INTEGRATION OF THERAPY AND CONSULTATIVE SPECIAL-EDUCATION - A CONTINUUM IN EARLY INTERVENTION

Six dimensions of consultative services are described as varying along a continuum from totally segregated to fully integrated: location, presence of other children, adult-child initiations, goal functionality, context of intervention, and consultant's role. Along with the dimensions, a continuum of consultative models is presented: one-on-one pull-out, small-group pull-out, one-on-one in the classroom, group activity, Individual within routine, and consultation. Data on the reported use of integrated versus isolated treatment models are discussed, as well as data on practitioners' preferences. Conclusions focus on demystifying therapy, the movement toward integrated therapy, the importance of viewing models along a continuum, and the challenges involved in changing ways of providing therapy.