Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are a group of conditions that can occur in a person exposed to alcohol before birth. These effects can include physical, social-emotional, and cognitive differences and disorders. Each individual presents uniquely and has different needs. FASD impacts 1 in 20 children in the United States.
An FASD-informed speech-language pathologist is an important part of a multi-disciplinary team supporting functional skills and quality of life for individuals with FASD. Speech therapy can offer evidence-based strategies to support brain-based needs.
Consultation & Training Available
- Advocacy – provide strategies, service, planning, and FASD-informed support for teams serving children, including IFSPs, IEPs, mental and behavioral intervention
- Training and coaching on FASD – for professionals and healthcare providers
Therapeutic Support for FASD
- Direct Services can include –
- Individualized plan of care focused on strengths and needs
- Strategies and accomodations supporting executive functioning and cognitive skills
- Tools addressing challenging behaviors
- Social communication and pragmatic language development
- Caregiver and Family Support – consultation and coaching to discuss needs and create a plan
- FASD Evaluation – assist with correct diagnosis and referrals to FASD-informed providers
- Development of Neurobehavioral Profile – case review to help families and providers understand the child’s unique strengths, needs, and how functioning is impacted, as well as strategies and accommodations to best support development and personal goals