RDI® Therapy for Autism

Empowering Neurodivergent Individuals Through Relationship-Centered Therapy

At the Family Guidance & Therapy Center, we support autistic children, teens, and families through Relationship Development Intervention (RDI®)—a dynamic, parent-guided therapy that builds resilience, flexible thinking, and deep human connection.

What Is RDI® Therapy?

RDI® (Relationship Development Intervention) is a research-based, developmental approach to autism therapy. Rather than focusing on correcting behaviors, RDI® helps individuals develop flexible thinking, problem-solving, and meaningful relationships.

It’s not about “fixing” autism—it’s about helping neurodivergent individuals thrive in their own way, by strengthening the building blocks of social and emotional growth.

Focus areas include:

• Emotional regulation

• Perspective-taking

• Resilience in uncertainty

• Strengthening parent-child relationships

Our Approach to RDI® at FGTC

At FGTC, we celebrate neurodiversity. We don’t believe in forcing autistic people to conform—we honor each individual’s identity and use RDI® to co-create growth goals with families.

Our licensed therapists work in partnership with caregivers, giving you the tools to support your child every day. Together, we work to restore the natural parent-child guiding relationship in ways that feel safe, empowering, and joyful.

Highlights of our approach:

• Neurodivergent-affirming care

• Collaborative goal setting

• Relationship-focused therapy (not compliance-based)

• Supportive coaching for parents and caregivers

What Does an RDI® Program Look Like?

Each RDI® journey is unique, but most families experience:

• Initial Assessment & Goal Planning:
  Understand your child’s current developmental stage and co-create a support plan.

• Parent Coaching Sessions:
  Learn how to support growth in everyday moments with personalized therapist guidance.

• Ongoing Check-ins:
  Celebrate progress, adjust goals, and strengthen family resilience together.

• Optional Group Support:
  Community connections with other families on the same journey.

Funding & Access

We believe therapy should be accessible. Here are common ways families fund RDI® services:

• Private Pay

• Superbills for Insurance Reimbursement

• San Diego Regional Center (SDRC) Funding

• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Our team can help you navigate your options and provide documentation to support insurance or SDRC funding.

Is RDI® Right for Your Family?

You may benefit from RDI® therapy if:

• Your child struggles with emotional regulation or social connection

• You feel disconnected or unsure how to support your neurodivergent child

• You want therapy that supports long-term, internal growth—not short-term behavior compliance

• You're seeking a relationship-based, respectful, and affirming model

RDI® FAQs

Q: What age is best for RDI®?
A: RDI® can be helpful across the lifespan, but it’s especially powerful in childhood and adolescence.

Q: How is RDI® different from ABA?
A: RDI® focuses on developing internal skills like flexibility and connection through real relationships. It’s not based on rewards or compliance.

Q: Do I have to be a parent to participate?
A: RDI® is most often used in parent-child relationships, but it can be adapted for other caregivers and adults.