The FIAS Therapy Centre offers an intensive day-treatment programme each year for 10 families with a child on the autism spectrum.

The aim of the therapy is to influence perceptual processes and behaviours that may hinder development, and to initiate sustainable changes that support the child’s optimal development. The FIAS therapy approach focuses on building relationships, specifically the development of reciprocal social-emotional interaction skills and the underlying motivation for social engagement.

Toddlers with an autism spectrum disorder.

Children aged approximately 18 months to 4 years are accepted following a completed child psychiatric and neuropaediatric assessment and a confirmed diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder.

Parents make a financial contribution towards the therapy based on their individual circumstances. The programme is also partially funded by the Swiss Disability Insurance (IV), with additional support provided to the therapy centre by the FIAS Foundation.

The therapy programme includes:

• Play sessions with the autistic child, a sibling, and both children together
• Reflection on play interactions between parents and the child on the autism spectrum
• Play sessions involving parents and siblings
• Supported observation
• Individual and couple counselling sessions
• Psychoeducation and guidance
• Review of the therapy progress and support for siblings
• Follow-up Support

Families receive support for 24 months following the intensive therapy programme, including:

• Assistance with structuring everyday routines
• Support in implementing daily play sessions
• Advice on additional services (therapies, playgroups, etc.)
• Collaboration with family members and other specialist services

Further information can be found here: www.autismus-fias.ch (German)