I am also a believer in an integrated treatment approach to autism.
Some children may need a behavioral approach, whereas other children may need a sensory approach.
The thing is, autism is a big spectrum. Going from folks who remain nonverbal, all the way up to, ya know, famous scientists and musicians. And we've got to work on strengths. We also have to work on teaching basic manners and skills.
Curiosity is the other side of caution.
Autism is an extremely variable disorder.
I can remember the frustration of not being able to talk. I knew what I wanted to say, but I could not get the words out, so I would just scream.