psychologist North Brisbane
Autism Diagnosis Brisbane
Autism
What is it
Autism is part of a group of disorders that affect the child's development. These disorders usually manifest early in life and continue until adulthood. The term Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is now commonly used to describe autism, Asperger's syndrome and generalized developmental disorder, unspecified (PDD-NOS), which is also known as atypical autism.
Children with ASD demonstrate difficulties in 3 areas of functioning: interact with others, communicate with others and interests and behaviors. These children may have a very narrow or unusual set of interests; exhibition behaviors that may be different from other children; and experience difficulties in coping with change. The daily experiences of children with ASD can vary greatly. Some children require high levels of support, lifelong care and supervision. With help, other children with ASD can learn to function independently.
What includes
A child with ASD may experience significant difficulties in the school environment, particularly in relation to learning and social interactions, and there may also be an impact on the functioning of the family home. Children may require the support of a number of health professionals to meet their behavioral, communication, motor skills, sensory preferences and nutrition needs.
OUR SERVICES
child psychologist North Lakes
child psychologist North Brisbane
How a psychologist can help
A psychologist is important to evaluate and support the child who has ASD, in the following ways:
- Evaluation and diagnosis: the information is collected through interviews with parents / caregivers and others involved in the child's life, observation of the child and use of psychometric tools to provide diagnostic information. The psychologist will collaborate with other health professionals (eg, speech therapist, occupational therapist, pediatrician, psychiatrist) to ensure that all domains of the child's development are considered.
- Psychoeducation: Support for parents / caregivers and school staff in relation to what the diagnosis of ASD means.
- Behavioral strategies: work together with parents / caregivers and school staff to implement routines and structures focused on the child at home and in the classroom to improve the child's outcomes.
- Coping skills: Support the child to develop skills that can help him control the symptoms of his ASD, such as developing his game and social skills, self-esteem, understanding his learning styles and learning to better manage his behavior.
