Rehabilitation in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Look at Current Occupational Therapy Services in Iran

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The progressive prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder and the high cost of its treatment suggest that health services should be purpose-fully provided to people with this disorder. Occupational therapists play a key role in the rehabilitation of autism. This study sought to monitor occupational therapy services provided to individuals with autism. Materials and Methods: A survey about occupational therapy services for people with autism spectrum disorder was distributed to therapists. They completed a researcher-made questionnaire asking them about working conditions, knowledge sources, assessments, and interventions that have been used in autism. 225 questionnaires were distributed among occupational therapists who had the inclusion criteria. Results: The number of the full-filled questionnaires was 124. The therapists worked more individual therapy (95%) than group sessions (23%). Household economic problems were reported as the most common cause of occupational therapy discontinuation. They focused more on sensory approaches and cognitive models. The education level of the therapist was significantly correlated with autism-specific experience (r=0.376, P =0.00). Of the respondents, 50.8% reported their competency to treat autism as higher than average. Perceived competency was significantly correlated with providing consultation by the therapists (r=0.256, P =0.004). Conclusion: Occupational therapists apply sensory and cognitive approaches in autism. Therapists should try to resolve the problems that exist for group therapy sessions. The use of sensory-based therapies and their impact on the participation in everyday life is controversial. Finding a solution to compensate for the high cost of occupational therapy for autism can make people more likely to receive occupational