Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Autism spectrum disorders can cause significant challenges with communication and social interaction, but help is available. The providers at Sulcata Psychiatry provide personalized treatment for children, teens, and adults with autism at Sulcata Psychiatry in the greater Houston, Texas area.
We provide in-office testing administered by a Masters prepared Diagnostician using the ADOS-2, which is the standard for evaluating Autism in all ages. Results from this testing are evaluated by Stoni Johnston, APRN, PMHNP-BC to formulate accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations. For patient-centered autism treatment, call the office today or request an appointment online.
About Autism
What is autism?
Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects behavior, communication, and interaction with other people. Autism is a developmental disorder because the symptoms usually appear by age two.
It’s called a spectrum disorder because of the wide range of symptoms and severity people with autism experience. Conditions that used to be considered separate, such as Asperger’s syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder, are now part of the autism spectrum.
Although there’s no cure for autism, early treatment can make a major difference in your child’s life. At Sulcata Psychiatry, our providers make connecting with her patients a priority, ensuring the highest degree of personalized care.
What are the signs and symptoms of autism?
People with autism spectrum disorder often struggle with social, emotional, and communication skills. They may repeat actions or words over and over again and resist even the slightest change in their normal routine. Many people with autism have different ways of learning, paying attention, and reacting to things.
Signs of autism usually begin during early childhood and last throughout life. Because each person with autism has a unique mixture of symptoms, it’s important to get an evaluation from a professional like the providers at Sulcata Psychiatry. We have extensive experience working with children and adolescents and take the time to understand your child’s needs.
How is autism diagnosed and treated?
At Sulcata Psychiatry, our providers work with children ages three and older, but your child may already have an autism diagnosis by age two. Your first visit involves a thorough psychiatric evaluation, which may include Cognitive Testing or Academic & Achievement Testing to further understand how your child thinks and learns.
Our providers work with you and your child as a team, making sure you receive the support, resources, and education you need to successfully manage autism symptoms. Treatment is highly individualized, as no two people experience autism the same way.
Depending on your child’s needs, treatment may include:
- Medication
- Psychotherapy
- Behavioral therapy - such as Applied Behavioral Analysis
- Educational therapy and Parenting Interventions
- School Accommodation Evaluation and Recommendation
In-office pharmacogenetic testing with Genomind® can help our providers determine the best medication for you. They may also recommend changes regarding nutrition, sleep habits, exercise, and relaxation techniques like yoga.
For compassionate full spectrum care of autism disorder, call Sulcata Psychiatry or request an appointment online today.
