Autism Therapy Services
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that causes individuals to experience the world differently. This can be present through communication, behavior, social situations, and information processing. Autism is a spectrum, creating a very individualized experience with each person having their own unique set of strengths, challenges, and needs. When proper support is put into place, individuals living with autism can find ways that work for them to improve their daily life through skill building and emotional regulation.
Key Characteristics and Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder
The very definition of a spectrum is a scale between two opposite points. With a wide range between the two points, autism can vary quite significantly from person to person. Even though no two people with autism will present exactly the same, there are certain characteristics that are common indicators of autism. These include:
Social / Communication
- Difficulty with eye contact
- Delayed speech or nonverbal communication
- Trouble understanding social cues
- Difficulty with peer relationships
- Struggling with imaginative play
- Displaying facial expressions and/or gestures that don’t relate to verbal statements
- Difficulty with back-and-forth conversations
- Difficulty interpreting emotions
- Delayed response to someone calling their name
Behavioral
- Repetitive behaviors
- Repeating words and phrases (echolalia)
- Having intense special interests in specific topics
- Struggle with transitions
- Difficulty adapting to change in routine or expectations
- Emotional dysregulation
- Sleep problems
- Irritability
Sensory
- Easily overstimulated
- Sensory input sensitivity (lights, sounds, temperature, texture)
- Sensory food aversions (texture, smell, taste)
- Stimming, a self-regulating sensory behavior (hand flapping, spinning, rocking back and forth)
Not every person with autism will have every one of these characteristics, but they do provide a framework of what to watch for.
Diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism can be diagnosed at any age, but is more commonly recognized and diagnosed in early childhood. Pediatricians screen for autism during routine well-checks, or when needed based on parental concern. If autism is being considered, a referral to a specialist is the next step. A licensed specialist will provide a thorough evaluation that includes:
- Parental observation
- Teacher observation, if applicable
- Professional observation
- Developmental history
- Standardized assessments based on DSM-5 criteria
- Clinical assessments like Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS)
Having an official diagnosis is important as it opens the door to establishing support for the individual with autism.
Supporting Individuals with Autism
Even though there is no cure for autism, there are many ways to support living with it. Many people find that a combination of efforts makes the biggest difference, with each one individualized toward specific needs. The goal is to build skills while reducing challenges that tend to interfere with daily life. This may include, but is not limited to:
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech and Language Therapy
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
- Visual Aids
- Communication Devices
- Educational Supports
- Individual Therapy
- Family Therapy
An initial autism diagnosis can feel difficult to manage, both for the individual and their family. With time, effort, and specialized support, though, a balance can be found. At Sillon Wellness, we support autism through evidence-based therapy specific to each individual. Treatment will be determined based on personal strengths, challenges, goals, and needs. We focus on emotion regulation, anxiety reduction, healthy coping skills, and strengthening family relationships.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy that aims to help people manage emotions, anxiety, and depression. This is done through learning how to identify negative thoughts, challenge them, and replace them with more realistic versions. This can help those with autism ease social anxiety, challenge negative thought processes, and discover ways to cope that make sense for them.
Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)
Emotion Focused Therapy can offer a safe, supportive place for families to navigate an autism diagnosis by working to improve communication, strengthen connection, and find the healthiest ways for interaction.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a modified type of CBT that helps patients regulate their emotions, create healthy coping skills, and improve their relationships with others. When it comes to autism, emotions can feel very strong and overwhelming. DBT can help manage emotions, sensory overload, and deal with overwhelming feelings.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has a focus on acceptance as a way to cope with negative thoughts or circumstances. For those on the autism spectrum, the goal is to increase psychological flexibility while encouraging healthy activities that align with personal values to make life more meaningful.
The right support can be a game-changer, both for the diagnosed individual and for their families. Through an approach tailored to their needs, we will find the right therapeutic path to make a positive, lasting difference in their lives.
Autism Spectrum Disorder Support in Texas
Sillon Wellness understands that autism is a complex diagnosis that requires understanding and individualized care. We have a compassionate team experienced in evidence-based treatments that can help navigate autism in a way that makes sense for you. We will find the proper route to take to align with your specific goals, taking individual strengths and challenges into consideration. With the right tools in place, a life with autism can become more manageable. If you’re looking for autism support in Texas, schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation with Sillon today.
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