Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a widespread neurological disorder that involves two main symptoms. First, and perhaps most obviously, people with ASD demonstrate impairment in social communication and interaction. Second, they exhibit restrictive, repetitive patterns of behavior. Because these two categories of symptoms are so broad, ASD is often misdiagnosed and sometimes not diagnosed at all. This is why finding a quality autism spectrum disorder treatment center with effective therapy programs is so important.
Additionally, the prevalence of ASD is rising in the U.S., where according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in every 59 children has the condition. That’s close to two percent of all children. This same study correctly indicates that ASD can be diagnosed as early as 18 months old and that intervening when children are young can significantly improve functioning.
If you or someone you care about is managing ASD, it is worth reaching out to a professional facility. And Camp Worth’s autism spectrum disorder treatment center in Ft. Worth, TX, is a great place to start. Contact us at 855.915.2545 today for more information.
How Can an Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment Center Help?
Treatment centers are an invaluable resource to members of the ASD community and their families, providing help, support, and even critical life skills training that will benefit someone forever. The main goal of autism spectrum disorder treatment is to maximize a person’s ability to function in day-to-day life by working to minimize ASD symptoms and supporting development through applied learning, therapies, and skills training. ASD treatment centers have high rates of success with early intervention, and program alumni thrive in life despite their diagnosis.
However, if left untreated, autism can impact and limit a child’s life. Without the right care and support, children will not develop or learn social and other important life skills and may act or speak in problematic ways. Very few people recover from ASD without some sort of intervention; it is vital to look into treatment options following a diagnosis of autism or seek a professional diagnosis if you suspect it.
Diagnosis at an ASD Treatment Center
Even at a top-tier facility like our autism spectrum disorder treatment center in Ft. Worth, TX, ASD diagnosis can be complicated. There is not, for instance, a single, conclusive clinical test to determine whether an individual has ASD. But among the approaches the specialists at our autism spectrum disorder treatment center may utilize are the following:
- Observing your child’s social behaviors
- A functional behavioral assessment
- Asking for a detailed history of your child’s communication skills, behavior, and approach to social interaction
- Have your child participate in constructed social and communication interactions and observe the results
- Utilize the criteria for ASD laid out in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th Edition(DSM V)
These are only a few of the diagnostic tools that we use. We may also consult other specialists or, in rare cases, even recommend genetic testing for your child.
Treatment at an ASD Treatment Center
There is no cure for ASD. There is evidence, however, that early intervention can significantly improve the development of your child. In this sense, the earlier we catch the condition, the better. There are several potential approaches to treatment. At Camp Worth’s autism spectrum disorder treatment center in Ft. Worth, TX, we use the following:
- Animal-assisted therapy
- Recreational therapy
- Medication management
- Individual therapy
- Family counseling
- Social skills groups
- Functional skills training
- Functional communication training
We also offer education services as mandated by the state of Texas so that your child can reach their social and educational goals, as well as a food and nutrition program. And one of the pillars of our autism spectrum disorder treatment center is parent training and involvement.
Discover the Effective Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment Programs at Camp Worth
If you are concerned for your child, there are many steps you can take right now. First, you can be honest in your assessment of their behaviors. Do they act out behaviorally or have trouble socializing with other children? Whatever their age, it is worth reaching out to a quality autism spectrum disorder treatment center.
And at the Camp Worth autism spectrum disorder treatment center in Ft. Worth, TX, our behavioral therapists are waiting to take your call. Contact us online using our convenient, secure form or by calling 855.915.2545. Help is just around the corner.