Are mirror neurons relevant to clinical practice?

The discussant will address the implications of mirror neuron system research for clinical practice in autistic spectrum disorders.  To what extent do the findings or theories generated by mirror neuron research illuminate clinical phenomena observed in persons with ASD? Do they have any more direct implications for practice? For example, do mirror neuron system accounts of impaired imitation and empathy enhance clinicians' ability to understand, assess or treat ASD? Discussion will focus in particular on the developmental nature of ASD.