ABSTRACT
Family-centered care is a practice model that has been described in the literature
for the past two decades. The evidence shows that when family-centered care is practiced,
outcomes are enhanced for children with autism and other disabilities and their families
and teams. This article reviews two innovative programs that practiced family-centered
care in assessment and program planning for children with autism spectrum disorders
(ASD). The research indicates that the essential training elements required to transform
speech-language pathologists (SLPs) from understanding family-centered care to being
family-centered practitioners includes a focus on technical and leadership skills
as well as a variety of experiences with families who have children with ASD. Preservice
programs preparing SLPs and other health professionals must incorporate these essential
elements of family-centered care training into their curricula. SLPs who are already
practicing can use these key elements as a guide in seeking professional development
opportunities.
KEYWORDS
Family centered - interdisciplinary - autism spectrum disorders - training
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jean.beatson@uvm.edu
