Autism

Are you worried your child may have autism?

While autism may appear to be more widespread today than decades ago, experts believe the increase in diagnoses is due to greater awareness of autism and its signs and symptoms.

Autism is a neurobehavioral disorder enveloping a spectrum of symptoms and impairments that range in severity. Autism is characterized by difficulty in communicating and interacting with others, and obsessive or repetitive behavior. Depending on how a child is communicating and interacting, autism diagnoses can start as young as two years old or younger. It's also not uncommon for adults to seek diagnosis if they notice symptoms in themselves or their children.

A licensed clinician can help with an evaluation and assist with providing your child with strategies to best embrace their strengths and manage symptoms that may be affecting functionality. 

We recommend speaking with our office if you’ve noticed any of the following behaviors in your child:

• Inability to maintain eye contact, or failure to respond when spoken to or called by name
• Rigid rules or routines
• Isolation or avoiding social interaction
• Repetitive or obsessive behavior, such as lining up objects or only performing tasks in a particular order
• Involuntary or excessive behaviors such as blinking, rocking, hand flapping, or finger flicking
• Or any other behaviors affecting functionality

A diagnosis of autism can help your child find solutions to symptoms that are interfering with their daily life. Autism can make it difficult for them to interact socially, both with verbal and nonverbal communication. Trouble making eye contact or involuntary noises can also cause problems at home, at school, or with peers.

Autism can make it difficult for your child to make or maintain friendships, or get along with family members. When they mature, it can be harder for them to have intimate relationships. They may also develop repetitive, obsessive, or ritualistic behaviors that interfere with their daily life.

Therapy and some medications are available to help manage and control some behaviors.  We also consider the role of nutrition, sleep, somatic movements, mindfulness, and non pharmaceutical supports for your child.

If you're concerned your child may be exhibiting signs of autism we can evaluate your child. Once diagnosed, a referral for interventions can help them better manage behaviors.

Please contact us today to schedule an appointment for your child.