Early Intervention is aMust.
More and more children are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders in recent years. Despite many professionals' efforts, the cause of autism is complex and we still do not the way to cure or prevent ASD in children. At this time, what we do know is that early intervention is a must. I believe it is very important for children with ASD to get early diagnosis and intervention while their brains are actively developing and changing.
When I worked as a mental health counselor for social skills kindergarten/preschool, I met many families with children with developmental concerns. It was one of my jobs to find the right support for the family and children, so the children can thrive and reach their highest potential possible. I saw many positive changes in children with ASD at the Social Skills Kindergarten/preschool and discovered how early intervention benefits all children, especially those with ASD.
Great Family Resource about Autism Spectrum Disorders-Autism Speaks. org
Assessment Facilities
Who can make an appropriate diagnosis? There are pediatricians with little knowledge of ASD who may dismiss the parents' concern very easily.... Some psychiatrists give ASD diagnosis too easily after seeing a child briefly. I think it is best if your child be seen by several specialists to get an appropriate assessment; with a medical doctor (often psychiatrist or neurologist), a speech therapist, an occupational therapist and a psychologist. The followings are facilities that provide comprehensive assessment and treatment in Puget Sound Area.
- UW Autism Center
Center on Human Development and Disability
Box357920, University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195
(206)221-6806
- Autism Center Tacoma Satellite
Cherry Parkes Building, 1900 Commerce Street
Box 358455, University of Washington Tacoma, WA 98402
Phone: 253-692-4721
Fax: 253-692-4718
Art Therapy and people with ASD
After getting an appropriate diagnosis, you will follow through the treatment recommendations made by the assessment team. Some of the assessment facilities also provide treatment for your child to follow. You will provide the treatment recommendation to your child's school and his/her school will develop an Individual Educational Plan (IEP). As all professionals agree, every one with ASD diagnosis is very unique and distinct. There is no stereotype treatment that can be used for all people with ASD diagnosis. If you or your child likes art and can express himself/herself visually, art therapy may be beneficial. The followings are goals that we can work on during art therapy sessions.
- Sensory Regulation and Integration
- Emotional
and Self Expression
- Imagination/Abstract Thinking
- Social Skill Development through Groups
- Leisure/Recreation Skills and Self Esteem Issues
I will ask for the treatment recommendations from the diagnosis team and coordinate with other providers, such as home based therapist, speech therapist, occupational therapist and/or school. I can support you and your child to gain the maximum result from Art Therapy.
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