Conclusion

The Clinical Framework supports Ontario Autism Program (OAP) Outcomes and Guiding Principles (Appendix B) by promoting consistency of approach amongst OAP service providers. It also recognizes the skilled and dedicated practitioners from across sectors and disciplines providing exemplary practices in partnership with children/youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.

The framework aims to contribute to an ongoing discussion of what it means, in concrete real-life terms, to provide individualized and child-, youth- and family-centred services. It sets the stage for the development of positive, trusting relationships amongst families, support and service providers, educators and community partners. The goal of the OAP is to provide a personalized system of care that offers effective and evidence-based practices/interventions so that each child or youth with ASD in Ontario, within the context of their family and community, can reach their optimal potential.

ASD Clinical Expert Committee (CEC)

The ASD CEC was established in 2012 to provide advice to the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) on effective intervention, current research, and best clinical practices for working with children and young people with ASD.

An important long-term goal of the CEC is to aid in the development of a model of care that is up-to-date with the state of evidence, and includes a comprehensive continuum of services and supports for children and youth with ASD and their families.

CEC Members

  • Susan Honeyman, Chair, M.A, Reg. CASLPO, CCC-SLP
  • Wendy Roberts, Vice-Chair, M.D., FRCP(C)
  • Lise Bisnaire,Ph.D., C. Psych.
  • Jessica Brian, Ph.D., C. Psych.
  • Irene Drmic, Ph.D., C. Psych.
  • Maurice Feldman,Ph.D., BCBA-D, C. Psych.
  • Stelios Georgiades,Ph.D.
  • Ian Roth, M.H.Sc., Reg. CASLPO

CEC Assistants

  • Ellen Drumm,M.A
  • Vivian Lee, Ph.D.
  • Carly Cermak, M.Cl.Sc., Reg. CASLPO, SLP(C)
  • Jason Xin Nie, M.Sc.

Contributors

We would like to sincerely thank our colleague, Dr. Jonathan Weiss, for his incisive guidance regarding our data collection process. Dr. Weiss was a valued member of the CEC from December 2012 until February 2017. We thank Dr. Lisa Schwartz for her advice and expertise in health care ethics. We thank MCCSS for making our work possible. Ultimately, we extend our deep appreciation to the many parents, clinicians, and stakeholders who provided their invaluable input to our work.

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8. Ibid.

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