Our team at Elements Psychological Services specialize in providing comprehensive neuropsychological assessments for children. Through compassionate curiosity and our extensive experience in neuropsychology, we aim to understand how your child experiences the world, where they need support, and where they shine the brightest.
Exploring Autism Spectrum Disorder
Your child’s development is influenced by their unique genetics and biology. Environment, upbringing, and culture play a role as well. Caregivers and parents are the first to see or feel when something is off. If you notice slight delays or behavior that doesn’t make sense, it could be autism spectrum disorder (or ASD).
Defining Autism Spectrum Disorder
ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that emerges in early childhood. ASD is heritable and persists throughout a person’s life. ASD is characterized by behavioral symptoms that vary in severity, support needs, and functional impact.
Identifying Signs of ASD
Behavioral signs of ASD commonly emerge before 18 months, with some presenting within the first 2 years. In general, if your child is delayed or not meeting milestones like crawling, making eye contact, babbling, mirroring facial expressions and gestures, talking, and expressing emotions (sadness, frustration, surprise) ASD is a valid concern.
Social & Communication Signs
- Minimal to no smiling or facial mirroring
- Limited eye contact
- Does not respond to their name
- Persistently non-verbal
- Doesn’t wave, blow kisses, nod head
- Seeks solitude
- Difficulty reading facial expressions
- Intense reactions to sensory stimuli
Repetitive or Restricted Behaviors
- Rocking or swaying to self-soothe
- Repeated hand flapping or spinning
- Restricted interests (some odd)
- Prefers routine and structure
- Inflexible with changes in routine
- Makes pattern of sounds repeatedly
- Hyperfocus on 1-2 toys or games
- Unable to shift focus w/o outburst
Levels of Autism Severity
ASD varies in terms of severity and support needed. Support is referring to everything from behavioral therapy, parental training, medication, physical and occupational therapy, etc.
- Level 1: Requiring support: May need some support but is otherwise independent.
- Level 2: Requiring substantial support: May struggle even when receiving support.
- Level 3: Requiring very substantial support: Will be totally dependent on others for everything.
ASD Assessment Process
Once you decide that an assessment is the next step, it’s recommended you contact your pediatrician or family doctor for a screening in order to rule out potential underlying medical issues that are either contributing to or causing the developmental issues. Contacting your health insurance agent is a step for families that will use their coverage for assessment services.
Who Can Diagnose ASD?
Depending on where you live, there can be restrictions as to who can assess for and diagnose ASD. This can often be found on your state’s Health and Human Services Department webpage.
For example, In New Jersey, only the following licensed professionals can diagnosis ASD:
- Psychiatrist (MD)
- Neurologist (MD)
- Developmental Pediatrician (MD)
- Psychologist/Neuropsychologist (PhD or PsyD)
Assessment Process
Our expert neuropsychologists and clinical psychologists assess children using a strengths-based approach. We address the behavioral deficits and developmental concerns associated with ASD and have room to highlight their strengths.
In-Person Evaluations are structured to include:
- An in-depth interview to gather family history, current and past behavioral, sleep, or mood issues, and family dynamics.
- A review of medical, psychiatric, and school records, if available.
- Play therapy to observe behavior and communication.
- Specific screening tools or checklists to be filled out by caregivers.
Feedback, Diagnosis, & Decisions
At your feedback session, we’ll explore our overall impressions, discuss deficits that require support, and the areas of strength that can be built upon. If other disorders are detected, further testing can be arranged. We view the feedback and diagnosis session as an opportunity to empower, educate, and guide families towards support that is tailored for their needs.
When you advocate for your child’s needs with confidence – you undoubtedly improve their world.
Contact our team today for a brief consultation.
