Autism Spectrum Disorder FAQs with Dr. Ashlee Jones
Ashlee Jones, PsyD is a clinical psychologist who specializes in adolescent psychology. Dr. Jones sees patients at University Health Behavioral Health Crossroads.
Q: How is autism diagnosed?
A: Autism is diagnosed by use of standardized psychological testing, observation of the individual by qualified provider, and gathering information from those who have observed the individual in various settings. A provider who has specialized training in developmental milestones, the specific diagnostic criteria for Autism, and training to use the standardized testing are qualified to make a diagnosis of Autism. The diagnosis of Autism is seen as a label and a way for others to understand why an individual might react in a certain way or engage in certain behaviors. There is not an age limit to when an individual should be given a diagnoses; however it is harder to find providers who engage in testing for adults due to the focus on early intervention. Many providers specialize in testing for younger children.
Q: Can a child ‘grow out’ of an autism diagnosis?
A: Autism is not something an individual can outgrow. I like to think about Autism as a way in which an individual sees the world. It’s not bad or good- it is just different. I also think that Autism is a label to explain a group of behaviors that seem atypical to social norms. While some therapies can help an individual increase the ability to talk or decrease the amount of self-harming behaviors, many of the symptoms of Autism are not something that can be or should be fixed. One might also argue some of the characteristic traits of an autistic individual are what make them unique and can often be a strength if viewed as such.
Q: Why is the number of people with autism growing?
A: The number of people with autism has been increasing over the years, which can be explained by more knowledge about Autism, more knowledge about the different signs, and earlier and better screening by pediatricians.
Some of early signs of autism include:
- Delays in development
- A delay in speech
- Failure to use eye contact
- Engage in repetitive behaviors such as lining up objects, repeating the same failures, or having to follow the same routine
The Center for Disease Control has more resources for signs and symptoms and the Autism Navigator has a library of videos to help individuals notice some early signs.
Q: What help is available to support people with autism so they can live their fullest life?
There are several types of therapies to support an autistic individual live their fullest life. These include:
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech and Language Therapy
- Applied Behavior Analysis or ABA Therapy
- Individual therapy and/or Counseling
One of the evidence-based treatments for autistic individuals who struggle with anxiety or depression is known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It is important to know that the focus of CBT and individual therapy is reduction in emotional distress associated with anxiety or depression. CBT will not target reduction in Autism or autistic symptoms. CBT is a structured, goal directed approach that focused on how thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes affect feelings and actions.