Anyone using RDI therapy? - Autism Spectrum Message Board

TCoughlan · 02-02-2005, 07:52 PM

I have been hearing about RDI recently. I am looking for some information on it . How it compares to ABA. Is it different or a supplement to? I live in Massachusetts and would maybe in interested in observing how this is done. Any help is appreciated.

BetsyAnn · 02-02-2005, 10:04 PM

What is RDI therapy?

TCoughlan · 02-03-2005, 05:34 AM

That is more or less my question..Its stands for Releationshiop Development Intervention. I think its supposed to fill in the gaps of ABA. There is a website rdiconnect.com. Not sure if it is a legitimate therapy, or some person praying on the hopes of parents with autistic children. I say that because of the expense involved.

KathleenW · 02-03-2005, 07:46 AM

RDI therapy is definitely legitimate. The reason it fills in the gaps of ABA is because ABA is good for learning self help skills, and language, but it does not really focus on the social problems that many children with autism face. I worked with one of the top ABA consultants and she highly recommends it. I have not really looked into it, because my son has never had any problems socially, but unless you are talking to someone who is after your money I don't see how it can be expensive. The consultant I used says that parents can do RDI on their own. If you want an ABA program that works you need it supervised by an expert and higher tutors which is very expensive along with all the materials you must buy. RDI you really don't need supervision, tutors or materials. I wish you and your family good luck on what ever you decide!

off kilter · 02-24-2005, 05:36 PM

Here in Ma. The building Blocks program uses both ABA and a RDI for children under 3. They call the ABA time table time and the RDI time floor time. Paul had both from ages 1 to 3 I think the floor time is what really brought out his personallity. He went from no eye contact and a blank look on his face to a super smile and great eye contact. Now that he is 7 he attends A school called the May Center here in Ma. It is a ABA school that has been around for 50 years. At this stage now that paul is doing so great with social skills we felt he needed to focus on learning more academic skills and communication skills both areas he is making wonderful strides in with a full time ABA program.