About Autism Spectrum Disorder

We all have different ways of understanding and responding to the world and relationships. Our strengths and experiences all come together to help make sense of things and people around us. Remembering this when we think about individuals with autism spectrum disorder brings us to a place where we can reach for understanding, and offer support.

Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, refers to a range of complicated brain development disorders. These are demonstrated to varying degrees by difficulty with social interactions and social communication, and are accompanied by restricted and/or repetitive behaviors.

Children with ASD may also experience difficulties in areas that include sensory processing, state and emotional regulation, motor planning/praxis, language and language-related areas (attention, executive functions). Many children with ASD have strengths in different areas that can include but are not limited to visual skills, attention to details, memory, music, art or math.

Children’s Therapy Corner considers the child first and how we can support through a place of understanding.

Learn More About Autism Spectrum Disorder

  • Services and Supports

    Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) benefit from different supports and services at different times in their development. There is not a “one size fits all” intervention. Rather than trying to fit the child into a program or therapy, the services that are recommended or chosen should fit the child’s social and developmental levels, learning preferences and those differences that impact his or her independence and processing abilities. A treatment plan must include the family, guidance from a developmental specialist and a combination of professionals that can support the child’s development, relationships and independence. Recent research confirms that early intervention can have a positive impact on outcomes. Children’s Therapy Corner offers the following services and supports for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders:

    Intensive, Intervention Programs
    Developmental:

    • PLAY Autism Intervention (in the home)

    Behavioral:

    • ABA Services (home and clinic)
    • Multidiscipline
    • The Sandbox (clinic)

    Individual Clinical Services:

    • Speech-Language Therapy
    • Occupational Therapy
    • Physical Therapy
    • Music Therapy

  • Understanding the Signs

    It is important that parents and professionals learn the early signs of autism and recognize and understand typical developmental milestones. Should you have any concerns regarding whether or not your child is showing signs of ASD, talk to your pediatrician and/or seek out an evaluation by a medical professional, such as a developmental pediatrician or child psychologist, who specializes in development and and autism spectrum disorder. The following “red flags” may indicate a child is at risk for an autism spectrum disorder. Don’t delay in asking your child’s pediatrician or family doctor for an evaluation:

    Impairment in Social Interaction:

    • No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months or thereafter
    • No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions by nine months

    Impairment in Communication:

    • No babbling by 12 months
    • No back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving by 12 months
    • No words by 16 months
    • No meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating) by 24 months
    • Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills at any age

    Repetitive Behaviors & Restricted Interests:

    • Repetitive movements with objects; Restricted interests
    • Repetitive movements or posturing of body, arms, hands or fingers

    Talk with your child’s pediatrician regarding any concerns about your child’s interactions, social communication and play skills.

  • Resources

    The following resources are provided as points to start or pursue more information regarding Autism Spectrum Disorder and overviews of different types of intervention approaches.

    Books:

    • Solomon, Richard, MD. Autism: The Potential Within. The PLAY Project Approach to Helping Young Children With Autism. Lulu Publishing, 2016. Print.
    • Greenspan, Stanley. Engaging Autism. N.p., 2016. Print.
    • Prizant, Barry, PhD. Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism. Simon and Schuster, 2016. Print.
    • Notbohm, Ellen. Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew. N.p., 2016. Print.

    Websites: www.autismspeaks.org, www.profectum.org, www.icdl.com, www.playproject.org, www.m-chat.org

  • Find Your Location

    Explore or contact one of our locations for therapy availability.

Get Started

Children’s Therapy Corner provides therapeutic intervention for children. CTC was founded on the belief that there should be a place where families can come and learn about their child’s needs, in a supportive team atmosphere. We will work with you to provide direction and support for your family and your child. The goal is for your child to live their life to its fullest capacity.

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