Autism

About 1 in 31 children and 1 in 45 adults in the United States have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a condition affecting social interaction. If you or your child struggles with behavioral challenges or awkward social interactions due to autism, turn to licensed clinical social worker Paula Williams, LCSW, at Sis Therapy/Already Done LLC, a telehealth psychology practice based in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She offers therapies that improve life skills and social connections. Schedule a telehealth appointment by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.

What is autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder, is a condition affecting social interactions, communication, and behavior patterns. The symptoms it causes range from mild to severe. Autism symptoms often begin early in childhood. 

While there’s no cure, early intervention can help children and adults with autism thrive.

Which symptoms can autism cause?

Signs of autism may include:

• Difficulty keeping conversations going
• Preferring to be alone
• Poor eye contact
• Monotone or robotic speech
• Delayed speech in children
• Repeating words or phrases
• Lack of emotion
• Awkward social behavior patterns
• Having few or no friends
• Spinning, hand flapping, rocking, head banging, or similar movements
• Preferring a strict routine
• Lack of coordination
• Light, touch, texture, or sound sensitivity
• Being a picky eater
• Talking about a narrow range of topics
• Trouble with social cues

People with autism often have highly focused interests in collections, hobbies, or specific topics.

What are the risk factors for autism?

The cause of autism isn’t known, but its risk factors may include:

• Family history of autism
• Pregnancy occurring within 12 months of having a baby
• Being pregnant over age 35
• Gestational diabetes
• Bleeding during pregnancy
• Giving birth early
• Reduced oxygen during pregnancy or delivery
• Taking certain medicines while pregnant
• Being male

Boys are about four times more likely than girls to have autism spectrum disorder. 

How is autism spectrum disorder diagnosed?

Paula meets with you or your child virtually to complete a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. This screens for autism spectrum disorder and other mental health conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

She discusses moods, emotions, behaviors, social interactions, medications, lifestyle, and more to learn which type of therapy may be the most appropriate for you or your child.

How is autism managed?

There’s no cure for autism, but therapy at Sis Therapy/Already Done LLC can help you or your child learn strategies that help. Treatment may include:

• Behavioral therapy
• Communication therapy
• Play therapy
• Pre-adolescent and adolescent therapy
• Educational therapy
• Family therapy
• Other forms of therapy

Paula can meet with you weekly or as needed.

It’s also helpful to maintain a regular routine, eat a balanced diet, stay active, get enough sleep, and keep stress levels low.

Schedule a virtual autism evaluation or therapy session with Paula at Sis Therapy/Already Done LLC by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.