Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. People who struggle with symptoms of ASD often have difficulty with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors.

Symptoms

The symptoms of ASD can vary widely from person to person. Some common symptoms include:

  • Challenging social interaction: People with ASD may have difficulty making eye contact or report feeling uncomfortable with eye contact, understanding social cues, and participating in conversations.

  • Communication difficulties: People with ASD may have difficulty understanding language, expressing themselves verbally, or using nonverbal communication.

  • Repetitive behaviors: People with ASD may engage in repetitive behaviors, such as hand-flapping, rocking, or lining up objects.

  • Restricted interests: People with ASD may have intense interests that they focus on for long periods of time.

There are a number of red flags that can indicate a possible ASD diagnosis. These red flags include:

  • Delayed language development: Children with ASD may not start talking as early as other children, or they may have difficulty using language in a typical way.

  • Difficulties with social interaction: Children with ASD may have difficulty playing with other children, or they may seem to prefer to play alone.

  • Repetitive behaviors: Children with ASD may engage in repetitive behaviors, such as hand-flapping, rocking, or lining up objects.

  • Restricted interests: Children with ASD may have intense interests that they focus on for long periods of time

If you are concerned that your child may have ASD, it is important to talk to your doctor. If you are not sure where to start APS can help provide a screening evaluation. Call today to get a free consult to see if further evaluation is right for you. 480-719-7400 

There are a number of screening tools that can be used to assess for ASD. If your child is diagnosed with ASD, there are a number of treatment options available. These options may include:

  • Early intervention is so important and services can help children with ASD develop their social, communication, and behavioral skills. It can also open access to services without out of pocket costs. 

  • Behavioral therapy can help children with ASD learn how to manage their behaviors and cope with challenges.

  • Speech therapy can help children with ASD improve their communication skills. Impaired ability communicate leads to frustration in children and can increase emotional outbursts. 

  • Occupational therapy can help children with ASD develop their fine motor and decrease sensory concerns. Sensory concerns in children with ASD can lead to emotional frustration, isolation, and disordered eating. 

  • Assessment for cooccurring mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Treating these disorders in clients with ASD can improve their overall quality of life.

How we can help

Active Healing Psychiatric Services can help

  • Get an initial evaluation to assess for risk factors for ASD and other mental health conditions

  • We can help you and your family identify resources and referral options to get further evaluation

    • ASD is diagnosed by neuropsychological testing or through a developmental pediatrician

  • Treat mental health conditions 

  • referrals to OT, Speech, and therapy 

  • help you understand what you options are for getting resources in the school system

Here are some additional resources that may be helpful: