Autism is a developmental disorder and involves social difficulties as well as rigid behaviour and interests. Sensory difficulties, as well as challenges with emotion regulation are often present. Autism is considered ‘neurodivergent,’ meaning individuals with autism have brains that function in a way that is different to the majority of the population. Autism is a lifelong condition and is often referred to by the acronym ASD which stands for autism spectrum disorder. The inclusion of the term spectrum emphasises that there is a wide range of symptoms with autism, from mild to more pronounced. Here are some frequently asked questions about autism.
Can a child psychologist diagnose autism?
Child psychologists may form part of a team of professionals that work towards an autism diagnosis (including a paediatrician or child psychiatrist, and possibly an occupational therapist and/or speech pathologist). Psychologists may assist with the diagnostic process by gathering developmental history, administering and interpreting questionnaires, observing the young person, and by completing an Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (an ADOS). These findings may be compiled into a report that other professionals, parents, and schools can refer to.
Is it important for a child to have a formal autism diagnosis?
You may have heard people refer to someone with social difficulties as ‘a bit autistic.’ Whilst autism is on a spectrum, the disorder itself does include specific symptoms that can lead to difficulties with functioning. Autism is a lifelong condition and the social, behavioural, and emotional difficulties that tend to occur due to this condition can significantly reduce an individual’s quality of life. Research has consistently found that early intervention leads to the best results for young people with autism. Thus, a diagnosis is useful in helping identify the condition and facilitate access to appropriate support. A formal diagnosis can also help access support from schools and possibly NDIS funding.
Can a child psychologist diagnose ADHD or other conditions that co-occur with autism?
Just as with an autism diagnosis, child psychologists can assist in being part of a team that works towards an ADHD diagnosis. Child psychologists are aware of conditions that tend to co-occur with autism (such as anxiety) and can help assess for and manage these conditions too.
What does a child psychologist do to explain autism?
Child psychologists can help you and your young person understand autism. This can be through conversation, through conveying test results, and by providing resources. Psychologists are trained to deliver information to different audiences both verbally and in writing, and can assist in helping your family, other professionals, and key support people (such as school staff) understand autism.
How does a child psychologist make young people with autism feel understood?
Children with autism may have long-term therapy that they attend on a regular basis. Our team of child psychologists use the following techniques to engage your child:
Person-centred therapy
Our psychologists work from a person-centred framework, meaning they get to know your child and treat them as a unique individual rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. By incorporating your child’s interests and preferences into therapy, child psychologists can increase engagement and effectiveness of therapy. Child psychologists can adapt therapy techniques to the age of the child, from young children through to adolescents.
Respect for differences
Individuals with autism process information in a different way to others and this can be a real strength. Our child psychologists recognise and celebrate this fact.
Modified therapy
Certain therapy techniques or styles may be less effective with individuals with autism. Our child psychologists carefully consider what therapy techniques best suit your child based on their diagnosis and personality. Therapy may be modified based on individual preferences (for example, if a child dislikes drawing, this will not be included in activities). Therapy can also be modified to work best with autism symptoms (for example, more literal, straightforward language may be used).
What does a child psychologist do to assist with symptoms of autism?
Child psychologists work to reduce any symptoms of autism that are affecting functioning. This can mean that:
Child psychologists conduct social skills training
Children with autism can struggle in receiving and expressing appropriate social cues. While social skills may not come intuitively to those with autism, it is possible to build up one’s ability to communicate with others. Social skills training involves direct instruction in how to understand and convey verbal and non-verbal communication. Our psychologists may work with your child so they can learn and implement social skills regularly, improving their relationships with others.
Child psychologists encourage flexible thought processes
Our thoughts can have a big impact on our mood and behaviour. Everyone has some unhelpful thought patterns at times. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder tend to struggle with seeing situations from another’s point of view. Psychologists help people recognise and alter unhelpful thinking patterns. This may mean our psychologists will help your child with perspective taking, encourage them not to jump to conclusions, and help avoid blowing situations out of perspective.
Child psychologists teach emotional and behavioural regulation
Individuals with autism can struggle to regulate emotions for a variety of reasons (e.g., difficulties with change, feeling over-stimulated, social difficulties). Autism spectrum disorder can also co-occur with mood and anxiety disorders. Child psychologists can help your child to recognise and name emotions, as well as give them emotion regulation tools. Therapy can also assist in helping your child to problem-solve and learn to choose and enact healthy behaviours.
Child psychologists train parents to support their child
Having a child with autism spectrum disorder can be challenging at times. Psychologists can help you understand your child as an individual, as well as the characteristics of autism spectrum disorder. Areas where you might receive support include:
- How/when to talk to your child about their diagnosis
- How to assist your child to cope with change
- How to help your child regulate their emotions, and what to do when they are dysregulated
- Balancing supporting and challenging your child
- Parenting techniques such as discipline, implementing routine, handling communication difficulties etc.
Child psychologists help modify the environment
Individuals with autism may be highly sensory, meaning that loud, chaotic environments can cause distress. Psychologists may be able to help by exploring how to modify the environment to make your young person more comfortable. Ways to reduce sensory input may be suggested, and feelings of being overwhelmed can be combated by use of routine and preparation for change. How much should the environment be adapted to suit the young person? And how much does the young person need to learn to adapt to their environment? Sometimes there is no easy answer to this question, and psychologists can help find a balance between these two factors.
Child psychologists communicate with other professionals as needed
If your child has autism, they may benefit from having a regular team of professionals, for example: a GP, paediatrician, psychologist, and occupational therapist. Psychologists will communicate as needed in written form and/or verbally with other professionals, as well as school staff, to ensure your child has consistent advice and support. Child psychologists will consider how to best work in with other supports.
Summary
Autism spectrum disorder is a condition that child psychologists can assist with both by supporting the diagnostic process and in managing symptoms. Our team at Young Minds can help manage difficulties that arise from autism, as well as embrace your child’s strengths. Call us on (07) 3857 0074 if you would like assistance.