What is PACT?

The award-winning Paediatric Autism Communication Therapy (PACT) is an evidence-based, adult-mediated and video-aided intervention proven to enhance social communication competencies in children aged 2–10 years with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). PACT follows the findings that children with ASD require a style of adapted interaction that is specifically matched to their individual level of social communication.

The six-stage intervention guides adults to match their responses and language to the child’s communication competence and language comprehension. Brief moments of communication interaction are reviewed using video feedback, supporting adults/carers in improving the child’s individual language and communication skills.

As the first autism intervention rigorously tested in the NHS, PACT has been proven to significantly and sustainably reduce difficulties in social, communication and repetitive behaviours/ restricted interests years after the intervention was delivered.

To understand PACT, the professional first registers for the e-learning (Level 1), which then qualifies them for Level 2 training. Completion of Level 2 and the accompanying post-course work will qualify the professional to be able to administer PACT. Details on each of the levels can be found below.

What is the PACT e-learning programme?

Hogrefe offers a half-day PACT e-learning programme (Level 1) for only £299.00 + VAT to support professionals wishing to learn more about PACT. Those who register will be given a unique access code to take the e-learning programme. The programme introduces the techniques and research behind the intervention and it will take approximately 2 hours to complete the tasks. A certificate is then awarded to those who successfully complete the programme. The certificate may be used as a record of continuing professional development whether the trainee chooses to embark on further training or not. The certificate is valid for one year for those wishing to proceed to Level 2.

Register for PACT e-learning (£299 + VAT)

Click the link below to purchase your e-learning course from our webshop, or call us now.

What does the PACT e-learning programme provide?

To successfully complete the programme, trainees must complete three tasks:

• Read the Introduction to the PACT e-learning programme
• Watch video clips of PACT interventions and answer multiple choice questions about each of the six stages of PACT
• Watch videos of a full PACT session

Trainees must complete all tasks to pass and to receive their Certificate of Competence.

There are also additional resources provided that include published articles about PACT research and development, as well as further guidance for professionals using PACT.

Who should take the PACT e-learning programme?

PACT mirrors the definitions, terminology and skills outlined in ADOS-2 and will be of interest to speech and language therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, specialist teachers and specialist social workers who deal with children with social communication issues aged 2–10 years.

What are the steps to becoming PACT certified?

Those who wish to administer PACT must successfully complete atotal of five days of training:

• Level 1: A half-day e-learning programme with Hogrefe
• Level 2: Two days of live training with IMPACT (Interaction Method for Paediatric Autism Communication Therapy) with an additional two and a half days of post-course practice work/fidelity with IMPACT.  Find out more.

Upcoming dates for Level 2 training

Please visit the IMPACT website to view the next available PACT Level 2 training dates (UK & international).