Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)

Introduction

Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) aims to create strong personal family bonds for you and your child with Autism through shared family fun time. Developed by psychologist Steven Gutstein Ph.D, RDI focuses on skills that normally develop in infancy and early childhood that lead to social interaction and flexible and dynamic thinking. This parent-driven clinical treatment program helps prepare parents to act as guides to create daily opportunities for their child to succeed in everyday settings. The child will be working towards increasing flexibility and problem solving, understanding social communication, dealing with unpredictable changes, and developing real relationships.

Related Sites

RDI Connect
Description: This site directly links you to RDI training, educational resources, and parent supports. It also provides access to a newsletter and information on family based programming.

Books

The RDI Book: Forging New Pathways for Autism, Asperger's and PDD with the Relationship Development Intervention Program by Steven E. Gutstein Ph.D
Description: This book written by Steven Gutstein is a breakthrough source for parents with a child on the autism spectrum. Created to develop children socially, cognitively as well as emotionally, this RDI program helps children to better encounter changes and challenges.

Relationship Development Intervention with Children, Adolescents and Adults by Steven E. Gutstein and Rachelle K. Sheely
Description: Although this book could be utilized by any individual struggling with emotional and social issues, the writing is extremely valuable for those on the autism spectrum. Several RDI activities as well as evaluation criteria are provided. Also included is an accompanying website with additional information.

Tools

Dr. Gutstein outlines RDI
Description: Dr. Gutstein, the founder of the Relationship Development Intervention (RDI), provides a brief overview of the program and how it works.

Relationship Development Intervention Fact Sheet
Description: This site provides an easy to read Fact Sheet about RDI.

Parent Forums/Blogs

Some forums require you to sign in to Yahoo or Facebook to locate forum names.

Forum/Blog Name: Autism/RDI/Dynamic Intelligence
Description: This group is for both parents who are currently working with an RDI consultant, along with parents who are not working with a consultant at this time, who want to help their children by both the Guiding model and Dynamic Intelligence model of RDI in a supportive atmosphere.

Forum/Blog Name: RDI-Chicago
Description: This group is for families or professionals who are interested in or currently using RDI therapy to remediate autism.

Consumer Corner

RDI Consultation
Description: Helps parents develop an understanding of the guided participation relationship, develop intervention plans, and provide ongoing family consultation.

RDIconnect
Description: RDI services are listed by state.

Community Library

Relationship Development Intervention® (RDI®)
Description: Article on RDI covering a wide range of topics including: what RDI is, the idea behind it, what RDI involves, and a few cost considerations.

Relationship Development Intervention
Description: Describes RDI and the history behind it.

(coming soon)