But sensory integration therapy is controversial because there's very little scientific data on its effectiveness.

CNN: Scientists look to help children with autism find a voice

Sensory integration therapy advocates say the widely used program's constant stimulation helps children with autism learn to speak.

CNN: Scientists look to help children with autism find a voice

That's why, Camarata says, it's important researchers investigate sensory integration therapy and other therapies to see whether they are effective.

CNN: Scientists look to help children with autism find a voice

Sensory integration therapy is just one of many therapies that Camarata, Wallace and their staff hope to investigate in order to prove their worth.

CNN: Scientists look to help children with autism find a voice

While at Susan Gray, Ryan's therapists and parents decided to enroll him in a new research project that was scientifically evaluating programs designed to help kids with autism learn to speak, including sensory integration therapy.

CNN: Scientists look to help children with autism find a voice

Sensory integration is an occupational therapy designed to improve communication skills by placing a child in a room specifically designed to challenge all his or her senses.

CNN: Scientists look to help children with autism find a voice