Effective: March 2026
The RELATE framework, the ADAPT protocol, and all materials published on this site and in the Foundational Training Manual are educational and clinical training resources. They are designed to inform professional practice. They are not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment, professional judgment, or medical advice.
Every individual with a PDA profile presents differently. The strategies, protocols, and assessment instruments provided through RELATE are intended to be adapted by qualified professionals based on their own clinical assessment of each individual. Applying any framework without individualized professional judgment is inconsistent with the purpose of these materials.
We're transparent about this. The RELATE framework is evidence-informed, not empirically validated. It draws on established research in attachment science, intolerance of uncertainty, affective neuroscience, polyvagal theory, and trauma-informed care. It applies that converging evidence to the specific mechanisms of Pathological Demand Avoidance.
No randomized controlled trials exist for RELATE or for any structured PDA intervention. The entire PDA intervention field is pre-RCT. RELATE does not claim to be evidence-based in the RCT sense, and we are careful to maintain that distinction across all of our materials.
The RELATE Assessment instruments (Clinician Version, Parent Report Version, Adult Self-Report, Demand Audit Worksheet, and Supporter Self-Assessment) are structured clinical observation tools. They are not validated psychometric instruments. They are designed to support clinical decision-making within the RELATE framework, not to serve as standalone diagnostic measures.
Professionals using RELATE materials are responsible for practicing within the scope of their own licensure, training, and competence. Purchasing the manual or attending RELATE training does not constitute licensure, certification, or credentialing. It does not expand a professional's scope of practice beyond what their governing body permits.
The RELATE framework and the ADAPT triage protocol provide structured approaches for working with individuals in distress. They do not replace emergency protocols, crisis intervention training, or established safety procedures at your organization. In situations involving immediate risk of harm, follow your organization's emergency procedures and contact appropriate emergency services.
Reading this website, purchasing materials, or attending training does not establish a therapeutic, clinical, or professional relationship between you and BSPUTAH, LLC, Rachelle Manco, or Justin Manco. Individual clinical consultation is a separate service with its own terms, and even those consultations are advisory in nature. Clinical responsibility for any individual remains with the treating professional.
We've done our best to ensure that the information on this site and in our materials is accurate and current. But we're human. If you find an error, we'd appreciate hearing about it at info@relatepda.com. We do not accept liability for decisions made or actions taken based on the information provided on this site or in our products.
If you have questions about this disclaimer or how RELATE materials should be used in your professional context, contact us at info@relatepda.com.