What is a certified ESDM Therapist?

By May 11, 2018 July 28th, 2024 Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)
Certified ESDM Therapist doing an early intervention session with young child with autism in Sydney

What is a Certified ESDM Therapist?

A Certified ESDM Therapist is a professional trained to deliver the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) to fidelity. This means they can implement the ESDM accurately and effectively, ensuring the best outcomes for children with autism.

Training and Certification Process

To become certified, therapists must complete all levels of the ESDM training. After the initial training, they undergo 6-12 months of intensive training to meet ESDM fidelity expectations. This period involves:

  • Submitting Videos: Therapists submit a series of videos demonstrating their ability to deliver the ESDM accurately.
  • Writing Individualised Programs: They must prove they can write tailored early intervention programs for each child.

Qualifications

Certified ESDM Therapists must have an allied health qualification or another appropriate qualification. This includes:

  • Speech Pathologists
  • Occupational Therapists
  • Psychologists
  • Early Childhood Teachers

Skills and Knowledge

To be an effective ESDM therapist, professionals must:

  • Understand the Child: They need in-depth knowledge to understand the unique needs of each child.
  • Develop Comprehensive Programs: They must be able to create programs that target all areas of a child’s development.

By completing this rigorous training and meeting all certification requirements, ESDM Therapists ensure they can provide high-quality, individualised early intervention to help children with autism thrive.

 

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What is the ESDM?

Understanding the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)

The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) is a comprehensive early intervention approach designed for young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Developed by Professor Sally Rogers and her colleagues at the M.I.N.D. Institute at the University of California, Davis, in Sacramento, USA, the ESDM is a set of specific strategies used by Certified ESDM Therapists and parents/caregivers to support children’s development in a natural learning environment.

Key Features of the ESDM

Evidence-Based Approach

The ESDM is grounded in scientific research about how young children develop and learn. Moreover, it considers the unique ways ASD affects early development and learning, incorporating the most effective teaching methods for young children. Consequently, studies have shown that most children with ASD demonstrate significant improvements in cognitive and adaptive behaviours after receiving ESDM intervention.

Natural Learning Environment

The ESDM is designed to be used in a child’s natural learning environment. This means that the strategies can be seamlessly integrated into daily routines and activities, making learning more relevant and effective for the child.

Parent and Caregiver Involvement

One of the standout features of the ESDM is its emphasis on parent and caregiver involvement. Parents and caregivers can learn to apply ESDM strategies at home, significantly enhancing the child’s learning experience. As a result, this leads to faster learning and better outcomes for the child.

How the ESDM Works

The ESDM includes a range of specific strategies that therapists and caregivers use to promote development. These strategies are tailored to each child’s individual needs and developmental level. Here are some key components:

  • Individualised Programs: Each child’s program is customised to address their specific developmental goals and challenges.
  • Interactive Play: Learning through play is a fundamental aspect of the ESDM. Therapists and caregivers engage children in interactive play to teach new skills.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is used to encourage desired behaviours and skills.
  • Developmental Focus: The ESDM targets multiple areas of development, including communication, social skills, and cognitive abilities.

Benefits of the ESDM

The ESDM has been shown to produce significant improvements in children with ASD. Here are some of the key benefits:

  • Improved Cognitive Skills: Children often show enhanced cognitive abilities after participating in the ESDM.
  • Better Adaptive Behaviours: The ESDM helps children develop essential adaptive behaviors, making it easier for them to navigate daily life.
  • Enhanced Social and Communication Skills: By focusing on interactive play and social engagement, the ESDM helps children improve their social and communication skills.
  • Faster Learning: When parents and caregivers apply ESDM strategies at home, children tend to learn faster and more effectively.

How to Get Started with the ESDM

If you’re interested in the ESDM for your child, the first step is to find a Certified ESDM Therapist. These professionals have completed rigorous training and certification to ensure they can deliver the ESDM effectively. At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, our team includes Certified ESDM Therapists who can work with your child to develop a customised intervention program.

By integrating the ESDM into your child’s daily routine, you can help them achieve significant developmental gains and improve their overall quality of life. Whether through individual therapy sessions or parent-led activities at home, the ESDM offers a powerful tool for supporting young children with ASD.

Furthermore, if you would like to learn more about the ESDM and how it can benefit your child, contact OneOnOne Children’s Therapy today. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. Read about what an ESDM session looks like.

How do I find Certified ESDM Therapists?

There is a list of certified ESDM therapists on the MIND website. Is your therapist is not on this list, then they are not certified in the ESDM.

Who does ESDM in Sydney?

At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we chose the ESDM as our intervention for young children with autism because its evidence base shows that the intervention works. We are Sydney’s largest Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) clinic. Our team of Certified ESDM Therapists includes Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, and Early Childhood Teachers.

What model of ESDM intervention do we offer?

We offer the following forms of the ESDM:

We’re here to support you

At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to grow and thrive.

Our clinics provide more than just therapy – they create a place where children can discover their strengths, overcome challenges, and reach their full potential.

We combine innovative therapy techniques with a stimulating and supportive environment, offering a holistic approach to autism therapy and early intervention that addresses the unique needs of each child we support.

Reach out for support

If you’re concerned about your child’s development or want to learn more about how ESDM can help your child, OneOnOne Children’s Therapy is here to help.

Call our Bondi Junction and Mascot clinics on (02) 80657837 or email. You can book a free 30 minute phone call with us to discuss how we can support your child’s unique journey.

We are a dedicated team of Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Certified ESDM Therapists, and Psychologists, serving families across Sydney. We have clinic in Bondi Junction and Mascot, Sydney’s Eastern suburbs. Our clinics are tailored to provide exceptional intervention for children with autism, developmental delays, disabilities, and learning difficulties, ensuring they receive the best possible care and support.