The Autism Spectrum

Autism Spectrum is a catch all phrase covering a wide range of related issues. Common ones would be

• Difficulty with communication and interaction with other people
• Restricted interests and repetitive behaviours
• Symptoms that impair the person’s ability to function properly in school, work, and other areas of life

Symptoms can overlap with other mental health conditions resulting in anxiety, or ADHD as examples. The correct diagnosis enables the right pathways of treatment and support to be developed with the service user and professional guidance.

Our area of expertise covers the provision of behavioural, psychological, educational, and skill-building interventions. These structured programmes are thorough, demanding and may involve parents, siblings, and other family members and friends. The aims are to:

• Learn and maintain the life-skills necessary to live independently
• Reduce challenging behaviours and self-recognise these
• Increase or build upon strengths
• Create and maintain social, communication, and language skills

Asperger’s Syndrome is a specific part of Autism, whilst the effect upon learning may be less, difficulties such as anxiety and feeling overwhelmed require specialist support. Those with Asperger Syndrome may wish to be alone, not feeling able, or able to cope with others, or manage communication. Their behaviours may seem unusual to others, making them socially inept and so become isolated, and friendless.

Sufferers may prefer a repetitive life, avoiding change and ensuring predictability, sticking with a set routine such as the way they go to work or a place of learning. They can live life with a keen focus on one subject and with help, build a meaningful and valued life around this. This focus can be fundamental to their overall wellbeing and happiness.