Direct answer
Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) is a parent-mediated autism program developed by Dr. Steven Gutstein that focuses on dynamic intelligence, flexible thinking, and emotional connection. RDI has emerging but limited peer-reviewed evidence compared to ABA or NDBIs. In Ontario, RDI consultants operate privately and charge $150-250 per session. OAP core clinical funding may cover RDI when delivered by an OAP-approved psychologist or registered professional.
Start with the short answer, then reveal deeper context where helpful.
RDI focuses on what Dr. Gutstein calls "dynamic intelligence" — the ability to think flexibly, take others' perspectives, cope with change, and process information from multiple sources simultaneously. RDI views autism primarily as a difficulty with dynamic rather than static skills. The program trains parents as the primary agents of change, guided by an RDI-certified consultant.
The evidence base for RDI is more limited than for ABA or NDBIs. Gutstein et al. (2007) published a pre-post study showing improvements in flexibility and relationship quality, but large randomized controlled trials have not been completed. Families should weigh this when making treatment decisions. Some families use RDI alongside ABA or other evidence-based interventions.
RDI focuses on what Dr. Gutstein calls "dynamic intelligence" — the ability to think flexibly, take others' perspectives, cope with change, and process information from multiple sources simultaneously. RDI views autism primarily as a difficulty with dynamic rather than static skills. The program trains parents as the primary agents of change, guided by an RDI-certified consultant.
In RDI, parents learn to create opportunities for guided participation, where they support their child through gradually increasing challenges in shared activities. Goals include experience sharing, emotional referencing, flexible thinking, and self-regulation. RDI is typically implemented across daily routines rather than in formal therapy sessions.
The evidence base for RDI is more limited than for ABA or NDBIs. Gutstein et al. (2007) published a pre-post study showing improvements in flexibility and relationship quality, but large randomized controlled trials have not been completed. Families should weigh this when making treatment decisions. Some families use RDI alongside ABA or other evidence-based interventions.
Ontario has a small number of RDI-certified consultants, primarily in the GTA and Ottawa. Sessions are typically conducted privately. OAP core clinical funding may cover RDI if delivered by a provider who holds both RDI certification and OAP approval as a regulated health professional. Contact your OAP service navigator to determine whether your chosen provider qualifies for funding.
Research
Gutstein et al. (2007), "Relationship Development Intervention," Autism, 11(5), 397-411
MCCSS
Ontario Autism Program — Core Clinical Services Eligible Provider Guidelines (2024)
Compare DIR/Floortime (relationship-based) and ABA (behaviour-based) autism therapies. Both are valid approaches with different philosophies and evidence bases.
Guide to NDBIs including ESDM, JASPER, and PRT for autistic children in Ontario. Covers evidence base, how NDBIs differ from discrete trial ABA, and OAP coverage.
How parent-mediated ABA works in Ontario. Learn about BCBA-supervised home programs, caregiver coaching, and how OAP funds parent-delivered intervention.
Commitment to Accuracy: Our data is verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: March 24, 2026.
Written by Spencer Carroll
Founder & Autism Advocate