The Els for Autism team provides only evidence-based programs and services. To develop these programs, however, research must be an essential part of our work. Our highly trained clinicians continually conduct studies and submit articles for publication to share best practices with families and professionals in the field.
Here is a recap of the articles published by our team in 2025.
The Importance of Fitness Training for Autistic Individuals
By: Nate Shanok, PhD, Research Coordinator
Research has shown that recreation, specifically sports, can be an effective supplemental therapy for individuals with autism. However, autistic individuals tend to live more sedentary lifestyles. To reverse this trend, Els for Autism offers a variety of recreation programs and services.
“Beyond getting a quality workout, students experience tremendous joy as they improve their skills and rally with peers or coaches,” observed Shanok. “It’s clear that fitness and sport-based programs cultivate valuable social bonding experiences.”
Exploring Recreation Therapy for Individuals with Autism: Exercise to Improve Socialization, Self-confidence, and Independence
By Elizabeth Reisinger, CTRS, Recreation Services Manager
Exercise is a proven, evidence-based intervention for individuals with autism, promoting development in social, emotional, and independent skills. Through our recreation programs, participants engage in conversations, help review class objectives, and cheer for others – activities that boost self-confidence, with many individuals reporting they feel “stronger” and “happier.”
Managing Anxiety: Tools and Strategies for Emotional Balance
By: Amanda Trovato, PsyD, Senior Manager of Therapeutic Services
Up to 40 percent of individuals with autism also experience clinically significant anxiety, often due to sensory sensitivities and difficulty with unpredictability. The most successful way to help support anxiety in individuals with autism includes a multifaceted approach considering all sensory, emotional, and cognitive needs.
Psychoeducation, exposure, cognitive restructuring, and relaxation techniques can all be utilized to help manage anxiety with the support of caregivers.
Modernizing your cultural infrastructure through autism inclusion
By Erin Brooker Lozott, Ed.D., BCBA-D, CCC-SLP, Program Director; and Marlene Sotelo, Ed.D., BCBA-D, MT-BC, Executive Director
With more than 5.4 million autistic adults in the U.S., and over 70,000 entering adulthood each year, creating an autism inclusive workplace isn’t just a social responsibility; it’s a strategic investment that strengthens culture, widens the talent pool, and drives long-term organizational growth.
Companies should build an inclusion plan with measurable goals, defined focus areas, and clear action steps. Technology, including assistive tools and AI-supported communication, can also play a pivotal role in helping autistic employees thrive.
Beyond Words: Overcoming Barriers to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for Autistic Individuals
By: Amanda Lopez, MS, CCC-SLP, Lead Speech-Language Pathologist Programs and Projects Specialist; and Victoria Giannone, MA, CCC-SLP, ASDCS, Lead Speech-Language Pathologist-Clinical Operations Specialist
Speech-language pathologists work to enhance communication and independence in autistic individuals through the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) AAC tools.
However, AAC use is often limited by barriers such as lack of knowledge, negative attitudes, and financial constraints. Training communication partners and advocating for better resources, funding, and customized communication systems are essential for improving access and supporting AAC users’ communication competence.
Autism Language and Symbols Preferences: Insights from a Cross-Cultural Survey
By Jose Martinez, PhD, BCBA-D, Behavior Analyst; Erin Brooker Lozott, Ed.D., BCBA-D, CCC-SLP; Marlene Sotelo, Ed.D., BCBA-D, MT-BC
This study examined preferences for person-first language (PFL), identity-first language (IFL), symbols, and terminology.
Autistic individuals largely preferred IFL, the infinity loop, and Autism Acceptance Month, reflecting neurodiversity-aligned, identity-affirming views. Parents and professionals favored PFL, the puzzle ribbon, and Autism Awareness Month, aligning with more traditional medicalized perspectives.
The findings highlight the need for inclusive, flexible language use. Honoring individual preferences and using both PFL and IFL when appropriate supports respect and clarity across research, policy, and practice.
