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Contact UsAutism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (Autism) is a bio-neurological developmental disability that generally appears before the age of 3. Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in the areas of social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function. Individuals with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. Individuals with autism often suffer from numerous co-morbid medical conditions which may include: allergies, asthma, epilepsy, digestive disorders, persistent viral infections, feeding disorders, sensory integration dysfunction, sleeping disorders, and more.
Autism is diagnosed four times more often in boys than girls. Its prevalence is not affected by race, region, or socio-economic status. Since autism was first diagnosed in the U.S. the incidence has climbed to an alarming one in 36 children in the U.S.. Autism itself does not affect life expectancy, however, research has shown that the mortality risk among individuals with autism is twice as high as the general population, in large part due to drowning and other accidents. Currently there is no cure for autism, though with early intervention and treatment the diverse symptoms related to autism can be greatly improved and in some cases completely overcome.
Facts About Autism
- Autism now affects 1 in 36 children
- Boys are four times more likely to have autism than girls
- About 40% of children with autism do not speak. About 25%–30% of children with autism have some words at 12 to 18 months of age and then lose them. Others might speak, but not until later in childhood
- Autism greatly varies from person to person (no two people with autism are alike)
- The rate of autism has steadily grown over the last twenty years
- Comorbid conditions often associated with autism include Fragile X, allergies, asthma, epilepsy, bowel disease, gastrointestinal/digestive disorders, persistent viral infections, PANDAS, feeding disorders, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, sensory integration dysfunction, sleeping disorders, immune disorders, autoimmune disorders, and neuroinflammation.
- Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder, yet most underfunded
- A 2008 Danish Study found that the mortality risk among those with autism was nearly twice that of the general population
- Children with autism do progress – early intervention is key
Autism is treatable, not a hopeless condition
To schedule an appointment for an initial appointment, please call (702) 240-8639. Our administrative team is ready to answer your phone call Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm. If we are busy assisting other clients or away from our desk, we ask that you leave a message, and we will return your phone call within two business days. You may also reach us via email.
Your first appointment will be with a mental health provider. If you are a child or adolescent, your parent or guardian will be with you during this appointment. During this initial visit, your provider will explain the expectations of treatment and ask questions to get to know you. Your provider will also initiate an extensive Biopsychosocial Diagnostic Interview asking questions about your presenting problems, current living situation, family history, relationship history, medical history, academic/employment history, nutrition, lifestyle, and other pertinent information. This allows your provider to properly diagnose the issues, assess your current needs, and work with you to build an individualized treatment plan for future sessions.
Foundations Counseling Center is in-network with most insurances. Most policies include mental health benefits and pay for services, as long as treatment meets medical necessity. Others cover only a limited amount of sessions. Some insurance policies pay for 100% of the services. Others apply co-pays, co-insurances, and deductibles for services, leaving you financially responsible to pay a portion. Most insurance companies cover all mental health conditions. Others exclude certain diagnoses and certain outpatient services. It is best if you contact your insurance company to learn and understand the benefit details of your insurance coverage.