Evaluating The Effectiveness of Speech-Language Pathology Interventions for Autistic Children and Youth

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) play a crucial role in the delivery of support services for autistic children and youth by improving outcomes such as language, communication and social interaction. However, a recent systematic review of assessment and intervention practices found a paucity of clinical guideline documents aiding SLPs in the provision of services to autistic individuals (Choi, Cardy & Binns, submitted). Our project aims to support the development of a guidance document that uses a co-production model approach to best meet the needs of autistic persons. We are using a three-pronged approach incorporating research, community input and partnerships with autistic self-advocates and parents. This project narrows in on the research aspect of the project, by conducting an umbrella review of existing interventions delivered by SLPs to explore the efficacy of SLP delivered Autism interventions. A total of 3138 articles were screened by two reviewers (L.D., L.C.), 271 articles underwent full-text review and 38 studies met inclusion criteria. Data extraction and quality appraisal are still being conducted at this time. Results of the review will be integrated with community input to inform the development of evidence-based intervention recommendations within the guidance document