Autism Counseling

Main Types of Autism

 

Autism describes a wide range of neurodevelopmental disorders. Understanding the challenges that are presented by each type of autism is an important part of treatment. There are five major types of autism:

 

• Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger’s syndrome)

• Rett syndrome

• Childhood disintegrative disorder

• Kanner’s syndrome

• Pervasive developmental disorder 

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Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger’s Syndrome)

 

This type of autism is usually represented by social challenges and unusual behaviors and interests. Patients typically have above average intelligence but experience issues with social communication, including difficulty interacting with peers whether at school, home, or in the workplace. 

 

Rett Syndrome

 

Comparatively rare, this neurodevelopmental disorder can affect loss of movement and coordination as well as challenges with communicating and speech.

 

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)

 

This type of autism is shown in a delayed onset of developmental problems after the age of 3 and up to the age of 10; social and adaptive behaviors as well as acquired languages and some motor skills may be lost.

 

Kanner’s Syndrome

 

This type of autistic disorder usually is indicated in childhood with a lack of emotional attachment, communication and interaction issues, and learning difficulties.

 

Pervasive Developmental Disorder 

 

Sometimes referred to as “atypical autism,” or PDD-NOS, patients usually have fewer and milder symptoms that can cause social and communication challenges. In children, there may be delays in language, walking, and motor skills.
 

 

How Autism is Treated

 

Depending on the type of autism, treatment varies. However, from assisting autism spectrum diagnosis to behavioral and communication therapies, social and language therapies, educational therapies, and family therapies, designed to help families and caregivers cope with autism diagnosis and assistance, are all available. 

 

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is used to help children successfully reach positive goals and guide them in distinguishing and understanding negative behaviors.

 

A parent or caregiver will ideally also learn to assist in participation with real-life social situations. Among the most popular forms of ABA therapy are:  

 

• Discrete Trial Training

• Pivotal Response Training

• Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention

• The Early State Denver Model

• Incidental Training

• Relationship Development Intervention

 

Another type of therapy available for patients on the autism spectrum and their loved ones, RDI focuses on social behaviors, with certain goals set for the child. Parents or caregivers attend a workshop to learn about this type of therapy and get professional feedback. 

 

• Sensory Integration Therapy

 

This therapy focuses on improving sensitivities to sensory stimuli overwhelming to the patient, such as loud sounds, bright lights, or physical touch. 

 

• Communication Interventions

 

Without good communication skills, patients may experience frustration and misunderstandings that cause undesirable behavior as a response. This type of therapy teaches communication skills in a variety of different techniques from modeling to tutoring.
 

 

Learn More About Autism and Autism Treatment

If you would like to know more about autism itself, treatment for autism, and how we can help at San Antonio Authentic Counseling, please reach out to us today!