Autism Spectrum Disorder

(ASD): Child and Adult

ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Each individual with ASD is unique, and early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

When Might an Autism Assessment Be Considered:

• People may seek assessment or diagnostic clarification because of longstanding differences involving:
• Social communication and reciprocal interaction
• Understanding or navigating social relationships
• Preference for routine, predictability or sameness
• Highly focused or specific interests
• Sensory sensitivities or sensory-seeking behaviours
• Difficulty adapting to unexpected change
• Social or emotional overwhelm
• Masking or compensating in social environments
• Difficulties that become more apparent as social, academic, occupational or relationship demands increase
• Each individual with ASD is unique and may exhibit different symptoms. The presence of these features does not necessarily mean that a person has autism.

Autism, ADHD & Mental Health:

• Autism can occur alongside ADHD, anxiety, depression and other psychiatric or neurodevelopmental conditions. There can also be considerable overlap in areas such as executive functioning, emotional regulation, sensory experiences and social difficulties.
• Careful diagnostic formulation is therefore important when several conditions may contribute to an individual's presentation.

How is ASD diagnosed:

• ASD is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation that includes clinical interviews, assessment tools, and behaviour observations.
• In children and adolescents, assessment considers development across home, school and social environments. Information from parents or carers, teachers, school reports, psychologists and allied-health professionals may contribute to understanding the young person's developmental profile.
• Some autistic adults may not have been identified during childhood, particularly where they have developed strategies to compensate for or mask their difficulties. Assessment may explore longstanding patterns of social functioning, relationships, sensory experiences, routines, interests, emotional regulation and the strategies an individual has developed to navigate everyday demands.

Treatment options:

• Intervention from various allied health professionals: Psychologist, Speech pathologist, and Occupational therapist for discipline-specific assessment and intervention. Depending on individual needs, one might also require input/support from a Dietitian and Physiotherapist. Early intervention is crucial for better outcomes.

Can adults have ASD?

• Yes, adults can be diagnosed with ASD. Some may not receive a diagnosis until later in life, especially if their symptoms were mild or overlooked during childhood.

Make an appointment today

At Attilan Psychiatry, we understand that seeking help is a significant step towards better mental health. Whether you need clarification on our services or are ready to schedule an assessment, our team is here to support you.

To get an appointment, we will need a referral from your GP to initiate the triage.

Autism and neurodevelopmental psychiatric assessments are available face-to-face at Attilan Psychiatry in Brisbane. Telehealth appointments are also available where clinically appropriate.

Make an appointment today to take the first step towards a healthier mind.