Spectrum Center New York , Bethesda MD, Chicago

New York , NY phone 212-928-1893

Bethesda , MD, Chicago, IL phone 301-657-0988

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Spectrum Center New York , Bethesda , Chicago
Certified Tomatis Clinic

S pectrum Center uses the Tomatis Method of “auditory training” in conjunction with sensory integration techniques to treat a spectrum of conditions that includes Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD). We look at the children we treat from the perspective of a developmental model that incorporates the theories of Dr. Alfred Tomatis and Dr. A Jean Ayres (the developer of sensory integration theory). This view presupposes that many of the behavioral and communicative idiosyncrasies observed in Autism and PDD are not the causes of the disorder, but rather are symptoms based upon an underlying “biologically based” regulatory disorder. The focus of the treatment is on the sensory systems involved in the child’s ability to self-regulate. In improving self-regulation we hope to provide an improved foundation upon which normal development can take place. There are many studies indicating how sensory deprivation can result in delayed or atypical development. It is theorized that the central nervous systems of children with Autism and PDD do not properly perceive, process and organize sensory information from their bodies and their environment. Therefore, they are not able to respond adaptively or develop normally.

What is autism?
Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. The result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, Autism and its associated behaviors have been estimated to occur in as many as 1 in 500 individuals (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1997). Several related disorders are grouped under the broad heading "Pervasive Developmental Disorder" or PDD-a general category of disorders that are characterized by severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development (American Psychiatric Association 1994). Autism/PDD is four times more prevalent in boys than girls and knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries. Family income, lifestyle, and educational levels do not affect the chance of Autism's occurrence.

Children within Autism/PDD often appear relatively normal in their development until the age of 18-24 months, when parents may notice delays in language, play or social interaction. Any of these delays, by themselves, would not result in a diagnosis of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder. Rather, autism is a combination of several developmental challenges.

According to the Autism Society of America in Bethesda, Maryland, the following areas are among those that may be affected by autism:

Communication: language develops slowly or not at all; uses words without attaching the usual meaning to them; communicates with gestures instead of words; short attention span.

Social Interaction: spends time alone rather than with others; shows little interest in making friends; less responsive to social cues such as eye contact or smiles.

Sensory Impairment: may have sensitivities in the areas of sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste to a greater or lesser degree.

Play: lack of spontaneous or imaginative play; does not imitate others' actions; does not initiate pretend games.

Behaviors: may be overactive or very passive; throws tantrums for no apparent reason; perseverates (shows an obsessive interest in a single item, idea, activity or person); apparent lack of common sense; may show aggression toward others or self; often has difficulty with changes in routine.

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