The SCERTS (Prizant, Wetherby, Rubin, Laurent, & Rydell, 2006) approach is not new to me. The clinic where I practice utilizes the model for assessment and intervention for children with ASD. The SCERTS philosophy is reflected in Dr. Prizant’s new book, and refreshingly, it is presented in a parent-friendly way. I think the book is a valuable resource for people interested in considering ASD from a more humanistic vantage point. There are many examples from Dr. Prizant’s professional experience working with persons with neurodevelopmental disabilities and these highlight some of the experiences that parents and providers may have. Dr. Prizant’s book provides a tool for providers to suggest to parents, particularly early in the assessment process.
One section was particularly notable to me. In that section, Dr. Prizant described the traits and characteristics of intervention that best serve persons with ASD (and I would argue, anyone receiving intervention services). Dr. Prizant describes people who “get It.” Critically, he notes these people, sometimes professionals, do not necessarily have a specific credential, type of training or even a great deal of experience working with persons with ASD. He describes several traits that, in his experience, are important, including: empathy, sensitivity, shared control, trust, humor, and flexibility.
I think most simply, our capacity as humans to think critically (thus designing the most effective strategies for acquisition, maintenance, and generalization of new skills) and act empathetically ought to be reflected in the ways in which we deliver service for persons with ASD.
I plan to recommend the book to parents and allied health professionals who may be interested in the SCERTS model and/or a bigger picture view of persons with ASD.
hannahmjulien 
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