Engaging Mirror Neurons to Inspire Connection and Social Emotional Development in Children and Teens on the Autism Spectrum (eBook)

Lee R. Chasen, PhD, RDT, LCAT, is the Founding Director of Kid Esteem Inc., a non-profit organisation dedicated to the social and emotional vitality and empowerment of children, families, schools, and communities. He was awarded the 2013 North American Drama Therapy Association (NADTA) Research Award for his groundbreaking work at Kid Esteem Inc., which has also been featured in Newsday, The New York Times, News 12 television and syndicated radio stations across the USA. A drama therapist in private practice, Lee is based in Long Island, New York.

Preface. Foreword: Mirrors and Bridges. Robert J. Landy, Ph.D., RDT-BCT, LCAT. Introduction: Mirror, Mirror on the Wall. Part I. Behind the Scenes: Theoretical Constructs. 1. Dramatic Encounters. 2. Engaging Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The diagnoses. Possible causes. Treatment approaches. Developmental considerations. Positive intervention. Back through the looking glass. 3. Drama: Mirroring the Neurological Soul. Part II. Center Stage: Theory in Action. 4. Constructing a Process Reflective Enactment Approach to Social Skills. 5. Recognition: Establishing Roles. 6. Unity: Building Ensemble. 7. Character: Reflecting Goodness and Appropriateness. 8. Plot: Organizing Events. 9. Diction and Reasoning: Social Scripting, Facial Cues and Body Language. 10. Complication and Resolution: Interactive Language Skills. 11. Comedy and Plot: Broadening Perspectives and Constructing Solutions. 12. Actions and Life: Simulating Events. 13. Reversal: Individualized Scripting. 14. Episodic Outline: Tools for Reflection and Celebration. 15. The Teen Experience. 16. Reflections: I See You. References. Subject Index. Author Index.