Autism Therapy

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental disability that affects children and adults in many different ways. It typically involves social and communication challenges, such as difficulty recognizing other people’s nonverbal expressions or maintaining relationships. In addition, many people with ASD have a limited “theory of mind,” making it harder to take another person’s perspective. Rigid or repetitive behaviors, obsessive interests, and sensory sensitivities are common as well. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) now estimates that ASD affects about 1 in 31 children.

Social & Communication Differences

Children and adults with ASD may struggle with social-emotional reciprocity and back-and-forth conversation. For example, conversations may become one-sided, turning into monologues without the person noticing that someone else has lost interest. Similarly, sharing or recognizing social emotions can be difficult. They may not notice when someone teases them, or how their behavior affects others.

Some children may also struggle with social role-play, or feel uncomfortable making eye contact with peers. Adjusting behavior to fit different social contexts can be hard too. As a result, some children may ask socially inappropriate questions or make inappropriate comments in public.

Routines, Interests & Repetitive Behaviors

Children and adults with ASD also tend to adhere closely to routines. Because of this, they often find changes and transitions more difficult than others do. In addition, a highly restricted or fixated range of interests is common, such as a strong attachment to unusual objects. The same few objects, topics, or activities often become a primary focus.

Repetitive vocal or motor behaviors, or tics, often stand out too. For instance, repetitive guttural sounds, unusual intonation, squealing, or humming are common.

Sensory Sensitivities

Children and adults with ASD often have hyper- or hypo-reactivity to sensory input. They may also show an unusual interest in sensory aspects of their environment. For instance, this can include apparent indifference to pain, heat, or cold. It can also involve a strong response to specific sounds or textures. Other examples include excessive smelling or touching of objects, or a fascination with lights or spinning objects.

Autism Services at Katalyst

At the Katalyst Psychological Family Center we provide diagnostic evaluations for Autism Spectrum Disorder. We also offer therapy services for children and adults on the spectrum.