Qigong massage has been used in China for thousands of years to treat a variety of ailments.  Now a qigong massage program has been developed for children with autism that can be given in the home to reduce symptoms of autism.  Parents who give their children this simple, daily, fifteen-minute massage report that within a few months, tantrums and difficult behavior decrease, and language and social skills improve.

In preliminary research studies Qigong Sensory Training (QST)  has proven to be a promising tool in the treatment of young children with autism spectrum disorder.  QST has produced significant short-term improvements in adaptive functioning and decreases in sensory impairment with young children with autism.  For more information on QST please visit the website by clicking the link above.

What to expect:

Initial sessions will last approximately one hour and will include parent training.  Parents will be expected to complete the massage at home, daily.  Visuals and written instructions will be provided.  Continued sessions will be scheduled as appropriate for each child and family, 1-2 times per week.  Length of treatment will vary, recommendations range from 6 months to 2 years of continued massage at home. 

Lisa believes that children with sensory processing difficulties benefit from a combination of qigong massage and regular OT sessions.  However, she will provide qigong only, if requested by parents.