• Does Autism NSW provide general information on Autism treatment in NSW?  No Autism NSW is a provider of the Davis Autism Approach method. If you would like information on the Davis Autism Approach methodology or would like to do a consultation for The Davis Autism Approach Method, please email or phone Bets. For general information see: https://www.autismspectrum.org.au/
• ​How does the Davis Autism Approach differ from other autism programs?
  The Davis Autism Approach is the only program developed by an autistic for autistics. This developmental program is unique in its approach as its focus is on enabling individuals to gain a strong sense of self (through Individuation) and then developing an identity through mastering fundamental life concepts that can be transferred into any situation.  Social integration is the final piece to the program, as it is essential that social integration is built upon the foundation of individuation and a strong core identity. Learning is holistic and multi sensory. The pace of the programme is dictated by the client - they are never coerced or forced into participating. 
• What is the aim of the Davis Autism Approach program? 
  The overall purpose of the Davis Autism Approach program is to allow the autistic individual to participate more fully in life.  
  In doing this, the program aims to:
• empower people with autism, and their families, to better navigate their way through life
• draw out the potential within the autistic individual
• empower the autistic individual to be responsible for self
• to enable the autistic individual to interact appropriately and successfully with others.  
• The program aims to 'plant the seeds' that will enable change, but the resulting growth is natural and nurtured by the unique capacity and
  inclinations of each person.
• What is involved in the Davis Autism Approach program? 
  There are three main parts (in order) to this program: helping the person with autism to individuate by building a stronger sense of self; helping them to develop their identity in the world by exploring fundamental life concepts and, thirdly, enhancing the person's ability to
  integrate socially by looking at different types of relationships and how they operate.  
• What is  the underlying philosophy behind the Davis Autism Approach program? 
  We see the cause of the symptoms of autism as the result of an atypical developmental path.  Autism is not an impairment of intellect or cognition, but a problem with 'integration'. The person has not been able to integrate new information and experiences into their life in the same way as non-Autists.  Whilst totally respecting what it is to be autistic and with no desire to change the person, we offer the opportunity for an individual gain missing knowledge and understanding so that they are able to begin to integrate experiences and transfer knowledge across situations, giving them control over  their behaviour, so that it can be a choice rather than a reaction. See https://www.rdautismfoundation.org/ for further details on the Davis Autism Approach. 
• What changes will I see and how long will they take in a Davis Autism Approach program? 
  Everyone is different . But some changes we have seen are: 
• changes in communication, both socially and verbally,  
• a greater tolerance to confusion, 
• an increased awareness of the immediate environment.  
• changes in the understanding of ‘change’ and ‘consequence’, resulting in reduced stress, due to the individual being more able to predict outcomes of varying situations.  
• individuals being more confident, more independent, enjoying and understanding social situations, and being able to take on responsibilities. 
• The most common change that has been noted is the individual and their families report they are much happier and less stressed. 
  As for how long it takes, some changes are obvious and immediately apparent, whereas others will take time. The program is designed to create life long change through building a foundation upon which all future growth and development can be built.
  
• Does NDIS cover the Davis Autism Approach program? 

       Yes, Bets has worked with many self managed or plan managed NDIS clients and continues to do so. Just inform Bets    that you have an NDIS package when you contact her.

• Does the family or individual have to do any work during or after the program? 
  No matter which program is being completed, we would encourage the family to be involved as much as possible and get to know the concepts for themselves during the program; this way they can be integrated faster and more effectively into the home environment. There are no drilling or repetitive exercises to be completed at home; we only ask that the concepts are discussed and integrated in a fun, interactive way. 
• Can anyone do a program, and at what age do you start? 
  Davis Stepping Stones Program
  If an individual is between the ages of 3 and 8 or had low/no verbal ability, they are likely to be able to access the Davis Stepping Stones program. 
   
  Davis Autism Approach Program
  For those over 8 and with verbal ability, they may be able to access the Davis  Autism Approach if:
• they have the ability to understand and comply with instructions from the Facilitator or support person.
• They can make something (a clay model) that can represent ”self”.
• If the individual is not able to meet the above criteria for the full Davis Life Concepts for Autism program, then the Davis Stepping Stones program may be an option.​

• Davis Concepts for Life Program
  This is designed for those who not identify as being on the autism spectrum, and can be accessed by anyone over the age of 8, who has the motivation to compete the program.

* Taken from the FAQ page of Davis Autism Approach: http://www.davisautism.com/faqs.html