Autism

About Autism & ASD Assessments

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by neurodevelopmental differences in social communication and interactions. It also includesrestrictive and repetitive behaviorssuch as intense interests, difficulties with change and a high need for routine, sensory processing differences, or repetitive body movements to support coping and regulation.

Children and teens who exhibit the following traits may benefit from an ASD assessment:

Social withdrawal
Difficulties with eye contact
Delayed imaginary play skills
Difficulties with social and emotional reciprocity
Difficulties with transitions and change
Restricted and fixated interests
Language and communication differences (delayed language, repetitive or unusual phrases, or difficulties understanding non-verbal communication).
Repetitive motor behaviors (flapping, rocking, spinning, etc.)
More sensitive (over-responsive) to or less aware (under-responsive) to sensory information

Autistic children and teens also tend to struggle more with sleep and “picky eating”. Learning difficulties, attention deficits, and anxiety also commonly occur.

When does autism become apparent?

Symptoms of autism are apparent early in life (typically by age 2-3), though in some situations, they are not recognized as autism until later in life. The spectrum of autistic traits is wide. Each autistic child will have their own unique set of strengths and challenges and may require different levels of daily support in each area. For some children, delays and challenges may be very apparent. For others, these brain-based differences may be more subtle as children learn to hide or “mask” their differences to fit in with neurotypical peers. Research shows that girls are more likely to mask their autistic traits to fit in. Because their struggles tend to be more internalized, girls without developmental delays are more likely to get misdiagnosed, preventing them from getting the support they need. Masking as been shown to facilitate stress and mental health struggles over time.

ASD Assessments In Edmonton

At J. Gordon Psychology Group, our multi-disciplinary (Psychologist and Occupational Therapist) autism assessments are comprehensive and include caregiver interviews and standardized questionnaires, a review of medical and educational history, observations, and one-to-one testing activities with your child. These assessments align with best practice and our current diagnostic criteria for ASD (DSM-5-TR).

This assessment provides more than just insight and understanding of how your child’s mind works. It includes practical strategies that capitalize on your child’s strengths and resources to manage difficulties so that they have tools needed to succeed.

If you’re seeking more information on our ASD assessments for children and teens, please contact us to discuss further.