What is ASD?

Finding the right therapy for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is essential for supporting your child on the spectrum. There are many treatment options that can help children with autism spectrum disorder develop new skills and overcome a variety of developmental challenges.

 

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts a person’s ability to communicate and interact socially. It also impacts the way a person thinks and behaves.
ASD is typically diagnosed in early childhood. Boys are more often diagnosed young and at a 4 to 1 ratio compared to girls, but recent studies have identified that this rate is skewed by differing traits and underdiagnosis of girls, and is closer to 3 to 1.

What are the Common Traits of ASD?

Typical traits of ASD include but are not limited to:

• Developmental delays (including speech delays)
• Avoidance of eye contact, and difficulty with social cues
• Difficulty understanding the perspective and emotions of others
• Repetitive behaviors such as hand flapping
• Strict preference for and adherence to schedules
• Sensory issues, such as with clothes or food
• Restricted and intense interests

Some of these traits of ASD are noticeable by 18-24 months of age. Pediatricians do ASD screening questionnaires during toddler well visit checks. Depending on the results of the questionnaire, as well as observation or caregiver report, pediatricians may often suggest that parents or caregivers get more specialized services or assessments if there are concerns about atypical development. 

Girls are often overlooked during these assessments due to a variety of reasons, including bias and recognition of symptoms. As they enter childhood, they often feel societal pressures to mask their symptoms.

It is important to be on the lookout for the differing traits that girls can display, such as:

• Introversion when it comes to social interactions, but can have intense friendships
• Extroversion when it comes to their particular hobbies or interests
• Being more of a “daydreamer” with a bountiful imagination
• Language skills or interests that are more advanced for their age
• Repetitive behaviors such as hair-twirling
• Mimicry of language or behaviors of others 

When Should a Parent or Caregiver Seek Help for a Child with Autism?

If you recognize your child has developmental delays or traits of autism, take note and report your findings to your child’s pediatrician so they may decide if they should be assessed.

Early intervention is crucial to building lifelong skills that will help children into adulthood by lessening the severity of developmental delays and complex behavioral issues, and increasing functioning and independence. 

When Should Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder Seek Help?

Research shows that over 70% of adults living with autism spectrum disorder are diagnosed with at least one mental health condition. Anxiety and depression are among the most common, with nearly a quarter of autistic adults living with one of those conditions.

Women are also more likely to receive diagnosis as adults, as many of their self-taught coping mechanisms may have gotten them through schooling, but they begin to have trouble in the work force or with adult friendships. 

What Does Treatment and Therapy for ASD Involve?

By working with one of our trained therapists, individuals with autism spectrum disorder will receive an individualized treatment plan to help them improve their day-to-day functioning. Many people with autism will learn new communication skills, social skills, and develop routines that include self-care. 

Some of the therapies available for people with ASD:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used evidence-based approach to treat several mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. CBT can help people with ASD understand how their thoughts influence their behaviors. The therapist will help people learn how to recognize, reevaluate, and regulate their emotions. People will also learn how to cope with difficult social situations and other life challenges.

Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is similar to DBT, with an emphasis on regulating emotions, learning mindfulness practices, and accepting uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. 

Behavior therapy is a commonly used ASD treatment that aims to promote beneficial behaviors and reduce unwanted or maladaptive behaviors. Therapists using behavior therapy can help people with ASD understand the connection between their behaviors and consequences. 

Art Therapy is an alternative type of therapy facilitated by a trained art therapist. Individuals will learn how to channel their thoughts and feelings, resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior and reduce stress through creating art. Different mediums may be used such as art, dance, music, and poetry throughout sessions. 

Many of our therapists are trained in more than one approach, and will adapt their approach to each individual. Our therapists will safely support you with the appropriate tools and techniques that suit your needs and lifestyle.

Looking for a Therapist in Massachusetts for Autism?

At Handel Behavioral Health, our team of highly skilled and compassionate therapists are trained to support children with ASD as well as adults who may have been misdiagnosed with mood disorders or ADHD or adults with ASD who’ve been undiagnosed.

Our counselors believe that there’s no one-size-fits all approach to therapy and will work with clients to develop a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and goals. A treatment plan can involve behavioral interventions, evidence-based therapies, medications, or a combination of these. 

Handel Behavioral Health is here to help, whether you would like telehealth/online counseling, or would like to meet for in-person therapy in one of our Massachusetts offices in Amherst, Franklin, West Springfield, Wilbraham. To start working with one of our therapists, contact us today at (413) 343-4357.

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