Delacato Method

The Delacato Method was developed in the 1960s by Carl H. Delacato, EdD, an educator and scientist who conducted intensive research in children with learning disabilities. In treating these children, and subsequently in treating autistic children, Dr. Delacato discovered that learning, behavioral, and motor disorders were disabilities that occured along a continuum of severity as a result of brain injury or incomplete neural development. Our international organization treats children who are mildly, moderately, or severely brain injured based on Dr. Delacato's neurological discoveries.

Mildly brain injured children usually have perceptual problems that impede learning (learning disorders). Our perceptual and developmental retraining approaches result in significant educational improvements in these children.

Moderately brain injured children have more severe perceptual problems that influence behavior as well as learning. These children are usually labeled as autistic or as having autistic tendencies (behavioral disorders). (See the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual vol V [DSM-V], American Psychiatric Association) for complete details) The autistic child's sensory system is usually hyperactive (extrasensitive) or hypoactive (dulled sensitivity), or contains neurological "white noise" (sensory static). These conditions are a direct result of the child's moderate brain injuries. Our program helps normalize the autistic child's sensory system, thereby normalizing his or her behavior and communication abilities.

Severely brain injured children have mobility and spasticity problems, such as cerebral palsy (motor disorders). Our treatment of these children is unique: it combines sensory treatment with developmental motor activities to decrease spasticity and increase mobility.

Upon admission to our program each child is evaluated both perceptually and developmentally. Our staff constructs an individualized program aimed at specific goals that are discussed with the child and parents. Parents and child are then taught the program, which they follow at home. They return to our facility periodically (approximately three times per year) for reevaluation and reprogramming. We are able to keep in constant contact with parents via e-mail, fax, or telephone between reevaluation visits.