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Autism Spectrum Disorder

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, processes information, experiences the world, and relates to others. Autism is not a disease and not something anyone “causes.” It is a natural variation in brain wiring and comes with strengths as well as challenges.


Biologically, autism is associated with differences in brain development, sensory processing, and communication pathways. Genetics play a major role, and many autistic traits run in families.

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Psychologically, autistic individuals often think and experience the world differently than neurotypical people. They may have unique communication styles, sensory needs, special interests, or routines that help them regulate. Difficulties often arise not from autism itself, but from stress, misunderstanding, sensory overload, or expectations that don’t match the person’s needs.


Autism exists on a spectrum—every autistic person is unique. Many live fulfilling, successful lives with the right support.

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What Are the Symptoms?

Symptoms vary widely from person to person. Common signs include:

  • Difficulty with social communication

  • Challenges reading social cues or body language

  • Preference for routines or predictability

  • Intense interests or focus on specific topics

  • Sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, or crowds

  • Repetitive movements or behaviors (stimming)

  • Difficulty with change or transitions

  • Differences in speech—delayed, monotone, or highly advanced​

Some autistic individuals also experience anxiety, ADHD, sensory processing issues, depression, or sleep disturbances.
Autism is not something to be “fixed” — it is a way of being.

How Are Autism Treated?

Autism is not treated by trying to remove autistic traits. Instead, treatment focuses on helping each person thrive and feel comfortable in their skin.

Therapy

  • Supportive therapy

  • Social skills training, if helpful

  • Emotional regulation strategies

  • Coping tools for sensory overload or anxiety

  • Parent or caregiver guidance for children

  • Identity-affirming, neurodiversity-respecting care
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Medication

  • Anxiety (SSRI’s, SNRI’s, Buspirone, TCA’s)

  • Irritability or mood swings (SSRI’s, SNRI’s, Atypical Antipsychotics)

  • ADHD symptoms (Stimulant and Non-Stimulant options)

  • Sleep problems (Melatonin, Sedating Antidepressants, Hypnotics)

  • Depression (SSRI’s, SNRI’s, Wellbutrin, Trintellix)
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Lifestyle & Support

  • Sensory accommodations

  • Routine and structure

  • Support with school or workplace accommodations

  • Peer support or autism-affirming communities

  • Occupational or speech therapy when helpful
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Advanced Treatment Options

  • Combination therapy and medication

  • Coordination with pediatricians, schools, or specialists

  • Referral for neuropsychological testing if needed
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How We Can Help at Better Balance Mental Health

We provide neurodiversity-affirming, respectful care for autistic individuals. We do not view autism as a problem to solve, but as a unique way of experiencing the world. We listen without judgment, move at your pace, and work with your strengths not against them.


Whether you are newly diagnosed, seeking evaluation, struggling with anxiety or depression, or simply looking for support, we are here to help. We collaborate on a plan that feels safe, comfortable, and empowering. We never pressure medication or try to “change” who you are.


Our goal is to help autistic individuals and families feel understood, supported, and confident. You don’t have to navigate this alone — we are here to support you every step of the way.

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