Treating Autism in Adults and Children
Autism is a lifelong condition that is more common than you think.
What is Autism?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exists in about 2% of the population. In Houston, where the population is more than 2 million, about 50,000 people are affected.
Symptoms can emerge in children before the age of three. Boys are almost four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls. Overall, it can influence people of all races and genders.
Social communication skills that most of us take for granted can pose challenges for someone with ASD. Interpreting vocal tones, facial expressions, and sarcasm can be difficult. Autism can also create sensitivity in some individuals that can make sensory information such as light or sound overwhelming.
These factors can make it difficult to develop and maintain relationships and understand what behaviors are expected at work, school and in social situations.
Autism is measured on a spectrum. Not every individual diagnosed will have the same challenges.
FACTS
- Individuals with autism often have co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression or sleeping disorders
- The cause is unknown but may be linked to genetics and environmental factors
- Even though autism can often be detected in a child, some people are not diagnosed until they are adults
- Symptoms of ASD can include narrow or obsessive interests, avoiding or not keeping eye contact, delayed speech and language skills
Treating Autism
While there is no cure for autism, treatment focuses on learning to cope with specific problem areas to improve quality of life. Skills can be learned and practiced. With growing awareness of neurodiversity in the workplace differences can be embraced and aligned with the right role and the right coaching.
A trained mental health counselor can customize a treatment plan to meet the needs of the individual and family. Children can improve language, social and other skills. Adults can learn critical skills and improve their overall functioning and wellbeing in a space where they can relax and be understood.
That space can be in a therapist’s office at Prasad Counseling and Training.
SERVICES
ADDRESS
3131 Eastside Street Suite 415
Houston, Texas 77098
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