Understanding autism
Autism is a developmental disorder that begins in early childhood and lasts throughout life. Early identification and timely, appropriate intervention can greatly improve a child’s quality of life by supporting learning, reducing challenges over time, and promoting greater independence, academic success, and stronger relationships. Early assessment and intervention are essential.
Autism can affect a child’s development across several areas, including language, social communication, intellectual functioning, social skills, and adaptive behaviors, as outlined in the DSM-5. Some children may also display repetitive behaviors or restricted interests. Because autism presents differently in each child—and not all children show the same symptoms—a comprehensive evaluation by a trained psychologist using evidence-based assessments is crucial to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Some symptoms to watch out for
If your child shows any of these signs, consider an autism evaluation.
- Repetitive behaviors
- Parroting speech(echolalia)
- Delayed or no speech
- Insistence of specific routines, objects, interests
- Difficulty with activities of daily living and following directions
- Difficulty with eye contact
- Lack of shared enjoyment
- Lack of facial gestures or emotional expression
- Inability to read or understand facial gestures or social cues
- Sensitivity to touch, smells, temperature, light, or sound
- Food avoidance; highly selective with feeding; texture avoidant
- Difficulty getting along with others and making friends
What can I expect with an autism evaluation?
An autism evaluation uses evidence-based measures and typically includes:
An autism evaluation is a comprehensive process designed to better understand your child’s strengths and needs. Using evidence-based measures, the evaluation typically includes:
- A parent interview, including a structured assessment
- Child testing with a psychologist using specialized tools and activities
- Cognitive testing with the child
- Parent and teacher questionnaires
- Consultation with schools, pediatricians, and other relevant professionals
- Comprehensive report writing
- A feedback session to review results and recommendations
This thorough approach helps ensure an accurate diagnosis and clear, personalized recommendations to support your child’s development.
Why autism awareness is growing
Growing Prevalence and the Power of Early Intervention
You may be hearing more about autism as diagnosis rates rise. According to the CDC, autism now affects 1 in 44 U.S. children, up from 1 in 56 just two years ago, and 1 in 6 children has a developmental disability. While the causes aren’t fully understood, advances in research allow for earlier detection—sometimes before 12 months—which can improve social outcomes and reduce behavioral challenges.
Although autism is usually diagnosed after age 2, early signs often appear sooner. Early evaluation and support can make a meaningful difference—the earlier help begins, the better the long-term outcomes for your child.
Compassionate care, evidence-based answers
What types ofindividual therapy are available?
There are many approaches to psychotherapy, and the type of individual therapy you receive is guided by your specific needs and concerns. Therapists often integrate multiple therapeutic approaches to best support your unique goals, providing a more comprehensive and effective path to improved mental health.
Some of the more common approaches in individual psychotherapy include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- Humanistic/Experiential Therapy
- Interpersonal Therapy
- Supportive Therapy
What is individual therapy?
Understanding the therapy
Individual therapy is a one-on-one counseling experience designed to help individuals explore, understand, and work through personal challenges. It can be helpful for concerns such as:
One-on-one therapy supports personal growth, emotional healing, and the development of healthier coping strategies—helping individuals create a more balanced, fulfilling life and stronger relationships. Through guided self-reflection and professional support, clients gain deeper insight, overcome challenges, and build lasting skills that enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
Benefits of individual therapy
Research shows that psychotherapy can lead to significant improvements in well-being, including reduced symptoms, improved daily functioning, fewer medical concerns, and enhanced work performance. Many individuals also experience fewer sick days and greater satisfaction in their professional lives.
Symptom Relief
Reduce anxiety, depression, and emotional distress, making daily life feel more manageable and balanced.
Daily Function Boost
Strengthen coping skills, focus, and resilience to handle work, relationships, and responsibilities with greater ease.
Better Work-Life Balance
Experience fewer sick days, improved physical health, and greater satisfaction and engagement at work.
Stronger Relationships
Develop healthier communication patterns, set boundaries, and build more meaningful, supportive connections with others.
Some symptoms to watch out for
Early signs that shouldn’t be ignored
- Catastrophic thinking
- Overestimating the potential for severe consequences
- Excessive Worrying
- Obsessive Thoughts & Behaviors
- Social Phobia or Other Phobias
- Procrastination & Behavioral Avoidance
- Physical Distress or Fear
- Panic Attacks