People with autism spectrum disorder and Asperger’s have several areas of vulnerability, including:

  • Difficulties with social interaction, especially with peers
  • Rigid, inflexible thinking and behavior
  • Difficulties with language and social communication, especially conversation
  • Difficulties with emotional regulation

Autism, high functioning autism, Asperger’s Disorder, or Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD-NOS) are specific forms of autism spectrum disorder. At the NeuroDevelopment Center, we think of autism spectrum disorders as a kind of learning disability. In our view, the unusual behaviors in autism spectrum disorder are attempts to manage a world that often feels overwhelming due to difficulties in the brain in processing social, sensory, and emotional experience. There are effective treatments, but it is essential to start with a thorough specialized evaluation, as soon as possible.

You have come to the right place for help with autism spectrum disorder and Aspergers. We have decades of experience.

Assessment

Kids with autism spectrum disorder and Aspergers are not all alike. Some may behave and interact well with an interested adult in a quiet office. We have seen many kids with autism spectrum disorder or Aspergers misdiagnosed or unrecognized for years. Parents and teachers are left in the dark and the child does not get the help he needs. We have even some adults with Aspergers disorder whose struggles were never understood. At the NeuroDevelopment Center, you will have our long experience with autism spectrum disorder and Aspergers to help you understand your child’s struggles. We will use specialized tests that are designed to measure social and emotional functioning compared to typically developing peers. Learn more.

Treatment

There are many ways you can help your child. You are your child’s main guide in life. With family therapy, you can build your skills to help your child stay calm, become more flexible, and interact better with peers and adults. Individual therapy for your child can also help. Through school consultation, our team may be able to assist your child’s teachers. We also offer social groups, community based social coaching, and a summer day camp for kids with autism spectrum disorder and Aspergers. Research and our experience with many kids has shown neurofeedback to be very helpful to individuals with autism spectrum disorder and Aspergers. Learn more.

Parenting a child with autism spectrum disorder

mother and son autism spectrum disorderIt’s not easy to raise children with autism spectrum disorder. They are in their own world much of the time. They do not really connect with you, or seek or even accept your guidance and care.  They can be rigid and tense. Most have frequent meltdowns.  Even though you may understand that these difficulties come from autism spectrum disorder, there may be times when you find yourself sad, frustrated, angry, and guilty. Often parents disagree on how to handle the challenges associated with raising a child with autism spectrum disorder. Many parents feel isolated and alone. You surely worry about the future.

We can help. We will work together with you in family therapy so that you can use the many opportunities in your daily life with your child to help him learn to connect with you and others, become more flexible, and to stay calm and cope with life.  We will also help you to better manage the stress of parenting and to maintain a strong partnership and supportive social network.  Learn more.

 

Difficulties, yes. But wondrous talents too.

Many individuals with  autism spectrum disorder have very special abilities, in music, art, math, mechanical understanding. Several of our clients are artistically inclined and have pursued art from very early ages. Below are just a few examples of their work:
Contact us!

It's easy to get started on your path forward.

Contact us!