🧩 The SCERTS Model: A Holistic Approach to Autism Support

In the world of autism intervention, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Families and professionals often seek an approach that’s not just evidence-based, but also respectful, flexible, and developmentally appropriate. That’s where the SCERTS Model comes in.

Rather than focusing solely on behavior or isolated skills, SCERTS takes a broader, more relationship-centered approach to supporting individuals on the autism spectrum—especially in areas like communication, emotional regulation, and social connection.

Let’s dive into what SCERTS is, how it works, and why many consider it a compassionate and effective model of autism support.

What Is the SCERTS Model?

SCERTS is an acronym that stands for:

• Social Communication

• Comotional Regulation

• ERTS = Transactional Support

Together, these components form a comprehensive framework for helping autistic individuals communicate more effectively, manage emotions, and participate in meaningful relationships and environments.

Developed by Dr. Barry Prizant and colleagues, the SCERTS Model is widely used in schools, clinics, and home settings. It integrates elements from developmental, educational, and therapeutic models, including speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, and positive behavioral supports.

The 3 Core Components of SCERTS

1. Social Communication (SC)

This focuses on the development of functional communication and joint attention, which are foundational for social interaction.

SCERTS supports:

• Initiating and responding to interactions

• Using gestures, words, or AAC devices to communicate

• Understanding and using language in real-life situations

• Engaging in shared experiences with others

Communication is seen as more than just talking—it’s about connecting.

2. Emotional Regulation (ER)

This refers to a person’s ability to stay calm, focused, and available for learning and interaction.

SCERTS helps individuals:

• Recognize their own emotional states

• Develop strategies to manage stress or sensory overload

• Build resilience during transitions, frustration, or unexpected changes

• Increase tolerance for challenges in communication or social settings

This component is especially helpful for autistic individuals who experience meltdowns, anxiety, or shutdowns.

3. Transactional Support (TS)

This part of the model focuses on the supports provided by adults, including parents, teachers, and therapists, to promote success.

Supports include:

• Environmental modifications (e.g., visual schedules, quiet spaces)

• Emotional support (e.g., co-regulation strategies)

• Educational adaptations

• Coaching for families and professionals

• The use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), when needed

SCERTS emphasizes collaboration between team members and families—everyone works together to create supportive, meaningful learning environments.

What Makes SCERTS Different?

Unlike more rigid or behavior-focused therapies, SCERTS is:

✅ Child-centered – Goals are based on the child’s current strengths and interests ✅ Developmentally grounded – Follows the natural sequence of social and emotional development ✅ Holistic – Focuses on communication, relationships, and regulation—not just isolated behaviors ✅ Flexible – Can be used in schools, homes, and community settings ✅ Respectful of neurodiversity – Values individual differences and supports authentic communication

Rather than trying to “normalize” autistic behavior, SCERTS aims to empower individuals to engage meaningfully with others while honoring their unique ways of being.

Who Can Benefit from the SCERTS Model?

SCERTS is designed for:

• Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), especially those in early intervention or preschool years

• Individuals with limited verbal communication or who use AAC

• Families seeking a more relationship-based, respectful alternative to behavior-based models

• Professionals (SLPs, OTs, educators) who want a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach

SCERTS is also suitable across a range of developmental levels—from early childhood through school-age years.

What Does a SCERTS Program Look Like?

A SCERTS-based plan typically involves:

1. Assessment: Understanding where the child is in terms of communication, regulation, and interaction

2. Goal-setting: Setting individualized, meaningful goals for social communication and emotional regulation

3. Support planning: Identifying what environmental, relational, or instructional supports the child needs

4. Team collaboration: Educators, therapists, and parents work together and share strategies

5. Real-life integration: Skills are practiced during natural routines—like play, classroom activities, and daily transitions

It’s not about working through a checklist—it’s about supporting development in context.

What the Research Says

SCERTS is considered an evidence-based framework that aligns with best practices in autism intervention, especially for early learners.

Research and clinical use have shown:

• Improved communication and engagement

• Better emotional regulation

• Reduced challenging behaviors

• Increased success in inclusive educational settings

• Enhanced caregiver involvement and satisfaction

It’s endorsed by many developmental specialists, speech-language pathologists, and occupational therapists worldwide.

Final Thoughts

The SCERTS Model offers a compassionate, developmentally sound approach to autism support. By focusing on communication, emotional well-being, and meaningful relationships, SCERTS empowers individuals on the spectrum—not just to cope, but to thrive.

If you’re looking for an alternative to behavior-heavy models, or want a collaborative and whole-child approach, SCERTS may be exactly what you need.

Want to Learn More?

• The SCERTS Model – Official Website

• Unwritten Rules of Social Relationships by Dr. Barry Prizant & Temple Grandin

Autism Navigator – Tools and resources for developmental models