Autism is a neurobiological disorder characterized by significant difficulties in the areas of socialization and relating, communication, and oftentimes, sensory processing. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), autism is one of the five Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs). In recent years, autism, Asperger’s Disorder, and PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not otherwise specified) have been conceptualized as being on the “autism spectrum.” Asperger’s Disorder is considered to be part of the higher functioning end of the autism spectrum and is characterized by significant difficulties in socialization and difficulties with social communication, with generally typical cognitive development.  A diagnosis of PDD-NOS is appropriate for individuals who do not meet the full criteria for autism but display difficulties in the areas of relating and communicating.

Diagnosis of autism-spectrum disorders has markedly risen over the past 10-15 years, with current estimates of 1 out of every 150 children receiving a diagnosis, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Diagnoses are 4 times more likely in boys than girls. 

There are several “red flags” for autism spectrum disorders in children:

· Inconsistently responding to one’s name

· Inconsistently making or sustaining eye contact

· Delayed verbal and nonverbal language development

· Stereotyped and repetitive behaviors (including: hand-flapping, rocking)

· Displaying a limited range of interests

· Limited play skills, including using toys and objects in unusual ways

For more information on the signs and symptoms of autism spectrum disorders , see: www.autismspeaks.org and www.firstsigns.org.

 

Evaluation of Autism-Spectrum Disorders

There is no medical test to diagnose autism-spectrum disorders.  An accurate diagnosis entails a comprehensive observation of an individual’s social interaction skills, communication skills, and behaviors, as well as a detailed report from the individual’s caregivers or others that interact with him/her on a daily basis.  Dr. Tobing-Puente has many years of experience using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, a highly reliable test for autism.

 

Treatment of Autism-Spectrum Disorders

Treatment for autism spectrum disorders typically involves highly supportive, intensive, and individualized programs that address developing the child’s areas of difficulty.  Oftentimes, a combination of approaches is used for children on the autism spectrum.  There currently is no cure for autism spectrum disorders.

Floortime is a treatment approached developed for children with autism and related disorders of communicating and relating, which was developed by Dr. Stanley Greenspan and Dr. Serena Wieder based on their Developmental, Individual Differences, and Relationship-based (DIR) Model.  Floortime seeks to build upon a child’s capacities using a developmental framework, while acknowledging their individual differences (e.g., sensory processing, visual-motor capacities, etc.).  Using this child-directed approach, therapists and parents aim to join with the child using his/her interests in order to build upon longer and more enhanced interactions.  The child’s sensory regulation is largely considered and addressed.  Dr. Tobing-Puente is a DIR Certificate Candidate, Level II and has received extensive Floortime training by top clinicians in this field.  For more information on Floortime, see www.floortime.org.

 

 

About Autism-Spectrum Disorders

Lauren Tobing-Puente, PhD

Licensed Psychologist Specializing in Children and Families

361 East 19th Street, New York, NY 10003

Phone: (917) 838-9274  Email: services@drtobingpuente.com