ASD Therapy

Every child with autism has their own set of unique strengths and challenges. Although ASD in and of itself doesn’t require treatment, therapy with a specialist can be beneficial in finding ways to cope with and manage the social, academic, and vocational complications it can present. At Wellington Counseling Group, we work closely with patients who have ASD and their families to help everyone achieve the highest quality of life. To begin, let’s discuss what symptoms can be better managed through therapy for ASD here in Chicago. 

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) relates to specific developmental characteristics of a child’s brain and behavior. These characteristics can impact development throughout the lifespan, particularly the establishment of satisfying interpersonal relationships. As researchers continue to learn more about the physical and cognitive impacts of the disorder, the perception and understanding of ASD have changed. It is now classified as a spectrum disorder. The diagnosis includes other presentations, including what was formerly known as “Asperger syndrome” and pervasive developmental disorders. The idea of a “spectrum” disorder means that people can present with a wide variety of observable characteristics associated with autism, the most common of which include:

• Failure to achieve developmental milestones in early childhood
• Avoiding eye contact
• Difficulty or disinterest in engaging with others
• Difficulty understanding and communicating feelings
• Difficulty establishing or maintaining relationships
• Challenges with social engagement
• Difficulty adapting to changes to routine
• Delayed speech and language skills
• Repetition of words or actions
• Physical compulsions like rocking or flapping
• Sensory issues
• Difficulty understanding non-verbal or gestural communication

While this is by no means an exhaustive list of symptoms associated with ASD, any combination of the above may warrant a conversation with a healthcare specialist about a potential diagnosis.

Therapy for Children With ASD

Autism spectrum disorder can be challenging for both the patient and their family. Counseling can play an essential role in coping with a diagnosis, as well as managing the behaviors it brings to bear. With a disorder that presents as uniquely as ASD, it’s important to find a therapy experience that is just as unique. That’s what Wellington Counseling Group strives to provide for children with ASD seeking therapy in Chicago.

What Counseling for Autism Looks Like at WCG

Depending on the age of the child, our ASD specialists may recommend a diagnostic evaluation to help obtain clarity regarding the diagnosis and symptoms. This helps guide our treatment for those living with ASD. Once this is completed, we’ll begin developing a plan to help the child and their family gain a better understanding of the specific diagnosis and related symptoms.

With permission from the patient and/or patient’s family, our Autism specialists will incorporate outside professionals in the process. This may include educators, speech and language pathologists, occupational therapists, or any number of other adults who play an active role in the patient’s life. This ensures that everyone involved with the patient is strategically working toward the same goals.

Autism spectrum disorder is a life-long challenge with symptoms that change over the course of the patient’s life. As a child gets older, their needs from a Chicago therapist may change. It’s important that you have a counselor or team of counselors helping the patient and their family collaboratively define and assess goals in different areas even after the initial consultation. That’s what Wellington Counseling Group strives to provide for all of our patients and their families.