Evidence-Based Aquatic Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorders

Available LIVE 8/21/26 | 3.0 contact hrs | On-demand recorded webinar + distance learning module.

Description: This course examines evidence-based aquatic therapy interventions for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), using a structured, sensory-informed, and clinically grounded approach. Content focuses on how predictable aquatic environments and intentional use of water properties can support engagement, communication, self-regulation, and purposeful movement within pediatric therapy settings. Participants will explore clinically appropriate aquatic activities designed to address common sensory processing differences, motor planning challenges, postural control deficits, and communication needs associated with autism.

To enroll 2+ learners, use "Buy Licenses' option below.

Format & Delivery

Format: Available LIVE 8/21/26 and on demand after the date.

Recorded Webinar (2.5 hours) with Distance Learning Module (0.5 hours)

Total contact hours: 3.0 hours

Learning Objectives

List common sensory and communication challenges in children with ASD.
Describe aquatic activities that improve engagement and self-regulation.
Explain how aquatic strategies can support land-based participation.

Additional Information about Course Content

Predictable Structure and Environmental Setup:
Participants learn how to design aquatic sessions with consistent routines, visual supports, and environmental boundaries that promote safety, comfort, and readiness for engagement.
Sensory-Informed Aquatic Strategies:
The course explores how buoyancy, resistance, hydrostatic pressure, and water temperature can be used to support sensory modulation, body awareness, and regulation.
Motor Planning and Purposeful Movement:
Content highlights aquatic activities that encourage initiation, sequencing, bilateral coordination, and postural control while maintaining motivation and task relevance.
Communication and Social Engagement Opportunities:
Participants examine how aquatic therapy can naturally support turn-taking, joint attention, and functional communication within structured therapeutic interactions.
Transfer to Land-Based and School Settings:
Emphasis is placed on designing aquatic interventions that build skills and strategies transferable to classroom participation, daily routines, and land-based therapy contexts.

Target Audience Statement

This course is designed primarily for professionals with a basic understanding of physical medicine and rehabilitation. Those likely to benefit most are: Physical therapist & assistants, Occupational therapists & assistants, Recreational therapist & assistants, Speech & language pathologist & assistants.

Students who are at the basic level of skill acquisition and those who are at a higher level of skill, but who are looking for a course that provides "best practice" ideas for techniques currently practiced are also welcome.

This course can be applied toward 3 elective hours for individuals who are seeking their ATU Aquaticist credential.

This course does not focus on evaluation or examination of the patient and the content is within the scope of practice for the Assistant working under the supervision of the PT or OT or RT or SLP. While the primary audience for the course is the PT/OT/RT/SLP provider, other rehabilitation providers will find it beneficial.

CEU/CCU Information

Instructor:

Ailene Tisser, PT

Ailene is a pediatric physical therapist with more than 25 years of experience treating a wide range of diagnoses, both in and out of the water. She is trained in NDT (Neuro-Developmental Treatment) for pediatrics and DIR/Floortime. Ailene is also certified as an Autism Specialist by IBCCES. She brings all of her physical therapy expertise into the water, helping children of all abilities feel safe, confident, and independent. By combining her passion for working with children with special needs and the therapeutic properties of water, Ailene achieves remarkable results. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and experience by educating other aquatic professionals, enabling them to make a meaningful impact on the lives of swimmers with special needs.

Patrick Jones - Course author

What's included in this online course?

A step-by-step guide

Your ATU instructor's expertise will help you master the fundamentals of aquatic therapy.

Study at your own pace

You can enroll in this course whenever you want, and study at your own time, location and pace.

Unique learning experience

We will learn with ATU's interactive courses with different media and quizzes, to improve your knowledge.

Course Lessons

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Disclaimer The content provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is intended for use by licensed and student rehabilitation professionals. It does not constitute legal, medical, or billing advice, nor does it create a provider–patient or attorney–client relationship. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy and current compliance, laws, payer policies, and professional regulations vary by state and may change over time. Users are responsible for verifying all information with applicable federal, state, and payer rules before applying it in clinical or administrative practice. Participation in any ATU course, program, or resource does not guarantee licensure, certification, or reimbursement and should not be interpreted as a substitute for professional judgment, legal consultation, or individualized clinical decision-making. By using this site, you agree that Aquatic Therapy University and its affiliates are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from use of this information.