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Autism

What is Autism? 
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference. The Autism Spectrum is incredibly diverse and no two Autistic people with present in the same way. Autism is a clinical diagnosis which means that there is no blood test that can determine if someone is autistic, rather, a diagnosis is determined based on a group of characteristics.

 

There are two main groups of characteristics that are common to autistic individuals. 

 

Differences in Language, Communication, Social Relationships and Emotional Responses: 
Autistic people often have differences in how they use language and communication in social settings. This can include:

  • Engagement in conversation including: starting conversation, keeping it going, engaging in back and forth interactions, expressing interest in other's thoughts and experiences. 

  • Expression of emotion including facial expressions and empathy.

  • The use non-verbal means of communication such as gesture and eye contact and how this is linked with verbal communication. 

  • Initiating, maintaining and understanding social relationships. This can include making friends, keeping friends, understanding the role of friendships and managing conflicts and disagreements. 

  • Ability to engage in and collaborate in imaginary/pretend play with others.

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Sensory Use, Behaviours and Interests:
Autistic often people also often display at least some of the following:

  • Strong passions including an ability to hyperfocus on things of interest.

  • Sensory differences and preferences.

  • Enjoy repetitive behaviours including repetitive movements, noises and routines.

  • Stuckness/Logical and 'black and white' thinking styles which can cause difficulties with change, new experiences and making choices. 

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How do we assess Autism?

Autism assessment is a comprehensive and detailed process.

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Autism can often look like other conditions including ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD, depression, intellectual disability and emotional regulation difficulties.

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Autism Assessments at Child Assessment Clinic involve: 

  • Structured assessments with the child or young person.

  • Gathering of clinical information from parents or caregivers.

  • Administration of standardised questionnaires to parents and teachers. 

  • Gathering feedback from daycare/preschool/school.

  • Review of all relevant therapist and doctor reports. 

  • Comprehensive feedback with recommendations.

  • A comprehensive report that can be used for NDIS funding.

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What about Asperger's?

Asperger's Syndrome was used until 2013 when the new Diagnostic and Statistical Manuel (DSM-5) grouped Asperger's under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum. As such we no longer use this diagnosis.

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