Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interactions. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and vary widely from person to person. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment can significantly improve the quality of life and help individuals with autism reach their full potential.

Dr. Marc Heiser specializes in diagnosing and managing autism in both children and adults, providing compassionate care and tailored treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs.

Symptoms of Autism

Autism symptoms usually appear in early childhood but can sometimes go undiagnosed until later. Common signs include:

Social and Communication Challenges:

• Difficulty making eye contact or understanding nonverbal cues.
• Challenges in starting or maintaining conversations.
• Limited interest in forming friendships.

Repetitive Behaviors and Routines:

• Repeating certain actions or phrases.
• Intense focus on specific interests or topics.
• Strong need for routines and difficulty adapting to change.

Sensory Sensitivities:

• Over- or under-reactivity to sounds, lights, textures, or smells.
• Difficulty managing sensory overload in busy environments.

If you or your child is experiencing several of these symptoms, a professional evaluation may be beneficial.

Comprehensive Autism Evaluation

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Dr. Heiser’s evaluation process includes:

• Clinical Interviews: To gather detailed information about developmental history and symptoms.
• Standardized Assessments: Such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
• Behavioral Observations: To assess social, communication, and behavioral patterns.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Dr. Heiser develops individualized treatment plans to support communication, behavior management, and daily functioning, which may include:

• Behavioral Therapy: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to develop social skills and manage challenging behaviors.
• Medication Management: Prescribing medications if necessary to manage co-occurring symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, or attention difficulties.
• Social Skills Training: Teaching practical skills for communication, emotional regulation, and peer interactions.
• Parental Support and Education: Providing resources and guidance to help families support their loved ones with autism effectively.

• Ketamine Therapy: For managing severe anxiety or depression that can accompany autism.

Ongoing Support and Care

Managing autism is an ongoing process that requires regular monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans. Dr. Heiser works closely with patients and their families to ensure continuous progress and support throughout the journey.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of autism, help is available. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Marc Heiser and take the first step towards a more fulfilling and connected life.

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