Autism
Definition
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), commonly known as Autism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how a person communicates with, and relates to, other people. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them.
It is a spectrum condition and whilst many people with Autism share certain difficulties, their condition may affect them in different ways.
Many people with Autism are able to live independent and successful lives, whereas others may have accompanying learning difficulties and need a lifetime of specialist support.
People with Autism may also experience over or under sensitivity to sounds, touch, taste, smell, light or colour.
Asperger syndrome is a term that was previously used for some people with Autism. Autism as the term is now used encompasses a wide variety of presentations (including that which was previously termed Asperger syndrome). Some people with Autism have high levels of intelligence, but may still have difficulties with understanding social situations and/or processing language ambiguity.
Signs & Symptoms
Autism can cause a wide range of symptoms, with some potentially being:
- Difficulties with social interaction, such as a lack of understanding and awareness of other peoples’ emotions and feelings
- Impaired language and communication skills, such as delayed language development, an inability to start conversations or to participate in diaglogue
- Unusual patterns of thought and physical behaviour, which may include making repetitive physical movements, such as hand tapping or twisting
- Set routines of behaviour may develop and upset may be felt if the routines are broken
- In children, sometimes an obsession over a type of toy or type of food
- In adults, sometimes difficulty when placed in certain social situations such as a party
Treatment Options
Treatment and support for those with Autism often comes in the form of different types of therapies, such as educational and behavioural programmes.
Assessment Elements
- Some questionnaires may be required to be completed by yourself or other third parties (if you are in agreement)
- Detailed questions will be asked during the assessment process regarding the patient's history, presenting concerns and desired outcomes
- Any pre-existing letters or materials from other clinicians who have assessed or treated the patient may be requested
- Depending on the patient’s or family's medical history, further cardiac investigations may be required. If so, we can provide you contact details of trusted clinics where these can be undertaken, or you can ask your GP for a referral
- Weight, height, pulse and blood pressure may potentially be taken or requested (if applicable)
- Psychoeducation strategies offered and written resources provided
- An ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) assessment will be required, which is held face-to-face with the patient.
- An ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview Revised) assessment or potentially a 3Di-sv (Developmental, Dimensional & Diagnostic Interview - Short Version) assessment will be required, which can be held face-to-face or Zoom
- A final appointment will be held with the lead psychiatrist/paediatrician to communicate the outcome of the Autism assessment. In the case of children, this will be done with parents and the young person in an age sensitive manner
- If there is any comorbid condition alongside Autism (such as a anxiety or depression) then medication may potentially be discussed and prescribed (if consent obtained) during the assessment process and if there are no significant physical health concerns
- If medication is commenced (for any comorbid condition alongside Autism), then regular 30 minute review appointments (approx. every 1 to 3 months) at our centre will be required to safely monitor the patient's progress
Our Autism Pathway
Read about our unique Autism pathway for:
Submit an enquiry using the button below. Our Enquiries Team will telephone you to discuss.
