| Abstract: Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and professionals in applied behavior analysis (ABA) frequently participate as members of support teams for children with autism. Collaboration between these professionals can enhance the teams work, since each professional brings valuable resources to the table. However, overlapping areas of expertise, different terms used for similar instructional elements, and variations in addressing the same problems may complicate the collaborative process unless each professional understands the others framework. Failure to effectively collaborate often results in professionals working in isolation or even worse, working in opposition. The purpose of this panel is to clarify similarities and differences between the developmental and behavioral models used by SLPs and ABA professionals, respectively. In addition, panel members will highlight strengths that SLP and ABA professionals each bring to an autism support team. Finally, the panel will conclude with recommendations for addressing issues that may be viewed differently by SLP and ABA professionals. |