Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder that makes it difficult for people to communicate and interact with others. Symptoms usually begin to show in the first two years of life and can vary in intensity from person to person. This is why the disorder is considered to occur on a spectrum.

While many of symptoms can negatively impact a person’s ability to function in daily life, individuals with ASD may possess strengths like:

• Remembering and learning very detailed information, often at a quicker pace
• Stronger than usual skills in math, science, music and the arts
• Quick auditory and visual learning capability

There is still much to learn about the exact causes of ASD. Researchers have learned the disorder may be caused by a variety of genetic factors and may be exacerbated by environmental toxins. Fortunately, there are many treatment paths available to help a child or adult living with ASD function in day-to-day life.

Early screening is very important to catching developmental disorders. The sooner a doctor can diagnose a child with ASD, the sooner treatment can begin and the greater chance the child has to receive the proper developmental support they need. ASD can be soundly diagnosed by the age of two. Parents and caregivers should talk to their pediatrician about developmental disorder screening for all children at their well child visits, including 9-months, 18-months, 24-months and 30-months. Autism screening should be emphasized at the 18 and 24-month visits, especially if there are ASD risks present, including: family members with ASD, older parents, other genetic conditions, low birth weight and early symptoms of ASD. 

If the child shows developmental problems in the first round of screening, a second round of screening will be required to evaluate psychological, neuropsychological and speech and hearing development. Neuropsychological assessment evaluates functioning and sensory development, sensory integration, gross and fine motor movement, executive functioning, social skills, and emotional or personality development. School special education professionals can make their own assessment and refer the child to an ASD specialist for additional evaluation.

Screening can also test attention, concentration, memory, auditory and visual processing, processing speed, language skills, reading skills, math skills, writing skills. In older children and young adults, parents and teachers are advised to look out for symptoms, especially if they notice the person having difficulty functioning in school or forming relationships and communicating with others. 

Once a person is diagnosed with ASD, treatment should begin as quickly as possible. Early detection and treatment is crucial so that people can learn how to manage their symptoms and optimize their strengths in daily functioning. Treatments will vary from person to person, which is why Solstice Pacific takes time to get to know your family. Finding a plan that works for you is our heartbeat. We do not believe in shortcuts to wellness, nor do we trust quick fixes. We will listen, educate, and promote healing and communication.

Medication can help reduce mood-related symptoms as well as hyperactivity and attention problems. Behavioral, psychological and educational therapy can help patients with ASD learn how to manage negative behaviors and build new social and learning skills. Learning language and communication skills can help an individual living with ASD connect with their peers, form friendships, and navigate social situations more effectively. Diet modifications can lead to life-changing results by reducing environmental toxins to the brain and improving cognitive function.

One of our most important treatment options for ASD is TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), a non-invasive therapy studied to improve cognition, communication, and behavior. TMS works by influencing and supporting brain activity patterns that are often affected in the ASD population. This can provide a reset for the overstimulated or exhausted brain, and may help both ASD patients and their families find relief. Many of these treatments have been shown to be beneficial according to a growing body of research and clinical outcomes. If you are interested in what to expect during therapy, please click here to learn more.

This treatment plan can be a tipping point. Once there is harmony among services, we get a clearer idea where to focus most. Combined with therapy and skills training, families feel more empowered to engage the gifts, skills, and strengths of their loved one living with autism. When brain communication improves internally, emotional regulation and quality of life can improve as well. Every day can feel like a warzone or it can feel like a symphony. The difference is who you choose to join your team. Your family deserves advocates who understand your story, your burdens, and your potential. Our patients are very much alive as they engage Solstice Pacific for whole-person, whole-family care. Progress and hope are contagious, and one family’s success often guides the way for another to find relief, steadiness, and peace.

Support from caregivers, family members and school administrators can help a child go further with their treatment of ASD. Learning to play to their strengths can help them excel in areas where others may not be able to. When given the proper education and tools, a person living with ASD is capable of thriving in school, in relationships, in work, and in life. Solstice Pacific makes healing a discovery process for our Team and for you. Let your loved one know that you care for them. Complete this quick assessment to start the healing journey with Solstice Pacific. Together, the treatment plan that suits you will emerge, along with stronger relationships and a resolve for a higher quality of life.