Autism
What is Autism?
Autism is a neurological condition that impacts an individual's social / communication skills and presents with fixed interests and repetitive behaviors in the individual. These symptoms can exist on a "spectrum" from mild to severe; for instance, one child may have major communication delays and engage in repetitive hand / body movements; another may have difficulty with back-and-forth conversation and perspective taking, and be intensely fixated on an interest area. Because it is a broad spectrum, effective treatment must be highly individualized to the learner's strengths and abilities.
What does autism feel like?
Individuals with Autism often engage with and experience the world differently. They may be more interested in sensory aspects of the environment, may feel more comfortable in rigid and consistent routines, and may have different preferences for play and socialization. They may have very intense interests in very specific topics or activities (and may even become experts on those topics!).
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Autism is a spectrum disorder which means it can impact individuals in vastly different ways. Individuals with severe Autism may have trouble with daily self-care tasks, very limited communication skills, and repetitive movements such as rocking and flapping. Individuals with moderate Autism may have developed verbal language but sometimes repeat words or phrases, or engage in repetitive routines. Individuals with mild Autism may have difficulty talking about things they are not interested in, or listening to a differing opinion, understanding metaphors and figures of speech, or have difficulties with focus and organization.
Often, individuals with Autism can learn to be flexible, explore different interests and routines, and communicate more efficiently; but it is important to respect the abilities, strengths and individuality of people with Autism!
Can autism be treated?
Applied Behavior Analysis may be a great treatment option for individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder who would benefit from gaining communication skills, learning activities of daily living, social skill development, play skill development, and coping skills. A Behavior Analyst would develop a Functional Assessment of challenging behaviors and client strengths, and utilize this to develop a Treatment Plan to include evidence based principles to shape behaviors.
At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry
We treat autism differently.
Here at Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we are dedicated to helping individuals with autism reach their full potential. Our comprehensive and individualized approach to autism treatment in Pennsylvania sets us apart. If you are seeking expert care for yourself or a loved one, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can embark on a journey towards growth, development, and a brighter future.
We offer the following treatment options for Autism:
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Autism & Behavior Program
Being part of our program means you have complete access to our team of therapists, behavior consultants and technicians, psychiatrists, parent coaches, and executive function coaches. We take an all-hands-on-deck approach to give you the tools and support you need, when and where you need it.
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Diagnostic Assessment for Autism
This includes a full developmental interview, administering a standardized autism assessment such as the Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS), and completion of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS).
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Executive Function & ADHD Coaching
Executive Function and ADHD Coaching is designed for adults, teens, students, and parents who want to build the skills needed to thrive in their personal, academic, and professional lives.
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Applied Behavior Analysis
Our clinicians and Behavior Technicians collaborate with clients in various settings, including our office, in their homes, schools, and communities. Implementing evidence-based principles such as reinforcement and behavior shaping, our goals is to enhance positive behaviors while addressing challenging ones.
An individual with Autism may also benefit from traditional therapy models including Family, Child and Teen, Group, and Individual therapies. The therapist would work with the individual to identify unique goals to address in sessions in a style best suited to the learner's strengths and abilities.
Because Autism impacts the whole body, other considerations such as Medication Management and Dietician Services may be indicated to assist with cognitive symptoms and gastrointestinal challenges common to individuals with Autism.
Our providers specialize in treating autism
Learn more about autism on our blog:
