access to quality
ABA services outside of the "wealthy" counties
where ABA providers tend to set up shop. We willcontinue to advocate for proper health insurance
coverage for autism in all health plans - stateand federally-regulated, as well as Medicaid. We
will continue to be valued partners for our advocacy organizations locally and nationally. We will
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(Continued from page 7)

also continue our efforts to advance the profession of Behavior Analysis, and to advance research.
Bill, you knew the founder of Little Star Center,whom Mary shared had died in a plane crash in2006. What do you think he would think of Little Star today?
Bill: When Steele Gudal's widow asked me totake his board seat at Little Star, I knew it was
important to grow the organization and its mission to be part of Steele's legacy. We havebeen lucky to have a very strong Executive Director, and great clinical staff that have allowed
us to expand Little Star to have a positive impact on many families in Indiana. I know that
Steele would be very proud of what Little Star
has become.
Michele: I agree! Steele would indeed be very
proud of what Little Star has become and where
it is going. The quality of therapy provided at Little Star is top notch because of the dedicationthat our Executive Director and our clinical staff
have to providing preeminent child-first care. At
the same time, we are growing with a careful
mind to never compromise that quality - Steele
would love that! We are helping to ensure thatfamilies from all walks of life can afford
ABA. Steele experienced first-hand not being

Steele’s Room—Assessments

able to find an ABA provider for his children in
Indiana, and he experienced first-hand not having health insurance coverage for ABA - paying
thousands out of pocket to help his girls. Steele
would be proud that Little Star has given over $1
million in uncompensated care to families in
need, and that we are serving families in every
income bracket.
Michele, anything else you would like to add?
Little Star has been such a blessing for our family, I am happy to "pay it forward" by volunteering
my time on the Board to continue Steele's vision! Little Star is like a second family to us, andour daughter is so happy to be there every
day and has progressed so much. Our family
would love to see a day where each familyliving with autism feels like they have such a
wonderful support system!
Mary, I would also like to ask you about yourperceptions of services at the state level as
autism services vary widely across the United States. What is it like in Indiana? Whatchanges have you observed in the last few
years?
Well, there are a lot of services in Indiana,
but not all BCBAs (or providers) are createdequal! Unfortunately, a lot of people havebegun to provide services because they can

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bill insurance companies for reimbursement.
Many parents don’t know what to look for, sothey go for the flashy building or the provider who
will promise them the results that they are hoping for.
However, there are some really good service providers in the state that are offering high quality
services and really making a difference in the
lives of a lot of kids. That is why I’m so excitedabout what ASAT does – it makes educating parents and doctors about quality ABA services thatmuch easier!
Mary, how did you find out about ASAT?
I was at an ABAI conference in 2008, maybe, andI saw Mary Jane Weiss. I am a huge fan of herbook, Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism: An
Introduction, so I went up and introduced myself
as a super fan. She was doing a panel discussion
with you, and we were introduced. That was how I
first became aware of ASAT, but I just can’t remember the rest of the details – it’s hard for me
to remember my pre-ASAT existence...it just feels
like it’s always been around for me to refer to!
As my job entails working with parents of newly
diagnosed children, I am always working on guiding them to evidence based treatments as opposed to the new, flavor of the month. I give the

ASAT info flyer to e v e r y family that comesthrough Little Star. Even if they don’t choose Little Star as their service provider, I want them toknow about the resources available and help
them become a savvy consumer.
I also truly enjoy the ASAT newsletter and lookforward to reading it each quarter! Running a notfor-profit, I understand that these things costmoney and the thought of ASAT not being available…well, that is a bad thought – so I really felt
like I should take on a supportive role – both financially and by spreading the word about what
ASAT does.
Mary, has ASAT been helpful to you and Little
Star in your treatment of autism?
Yes, absolutely! I come in contact with parents,
doctors, teachers, college interns, and the news
media, just to name a few, and I am asked for my
opinion a lot – I appreciate having ASAT as a resource and saying, “Hey, don’t just take my word
for it…”
Let’s face it, I’m selling Little Star services and I
am biased about ABA…I like to have a back-up
plan that pulls me out of the equation and cansupport what I’m saying. If somebody asks me
about horse therapy, it’s not just Mary saying:“Horse therapy, while fun, is not an effective, evidenced based treatment.” I often say, “Well, let’s
go see what the autism
experts at ASAT think
about this therapy.” So
it’s like a second opinion
from really, really, reallysmart people!
Mary, as a parent, why
do you think pseudoscientific treatment flourishes in autism?
Well, there are a couple
reasons. In 2010, my
son went into the emergency room with a soreneck, a really bad head-

ELP Halloween(Continued on page 10)

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(Continued from page 9)ache and vomiting…and we left two weeks later
after he had brain surgery to remove a tumor.
But that experience was vastly different from his
autism diagnosis experience. For the tumor, thedoctors laid it all out for us – surgery, chemo andperhaps radiation. Follow up MRIs twice a year
for 10 years. They gave me the plan. When myson was diagnosed with autism, it was like,“Well, maybe call the school and good luck toyou. Oh, and get some speechtherapy and occupational therapy.” The plan was left up to me.
That right there, I think, is thedifference. The people diagnosing do not have a plan to giveparents so then they hit the Internet.

to wait – for anything- and autism treatment is
no different. We know that diet and exercise isreally the best way to lose weight for long-term
results, but so often we’ll try the diet pill. So, I
guess my point is that the best way is not necessarily the easiest way.
Mary, you raise so many valid points that characterize the challenges facing so many of our families. What suggestions do you offer parents of
newly diagnosed children?
Grieve. It’s OK…be sad, be mad,join a support group, but thenpull yourself up by your bootstraps and move forward. I knowthat this is not what they hadplanned, but this is the handthat life dealt them and they
have to make the best of it. I
swear that it gets easier. Findsome other parents that knowwhat you are going through andsurround yourself by supportive
people. Autism is a marathon,
not a sprint, so drink your Gatorade!

From here, we get the shot-gun
blast approach, which is: try
everything all at once. It often
seems that the kid who is getting some good ABA at thesame time he is on a glutenfree diet, will have parents who
say, “Boy, is that diet a miraMary, what advice do you havecle!” But more problematic, I
for new professionals in thethink, is the no stone left unLearner
field?
turned approach…there is always something new out there and as a parent,
Of course, to sign up for the ASAT newsletter,
you would never want the one thing that you did
and that they need to know what they don’t
not try to be the one thing that made a differknow; it’s okay, we don’t expect them to know
ence. This is why it is so important that diagnoseverything! Be open to continually learn, don’t
ticians give parents of newly diagnosed children
over promise to parents and if the day comesa plan with realistic timeframes and outcomethat you don’t enjoy what you do, find something
expectations. With the brain tumor, I neverthat you do.
thought that I should seek alternative treatments, but this is just not the case for autism.
Thank you all for a great interview and for yourI think another issue is that we live in America. I
support of ASAT! I want to share with our readwant it fast and I want it easy. Intense therapy
ers that I had the opportunity to visit Little Star
takes a long time and it is expensive. Parents
Center in 2012 and was very impressed with theare looking for a quick fix (aren’t we all!). Really,
program, facilities, and staff. It was a privilege
think about it, I can have 40 pounds of fat
to showcase information about Little Star Center
sucked out of me and buy a better nose. I canin this issue of our newsletter. Keep up themake my brown eyes blue with contacts and begreat work!
a blonde within a matter of hours. We don’t like
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Page 12Clinical Corner
Conducting Preference Assessments with Individuals with Autism
Maximizing motivation is an essential component of effective teaching and behavior reduction;
therefore, preference assessments can help identify those items and activities that will be most
motivating for individuals with autism. In this issue of Clinical Corner, Niall Toner shares why preference assessments are so important and provides an excellent overview of the various types ofpreference assessments that can be conducted with individuals at home and/or school.

Volume 11.1 Winter 2014

Nicole Pearson, Psy.D., BCBA -D, Clinical Corner Coordinator
I am a special education teacher working withstudents with autism. At times I find it difficult tofigure out what motivates my students and what
they’re interested in. Can you make some suggestions about the best way to do this?
Answered by Niall Toner, MA, BCBA
New York State Institute for Basic Research in
Developmental Disabilities
This is an excellent question and one that highlights a challenge often experienced not only byteachers, but also by family members of individuals with autism. We know that the interests andpreferences of individuals with and without autism vary significantly over time. Also, we knowthat effective teaching of skills and behavior
change are predicated upon the timely use of
powerful reinforcement (i.e., positive consequences of skilled behavior that motivate andstrengthen that behavior). As discussed below,
identifying an individual’s preferences is a critical first step in teaching new skills because
these preferences often lead to the identificationof powerful reinforcers; but how we do this canbe easier said then done, especially when thelearner has a limited communication repertoireor very individualized interests. The best way toidentify preferences is through ongoing preference assessments.
The value of preference assessments
Since many individuals with autism may havedifficulty identifying and communicating theirpreferences directly, we must consider alterna-

tive methods of obtaining this information. At theonset, it is important to keep in mind that what
may be rewarding or reinforcing for one individual may not be for another. For example, one
child may enjoy bubble play, crackers or a particular cause-and-effect toy while a classmate mayfind one or more of these uninteresting or even
unpleasant. Furthermore, an individual’s preferences change across time. For example, an individual may have demonstrated little use for music at age 11, but she may demonstrate a keeninterest in music at age 13.
Preference assessments provide a systematic,
data-based approach to evaluating a host of potential interests (e.g., food, toys, activities) for anindividual. Although preference assessments do
require time and effort up front, their use candecrease the time and energy, required tochange behavior in the long run. Research indicates that when caregivers use a presumed preference that, in fact, is not the learner’s actual
preference, valuable time, energy and resources
are lost (Cooper, Heron, & Heward, 2006).
Types of Preference Assessments
Preference assessment can be conducted inthree distinct ways: (1) Interviews and Formal
Surveys; (2) Direct observation; and (3) Systematic assessment.
Interviews are a straightforward technique thatcan be used to gather information quickly. They
involve obtaining information from the individual’s parents, siblings, friends, and teachers (andASAT
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from the individual, if communicative) by asking
both open-ended and comparison questions. Examples of open-ended questions include: “Whatdoes he like to do?” “What are his favorite
foods?” and “Where does he like to go when hehas free time?” Comparison questions might include: “Which does he like better, cookies orcrackers?” and “What would he rather do, go fora walk or eat chips?” Resultant information isthen compiled in a list and identified items andactivities can be piloted out as possible reinforcers.
Formal surveys can also be used to guide these
discussions. One widely used survey is the Reinforcement Assessment for Individuals with Severe Disabilities (RAISD; Fisher, Piazza, Bowman, & Amari, 1996). This
interview-based survey gathers information about potential reinforcers
across a variety of domains (e.g., leisure, food, sounds, smells, and ranks
them in order of preference. It should
be noted that, although simple andtime-efficient, using interviews alone
can result in incomplete or inaccurate
information. In fact, some studies
have shown that, for the same individual, staff interviews did not reveal the same
information as using a survey (Parsons & Reid,
1990; Winsor, Piche, & Locke, 1994).
Direct observation involves giving the individual
free access to items and/or activities that he or
she may like (presumed preferences) and recording the amount of time the individual engages
with them. The more time spent with an item or
activity, the stronger the presumed preference. In
addition, positive affect while engaged with these
items and activities could be noted (e.g., smiling,
laughing). During these observations, no demands or restrictions are placed on the individual, and the items are never removed. These direct observations can be conducted in an environment enriched with many of the person’s preferred items or in a naturalistic environment suchas the person’s classroom or home. Data are rec-orded over multiple days, and the total timespent on each object or activity will reveal thepresumed strongest preferences. Direct observation usually results in more accurate information
than interviews, but also requires more time andeffort.
Systematic assessment involves presenting objects and activities to the individual in a preplanned order to reveal a hierarchy or ranking ofpreferences. This method requires the most effort, but it is the most accurate. There are manydifferent preference assessments methods, all ofwhich fall into one of the following formats: single
item, paired items, and multiple items (Cooper,
Heron, & Heward, 2006). Single item preference
assessment (also known as “successive choice”)
is the quickest, easiest method. Objects and activities are presented one
at a time and each item is presented
several times in a random order. Aftereach presentation, data are recordedon duration of engagement with eachobject or activity.
Paired method or “forcedchoice” (Fisher et al., 1992) involves
the simultaneous presentation of two
items or activities at the same time. All
items are paired systematically with every otheritem in a random order. For each pair of items,
the individual is asked to choose one. Since all
objects and activities have to be paired together,
this method takes significantly longer than the
single item method but will rank in order thestrongest to weakest preferences. Researchers
found that the paired method was more accurate
than the single item method (Pace, Ivancic, Edwards, Iwata & Page, 1985; Paclawskyj &Vollmer, 1995).
The multiple-choice method is an extension of
the paired method (DeLeon & Iwata, 1996). Instead of having two items to choose from, there
are three or more choices presented at the sametime. There are two variations to this method:with and without replacement. In the multiple(Continued on page 14)

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Clinical Corner Continued...
(Continued from page 13)

choice with replacement method, when an object is selected, all other objects are replaced in
the next trial. For example, if the individual is given a choice of cookies, crackers, and chips, andhe chooses cookies, the cookies will be available
for the next trial but the crackers and chips are
replaced with new items. In the without replacement method, the cookies would not be replaced
and the choice would only be between the crackers and chips. No new items would be available.
A few final recommendations
When conducting preference assessments, consider testing leisure items/activities and foodassessments separately because food tends tomotivate individuals more than toys and otherleisure items (Bojak & Carr, 1999; DeLeon, Iwata, & Roscoe, 1997). Also, be sure to assess
preferences early and often. Preference assessments should be conducted prior to starting any
new intervention or behavior change program.
And remember that preferences change overtime and require continuous exploration. Therefore, assessments should be updated monthly or
whenever an individual appears tired of or boredwith the preferred items. Keep in mind too, thatthe identification of one type of preference may
provide ideas for other potential reinforcers. For
example, if an individual loves a certain type ofcrunchy cereal, he/she may like other cereals or
crunchy snacks. Or if an individual enjoys coloring with crayons, consider exploring whether he/she may enjoy coloring with markers or using
finger paints.
Finally, when selecting a preference assessment
method, a practitioner or parent should consider
the individual’s communication level, theamount of time available for the assessment,
and the types of preferred items that will beavailable. Taken together, these preference assessment methods can provide the valuable information necessary to help motivate and promote behavior change in individuals with autism.

References
Bojak, S. L., & Carr, J. E. (1999). On the displacement of leisure items by food during multiple
stimulus preference assessments. Journal ofApplied Behavior Analysis, 32, 515-518.
Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward W. L.
(2006). Applied Behavior Analysis (2nd ed.).
Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice Hall.
DeLeon, I. G., & Iwata, B. A. (1996). Evaluation ofmultiple-stimulus presentation format for assessing reinforcer preferences. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 29, 519-533.
DeLeon, I. G., Iwata, B. A., & Roscoe, E. M.
(1997). Displacement of leisure reinforcers byfood during preference assessments. Journalof Applied Behavior Analysis, 30, 475-484.
Fisher, W. W., Piazza, C. C., Bowman, L. G., &Amari, A. (1996). Integrating caregiver reportwith a systematic choice assessment. American Journal on Mental Retardation, 101, 15–
25.
Fisher, W. W., Piazza, C. C., Bowman, L. G.,
Hagopian, L. P., Owens, J. C., & Slevin, I.
(1992). A comparison of two approaches for
identifying reinforcers for persons with severe
to profound disabilities. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 25, 491–498.
Pace, G. M., Ivancic, M. T., Edwards, G. L., Iwata,
B. A., & Page, T. J. (1985). Assessment of stimulus preference and reinforcer value with profoundly retarded individuals. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 18, 249–255.
Paclawskyj, T. R., & Vollmer, T. R. (1995). Reinforcer assessment for children with developmental
disabilities and visual impairments. Journal ofApplied Behavior Analysis, 28, 219–224.
Parsons, M. B., & Reid, D. H. (1990). Assessing
food preferences among persons with profound mental retardation: Providing opportunities to make choices. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 23, 183-195.
Windsor, J., Piche, L. M., & Locke, P. A. (1994).
Preference testing: A comparison of twopresentation methods. Research in Developmental Disabilities, 15, 439–455.

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Shout Outs, Accolades, and Appreciations!
By Kerry Ann Conde, MS, BCBA
ASAT’s mission is to promote “safe, effective, science-based treatments for people with autism
through: the dissemination of accurate, timely, and scientifically-sound information; advocacy forthe use of scientific methods to guide treatment; and the countering of unsubstantiated, inaccurate
and false information about autism and its treatment.” With this in mind, ASAT is striving to reach
12,000 subscribers by the end of the year. We are currently at 10,058 subscribers. Help us reach
12,000 subscribers by clicking on the following link: http://asatonline.org/newsletters/signup. You
can also “like” ASAT’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ASATonline?fref=ts.
If you are a supervisor or administrator, please consider passing along a sign-up sheet (http://
www.asatonline.org/pdf/subscribeme.pdf)to help us recruit new subscribers. After these are completed, they can be emailed to newsletter@asatonline.org or mailed to ASAT PO Box 3250 Hoboken,
New Jersey 07030.
ASAT would also like to recognize those individuals and organizations who strive to support our mission. Specifically, we would like to thank and send a “shout out” to…
 Outpatient Behavioral Services at the Virginia Institute of Autism for distributing ASAT flyers in all
their family packets, intern trainings, and workshops
 Trumpet Behavioral Health for sharing information about ASAT and its mission on their Facebook
page NYSABA for sharing ASAT news on their Facebook page Rethink First for posting ASAT's recent auction to all of their Facebook fans
 SARRC for letting their Facebook community know about ASAT and encouraging them to sign up
for our newsletter Achieve Beyond for soliciting ASAT Newsletter sign ups at a recent staff training event Eden II for soliciting ASAT Newsletter sign ups at a recent staff development event and throughFacebook and email
 Challenge Early Intervention Center for soliciting newsletter sign ups at a recent workshop
 The Autism Science Foundation for providing a link to the ASAT newsletter on their website
 Thivierge & Rothberg, PC for including a link to ASAT on their list of resources All of ASAT’s 2013 NYC Marathon Runners and their support of ASAT
 Hofstra University for sharing information about ASAT at their disability
awareness film festival
 Little Star Center (especially Tim and Taylor - see photo on the right)
for sharing SIAT on their table at the WMU Job Fair on Friday, January
24, 2014.
 Kristine Saccone from the Connecticut Center for Child Development
for posting a link to SIAT their Facebook page as well as sending it inan email to all of their families, staff, and conference attendees
If you would like to share information about any initiatives you have undertaken to support ASAT, please write us at: publicity@asatonline.org.

ASAT
Providing Accurate, Science-Based Information - Promoting Access to Effective Treatment

Volume 11.1 Winter 2014

Science in Autism Treatment

Page 16Weight to Go Kettlebells 4 Autism!
By Mary Kay Jones, MSN, CRNP
Christina Danos created Kettlebells 4 Autism in February 2013.
The goal of this initiative was to employ Kettlebell training andsport as a platform to raise awareness about autism, and more
specifically, the delivery of evidence-based practices to individuals
with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. One of the ways that the organization raises funds is through the online sale of Kettlebells 4
Autism merchandise. Visit the website (http://
kettlebells4autism.com) and you’ll find an assortment of fun tshirts with much more merchandise coming soon including hoodies and gym bags, as well as apparel for babies and toddlers.
Kettlebells 4 Autism’s founder, Christina Danos, is an advocatefrom Toronto, Canada, whose interest in autism began shortly after her cousin started Intensive Behavior Intervention (IBI). ChristiChristina Danosna was greatly influenced by this experience and subsequently applied for a position as an Instructor Therapist in 2003. Since then she has worked as an Instructor
Therapist, then Senior Therapist in a publicly funded IBI program. In the first photo, you will see herin action as she disseminates research about the benefits of exercise for individuals with autism
with other professionals. It is also important to share that she is a kettlebell sport competitor as
well.
Currently, Kettlebells 4 Autism raises funds for the Geneva Centre in Toronto, Canada and the Association for Science in Autism Treatment (ASAT). We are pleased to share that their incredible fundraising efforts have resulted in more than $1000 incontributions for ASAT to date. These funds havebeen invaluable in helping ASAT develop new resources for parents and disseminate our free newsletter to readers internationally.
We are also excited to be one of the beneficiaries of
the next Kettlebells 4 Autism fundraising event. The
first annual “90-second swings for autism” invited
participants to dedicate 90 seconds of kettlebell
swings to autism, and encouraged every participant
to recruit sponsors to pledge a donation of a monetary amount per rep. For example, a sponsor commits
to $0.50 per rep, the participant completes 50 reps,
and then the sponsor donates $25. This year, partici- Saukyn Luque, Christina Danos , Cynthia Roulston,
Rachenne Regozo, and Nicole Powankumar
pants can choose between a kettlebell workout,
CrossFit workout, or body weight/equipment free workout, and each involves a minimum of one 90second interval, devoted to autism awareness and fundraising for this year’s beneficiaries. Finalworkout details and the event date will be posted shortly so be sure visit them on Facebook to learn
more: www.facebook.com/Kettlebells4Autism.
(Continued on page 17)

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Kettlebells continued...
(Continued from page 16)

We are very grateful to Christina Danos, Kettlebells 4 Autism, and the kettlebell community worldwide
for its support. We look forward to hearing how the 2014 event goes, and will share details in an upcoming issue of Science in Autism Treatment.

Erica Sweden and Alex Lorenzo

KETTLEBELLS 4 AUTISM
Kettlebell training and sport as a platform to raise awareness about autism, and to raise funds for not-for-profit
organizations supporting autism research and treatment.
All funds raised from merchandise sales, and the 90 Seconds of Swings fundraising event in 2014, will be donatedto the Association for Science in Autism Treatment, and the Geneva Centre for Autism, in Toronto.
Shop online at www.kettlebells4autism.com

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Volume 11.1 Winter 2014

Science in Autism Treatment

Page 18

Consumer CornerIt’s crucial to be a savvy consumer when it comes to one of the most important decisions you will
make for your loved one with autism -- choosing an ABA treatment provider for your child. Thoseof us who have already walked in your shoes know that all treatment providers are not the same.
To the uninitiated, these professionals all look marvelous. From the slick websites, to the large
numbers of associations of which these professionals are members, it is becoming increasingly
difficult to differentiate between mediocre and outstanding treatment providers. Furthermore,
publication of research in high quality journals is not synonymous with clinical expertise.
Fortunately, in this issue of Consumer Corner, we present a summary of consumer guidelines created by the Autism Special Interest Group (SIG) of the Association of Behavior Analysis International to help you make an informed choice when searching for ABA professionals to design, run
and maintain your child’s program. It is important to remember that your child’s future depends
on highly quality consulting. Good luck!
Sabrina Freeman, Ph.D., Consumer Corner Coordinator
Qualifications of Practitioners/Consultants who
Practice in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis(ABA)
1. Certification:
Treatment professionals must all have advanced
degrees, e.g., a Master’s Degree or a Doctorate
in a relevant field of study, and be certified either by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board(BACB), or a board that has equal or higher level
requirements than the BACB. To look up yourconsultant, visit: www.bacb.com and click on“Find A Certificant.” If the potential consultant is
not on this list, ask where he/she became credentialed, and trained so that you can verify licensure and experience to determine whether it
is equal to/or surpasses the standards of the
BACB. If this individual responds to your inquiry
in a defensive manner, then you may consider
looking elsewhere as you are well within yourright to seek clarification about certification status.
2. Extensive Hands-On Supervised Training:
Consultants are required to have extensive
hands-on training treating children with autism
in which they have worked at least one full year
(1000 clock hours or 500 hours if taking an intensive practicum) under the supervision of acredentialed BCBA Certificant. In addition, theyneed to prove competency in many areas thatcover the design and implementation of bothindividualized ABA interventions, and compre-

hensive ABA treatment programs. The partial list
below was created by the Autism Special Interest Group (SIG) below. Your consultant should
be competent in all the following areas:a) Design and implement individualized ABA Interventions
community living skills
functional communication skills (vocal and nonvocal)
“learning to learn” skills (e.g., looking, listening,
following instructions, imitating)motor skills
personal safety skills
play and leisure skills
pre-academic and academic skills
reduction of behaviors that jeopardize healthand safety and impede successful functioning(e.g., stereotypic, obsessive, ritualistic, aggressive, self-injurious, disruptive, and other behaviors often described as “challenging”).
school readiness skills
self-care skills
self- management skills
social interaction skills
vocationalb) Design and implement both comprehensive
ABA intervention
programs (using multiple ABA procedures to ad-

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Consumer Corner continued...
stimulus control(Continued from page 18)

dress multiple intervention targets) and focusedinterventions (using one or more ABA procedures
to address a small number of intervention targets).
c) Delivering ABA interventions directly to at least
8 individuals with autism who present with arange of repertoires, levels of functioning, andages.
d) Implementing the full range of scientificallyvalidated behavior analytic procedures, including
but not limited to:reinforcement (including differential reinforcement)extinction
discrete-trial proceduresmodeling (including video modeling)incidental teaching and other “naturalistic”
methods
activity-embedded intervention
task analysis
chainingactivity schedules
scripts and script fadingprompting and prompt-fadingerrorless trainingerror correction
motivating operations

preference assessments
choiceaugmentative and alternative communication

training procedures.
3. Continuing Education:
Not only do behavioral consultants need to be
trained as above, in order to maintain their certification, practitioners must also pursue continuing education in a variety of areas that may include, but are not limited to, Applied Behavior
Analysis.
Red Flag
These practitioners should not be working collaboratively with professionals who implement aneclectic mix of interventions that are untested,discredited or experimental in nature. If the consultant you use endorses an eclectic approach,understand that this practice is inconsistent with
the BACB Guidelines for Responsible Conduct for
Behavior Analysis. This red flag is a particularly
helpful way to be forewarned about a consultant
who is not a good choice to design and maintainyour child’s program!
For more information on the exhaustive list ofcompetencies, read the latest ABAI Autism Special Interest Group Consumer Guidelines at:
http://asatonline.org/pdf/sig.pdf

Science in Autism Treatment’s Team
Co-Editors
David A. Celiberti, PhD, BCBA-D
Daniela Fazzio, PhD, BCBA-D
Managing Editor
Leanne Tull, MADS, BCBA
Copy Editor
Nicole Pearson, PsyD, BCBA-D
Focus On Science
Daniel W. Mruzek, PhD, BCBA-D

International Updates
Daniela Fazzio, PhD, BCBA-D
Research Synopses
Sharon Reeve, PhD, BCBA-DMedia Watch
Barbara Jamison, BA
Treatment Summaries
Tristram Smith, PhD

Clinical Corner
Nicole Pearson, PsyD, BCBA-D
Amanda Fisher PhD, BCBA-D
Consumer Corner
Sabrina Freeman, PhD

Subscriptions
Kerry Ann Conde, MS, BCBA
From The Archives
Amanda Fisher PhD, BCBA-D
Advertising
Alice Walkup, MS, BCBAASAT
Providing Accurate, Science-Based Information - Promoting Access to Effective Treatment

Volume 11.1 Winter 2014

Science in Autism Treatment

Page 20

Interview with Dr. Joyce Elizabeth Mauk
By David Celiberti, Executive Director
I had the opportunity to interview Dr. Joyce Elizabeth Mauk, a longstanding member of our Professional Advisory Board. Dr. Mauk serves as President/CEO/Medical Director of the Child Study Center. She
graduated from the University of Rochester School of Medicine in 1982. She has served as Director of
the Behavioral Rehabilitation Service at Children's Seashore House in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
which is a hospital serving children with developmental disabilities and chronic illnesses. Dr. Mauk isa neurodevelopmental pediatrician who has done extensive research on autism spectrum disorders,
psychopharmacology and behavioral disorders. She is currently a member of Cook Children's Physician Network, along with many other professional and scientific societies.
newsletters. Dr. Sigrid Glenn from the University ofTell us about your career trajectory, and how you
North Texas nominated me to join the Advisory
got involved in the care and treatment of children
Board during ASAT’s first few years.
with autism.
In the 1980s, as a Pediatrics Resident, I was
As you know, there has been a proliferation of sodrawn to children with neurologic disorders. For acalled “treatments” for autism. What pseudoscientific treatment trends concern you the most andwhile, I considered going into child neurology, but
why?
decided on a fellowship in developmental disabiliI continue to be concerned about the low level ofties. I have always felt that, of the organs, thehealth and scientific literacy in the general populabrain is the most interesting and the brain in action. As a Neurodevelopmental Pediatrician, I oftention and in development was most fascinating toneed to counsel families about unscientific andme. As a Neurodevelopmental Pediatrician at Chileven dangerous treatments. Two types of treatdren’s Seashore House and Children’s Hospital ofments are most concerning to me for different reaPhiladelphia, I was the Medical Director of a sersons. Sensory Integration Therapy- generally pervice line focused on children with developmental
formed by an Occupational Therapist. My majordisabilities and behavior disorders. Needless toconcerns about this form of treatment are the exsay, many of those children had a diagnosis of aupenditures in cost and time, given that there is notism. At the Agency I direct in Fort Worth, about
scientific evidence of efficacy. Since it is per40% of our patients have a diagnosis of autism.
formed by an accepted type of licensed therapist,
Since my early heavily clinical days, my role has
it has grown and prospered to the point of beingchanged.
considered standard of care. In addition, it also
Can you tell us more about that shift. What is aappears to be continued for years because clear
typical day like for you now?
outcome measures are not established for each
I now spend more time in an administrative andcase. Physicians are not always knowledgeable tomentoring capacity. I balance clinical, administrachallenge the ongoing therapy and thus continue
tive, fund-raising, and several other key roles all
focused on improving the lives of children with dis- to authorize it. The costs to society for this treatabilities. Sometimes that entails working with com- ment, which is often covered by insurance andMedicaid yet is unproven, is astronomical. Furplex budgets and insurance issues, sometimes bythermore, time spent with this form of therapy is
educating my lay board, mentoring clinicians, andtime not being spent engaged in scientifically valiseeing patients. Fortunately, each day is a little
dated treatment. “Biomedical treatments” are condifferent.
cerning due to potentially dangerous side effects
You have been a valuable member of our Profesas well as cost. Some marketing of questionablesional Advisory Board for many years. How did you
treatments include statements that the treatment
get first involved in ASAT?
is good for arthritis, heart disease, cancer, lung
I was made aware of ASAT by my colleagues in the
Behavior Analysis field, and enjoyed receiving the(Continued on page 21)
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Page 21(Continued from page 20)

problems, and autism- or some other combinationsof disorders with no common pathophysiologic process. Some physicians who claim to specialize inautism have no training in developmental disorders
or psychopharmacology. For example, families
should be very cautious about an ENT (ears, nose,and throat) or allergist who claims to be an autism
expert. Again, I am also concerned about lost opportunity to pursue effective treatments. Psychopharmacology of behavior disorders has improved
greatly and medications may play a significant rolein maximizing outcome. Legitimate biomedical vs.
unproven treatments are difficult for the lay person
to differentiate. Unconventional, unproven medications, and “natural” treatments often have side effects and may prevent families from seeking appropriate care.
In light of plethora or treatments for autism, mostof which lack scientific merit. What advice do you
have for parents of newly diagnosed children?
I tell them to visit the ASAT website and also
Quackwatch before starting new therapies. I tellthem that helping their child will be hard work andthat there is no magic involved. Also that a diagnosis of does not mean that challenging behavior
should be tolerated. It is true that communication
deficits may predispose a child to use nonverbal
ways to communicate, but aggression or disruptive
behavior should never be acceptable. I am amazedat what sometimes is accepted as an inevitableconsequence of a disability- with the whole family
dancing around the child’s problem behavior andthe behavior become more entrenched over time
What do you see as the most promising area of biomedical research?
I think a greater understanding of the genetics ofautism is very promising. Current microarray technology has increased the number of children withknown genetic causes- hopefully in the next ten
years the clinical outcome of children with varying
genetic causes will be clearer. This may help leadto improved ability to predict outcome or treatment
response.
Tell us about the research you have conducted,
involving children with autism.
In the past I have been involved in a research project to try and differentiate subtypes of self-injury inpatients with autism and then prescribe tailoredDr. Mauk

Photo by Jill Johnson

treatments. This approach combined a functional
analysis of behavior with observations on the rate,
topography and associated behaviors of the selfinjury. The take home message was that the majority of the self-injury was operant or learned. Of thepatients whose self-injury was not operant or was
mixed (had no clear antecedents or consequences,
was self-maintained) some associated features
such as crying, agitation, and aggression were predictive of response to medication classes (e.g., antipsychotics, SSRI's, beta blockers, and naltrexone).
Do you think the changes to the DSM-5 autism diagnostic criteria will change the diagnostic profileof the patients you treat?
For me, as an experienced clinician, the changes
are largely academic. From a functional standpoint
my patients need help of various intensities nomatter what their disorder is called. From a practitioner in the field’s point of view autism has beenover identified in the last few years so there is apt
to be some correction in numbers. There is also
some evidence of diagnostic substitution- individuals with cognitive disability being labeled with autism, for example. An individualized approach totreatment that incorporate behavioral excesses,
deficits, and the family’s needs should transcend
diagnosis.
I want to thank you, Dr. Mauk, for taking time fromyour busy schedule to participate in this interview.
Furthermore, on behalf of the Association for Science in Autism Treatment, I would like you to knowthat your service on our Professional Advisory
Board is much appreciated!

ASAT
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Volume 11.1 Winter 2014

Science in Autism Treatment

Page 22

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ASAT Advisory Board
F. J. Barrera, PhD, BCBA-D
Stephen Barrett, MD
Martha Bridge Denckla, MD
Curtis Deutsch, PhD
William V. Dube, PhD
Deborah Fein, PhD
Eric Fombonne, MD
Richard Foxx, PhD, BCBA-D
Gina Green, PhD, BCBA-D
William Heward, EdD, BCBA-D
Ronald Kallen, MD
Alan Leslie, PhD
Bennett Leventhal, MD

Johnny L. Matson, PhD
Joyce E. Mauk, MD
Catherine Maurice, PhD
Bobby Newman, PhD, BCBA-D
John Pomeroy, MD
Stephen Porges, PhD
Sharon Reeve, PhD, BCBA-D
Joyce Rosenfeld, MD, FACEP
Arthur Toga, PhD
Paul Touchette, PhD
Roberto Tuchman, MD
Paul Yellin, MD

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Page 23

Research Review
This newsletter highlights a study recently conducted by Houghton and his colleagues on the Son-Rise
Program. Although the Son-Rise Program was developed in the 1970s, this is the first experimental
study to date to evaluate its effectiveness. We hope you find this summary informative.
Sharon A. Reeve, Ph.D., BCBA-D, SIAT Research Corner Coordinator

Promoting Child-Initiated Social
Communication in Children with
Autism: Son-Rise Program
Intervention Effects
Houghton, K., Schuchard, J., Lewis, C., &Thompson, C.K. (2013). Promoting childinitiated social-communication in children with
autism: Son-rise program intervention effects.
Journal of Communication Disorders, 46, 495506.
Reviewed by: Kathleen Moran, Caldwell College
Why research this topic?
A major focus in the treatment of autism is toincrease social interactions such as, initiatingplay or communication. Developmental
approaches, which posit that children learn
through back-and-forth exchanges withresponsive adults, are popular interventions forsocial interaction deficits. The “Floortime” (i.e.,
Greenspan) model is the best known of theseapproaches. Another method, known as the SonRise Program (SRP), attempts to improve
spontaneous, child-initiated interactions. This
treatment includes an adult engaging in parallel
play until the child initiates interaction and thenpraising and “joining” the child. Although SRP
was developed in the 1970s, this is the firstexperimental study to date to evaluate its
effectiveness.
What did the researchers do?
Twelve children with autism participated.
Participants were separated into two groups;

one received treatment and the other did not.
Data were collected on each child’s social andcommunicative behavior, including the numberof head orientations, gestures, and“verbalizations” towards the adult to initiateinteraction, as well as the duration of social
interaction. Initially, each child participated in abaseline phase in which the experimenter madeno attempt to interact. If a child initiated aninteraction, the experimenter responded but did
not provide any praise or prompt further
interactions. Following baseline, one group
received 40 hours of SRP intervention over a 5day period. During intervention, theexperimenter engaged in parallel play until thechild initiated an interaction. Once the childinitiated by using a communicative act such as ahead orientation, gesture, or verbalization, theexaminer responded immediately by providing
praise, joined the child, and prompted for moreinteraction. After the intervention phase, eachchild returned to the baseline phase.
What did the researchers find?
During baseline there was no difference
between the groups. At follow-up, the children
who received treatment showed an increase in
the number and length of spontaneous
initiations of interactions. Verbal behavior also
increased, but not significantly. In contrast,children who did not receive treatment showed
little change.
What are the strengths and limitations of thestudy? What do the results mean?
This study was the first to use data to assess theeffectiveness of the SRP intervention. Although(Continued on page 24)

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Science in Autism Treatment

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Research Review Continued...
(Continued from page 23)

results suggest that the SRP intervention increasedsocial interaction behaviors and possibly
verbalizations, no conclusions about SRP can be drawn
because of major limitations in the study design. First,
children were not randomly assigned to treatment andno-treatment groups. Second, it was difficult todetermine how participants were selected from thepool of families that went to the SRP training. Third,
there was no test of whether gains generalized to othersettings or maintained over time. Fourth, theinvestigators did not examine whether SRP therapists
administered this intervention as intended. To begin
providing credible data on effectiveness, future studies
should address these methodological limitations andreplicate the findings with additional children.

2013 Goal Met!
10,074 subscribers worldwide! You can help us
reach our 2014 goal of
12,000 subscribers!
Share the newsletter and the signup link with friends, family andcolleagues, and support dissemination of evidence-based autism
treatment.
Subscribing is just one click away:
www.asatonline.org/newsletters/
signupASAT Board of DirecMary E. McDonald, PhD, BCBA-D
tors
President
Florence DiGennaro Reed, PhD, BCBA-D
Vice President
Elizabeth Dyer, MA, CCC-SLP
Treasurer
Daniela Fazzio, PhD, BCBA-D
Secretary
David Celiberti, PhD, BCBA-D
Executive Director
Dana Battaglia, PhD, CCC-SLP
Leigh Broughan, MA, BCBA, Sibling
Cathy Curcio, MSW
Preeti Chojar, MCA, Parent
Kathryn Dobel, JD
Ruth Donlin, MS
Joseph Forgione, MBA
Sabrina Freeman, PhD, Parent
Peggy Halliday, MEd, BCBA
Barbara Jamison, BA, Parent
Eric Larsson, PhD, BCBA-D
Scott Myers, MD, FAAP
Daniel W. Mruzek, PhD, BCBA-D
Joshua K. Pritchard, PhD, BCBA-D
Mary Rosswurm, MBA, Parent
Dena Russell, MS, Parent
Tristram Smith, PhD
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ASAT
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Science in Autism Treatment

4th Annual Rock’n 4 Autism Awareness Concert and Festival
is Right Around the Corner!

Volume 11.1 Winter 2014

Page 26

Last April, the concert featured Hoboken’s very own Fuzzy Lemons, a
popular and family-friendly rock band who wowed the crowd with theirinfectious songs
and charismaticstage presence.
It is always heartwarming to see scores of children dancing up astorm… and a few Moms and Dads as well!

David Celiberti, Executive Director
It’s that time again! We are getting ready for the 4th Annual Rock’n 4
Autism Awareness Concert and Festival on Saturday, May 3, 2014
from 2:00-6:00 pm in Hoboken, New Jersey. This community-based
event is co-hosted by the Association for Science in Autism Treatment(ASAT) and Hoboken-based HOPES CAP, Inc.

Over 100 businesses donated money, merchandise and services, and 70+ volunteers
came out to make the 2013 concert a wonderful experience. In addition to ASAT and HOPES
representatives, volunteers came from Target,
State Farm, Enterprise Rental Car, Hoboken
Grace Church, Party with Purpose, as well as
the community at large. This momentous supThe One and Only Fuzzy Lemons
port helped us raise almost $25,000! It wassuch a tremendous success… so we’ve decided to do it all over again!
We are pleased to share that Hoboken Mayor, Dawn Zimmer, will welcome the audience at the outset of the festivities. Also, this year, the Fuzzy Lemons will be back again to dazzle and entertain. Be
ready to enjoy two great sets as well as our guest
MC once again, Cindy Vero www.ktu.com/onair/cindy-vero-21577/ from W-KTU (FM 103.5). No
doubt Cindy will bring her upbeat style and energy,
and help us make this event an even greater success! In addition to all the indoor and outdoor fun,attendees will also get the chance to talk with anumber of knowledgeable parents and professionals from ASAT, and the Hoboken Special Needs Parent Group http://www.hobokensnpg.org/, who will
Cindy Vero at the Concert Welcoming Our Dancers

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Rock’n 4 Autism Continued...
(Continued from page 26)

be providing information and take-away materials about awareness, education, and best practices in
the field of autism.
To date, over $2,500 in sponsorships have been raisedand donations for our silent auction are starting to come ineach week.
For more details about the Rock’n 4 Autism Awareness
Concert and Festival, please visit our Facebook page at:www.facebook.com/R4AA.Hoboken.
If you would like to volunteer to help with this event or donate an item for our silent auction, please email me at:dceliberti@asatonline.org. Please see the box below for
more information about how to donate. If you live in the
Kids enjoying the concert
area, please come out and join us. Tickets can be purchased at: www.tinyurl.com/r4aa2014tickets.
We look forward to seeing you there! Make a difference and have some fun doing it!

Calling All Supporters: Donate Items for Our Silent Auction
This is ASAT’s second year launching an online auction through Bidding for Good,.
This means that our bidding can be opened up to anyone! We created a list thatdetails donations that may serve as successful silent auctions bid items. Much ofthis is based on data collected by Bidding for Good. Data include hundreds of live
online auctions that have identified bid items that drew the greatest number ofbidders, and the greatest revenues. Check out the list below:
1. Travel packages and hotel stays;
2. Unique experiences such as, aerial adventures, lunch with a celebrity, and personal tours of fascinating places;
3. Sports memorabilia;
4. TV and movie memorabilia;
5. Collectibles; and6. Gift certificates (restaurants, stores, businesses in which merchandise can beoffered online).
If you are in a position to donate an item for our auction, please let us know dceliberti@asatonline.org.

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International Interview:
With Nicole Rogerson, founding Director and CEO of Autism Awareness Australia
By David Celiberti, Ph.D., BCBA-D
I recently had the opportions in order to pursue bettunity to interview Nicole
ter support, services andRogerson, founding Direcrepresentation for families
tor and CEO of Autism
affected by autism. Since
Awareness Australia, a naestablishing Autism Awaretional not-for-profit organiness Australia in 2007, Nization. She is one of Auscole has spearheaded nutralia’s leading advocatesmerous national education
for the awareness and unawareness and fundraisingderstanding of Autism
campaigns to do just that.
Spectrum Disorder, and is
The most prominent ofa staunch supporter of scithese is Light It Up Blue, aSydney Opera House lit up blue for autism
ence-based autism treatcampaign where Sydney’s
ment. Nicole is frequently
Opera House and otherasked to speak about autism with appearances
iconic landmarks are lit up blue for World Autism
on various Australian programs such as 60
Awareness Day. Nicole has led many other camMinutes, the 7.30 Report, the Today Show, A Cur- paigns and events, which have inspired, touched,rent Affair, Today Tonight and Australian Story, as and educated Australians; including production ofwell as in the Australian Women’s Weekly. When a short film on autism , ‘What are you doing?’, forher son Jack was diagnosed with autism in 1999, school children; and three television community
Nicole left a career in marketing and public relaservice announcements.
Nicole, by way of background,can you tell our readers a bit
about your family?
My husband and I have twosons, Jack (18 yrs) and Tom(13 yrs), and we live in Sydney.
Jack is on the autism spectrum.
I’m afraid we experienced that
all-too-common story of fumbling our way through ourchild’s diagnosis. Jack was our
first-born child and we simply
didn’t see the delay (or didn’t
want to). He didn't always lookwhen you called his name(‘because he is an independent
person’), he didn’t talk(‘because his father and mother never stop, so he can’t get aword in edgewise’), and wasn’tinterested in toys (‘probably too
gifted to be bothered playing

with them’). He was our firstchild, we didn't have any
friends with children and I considered myself way too cool tojoin a mothers group; so thefact that he wasn’t developing
like other children was news tome. “He is fine” we would say
to anyone who asked about his
speech delay. Is it possible tolove a child so much, that you
can be so blind to what wasincreasingly clear to those paying even a minute’s notice?
Nothing can prepare you for the
day you sit in a doctor’s officeand they first use the word autism. It is the stake throughyour heart, the words that,once said, are now your new
truth. No going back. He has
autism. Here are the tissues,

good luck.
Jack was 3.5 when he was diagnosed in 1999. Any doctorwith a degree out of a cereal
box could have diagnosed him
at two, but our laissez-faire attitude and state of denial kept
autism out of our lives for thatlittle bit longer. Putting it off, I
learned, doesn't make it go
away. When Jack was diagnosed I had no clue what to do
next. The paediatrician’s appallingly limited advice wasn't exactly a step-by-step guide in
how to help this child! I was on
my own. Google was in its infancy, but there was still a goodarray of so called “therapies,”
miracle cures and heart-

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International Interview Continued...
(Continued from page 28)

wrenching stories to keep you
reading.
I didn't have to wade throughthe options long before I cameacross the one that seemed tobe recommended by all of thesensible grownups around theworld. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) made sense to me
right from the start. It wasn't
rocket science - just start teaching him the things he can’t doby breaking them down into
small, teachable steps andthen ‘reinforce’ the behaviour.
Then repeat.
I read the books (thank goodness for Catherine Maurice),bought the manuals, educatedmyself on how to do this; andthen went looking for people tohelp me. This is where our luck
started to change. I met Elizabeth Watson, who, along withMichelle Furminger, would run
Jack’s ABA program for the next
10 years. ABA would teach JackJack

how to talk, how to read, how tobehave, how to be social, how
to live with us, here in the realworld. Autism was never to be
an excuse in our family. The
goal was always, and still is, totake away all of the problems
autism brought to our door.
Jack was going to live with us,
not with autism. I was resoluteon that point. I won’t bore youwith the story [insert amazing
autism story / blow by blow] ofJack’s early intervention andschool years. You would haveread it all before. I can simply
say that ABA gave me my boy
back – so I fell in love with it
and there I have stayed.
If you’re ever lucky enough tomeet my Jack, you’ll meet awell-mannered, polite, funny,empathetic young man who delights everyone he meets. His
teachers at school are his unofficial cheer squad. I am just so
proud to be his Mum.
Aside from Autism Awareness
Australia, I understand you arealso the Co-Founder of the Lizard Children’s Centre, Australia’s leading early intervention
centre for children with autism
and developmental delays. Tell
us about your roles within these
two organizations.
I am the Director of the Lizard
Centre and CEO of Autism
Awareness Australia. ABA programs were scarce in the late
1990s/early 2000s in Australia
and there were very few professionals well organized enoughto increase ABA’s profile andreach. I was passionate about

more children having access to
the kind of quality early intervention my son had, so in 2003
I joined with Elizabeth Watson(Speech Pathologist who had
run Jack’s program) and started
the Lizard Centre. We wanted toincrease the profile and reachof ABA and hopefully set up a
career path for people wanting
to work in the field. So our littlecompany started, and then continued to grow and we are now
Australia’s largest private earlyintervention clinic.
I have now been lucky enoughto witness hundreds of children
learn and develop through their
ABA programs and it still neverceases to amaze me. The very
humane nature of what ABA
does, the inherent kindness inteaching a child a skill they
weren’t learning on their own,
and surrounding them with reinforcement – what’s not to love
about that? ABA is a ‘Yes wecan’ kind of therapy – I washooked from the beginning.
In 2007, I was inspired listening
to Catherine Maurice speak at
the Association for Behavior
Analysis International’s First
Annual Autism Conference in
Boston. She perfectly articulated the frustration I felt withfamilies languishing in a sea of
misinformation, pseudoscienceand this so-called ‘democracyof therapies.’ I was determined
to go home and do my best to
better educate families, andindeed the rest of Australia,
about autism. So that year, I
began Autism Awareness Aus(Continued on page 30)

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International Interview Continued...
(Continued from page 29)

tralia, which is now the nation’s
leading not-for-profit autism
education and advocacy organization. We have rolled out
some pretty great projects
since then, but lighting the Sydney Opera House blue eachyear for World Autism Awareness Day, has been a highlight.
What is autism treatment likein Australia? Can you share details about any national legislation that has influenced the delivery of services?

There has been great improvement in this area in the last 6
years, but we still have a ways
to go. Despite publishing Best
Practice Guidelines in 2006,
which rated ABA highly and recommended a minimum of 20
hours a week of early intervention, the Federal Government
refused to fund it. They did
however fund children to have$6000 worth of early intervention per year for 2 years until
the age of 7. Sadly, this saw
the amazing growth in children
receiving 1 – 2 hours per weekof therapy, mainly with aspeech therapist or OT. Not
that either of these are harmful
per se, but on their own, without the back up of intensive
behavioural treatment, weknow that makes them as goodas useless. Sadly, ‘Evidence
Based’ is a term thrown aroundin Australia as easily as low-fat– the devil is always in the details.
In 2012, after further work, theFederal Government released
the Good Practice Guidelines(sadly, this is not a joke), whichwatered down the recommendation regarding intensity (15hours/week now recommended). They did however put in a
rating system for therapies thatsaw ABA come out on top andindeed some therapies come
off the approved list (Sensory
Integration Therapy).
It is not all bad though. ABA has
gone from being considered aversion of child abuse in thelate 1990s to now being recognized as the therapy with themost evidence-supporting efficacy. Sadly, as there are limited
funds for it. it is still being accessed only by families whocan: a) afford it, or b) beg, borrow and steal to make it happen. ABA still takes hits from‘specialists’ who recognise it isconsidered best practice, but
say that other less-intensive
therapies work just as well. Parents are voting with their feetand they understand intensity
is what is needed.
Australia is just about to implement a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which
will bring universal disability
care to all Australians. The
scheme is in its infancy, but
reading the overview of the legislation and its commitment toproviding individuals with earlyintervention, which is supported by actual evidence, it mightmean funding will become
available for families, which
ultimately should see more children being able to access ABA
for their early intervention.

to in order to learn about autism treatment? Do these resources recognize best practices based on scientific evidence?
Sadly parents are still undersupported at this time. The government set up a network of‘Autism Advisors’ in each state
which were charged with meeting parents just after they hadreceived their diagnosis, givethem some information andthen process the paperwork forthem to access the limited early intervention funding. Sadly,
they were also prevented frombeing able to give advice (I hear
you, autism advisors who can’t
give direct advice). So, parents
still turn to Google – with all its
wonder and pitfalls. One government-made website that
does quite a good job is theRaising Children Network,
which has a guide to therapies
for families.
Still, there is a strong undercurrent of ‘let families find thetherapy that works best for
their child’ and ‘people musthave choice.’ All true, but wemust also protect families fromthe (some time well meaning)charlatans who dwell in thisindustry, and give them thetools to make sound decisions
for their children.
Have the professionals in yourcountry organized to advocate
for evidence-based autism
treatment? What about the parents? If yes, are they organized
or is everyone fighting on their

What resources do parents turn

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International Interview Continued...
(Continued from page 30)

own? If not, why do you thinkthey are not?

to accommodate available
funding. Sadly, the ABA field is
not immune to charlatans either.

To be honest, I think this is
I understand you shared yourwhere Autism Awareness Ausstory at the United Nations. Can
tralia has come into its own.
you tell us about that experiBacked by some pretty smart
parents, we have run camence?
paigns such as ‘1 in 100 need
Autism Awareness Australia has
it funded’ in this last Federal
Election, and we are, whenpossible, walking the halls of
our national parliament trying
to make change in autism policy in Australia. Sadly, we aresometimes held back by thehealth bureaucrats who still
run some generic special educational style programs,
whose careers have been
made on the ‘low intensity’services we are so desperate
to make a thing of the past.
Just last year, I organised agroup of leading ABA service
Nicole Rogerson at the United Nations
providers, academics andState-based interest groups toachieved some pretty amazingcome together to form the Nathings over the last few years,
tional Organisation for Appliedand I was invited in speak
Behaviour Analysis. It is ourabout them in 2011 at the Unitgoal to make sure all of the
ed Nations in New York. I was
leading people working in ABA
invited back in 2013 to premiin Australia are working togethere a documentary film I madeer to promote and raise awarecalled ‘What are you doing? A
ness of ABA within all areas offilm about autism.’ The film was
the Australian community. We
made to better educate chilalso wanted to educate people
dren in a mainstream setting
on what good quality ABA actuabout what autism is, so they
ally involves. Unfortunately, we
can better understand their
have some less-than-reputableclassmates who are on theservice providers running low
spectrum. The film stars sibintensity ABA programs (is there
lings and friends of children on
such a thing?) to better accomthe spectrum, who explain tomodate the funding families
their peers what autism is all
have access to. I am staunchly
about. I am pretty proud to say
opposed to service providers
that last year, with the help ofretro-fitting their ABA programs

the Federal Government, we
distributed it to every elementary and secondary school
across Australia. I believe inwalking the walk of inclusion,
not just talking the talk.
Any final thoughts?
Absolutely! I’d like to ask the
professionals reading to remindthemselves what fabulous humanitarians they are. I am constantly reminding my staff how
brave and determined they are.
You simply don’t sit back assessing a problem and writing areport on it. That is merely
stage one for you! You analyze,
collect data, write procedures,
implement them, re-assess,graph and chart progress. You
don’t talk the talk of intervention, you run the walk! You
teach children skills which gives
them independence. You givethem freedom from their disability and you give parents theirchildren back. In short, you’re
my heroes.
No fair Nicole! Parents like you,are my heroes. My colleagues
and I choose autism, parents
do not. Working with parents
who roll up their sleeves to help
their child is an incredible reinforcer to us. Seeing parents
who dedicate their blood,
sweat, and tears to helping other parents have a clearer path,is nothing short of inspirational.
Thank you for taking time toshare your story with our readers.

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Our Real Science, Real Hope 2014 Sponsorship Initiative
Does Your Agency Share ASAT’s
Values? ASAT believes that
individuals with autism have theright to effective treatments thatare scientifically-demonstrated
to make meaningful, positivechange in their lives. We
believe that it should not be sochallenging for families to findaccurate information about theefficacy of various autism
interventions. ASAT works
toward a time when ...
 All families will be empoweredwith skills in identifying andchoosing the most effective,
scientifically-validated
interventions for their child.
 The media will educate and notconfuse parents by providing
accurate information andasking the right questions.
 All providers will be guided byscience when selecting andimplementing interventions
and use data to demonstrateeffectiveness.

PARTNER $5,000
Behavior Analysis Center
for Autism
Little Star Center

CHAMPION $2,000
Autism Partnership
Organization for Research andLearning

What It Means to Be a 2014
Sponsor:
ASAT’s 2014 Sponsors haveindicated their support of thefollowing tenets:
1.All treatments for individuals
with autism should be guided
by the best available scientificinformation.
2.Service providers have a
responsibility to rely on sciencebased treatments.
3.Service providers should takesteps necessary to help
consumers differentiate
between scientifically validated
treatments and treatments thatlack scientific validation.
4.Consumers should be informedthat any treatment lacking
scientific support should be
pursued with great caution.
5.Objective data should be used
when making clinical decisions.

Become a 2014 Sponsor Now!
These sponsorships not only
provide financial support used
specifically for our
dissemination efforts, but also
send a clear message that
ASAT's vision is shared by others
within the professional
community.
The tasks of educating the
public about scientificallyvalidated intervention andcountering pseudoscience aredaunting ones, and ASAT
appreciates the support of all of
our sponsors.
If you are interested in
becoming a 2014 Sponsor,
please visit the sponsor page on
our website atwww.asatonline.org/
about_asat/sponsors.htm#learn.
Thank you for yourconsideration!

ALLIANCE $500
Autism New Jersey
Connecticut Center for Child
Development
Different Roads to Learning
Eden II Programs
Four Points, Inc.
Quality Services for the Autism
Community (QSAC)
Thivierge & Rothberg
Virginia Institute of Autism

BENEFACTOR $1,000
ELIJA Foundation
PATRON $200
ELIJA School
Autism Intervention Services
Long Island Behavior Analysis Group ABA Academy
Aging with Autism
New England Center for Children
Alpine Learning Group
Princeton Child Development
Asperger Syndrome and high Functioning
Institute
Autism Association (AHA), Inc.
Rethink Autism
Autism Awareness
Therapeutic Pathways, Inc.
Beacon Services

Behavior Development Solutions
Bouer Law LLC
Child Study Center of Fort WorthChildren’s Specialized Hospital
Coyne and Associates
Gary Mayerson & Associates
Hugo Science Press
Institute for Educational Achievement
Kansas City Autism Training Center
Lizard Children’s Learning Centre
Nassau Suffolk Services for Autism
New York Center for Autism Charter School
PALS Autism School
Peninsula School for Autism
Pyramid Educational Consultants, Inc.
Quest Autism Program
Room to Grow
SKF Books
Somerset Hills
Southwest Autism Research and Resource
Center

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: ASAT has no formal relationship with any of the sponsor organizations. Furthermore, their stated endorsement of the above
tenets is not verified or monitored by ASAT. Although ASAT expects that all sponsoring organizations will act in accordance with the above statements,
ASAT does not assume responsibility for ensuring that sponsoring organizations engage in behavior that is consistently congruent with the statements
above.

ASAT
Providing Accurate, Science-Based Information - Promoting Access to Effective Treatment

Your Organization
Could Appear Here

Volume 11.1 Winter 2014

Science in Autism Treatment

Page 34

Advertisein Science in Autism Treatment.
And reach over 10,000 interested subscribers
http://asatonline.org/newsletters/advertisers

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Page 35

Media WatchMedia Watch is a subcommittee of the Public Relations Committee whose primary initiatives are:Educating the public about effective autism treatment through proactive contact with the media;
Responding to inaccurate information or proposed treatments described by the media (as it relates toscientific findings about their effectiveness); and supporting accurate media depictions of empirically–sound interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorders. We seek to increaseawareness of the scientific underpinnings surrounding autism treatment that can lead toreal hope for those touched by this disorder.
Barbara Jamison, BA, Media Watch Lead












ASAT Responds to Toronto Star's"Groundbreaking adult autism survey reveals
mountain of unmet needs" (July 25, 2013)
What happens to individuals with autism when
they reach adulthood? Star.com's Laurie Monsebraaten reports on a recent groundbreaking
study. http://www.asatonline.org/
media_watches/107
ASAT Responds to CNN.com's "Jenny McCarthy
and Fear-Based Parenting" (August 2, 2013) Misinformation and fad treatments gain even great- 
er traction when endorsed by celebrities. http://
www.asatonline.org/media_watches/108
ASAT Responds to High Plains Journal's "Family
uses agriculture as autism therapy tool" (October23, 2013) Immersion in an agricultural setting
may provide a wonderful opportunity to develop
a variety of social and vocational skills, but ASAT
cautions Writer Jennifer Latzke against terming
this experience a "therapy tool." http://
www.asatonline.org/media_watches/109
ASAT Responds to AutismDailyNewscast.com's
Limitations apparent in applied behavior analysis
research" (December 4, 2013) What three questions should families ask potential providers ofautism treatment? http://asatonline.org/
media_watches/110
ASAT Responds to ScienceCodex.com's "Making sense of sensation" (December 7, 2013) A new
study by Thomas Jefferson University seems to
imply that a sensory integration approach may
be more effective than behavior training…but isit? http://asatonline.org/media_watches/111
ASAT Responds to Forbes.com's "Court rulings
don't confirm autism-vaccine link" (December
13, 2013) commending journalist Emily Willingham for providing a clear and sound voice of
reason in yet another attempt by a media outlet

to draw a connection between vaccines and autism. http://www.asatonline.org/
media_watches/112
ASAT Responds to NYTimes.com's "Wandering
is a major concern for parents of children with
autism" (December 15, 2013) Stories of elopement or wandering catch at the heart of any parent, but are particularly concerning to families
with a member on the autism spectrum. http://
www.asatonline.org/media_watches/113
ASAT Responds to DigitalJournal.com's "Journalof Communication Disorders Releases First Autism Study of the Son-Rise Program" (January 2,2014) The very fact that this is the first study
examining the benefit of a program that has
been touted as an amazing and highly successful treatment for the past 35 years is alarming
in and of itself. http://www.asatonline.org/
media_watches/114
ASAT Responds to TheGuardian.com's "Is itright to try to 'normalize' autism?" (January 8,2014) Calling applied behavior analysis a"controversial U.S. teaching method," Guardian
reporter Chloe Lambert sparks a Media Watch
response that answers arguments posited by
ABA detractors. http://www.asatonline.org/
media_watches/116
ASAT Responds to TheBlaze.com's "Parents set
up hidden camera to monitor autistic son’s therapy sessions – what they saw happening in realtime is gut-wrenching" (January 21, 2014) Sadly, therapist abuse happens...what practicalsteps can parents take to secure a qualified,competent person to work with their child?
http://www.asatonline.org/media_watches/117

Write to us at mediawatch@asatonline.org

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Page 36

Team ASAT Crosses the Finish Line!
By Ruth Donlin, MS
The 43rd ING New York City Marathon held on November 3, 2013 waswelcomed with great enthusiasm and worldwide spectator support as
thousands of people gathered along the 26.2-mile course through all
five boroughs. Fittingly, the race commemorated the heroes andvictims of super storm Sandy and those who were affected by the
Boston Marathon bombings.
Of the 50,266 marathon finishers, Team ASAT Captain Bobby Newman and four volunteer runners,
Randy Horowitz, Sheila Jodlowski, and 23-year-old twins Alex and Jamie Schneider diagnosed with
autism, are to be congratulated. They each dedicated extensive time and training to complete the run,and we are grateful and honored to be their chosen charity to support.
We would also like to thank all the individuals who donated to Team ASAT. These donations make itpossible to continue providing a free quarterly newsletter, along with other valuable resources to families
and consumers by disseminating information regarding evidence-based
treatments for autism spectrum disorders. ASAT is committed to helping
people understand the difference between sensational claims of how to help
or cure autism versus science-based research that guides effective
intervention. In addition to all the excitement gearing up for this international
event, ASAT was thrilled when ABC’s “Good Morning America” (http://
www.youtube.com/watch?v=alEHCk_80os) was so inspired by the Schneider
twins, that they interviewed the family, filmed the boys in training, and aired
two exclusive video clips about them and their family the day of the marathon.
Alex and Jamie have severe autism with limited communication skills andunderstanding of safety in the community. However, both are gifted athletes
and love to run. This was their first time participating in the NYC Marathon as
well as first time fundraising for ASAT. Alex beat his personal best, clocking inwith a run time of 3:14.35! To read more about their captivating story, click
here: http://www.asatonline.org/pdf/fall2013.pdf.

Alex and Jamie Schneider

The success of this event was made memorable by our team runners; we also
would like to extend our thanks to the New York Road Runners and to the ABC
staff and crew who provided wonderful media coverage and mentioned ASAT.
Here is another clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N5jLzg3bHoI

As a result of this publicity, the Schneiders’ inspirational story generated a tremendous response insocial media, as well as a mention in dozens of publications including Runner's World and the Huffington
Post.
If you have ever wanted to run in the NYC Marathon, there is an opportunity for you to run and contributeto our worthy charity. By joining Team ASAT, a fundraising page will be set up for you on-line through the
NYC marathon and Crowdrise. Your friends and family can then sponsor you to help you meet yourfundraising requirement.
If you are interested, please contact Ruth
Donlin at: asatevents@asatonline.org.

There is STILL time to help support the twins’
charity fundraising or to support Team ASAT by
going to: http://www.crowdrise.com/

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2013 Donor Wall
Champion $2,000—$4,999

Benefactor $1,000 - $1,999

The Leah & Alain Lebec Foundation, Inc.

Alliance $500 - $999
Nea Hanscomb6
Mike and Kelly Windsor2
Anonymous7

Kettlebells 4 Autism
Karen and Patrick Ramsey1
Alison and Bernie Webb2

Patron $100 - $499

In Honor of:
In Memory of:
1Alain Lebec
5Marie DiScalfani
2Peggy Halliday
6Vaida Hoffman
3Sabrina Freeman
7Merrill and Janice
4Sarah Jack
Windsor
10Mike Flood
8Mary Weitzman
11Margaret Howard 9Ernie Wing andand Surrey Place
Diane Kirchner
Centre12Audrey Meissnerand New Haven
Learning Centre
13Kathryn Dobel

Francisco Barrera
Michele Corcoran
Douglas Celiberti
Dean Chacon
Child Development Centre of
Oakville11
Child Development Centre of
Oakville12
Jennifer Cook
Gerald and Marietta Dargan
Joseph DiGennaro
David Diosi
William Dube
Phyllis Freidt2

Andrea Kasunic
Steven Khuong6,8,9
Barbie Machado
Richard Malott
Luna Mills
Patricia Myers
Corey Robertson
Joyce Rosenfeld
Beverly Sharpe3
Tom and Carol Sloan
Michaela Stanton
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ASAT
Providing Accurate, Science-Based Information - Promoting Access to Effective Treatment

Volume 11.1 Winter 2014

Science in Autism Treatment

Page 38

In addition to our Advisory Board, a number of Coordinators Externs, and other
Volunteers lend their time and talents to support ASAT's mission and initiatives. These
are our helping hands. Thank you!
Advertising Coordinator
Alice Walkup, MS, BCBA

Sponsorship Asst. Coordinator
Mark Sullivan, BA

Bio-medical Advances Coordinator
Leanne Tull, MADS, BCBA

Subscriptions Coordinator
Kerry Ann Conde, MS, BCBA

Donor Drive Coordinator
Tanya Baynham, MS, BCBA

Asst. Subscriptions Coordinator
Steven Rodriguez, BS

Exhibition Coordinator
Marianne Clancy

Website Content Coordinator
Amanda Fisher, PhD, BCBA-D

Externship/Volunteer Coordinator
Lauren Schnell, MEd, BCBA

Externs
Elizabeth Callahan, BA, BCaBA
Sarah R. Jenkins, MA
Mary Kay Jones, MSN, CRNP
Jacqueline Hamor
Zachary Houston, MS, BCBA
Tiffany Kilby, BA
Steven Rodriguez, BSMark Sullivan, BA
Leanne Tull, MADS, BCBA
Alice Walkup, MS, BCBA

Grant Research Coordinator
Alice Walkup, MS, BCBA
International Dissemination
Co-Coordinators
Audrey Meissner, MEd, BCBA
Jennifer Hieminga, MEd, BCBA
List Serv Coordinator
Kirsten Wirth, PhD
Media Watch Coordinator
Elizabeth Callahan, BA, BCaBA
Social Media Coordinator
Renita Paranjape, MEd, BCBA
Sponsorship Coordinator
Caitlin Reilly, MA

ASAT Public Relations Committee
Courtney Aponte, MA
Gina Haggery, MSEd
Michellle Kahn, MSEd
Nicole Mammina, MSEd
Lewis Mazzone, MA
Jamie O'Brien, MSEd
Nancy Philips, BA
Sage Rose, PhD
Alyssa Rosenberg, BA

Media Watch Initiative
Emily H. Callahan, PhD, BCBA-D
Geoffrey Debery, MA, BCBA
Justin DiScalfani, PhD
Ronald Lee, PhD, BCBA-D
Lewis Mazzone, MA
Deborah Finkelstein, MADS, BCBA
Mary Philips, BA
Sharon Reeve, PhD, BCBA-D
Anya K. Silver, MA, BCBA
Chris E. Smith, PhD, BCBA-D
Shannon Wilkinson, MADS, BCaBA

ASAT’s Newsletter,
Science in Autism Treatment
Justin DiScalfani, PhD
Caroline Simard-Nicolas, MS, BCBA
Amanda Wadsworth, MSEd, BCBA

Coming up in the Spring 2014 Issue of Science in Autism Treatment!
This issue will be dedicated to the Behavior Analysis Center for Autism
2013 Partner Level Sponsor
 Program Description of BACA and Interview with Dr. Carl Sundberg
 Clinical Corner: Safety Skills (From the Archives)
 Consumer Corner: Review of resources to prevent bolting
 International Interview: Professor Mickey Keenan, University of Ulster, N. Ireland

ASAT
Providing Accurate, Science-Based Information - Promoting Access to Effective Treatment