What do parents say about the
4-Day Intensive Parent Seminar?

(Comments from Parents who attended a Parent Seminar,
who have children ages 2 to 24)

Melanie [Smith, Director of Parent Training] is an excellent speaker-funny, and engaging...I would definitely recommend this to other parents.
Barbara Butler (Chevy Chase, MD)
Washington, DC Parent Training June 4-7,2007

We applied what we learn from RDI seminars right away. We saw immediate changes in ourselves and meaningful relationship exchanges with our kids (including the normal ones). We feel good about ourselves and competent parents. We now know what to do. Having some consultant to guide us make us feel better.
Wei Wei Blaisdell (Rockville, MD)
Washington, DC Parent Training June 4-7,2007

Great job of teaching core concepts and applying them in the small group setting. We left feeling like we knew how to apply the core RDI strategies with our son at home. Very informative & empowering.
John Keeling (Reston, VA)
Washington, DC Parent Training June 4-7,2007

We really enjoyed the training and it helped to open our eyes as parents of a child on the spectrum. The staff was extremely helpful & knowledgeable.
Danielle Webster (Durham, NC)
Washington, DC Parent Training June 4-7,2007

RDI is an incredible process. I know of no other intervention like it for children on the spectrum. I am so hopeful for my child's future after this conference! Hope has been hard to come by since our child's diagnosis. Thanks for allowing my husband and I to find it!
William and Kristen Patterson (Washington, DC)
Washington, DC Parent Training June 4-7,2007

This was wonderful, especially small group. I was wondering about my competency as a parent; I feel validated that my relationship with my children is based on love and understanding and will only improve once RDI becomes a way of life for us.
Deborah Mueller (Fairfax, VA)
Washington, DC Parent Training June 4-7,2007

This workshop was fantastic. I came into this somewhat reluctantly, thinking we were already doing enough. But I have now experienced a profound change in my perspective and for the first time feel that I have the confidence and competence to achieve what I need to do for my son. We've dramatically changed our focus and already feel better and have a clear vision for the future.
Erik Miller, Richmond, CA

One of the unique aspects that was extremely valuable was educating parents on core deficits of autism and the difference from typically developing children. No other therapist or educator we have worked with provided this information and it is critical.
Stacey Coulter, Hollywood, FL

I really gained a feeling of competence in bringing RDI into my family’s lifestyle. The workshop was inspiring and empowering. I now feel that I have the tools to make a difference in my child’s life and in my family’s life as well.
Dinah Mattick, Richmond, CA

I came away from the conference refreshed, empowered and armed with information to relate to teachers, students, professionals and other parents of ASD and non ASD parents. I felt it was very effective in coalescing a vast amount of information into a necessary core of knowledge, and by the last day everything was pretty clear considering what we needed to do to be successful with the program.
Thomas Harvey, Boulder Creek, CA

The program and workshop help a lot to start organizing your daily activities involving every member of the family.
Irene Ascoli, Guatemala City, Guatemala

I am inspired to have a chance to provide a do-over for my child and our family. It is so refreshing to look at autism intervention as a holistic approach to treat the core of the disorder. Dr. Gutstein is a very dynamic and effective speaker. The information makes sense and I feel confident about becoming competent as a guide for my child to help him become a successful person. Overall I have a renewed hope for my child to have a meaningful life and improve his quality of life now and in the future.
Marie Farrimond, Boulder Creek, CA

Very motivating! Practical and hopeful. This workshop provided the missing pieces to fill in the vision for what we need to do!
Russ Rodgers, Torrance, CA

I feel that I now have some long term hope for my Autistic son. Dr. Gutstein’s passionate but scientific rejection of the narrow expectations currently pervading the Autism ‘treatment’ community is extremely refreshing.
Guy Mayo, Brighton, England

Every parent with a child who has an ASD needs to attend this seminar, in the very least, to educate themselves on the concept of treating autism as opposed to symptoms. We feel like this will change our lives.
Kathy Maestas and Jason Romero, Guaynabo, Puerto Rico

Excellent information….Not only informative but truly inspiring. This workshop really revitalized me as a parent!
Christine Mellito, Flemington, NJ

Very useful to get an excellent base to begin using RDI techniques in every day life. This, RDI is the first program/technique about remediation and not compensation. I had never really realized how big that difference is and now feel more hopeful about my son’s future.
Melissa Halfenger, Whitefish Bay, WI

Very thought-provoking. Definitely usable and has given me a more positive outlook on long term results for my son.
Diane Astles, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

Even as a professional I continue to gain valuable information from the 4 Day Parent Intensive. I recommend it to all parents who are serious about understanding and remediating the core deficits of autism.
April Choulat, Jacksonville, FL

Just a huge thank you to Dr Gutstein and all involved in developing this amazing approach to helping our children. For the first time I feel I can drastically improve my daughter’s quality of life not only in the future but also the quality of our time together now. I feel so empowered!
Dawn Martin, Lehigh Acres, FL

This workshop greatly increased my understanding of RDI and how to more effectively implement useful daily changes and activities to help my child.
David Maynard, Clearwater, FL

Dr. Gutstein was professional but fun. Has a great sense of humor and great at teaching us how to relax a little. Made what could have been a very overwhelming and boring lecture very fun and informative -leaving us wanting more.
Greta Hinderaker, Rosemount, MN

This was the most valuable meeting I've attended by far. Thank you. Thank you for providing me with the knowledge and tools to successfully and confidently play with my child.
Chad Hinderaker, Rosemount, MN

This was an excellent and informative setting that helped me gain a deeper and intrinsic understanding of autism. This program also helped me develop a plan to remediate and help my child. I feel very hopeful and enthusiastic about my child’s future based on Gutstein’s work. I came away with a clear understanding of what autism is and feel prepared as a parent to start a remediation program. The four day parent workshop made me feel that I was in control of my child’s destiny for the first time. I highly recommend this to any parents that have children on the ASD spectrum.
Armand Evangelista, Scarsdale, NY

I thought that I got a great sense of what autism really is and how it affects my child. I have a much clearer understanding of where we need to go with my son in his RDI program and also how our lifestyle can change to benefit our whole family.
Susan Maynard, Clearwater, FL

This was a fantastic workshop. I actually felt myself coming out of a fog. I for the first time felt confidence in myself as a mom of a N.T. child and of my child that needs remediation. I believe in myself now to step in to help my son and know I can do a better job than any other person.
Jennifer Samter, Tampa, FL

I have a renewed sense of hope. We, as parents, can and will make a difference. Life will get better!
Katherine Klasen, Coral Spring, FL

I feel like the investment in attending the 4day will greatly enhance the effectiveness of our RDI program overall. Our consultant can now spend her time personalizing and refining our objectives/feedback/etc rather than trying to teach us why or explain to us how.
Pam Heberer, Orange Park, FL

Very helpful, gave us perspective and a lot of hope for our child, while also giving a very in depth understanding of his disability.
Maria Prelipcean, Birmingham, AL

After a 5year odyssey of striving to help our son, RDI has infused our family with hope. RDI really makes sense! The 4day parent training has equipped us for an exciting road ahead and has allowed us to connect with other families who share a similar journey to ours. It’s been so great to talk with other moms and dads who have such similar frustrations and such similar hopes for their kids. The presentation has helped us to re-evaluate our son’s various therapies and given us helpful guidance in making school choices and goals. Because of RDI and it’s emphasis on the parent-child relationship, I'm so excited to go home and get to know my child more and more.
Christopher Romig, Venice, FL

We spent more than a day traveling from the U.K. for this but time, and money spent was well worthwhile. Great insight into RDI and invaluable as a preparation for the assessment and consequent RDA programs that we will be undertaking for our son.
Dixon Milburn, Oldham, U.K.

The objective/destination is clearly defined. Independent, contributing, employed, active member of society. Marathon, not a sprint.
David Craig, Vedra Beach, FL

It was a click in understanding what we are facing and what is important for my kid to have success. Give a person a fish and you satisfy his hunger, Teach him to fish and you'll give him a life. Teach a kid, in the Autism Spectrum how to fish is what RDI is about.
Carlos Gomez, Pembroke Pines, FL

This is so clearly the natural remedy for my child, and because it is defined by the natural, typical developmental path, I have no doubt it will work for all ASD children.
Carolyn Proper, Norcross, GA

Absolutely great! The most practical, useful and empowering session I've ever attended! Thanks for respecting our kids and our values as parents.
Janice Wang, Seattle, WA

The Parent Training exceeded my expectations and changed the relationship with my son. Previously with my son, I would always ask an imperative question and expect a response from him. This sets the wrong expectation. With declaratives, the interaction with my son is a lot more enjoyable. I would say to other parents about the Seminar, "DO it now. It's the only therapy that addresses the deficits of autism."
Timothy (T.J.) Lynas, Fallbrook, CA

I had no idea I would learn so much about autism in general as well as about my own family and child. It was wonderfully empowering to share this experience with my husband and hear him so enthusiastic and motivated to become my partner on our RDI journey. I felt pretty well prepared reading the books and having access to chats and message boards but actually experiencing RDI in parent training was by far the MOST VALUABLE of these "supplements" to our program. The meeting with the Consultant left me feeling prepared to get going in the lifestyle - our biggest challenge prior to the training. I would encourage ANY parent with a child with an autism spectrum disorder to attend this training to learn about what the core deficits of autism are and how to tackle these deficits head-on. It all seems so simple and it's so frustrating that few professional people that we initially encounter when faced with a diagnosis have a clue about what autism is. 
Gabrielle Lynas, Fallbrook, CA

After being exposed to numerous approaches to helping parents with their autistic children, I have concluded that RDI is the most sensible because it uses the most up-to-date understanding of what autism is in order to provide a logical, structured approach to helping the child move forward on skills that really matter.
Francis Vanek, Ithaca, NY

Great training that gives parents knowledge and understanding about autism and how they can help their children….training that provides information on developmental delays associated with autism and provides practical real life strategies that give parents direction and solutions to individual problems.
Barry Jacobs, Colpeper, VA

I never expected this training to really change our lives—although I knew it was something pretty good—but it has. I'll never view autism nor our son the same way. I'm already a better parent. We were lost in all of the therapy–craziness the professionals perpetuate. I feel like I've found a road that will lead us to Gabriel's future…and that future is bright!
Lillian LoBaido, Glenville, NY

It was a superb introduction to RDI, it gives me a lot of hope that I didn't have before, and started me on the path of what to do to begin treating my daughter.
William Herbert, Manlius, NY

I am both highly impressed with and deeply grateful for this opportunity to understand autism in a clear and empowered way. RDI makes sense of the latest research and then provides a logical and effective way to develop. As a parent I know how essential this is, and how rare! I leave here inspired, hopeful, and empowered by my new knowledge.
Catherine Johnson, Ithaca, NY

The intensive parent training seminar has given me the tools to remediate the core deficits of autism that I couldn't get from attending the 2 day workshop, reading the book and meeting with a consultant. It gave me a better understanding of how to implement RDI and it gave me a plan for my child.
Kimberly Taylor, Raleigh, NC

We really understand what RDI is and how to implement this in our daily lives. Before attending this parent training, we could never have visualized how to do this. Although it made sense to us after the 2-day workshop and reading the books, we didn't totally get it until now. We truly understand what autism is and we are taking back our role as parents—the people who do know best for our son. The empowerment is incredible! Thank you.
Sue Clayton, Manitoba, Canada

I thought that this was very enlightening and made sense out of a subject that has seemed mystifying. I know feel, for the first time, that I now have a real place to start and a path ahead of me. I no longer need to punt.
Nina Williamson, Latham, NY

I have been searching for a way to help our son live up to his potential; I thought I would never find one until now. This training session was filled with background information as well as how to practical application information. Was just Awesome!
Rossana Johnston, Ridgefield, CT

I really feel as though I'm on board with RDI as a lifestyle choice. The methodology and ideals will help to enrich our family dynamic. Thank you.
Doug Tashjian, Nedham, MA

Exceptional program and concept. The first truly therapeutic, systematic, family-centered approach I have encountered. Finally an intervention based on scientific research.
Paul Sankey, Delta, British Columbia, Canada

Finally a life-style that can give us hope to have a fulfilling family life.
Teresa Sankey, Delta, British Columbia, Canada

Steve and Rachelle get parents pointed toward meaningful intervention, real progress, and an improved home life, with more hope and joy.
Lou Ann Johnson, Colorado Springs, CO

It's great! I feel hopeful about the future and I feel that the objectives are realistic and attainable.
Ted Johnson, Colorado Springs, CO

This training has given me the information and the encouragement that I can work towards helping my child create a quality life that really has a hopeful future. Something I no longer believed was possible.
Pam Auffray, Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada

Now that I've had this training I am optimistic that we can use this approach to both help our son and enhance our lifestyle.
Clair Schuman, Coquitlam, British Columbia

All children with autism need to have their core deficits addressed–so far, only the RDI™ Program attempts this.
Paula Vander, M.D., Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Fantastic opportunity to share ideas/worries/hopes.
Catherine Butcher, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, England

The missing link for helping families on the Autism Spectrum. A natural approach.
Betty Ann Garreck, Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada

Thank you for providing me with a window of opportunity to re-introduce my son as a participant in Life with all its glorious complications and contradictions!
Roxanna Duguay, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

I will recommend the RDI™ Parent Training to anyone interested in RDI™. It's answered so many of my questions, both professionally (as a consultant-in-training) and even more so as a parent.
Sherri Miller, Everett, WA

Steve Gutstein and RDI gave me back hope for my child.
Brittany Brandt, Missoula, MT

Really great! This will spread fast by word of mouth. THANK YOU for making this your passion.
Jeff Brandt, Missoula, MT

I just want to thank you for this great opportunity .. I've learnt so much. and I want to share with you this: my son came into my life because he has many things to teach me; because I can teach him as well and because we have a wonderful opportunity to create some sort of different world ... a more respectful one. THANK YOU !!!
Veronica Montagut, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México

RDI is logical and simple. It gives you tools and aids that help right away. It's dynamic, flexible and it integrates on-going updated research that keeps it getting better.
Alfonso Garcia-Williams, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México

As a consultant-in-training, I walked away with more confidence and knowledge with the RDI process. Most important as a parent the most beneficial part of parent training was the awareness of how to implement RDI by my husband. For the first time I feel like was are really able to put forth a team effort for both of my boys. This has been the best investment that we have made for our children's future.
Stephanie J Teer, Gig Harbor, WA

Great course, very exciting, hopeful and energized to incorporate the RDI lifestyle in the lives of our family.
George S. Teer, Gig Harbor, WA

After attending the seminar, I will be spreading the word about RDI. It gave us hope that our children can have a full life like everybody else. Nobody else addresses “quality” of life. As parents it is our job to help them achieve their fullest attention. Thank you, Connections Center.
Elaine Young, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Very relevant. Excellent content. Good strategies. Very competent and effective workshop leader. Great team work. Great place to share with parents. Refreshing to parents/couples to hear other success stories. Gives new insight on how to handle adversity. Gives /opens new horizons to family and husband/wife and life.
Pierre Azar, Beaconfield, Quebec, Canada

Our small group leader, Melanie, was very understanding and positive. After viewing videos with other parents, we were a bit hopeless to see how other parents who said they felt “hopeless” had kids doing so much more! Melanie stayed absolutely positive, as we argued for defeatism. We feel very well prepared and know there are lots of avenues to stay connected to these great people.
Kristine Van Bebber, Merced, CA

The content is liberating, exciting, and intuitively correct. It describes things I intrinsically know, but couldn't verbalize. The approach is totally sensible and doable.
Margot Weinstein, Greenwich, CT

This was a very valuable workshop that will undoubtedly make our home/life experience more effective, rich and rewarding. I feel much more empowered as a parent to help my son become less autistic and make our home more family centered and calm….
Anita Habeich, San Diego, CA

Extraordinary! A real must for anyone lost in the archaic maze of autism treatments. This is the missing link for our children. I feel very lucky to have found this program.
Debbie Webb, Beverly Hills, CA

I am very grateful that Drs. Gutstein and Sheely are focused on addressing the core deficits of autism so we can be hopeful about Brooke's future. My vision for her has always been to be walking down the aisle with her two best girlfriends as her bridesmaids and her work colleagues in the pews–now that vision as a potential reality has finally been confirmed by a professional!
Kate Upton, Plymouth, MI

…..I got so much out of this seminar. I feel totally liberated now. I know I need to make changes in my family lifestyle now to include more fun and play. My child does not need to fit into a mold. I can think outside the box now and feel good about his future.
Jennifer K. Hsu, Diamond Bar, CA

At this point we signed up for the RDI training I was at my wits end. After the 4 days of training, asking questions, practicing activities and the wonderful information, my hopes were raised dramatically. I'm not the biological mom and I believe that RDI will not only help me understand my husband's son's condition but it will also bring us closer as a family. I'm excited that our son has a chance to be normal and have a normal life. This is such a wonderful discovery for me!
Deborah Hogshead, San Dimas, CA

I now have a more clear understanding of what's going on with my child. This, together with the provided training, gives me a realistic hope for the future.
Richard Haro, Torrence, CA

Of all the interventions that we've heard of/tried, we see that this is the one that makes the most sense for our child and we'll definitely continue doing this with our daughter all the time.
Inna Nill, Wexford, PN

…this is very exciting to those of who were searching for more effective ways to help our children have productive and happy lives. Thank you for the gift of your focus and intelligence applied to our children who really need it. We need you!!
Donna Scott, Decatur, GA

We were at a low point in our progress and lives with Jacob. This conference has given me hope, renewed hope for unlimited progress for Jacob. Thanks!
Steve Harbin, Forsyth, GA

I was amazed at the sense of humor and support of the small groups. I feel that we have developed relationships and support that will continue long after this workshop experience. Steve is adept at answering specific questions from parents. He is so practical and well informed; it was beneficial to be able to speak directly with him during breaks.
Erin Nida, Kingston, GA

…..This seminar has helped me to get a feel for the process of connection with him [son], and given me hope for renewed family vitality. Thanks.
Angi York Crane, Morristown, NJ

We benefited so much from the workshop, even as veteran parents. We were reminded about what our son's core deficits are, and refocused our priorities to keep our eyes on the prize. We were reminded about how far our son has come, and how competent we are as his coaches/parents. The last day, for me, had the most impact. Talking about parent obstacles and making space in our lives for our life! Jim and I had the opportunity, through the small group exercise, to figure out where our family life was getting off track, what to do about it, and how we could support each other. I am leaving today with a feeling of strength in my partnership with my husband, that we can do this, and our family life will be even better. Most importantly, I leave knowing that we can help and parent our son effectively and believing that he will have the quality of life that I once hoped for him. Thank you.
Karen Scaduto

Thank you for creating a program based on research and easily incorporated in a healthy lifestyle. RDI has restored my hope in the future.
Natalie Hankins, West Point, NY

This workshop far surpassed my expectations! I leave the workshop feeling very motivated to continue and feel that this workshop has given me confidence to work with my child.
Bernadette Barber, Syracuse, NY

Excellent information provided. Haven't seen autism presented in this way, and it made the treatment of the deficits so much more important--not just providing a band aid to deal with behaviors. Steven is an extremely passionate and clever man who has put everything we need to know into an easy to understand format.
Kathyrn EardleyWilmot, Bronte, NSW, Australia