Autism

Autism services offered in Charlotte, NC

If your child experiences developmental delays, social awkwardness, ongoing communication problems, or other signs of autism spectrum disorder, occupational therapist Aaron Cockburn and the providers at A Grade Therapy in Charlotte, North Carolina, offer thorough evaluations and individualized help. Kids of all ages can get vital help to thrive at home, school, or in personal relationships. To learn more about autism and how your child can benefit from seeing a caring professional in the comfort of a familiar environment, schedule an in-home or virtual appointment by phone today.

Autism Q & A

What is autism?

There’s a lot of misinformation about autism and its symptoms, but autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a range of complex developmental conditions that impact how your child behaves, learns, interacts, and communicates. Children and adults with autism have subtle differences in their brains that affect them to varying degrees.

Autism usually appears before age 3, although it may not be diagnosed until much later, and it’s a lifelong part of who a person is.

What are the symptoms of autism?

Children with autism may exhibit a wide range of symptoms, including struggles with:

Communication

Understanding others’ emotions and communicating appropriately in response might be difficult for individuals with autism. This can make it more challenging to express themselves effectively through facial expressions, gestures, and words.

Learning

Your child may develop skills at an uneven rate compared to their peers. For example, you may notice your child struggles with communicating certain things but has an excellent memory or talent for music, math, art, or analysis.

Change

Individuals with autism may be more unsettled than others during life transitions or when changing their daily routine.

Sensory stimulation

Your child may be more or less sensitive than their peers to sensory input like sound, their clothing’s texture, lights, or temperature.

Focus

Being intensely focused on specific topics of interest can be another tell-tale symptom of autism.

As scientists learn more about autism, providers can diagnose more children at an earlier age. Early intervention helps children with autism experience improved development, which may pave the way for less frustration and greater thriving into adulthood.

How can therapy help with autism?

A Grade Therapy offers in-home or virtual visits, so you and your child never have to leave the familiarity of your space. After a thorough evaluation, Aaron identifies areas where therapy can benefit your child and provides a personalized therapy plan.

Therapy can address the following: