Autism
Are you worried your son or daughter may have autism? Does your child avoid eye contact or not respond when spoken to? Has your child exhibited signs of repetition or obsession? Here at Speech Therapy For All, our speech therapist will work with your child in a personalized program to support their needs and help them develop better communication skills.
What is Autism?
Autism is a neurological disorder that affects an individual's ability to interact and communicate with others. It is characterized by a wide range of symptoms, including difficulty with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that while some individuals may experience minimal symptoms, others may experience more severe symptoms.
The following may be warning signs of autism:
Inability to maintain eye contact, or failure to respond when spoken to or called by name
Rigid rules or routines
Isolation or avoiding social interactions
Repetitive or obsessive behavior, such as lining up objects or only performing tasks in a particular order
Involuntary or excessive behaviors such as blinking, rocking, hand flapping, or finger flicking
Autism is a neurobehavioral disorder with four distinct autism diagnoses, all enveloping a spectrum of symptoms and impairments that range in severity. Autism is characterized by difficulty in communicating and interacting with others, and obsessive or repetitive behaviors.
Autism can make it difficult for individuals to interact socially, both with verbal and nonverbal communication. Trouble making eye contact or involuntary noises can also cause problems at home, at school, or with peers.
Our licensed speech pathologist can help with an evaluation and assist with providing your child with strategies to best manage the symptoms and embrace the strengths that autism can provide.
Specific goals of speech therapy include helping the individual with autism:
Communicate both verbally and nonverbally
Initiate communication without prompting from others
Know the appropriate time and place to communicate something; for example, when to say “I need help”
Develop conversational skills
Autism can make it difficult for your child to make or maintain friendships, or to get along with family members. When they mature, it can be harder for them to have intimate relationships. They may also develop repetitive, obsessive, or ritualistic behaviors that interfere with their daily life.
Speech therapy can improve overall communication. This makes it possible for people with autism to improve their ability to form relationships and function in day-to-day life.
How Can Speech Therapy Help?
Speech therapy can also give those with autism the opportunity to express themselves in ways they may not have been able to before. Through speech therapy, those with autism can gain the confidence and skills they need to better communicate their needs and wants. Our qualified and experienced speech therapists will work with you and other professionals to create a personalized therapy plan for the personal results you need. With two different locations — one in Riverhead, NY and the other in Southampton, NY — and the ability to do teletherapy sessions, we will help you achieve your goals and make strides in your communicational development.
Autism is a lifelong condition and no two individuals with autism are the same. People with autism can experience anxiety, difficulty forming relationships, sensory sensitivities, and communication issues. Even though there is no one-size-fits-all approach to autism, early intervention and supportive services can help individuals with autism reach their full potential. It is important to remember that autism is not a disability, but rather a difference, and with the right resources, individuals with autism can and do lead fulfilling lives. Please contact Speech Therapy For All today to schedule an appointment for your child.