Neurodivergence & Autism Clinic — Pediatric & Adults
We offer full diagnostic assessment for autism and treatment with our skilled clinical team.
Research shows that early diagnosis and interventions, such as during preschool or before, are more likely to have major positive effects on symptoms and later skills. Because there can be overlap in symptoms between ASD and other disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), it's important that treatment focus on a person's specific needs, rather than the diagnostic label.
With that being said, intervention at any age can increase the likelihood that someone will live a more successful and happier life. That's what we want for ourselves and our loved ones.
The most effective therapies and interventions are often different for each person. However, most people with ASD respond best to highly structured and specialized programs. In some cases, treatment can greatly reduce symptoms and help people with autism with daily activities.
Here is what we do to help those along the ASD spectrum:
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Cognitive Behavioral Structured Therapy
Does this sound like you or a loved one?
Communication Concerns
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Struggles to identify his/her name or identify the self
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Struggles with expressing what he/she wants
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Doesn't follow directions
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Seems to hear sometimes, but not other times
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Doesn't greet or say good-bye or struggles to engage in normal social communication cues
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Used to say a few words or babble, but now does not (for very young kids)
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Struggles with variation of language
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Difficulty understanding facial expression or nonverbal cues
Social Behaviors
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Struggles with social cues
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Struggles with use sarcasm, humor, abstract language
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Doesn't smile when smiled at
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Has poor eye contact
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Seems to prefer to play alone
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Gets things for him/herself only
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Is very independent for his/her age
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Seems to be in his/her "own world"
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Seems to tune people out
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Is not interested in other children
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Doesn't point out interesting objects by 14 months of age
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Doesn't like to play "peek-a-boo"
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Doesn't try to attract his/her parent's attention
Stuckness
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Insistence on routines and schedules
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Strong reaction to changes
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Overly intense focus on specific interests or hobbies
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Gets "stuck" doing the same things over and over and can't move on to other things
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Shows unusual attachments to toys, objects, or routines (for example, always holding a string or having to put on socks before pants)
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Spends a lot of time lining things up or putting things in a certain order
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Repeats words or phrases (sometimes called echolalia [pronounced ek-oh-LAY-lee-uh])
Other Behaviors
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Doesn't play "make believe" or pretend by 18 months of age
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Has odd movement patterns
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Doesn't know how to play with toys
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Does things "early" compared to other children
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Walks on his/her toes
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Struggles to understand own emotions or emotions of others
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Doesn't imitate silly faces
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Seems to stare at nothing or wander around with no purpose
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Throws intense or violent tantrums
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Is overly active, uncooperative,
or resistant -
Seems overly sensitive to noise (e.g., struggle with crowds or loud noises)
Specialists on our Team
Our team of autism specialists at PBH is highly trained in providing evidence-based therapies tailored to individuals across the autism spectrum.
With a deep understanding of the unique challenges and strengths of each client, our clinicians offer compassionate, individualized care designed to foster communication, social connection, and personal growth.
