Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism awareness colors and symbols - heart

Autism Spectrum Disorders

Specializing in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), we have an understanding of the unique challenges experienced by those with ASD, as well as that of their siblings and parents. We work together with every member of the family to increase stability, create a strong sibling alliance, provide parental support and assist the ASD individual with their individual needs. We also have experience in helping with challenges that often show up alongside autism, such as social and general anxiety, social skills deficits, depression, sensory issues and social communication disorder. We work with all ages, ranging from young toddlers to adults.

We are passionate about helping individuals with autism spectrum disorders be able to function in the world to their fullest potential. This comes from a place of very personal of experience, enhanced by our professional experience. Put simply, we get what you are going through. By meeting each family right where they are—from diagnosis to adulthood, and everywhere in between—we are able to provide a specific treatment plan, unique to each individual.

Play Therapy for Children with Autism

Overall, autism tends to fall into the area of social-communication disorder. Children often have difficulty relating to others, especially peers, in a way that is deemed typical. Instead, they become focused on objects and can become entirely self-absorbed in their own play. When another child enters into their space, they are often unsure how to relate.

Play therapy is a wonderful tool, and, when used with a child on the autism spectrum, it allows them to experience shared interactions and move outside of their own space. This also teaches them how to share a real interaction with another person and enhances their relationships with siblings, parents, other adults, and peers. Play therapy allows a child to explore their feelings and environment, while learning skills that can be transitioned into other environments such as home, school and other settings.

Pre-Teen and Teens with Autism

Counseling can be very helpful for pre-teens and teens with autism spectrum disorders. Teens are going through many physical and emotional changes, while their peers are speeding ahead. This can leave them feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed and misunderstood, which leads to difficulty coping. We often use real life video clips in the home and school settings showing the right and wrong way to approach a multitude of situations. This can include using clues in a conversation, voice tone, approaching a group, being stuck on one thought or object, and many others. We use these videos to build upon lessons and conversations held in counseling. We have found the pre-teens and teens with ASD that we work with have had a profound amount of growth in social situations using this method.

If you are a parent faced with the challenges of raising a pre-teen or teen with ASD, the counselors at Amy Wine Counseling can work with both you and your child to improve social skills, learn new ways of coping and enrich your family life.

If you have any questions about Amy Wine Counseling and our therapeutic services feel free to call us at 832-421-8714 or contact us here.