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Autism services offered in Newport Beach, Laguna Beach and Dana Point, CA
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) takes in a range of conditions that affect social and communication skills. Matthew Koury, MD, MPH and the team at Mind Health Institute, Orange County, can help whether your child has mild autism, Asperger’s syndrome, or is severely autistic. The team at their offices in Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point, California, offer holistic care, making life with autism easier. Call the nearest Mind Health Institute, Orange County office, or schedule a consultation online today if you’re concerned that your child might have autism.
Autism Q & A
What is autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) conditions are developmental disorders. They include autistic disorder, Asperger’s syndrome (high-functioning autism), and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified.
Children with autism exhibit a range of socialization and verbal communication difficulties and repetitive behaviors. These range from mild problems to severe disability.
Which symptoms do people with autism exhibit?
Common autism symptoms include:
Stereotypic behaviors
These behaviors include unusual or repetitive actions, like arm flapping, rocking back and forth, repeatedly repeating words, and licking or touching things.
Restricted interests
People with autism often have focused interests that occupy much of their time. They can become exceptionally knowledgeable about these interests.
Disliking change
Changes in their routine or unexpected activities can cause people with autism considerable distress.
Developmental delays
Children with autism often have delayed or restricted speech and language development.
Social differences
People with autism often make little or no eye contact. They might seem uninterested in others. Their response to affection or physical contact can include anger and anxiety.
Communication challenges
People with autism struggle to respond appropriately to social cues. Their facial expressions might be inconsistent with the conversation, and they can have trouble understanding other people’s points of view.
Early intervention is critical to ensure that children with autism learn the social and adaptive skills needed to manage daily life.
How is autism diagnosed?
Screening children early is crucial to reach a timely autism diagnosis. Parents and their child’s pediatrician should assess developmental milestones regularly and seek advice if they notice unusual behaviors.
If problems arise, the Mind Health Institute, Orange County team can assess your child. They use behavior checklists that you and your child’s teachers complete to discuss your concerns in detail.
The team might also ask your child to complete specific activities while the team observes them. This enables the team to evaluate your child’s communication skills, social interactions, and ability to play.
How is autism treated?
Autism treatment focuses on managing challenging behaviors and helping children cope with everyday life.
Behavioral therapy improves social and adaptive skills and helps caregivers manage emotional and behavioral challenges. Medication treats symptoms like anxiety, poor attention, inflexibility, and aggression.
Call Mind Health Institute, Orange County, or book an appointment online today for expert autism diagnosis and treatment.