NAS Early Bird Programme
A programme combining group training sessions for parents alongside home visits where video feedback is used to help parents apply what they learn with their child/children. The programme is run by the National Autistic Society.
Natural language paradigm
A form of training in which certain behaviours are considered crucial for other behaviours to emerge. Also called Pivotal Response Training.
Naturopathy
A system of medicine based on the belief that the body can heal itself.
Neural therapy
The injection of aneasthetics into key parts of the body.
Neurobiology
The study of the nervous system and its biological processes.
Neurochemistry
The study of the nervous system and chemical and metabolic processes in the nervous system.
Neurocognitive therapy
A therapy which takes into account the individual’s need for sensory stimulation and which uses the sensory (neurological) environment as the basis of the intervention.
Neurodevelopmental delay
The delay or omission of a stage of normal early development.
Neuroendocrinology
The study of the hormones secreted in the nervous system by the endocrine system and its disorders.
Neuroleptic malignmant syndrome
A life-threatening neurological disorder which can be caused by an adverse reaction to some antipsychotic drugs.
Neuroleptics
Medication given to treat the production and absorption of dopamine and serotonin in a variety of mental illnesses.
Neurological disorders
Disorders of the nervous system and brain.
Neurology
The study of the brain, its disorders and diseases.
Neuropathology
The study of nervous system and how it is affected by diseases.
Neurophysiology
The study of the transmission and processing of nerve impulses in the nervous system.
Neuropsychiatry
A branch of medicine which brings the disciplines of neurology and psychiatry together.
Neuropsychotherapy
An intervention aimed at improving or restoring an individual’s cognitive skills.
Neurorespiratory therapy
An intervention based on correcting the mechanics of breathing in order for the individual to breathe more easily. Also known as the Scotson Technique.
Neurotransmitters
Chemicals which enable neurons (cells which transmit information) to communicate information to each other. The gap between the neurons is called a synapse.
NICE (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence)
The independent UK organisation which provides national guidance on the promotion of good health and the prevention and treatment of ill health.
NLP (Neurolinguistic programming)
An intervention based on changing the way people think in order to change their behaviour. It has been known to be used for phobias and/or obsessions.
Non-verbal learning disorder
A condition whereby the individual has difficulties with reading facial expressions and body language. The condition can also refer to difficulties with other non-verbal skills such as mathematics or visual-spatial skills.
Nonverbal communication
Communication using body language and facial expressions.
Nosology
A branch of medicine which deals with the classification of diseases.
NT (Neurotypical)
A term used by some people to describe individuals who do not have an autistic spectrum disorder.