This presentation by Drs. Rachel Coulter and Jordan Kennedy provides a comprehensive, case-based exploration of how to modify and sequence vision therapy for patients with autism. It emphasizes the need for highly individualized treatment plans that account for each patient’s sensory regulation, behavioral responses, cognitive level, and visual processing abilities. A central theme is that regulation must precede remediation—patients must first achieve a calm, organized state through sensory and motor strategies before meaningful learning can occur.

Through three in-depth case studies spanning early childhood to adulthood, the course illustrates how therapy techniques are adapted across developmental levels and functional goals, from building foundational visual skills to supporting complex tasks like driving. Key strategies include the use of hand-over-hand guidance with gradual fading, simplifying tasks to overcome plateaus, incorporating proprioceptive input, and leveraging patient interests to increase engagement. The presenters also highlight the non-linear nature of progress, the potential for neurological processing limits, and the importance of shifting toward accommodations and compensatory strategies when appropriate.

Additionally, the course underscores the significant impact visual processing deficits can have on attention, communication, academic performance, and daily living skills. It advocates for strong interdisciplinary collaboration with families and other professionals, and provides practical guidance on managing challenges such as anxiety, sensory sensitivities, and motor coordination issues. Overall, the presentation offers a realistic and holistic framework for delivering effective, patient-centered vision therapy to individuals with autism.