iLs & Autism Spectrum Disorders
We support a multi-disciplinary approach to helping those on the autism spectrum, including behavioral, relationship-based, sensory and bio-medical methods.
iLs & Behavior Based Interventions
Many ABA trained therapists implement iLs alongside ABA. The benefits of this combination are evidenced by both immediate (better quality ABA sessions) and long-term results (social/behavior change is accelerated by improved regulation and processing).
iLs & Relationship Based Interventions
DIR/Floortime, Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) and SCERTS are excellent complements to iLs’ approach. iLs headphone equipment can be worn simultaneous to these approaches with children over 2 years of age.
iLs & Other Therapies
iLs is an effective intervention on its own or may be implemented in conjunction with a range of other therapies, such as Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapy.
ASDs (Autism Spectrum Disorders) are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, hypersensitivities, attention, motor coordination and repetitive behaviors.
iLs addresses the development of whole brain/body integration through a staged developmental approach, starting with the fundamentals of sensory integration and then extending through more complex cognitive functions, including language, self-expression, and social skills.
Getting Started
- Fill out a form on this page: our team members will walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have
- Sign up for training: training may be taken by distance or live, in dozens of locations throughout the U.S. and Australia – register here
- Purchase equipment: please view our product page to get a close up, and call us to learn more about what’s best for your practice, pricing, etc.
- Professional Development: continue to hone your ils expertise through specialized webinars, advanced training, case studies and Clinical Insights series (sent to you monthly by email), iLs Associates Group on Facebook, and more.
- Support: Once trained, iLs Associates may access the iLs Professional Resources pages of the web site for forms, documents and materials related to the marketing and application of iLs in their practice. Additionally, webinars, newsletters, case studies and ongoing professional development courses are available. Equipment and light clinical support are available at no cost via email and telephone. For more detailed case consultation, iLs’ Clinic Director and Advanced Certification trainer, Ron Minson, MD (psychiatrist), is available by appointment.
Get the Info You Need
Supporting Research
In 2012 an independent, non-profit research group conducted a survey with therapists who had used iLs with over 1300 children on the autism spectrum in order to determine areas of efficacy. The complete study is below and the full survey may be found on the Research page.
Outcome measure & Perceived Frequency of improvements
| Never | Rarely | Sometimes | Often | Always | Often + Always | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Coordination | 10% | 40% | 47% | 87% | ||
| Self-Regulation | 10% | 46% | 41% | 87% | ||
| Sensory Int/Processing | 7% | 40% | 50% | 90% | ||
| Arousal | 13% | 53% | 28% | 81% | ||
| Attention | 13% | 54% | 33% | 87% | ||
| Transitions | 1% | 10% | 61% | 24% | 85% | |
| Following Verbal Directions | 14% | 47% | 37% | 84% |
Spiral Foundation Study
The Spiral Foundation of Boston, MA conducted a controlled study of 18 children diagnosed with autism. Significant improvement was shown in the areas of social skills and emotional regulation; quantity and quality of atypical and problem behaviors including behavior during treatment; number and severity of autistic behaviors; and overall functional adaptive behavior skills; visual, fine and gross motor. The iLs programs were conducted at home by parents. A synopsis of the study.
Hundreds of iLs-trained therapists are working with the ASD population, and their constant feedback helps iLs management continually improve the program and training.