What is Autism?

Are you worried your son or daughter may have autism?

Does your child avoid eye contact or not respond when spoken to?

Has your son or daughter exhibited signs of repetition or obsession?

Autism awareness is at an all-time high, widely discussed by the medical community, media outlets, concerned parents, and society in general. 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 neurodevelopmental disorder that envelops 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. It's also not uncommon for adults to seek diagnosis if they notice symptoms in themselves or their children.

Our licensed psychologist can help with an evaluation and assist with providing your family and child with strategies to best manage the symptoms and embrace the strengths that autism can provide.

We recommend speaking with our office if you’ve noticed any of the following behavioral trends 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

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 to 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.

If you're concerned your child may be exhibiting signs of autism, our office can assess and evaluate your child. If diagnosed, treatment recommendations will be provided and can help them better manage the child's  symptoms.

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