Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pediatrics Research

Through a grant from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Dr. Tristram Smith and Dr. Rebecca Landa from Kennedy Krieger Institute at Johns Hopkins and Dr. Connie Kasari at the University of California, Los Angeles will be directing a new treatment . This study will compare improvements in speech after the current standard of care for early intervention, Discrete Trials Training (DTT), with the experimental treatment, Interpersonal Developmental Approach (IDA). Discrete Trials Training involves teaching discriminations between stimuli and providing systematic reinforcement. The Interpersonal Development Approach involves the creation of relevant and meaningful learning opportunities with emphasis on the development of symbolic, social and communication processes. This project has promise for providing families and early-intervention professionals about treatment targets and potential outcomes of early intervention, as well as improving the prospect for effective matching of treatment to the individual. Learn More