9 Different Types Of Therapy Available In Malaysia For Children With Autism
For many people on the spectrum, therapy can help with the development of skills, improve quality of life, and help individuals overcome specific challenges.
By Laila Zain — 19 Apr 2023, 02:44 PM
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, behaviour, and social skills
There is no cure for ASD as it is neither a disease nor an illness. For many people on the spectrum, therapy can help with the development of skills, improve quality of life, and help individuals overcome specific challenges.
In Malaysia, there are various types of therapy available for individuals with autism. Here are some of the most common types and where to get started:
1. Speech Therapy
Speech therapy is a popular type of therapy for autistic individuals in Malaysia. It focuses on improving communication skills, including language, speech, and social interaction.
Speech therapy sessions may include exercises to strengthen speech muscles, games to improve communication skills, and social skills training.
Centres that offer speech therapy in Malaysia include:
- Homage Malaysia
- Amazing Speech Therapy
- Kidsogenius
- Oasis Place
2. Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy is also a commonly used therapy for autistic individuals, focusing on improving the ability to perform daily living tasks and fine motor skills.
This therapy may include activities such as brushing teeth, getting dressed, and other tasks that require fine motor skills.
Centres that offer occupational therapy include:
- Early Autism Project Malaysia
- The Playhouse Malaysia
- Headstart Academy
- Oasis Place
3. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, helps individuals with autism improve their motor skills, strength, balance, and coordination. Physical therapy can also help reduce muscle stiffness and improve flexibility.
Centres that offer physical therapy include:
- The Energy Source
- Oasis Place
- Autism Gym Centre
4. Sensory Integration Therapy
Sensory integration therapy focuses on sensory processing difficulties that individuals with autism may face.
This therapy involves activities that stimulate the senses to help individuals with autism better understand and regulate their sensory experiences. Sensory integration therapy may involve activities such as swinging, jumping, and other physical activities.
Centres that offer sensory integration therapy include:
- SI World
- Autism Behavioral Center (ABC)
- Early Autism Project Malaysia
5. Group Therapy
Group therapy is a type of therapy that involves a small group of individuals with similar challenges or goals, led by a trained therapist. Group therapy can help individuals with autism develop social skills, build relationships, and learn from peers in a supportive environment.
Centres that offer group therapy include:
- Oasis Place
- Early Autism Project
- National Autism Society of Malaysia
- Seed Autism Services
6. Play Therapy
Play therapy utilises play, games, and toys to help children express their emotions, communicate, and develop social skills. In play therapy, children are encouraged to play freely in a safe and supportive environment, with the therapist guiding them towards specific therapeutic goals.
This is a valuable tool for children with autism as they are able to develop skills at their own pace in a non-threatening and enjoyable way.
Centres that offer play therapy include:
- Play Therapy Malaysia
- Spectrum of Life Integration Wellness Centre
- Serene Psychological Service
7. Art Therapy
Art therapy improves communication, social interaction, and behaviour skills for individuals with autism. This therapy may involve drawing, painting, crafting, and other art forms.
Centres that offer art therapy include:
- The Mind Faculty
- Art Therapy Malaysia
- Hils Learning (LEGO-based therapy)
8. Music Therapy
Similar to art therapy, music therapy improves communication, social interaction, and behaviour for individuals with autism through music. This type of therapy may involve listening to music, singing, dancing, or playing musical instruments. Individuals do not need to know how to play specific instruments.
Centres that offer music therapy include:
- Malaysian Music Therapy Association
- Oasis Place
- Klang Music Centre
9. Hippotherapy
Hippotherapy involves horseback riding and aims to improve coordination, balance, and communication skills for individuals with autism. This therapy can also provide sensory input to help individuals with autism better understand and regulate their sensory experiences.
Centres that offer hippotherapy include:- Happy Farms Malaysia
How much does therapy cost?
Many goverment hospitals offer various types of therapy for children with autism for free or a minimal fee.
For private centres such as the ones listed in this article, the costs varies depending on the length of each session, the experience of the therapist, the type of therapy, and the therapy centre.
On average, a session of therapy can range from RM50 to RM400 per hour. However, some centres may offer packages or discounted rates for multiple sessions.
It is recommended to check with the individual centres for accurate pricing information.
