CASP

FirstSteps for Kids, Inc. Joins the Council for Autism Service Providers (CASP)

We are thrilled to announce that FirstSteps is now a proud member of the Council for Autism Service Providers (CASP). CASP is a nationally recognized professional association with a mission that aligns with FirstSteps’ values. CASP providers are committed to ensuring that individuals with autism and their families receive the highest quality ABA services from professionals who have the education, credentials, and experience to provide effective and compassionate care tailored to each person’s individual needs. 

CASP is selective in its membership and requires that CASP member organizations “promote and implement evidence-based practices within their agency” citing The Association for Science in Autism Treatment (www.asatonline.org) as follows:

“Components of evidence-based practices include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Intervention choices are guided by published research in peer-reviewed journals.
• Task force findings related to evidence-based treatments are also considered.
• Providers have the proper credentials and experience, as well as a respect for the scientific literature.
• Those who carry out the actual intervention are well trained and supervised to ensure treatment integrity.
• Carefully implemented instruction promotes initial success, ongoing gains, and ultimate mastery, as well as maximizes carryover across settings.
• Objective data are collected and used to guide clinical decision-making.
• Services are well coordinated, particularly when multiple disciplines are involved.  All providers use evidence-based practice and collect data to measure progress.
• Ongoing interventions efforts are adapted as new findings are published in peer-reviewed journals.*

*Source: The Association for Science in Autism Treatment, www.asatonline.org

FirstSteps is pleased to join this tremendous network of professionals who share our commitment to evidence-based treatment. As CASP members we look forward to sharing ideas and best practices with our new colleagues at CASP conferences and the many hosted webinars throughout the year. We are also committed to contributing to CASP’s public policy and advocacy efforts.