What Are the Treatment Options for ASD?

Autism is a lifelong condition – there is no ‘cure’, however by understanding what is going on, your child will be able to receive the support they need to thrive.

Types of support available

Working with therapists, like psychologists, family therapists, speech and language therapists and occupational therapists, you and your child can learn key coping skills that can really help overcome some of the challenges those with autism face.

The following are types of therapy that can have a significant impact on your child’s quality of life.

• Social skills training
• Communication skills training
• Speech and Language therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Educational support
• CBT
• Family therapy
• Family therapy
• Medication for comorbid conditions, like ADHD

The impact of seeking support for ASD

Engaging in some therapy for you, your child or even your whole family can have considerable benefits to all. It can be very stressful managing challenging behaviours – working with an expert family therapist can help alleviate stress and give you effective skills that can make family life much more settled.

Children’s brains have an amazing capacity to learn, so many families are amazed with the amount a child can learn through social and communication skills sessions (with a psychologist, psychotherapist or other therapist trained and experienced in ASD). The great thing is, these skills can last a lifetime and are a real investment in their future.

Every child will struggle with different things and at different times – what works for one won’t necessarily work for another. Finding a therapist who is able to adopt a flexible approach to working with your child is key.

Download our Autism assessment guide

Some children will benefit from medication that can help with anxiety, conduct disorders or depression. It’s best practice to start with psychosocial interventions first and to make sure your child is receiving the right level of educational support.

Dr Geeta Krishnan

MBBS, MRCPsych, DPM

Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist

Manchester

Dr Geeta Krishnan is a highly competent Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist who works for North West Boroughs Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, previously Lead Consultant for her Borough in Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust. Dr Krishnan has...