The Mifne Approch
The Mifne Approach
Many changes have occurred in the perception of autism in the past two decades. Ample resources have been invested in research studies. The autism spectrum has been expanded, producing a consequent increase in statistics on the frequency of autism, accompanied by increased public awareness.
In the last decade, more than 1200 genes have been identified with an affinity for autism. Deciphering this group of genes advances science in this field significantly. Despite this, there are still no satisfactory empirical findings. The accepted approach today, as well as in Mifne's view, is epigenetic, meaning that both genetic and environmental factors are involved in the development of autism. New understanding concerning autism in the 1990s led to the establishment of many programs and organizations to help young children with autism.
The treatment program at The Mifne Center was developed in 1987 and was the first course of treatment to recognize the importance of intensive individual treatment in infancy and encompasses the entire nuclear family. The center in Rosh Pina treats infants up to the age of two who have been diagnosed with autism or suspected autism, and their families, from all over the country and the world.
Many studies on the subject are being carried out at The Mifne Center in order to expand on the existing knowledge about autism at early ages. These studies led to a number of insights that brought about significant conclusions regarding the treatment and work at the center:
The Family
Anxieties and crises in the family system have a decisive influence on each of the family members; the Mifne Center has therefore evolved a family therapy approach system as an essential source of support and family guidance. In accordance with the concept that parents are the most important resource for their children and have the ability to promote their children's development during the early and significant stages of infancy, the therapeutic program encompasses the entire nuclear family.
The Therapeutic Approach
Our therapeutic approach combines medical, socio-psychological and environmental aspects. The program includes: observing the elements of the baby's development and their consequences, discussions and personal/couple/family feedback as well as work with siblings, according to the unique needs of each family. The parents are fully involved and receive training and tools suitable for their children's therapeutic processes so that they can continue to apply them in their daily lives.
Therapeutic Intervention
Our therapeutic program focuses on all the developmental components of the infant: physical, sensory, motor skills, emotional, and cognitive. This is done through Reciprocal Play Therapy (RPT), a method developed at The Mifne Center in order to raise motivation to express the infant’s abilities to engage and connect with his environment out of curiosity and pleasure.