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Watch this webinar recording to see what RDI is and who it is for.
What is RDI®?
Relationship Development Intervention (RDI®) is a cognitive developmental, parent/ family centered therapy for individuals with autism and aspergers.
Based on over thirty years of research and the latest research it is, with around a thousand objectives, split into different stages and broken down into smaller lessons and assignments.
As a remediation programme; it is a gradual and systematic process of correcting a deficit (it is not a compensation program). It is a way to help children to construct and use their minds more effectively. It teaches a child to feel competent in facing challenges and dynamic analysis. It works on changing neurology. As a parent training programme; it helps parents to become empowered, re-establish the guided participation relationship and learn best how to understand their child in a way that they can make a difference in their development.
Who is involved in the treatment?
When participating in the RDI® programme, you will have a RDI® Certified Programme Consultant who runs your programme and carries out an annual assessment. There are no therapists involved in your programme, it will be primarily the parents who are involved in providing the treatment to their child. At later stages siblings and other family members may get more involved.
What is involved in the treatment?
All programmes begin with a baseline assessment, to assess the level of guided participation relationship and where to begin the RDI® programme. All RDI® Programmes require regular weekly footage for the consultant to review and provide feedback on. Face to face and practical supervision and demonstration are also included.
What does the RDI® programme focus on?
The RDI® programme's primary focus is to establish the guided participation relationship through parent training which helps to remediate the core deficits of autism;
Dynamic IntelligenceFlexible and creative thinking and problem solving
Experience sharing communication
Episodic memory
Self awareness
Appraisal
The RDI® programme takes into consideration all other aspects of the individuals needs (academics, diet, co-occurring disorders, etc) and helps provide a balanced treatment plan.
The RDI® programme spends time in getting parents ready for the treatment and making them feel competent and confident in what they will do.
Who will benefit from RDI®?
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Those with autism or aspergers or related disorders.
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Those displaying some of the core deficits.
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Those with learning disabilities.
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Those with verbal or non verbal communication difficulties.
Parents who want / need guidance in parenting.
How do I know if the RDI® programme is right for our family?
The RDI® programme is not suitable for everybody, you must;
- Be committed
- Be mindful
- Be disciplined
- Be responsible
- Be able to communicate regularly and well with your consultant
- Be enthusiastic
- Be willing to adjust your approach
- Want to address the core deficits of autism (not develop a set of skill)
- Prioritise family relationships
- Want to invest in your learning
Where is the RDA and RDI® carried out?
Assessments are carried out in Peterborough and the family will travel to do the assessment. Annual assessments are compulsary. Further consultations will take place in Peterborough or a home visit can be arranged (travel expenses will apply) and regular ongoing support will also be provided via email, contact Elisa Ferriggi for more detailed information on packages available.
What equipment will I need?
You will need;
- A camcorder
- A camcorder tripod
- A wide angle lens for your camcorder
- A webcam
- Internet connection and laptop / computer
- The RDI® Book
