Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder characterised by challenges in social communication and the presence of restricted, repetitive behaviours. The symptoms and severity of this order varies for each person, and the term “spectrum” reflects this wide variation among the affected individuals.
In young children, ASD often manifests as behavioural problems, lack of social skills, or learning disabilities. Child autism therapy equips children with skills to tackle learning, social communication, emotions and anxiety.
Prevalence and Recognition
Globally, the prevalence of ASD has been increasing. It has been estimated that in 2021, nearly 62 million individuals were on the autism spectrum worldwide. The global age-standardised prevalence was 788 per 100,000 people, with higher rates observed in males (1,064 per 100,000) compared to females (508 per 100,000).
In Australia, the prevalence of autism has also risen. In 2022, there were 290,900 (1.1%) Autistic Australians, a 41.8% increase from the 205,200 (0.8%) reported in 2018. Autism prevalence was higher for males (1.6%) than females (0.7%) and higher for people aged under 25 years (3.1%) compared to those aged 25 years and over (0.3%).
Source: abs.gov.au
This increase is attributed to heightened awareness, improved diagnostic criteria, and better access to assessment services.
Research indicates that early intervention can be crucial for children with ASD. Seeking autism treatment therapy from a young age could significantly improve communication, social skills, and adaptive behaviours. Several studies support that early intervention positively impacts the development of young children with ASD. Early intervention services are particularly important for children experiencing selective mutism, as they play a vital role in supporting their social, emotional, and behavioural development. Several studies support that early intervention positively impacts the development of young children with ASD.
One notable early intervention approach is the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), which integrates behavioural and developmental principles to enhance learning in young children with ASD. Research has demonstrated that children receiving ESDM therapy show significant improvements in IQ, adaptive functioning, and communication skills compared to those receiving standard community interventions.
Additionally, psychologists utilise social stories, emotion regulation strategies, parental resources, school supports and EMDR to help address fears and anxieties.
Limited Eye Contact
Reduced Response to Name
Delayed Speech and Language Skills
Difficulty with Back-and-Forth (Social) Conversations
Challenges in Understanding Nonverbal Cues
We utilise evidence-based techniques to address behavioural challenges and promote positive behaviours. and EMDR for fears and anxieties
We implement structured programs to support developmental milestones and enhance social, communication, and cognitive skills.
We offer individual and family counselling to navigate the emotional aspects of ASD and strengthen family dynamics, providing valuable Parental Training and support
We can liaise with schools to provide holistic support
We conduct group and individual sessions to develop essential social competencies, such as initiating interactions, understanding social cues, and building friendships.
Our autism assessments provide thorough evaluations to diagnose ASD and identify co-occurring conditions, providing a holistic understanding of each child's unique profile.
We utilise evidence-based techniques to address behavioural challenges and promote positive behaviours. and EMDR for fears and anxieties
We implement structured programs to support developmental milestones and enhance social, communication, and cognitive skills.
We offer individual and family counselling to navigate the emotional aspects of ASD and strengthen family dynamics, providing valuable Parental Training and support
We can liaise with schools to provide holistic support
We conduct group and individual sessions to develop essential social competencies, such as initiating interactions, understanding social cues, and building friendships.
Our autism assessments provide thorough evaluations to diagnose ASD and identify co-occurring conditions, providing a holistic understanding of each child's unique profile.
At Brave Little Heroes Psychology Hub, we believe every child is on a journey to discover their unique superpowers.