Laurie Dickstein-Fischer
Salem State University, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Northeastern University
Papers
5
Total Citations
180
H-Index
5
About
Laurie Dickstein-Fischer is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of robotics, engineering, and clinical psychology, with a specialized focus on developing socially assistive robots (SARs) for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Her work has helped define the emerging field of robot-assisted autism therapy, contributing both theoretical frameworks and practical, affordable technological solutions. Among her most notable achievements is the development of a compact humanoid robot specifically designed for ASD interventions, demonstrating her commitment to making therapeutic tools accessible and scalable. Her 2018 review of socially assistive robots, which has garnered 59 citations, stands as an influential reference for researchers exploring how SARs can build social behavior skills in children with autism. Dickstein-Fischer's interdisciplinary approach is a hallmark of her career — she has pioneered the integration of psychological methodologies with engineering design, as reflected in her collaborative work combining both disciplines for diagnostic and early intervention applications. With research spanning face-tracking humanoid systems, interactive monitoring tools, and cable-driven robotic heads, her cumulative contributions — totaling over 180 citations — have meaningfully advanced the development of affordable, effective, and human-safe robotic therapies for vulnerable pediatric populations.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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- 4Interactive Tracking for Robot-Assisted Autism Therapy19 citations · 2017
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