Autism

Autism

Navigating Autism with Insight, Empathy, and Strategy

Autism

Navigating Autism with Insight, Empathy, and Strategy

Autism2025-07-28T14:42:46-04:00

Understanding Autism

Signs vary. Struggles differ. Support matters.

Autism Spectrum Disorder isn’t a one-size-fits-all diagnosis - it affects individuals in deeply personal and varied ways. Whether it’s challenges with social connection, communication, emotional regulation, or adapting to change, autism can shape how a person experiences the world. At Lifegrowth, we specialize in identifying and supporting those differences through comprehensive evaluations and customized treatment plans. With decades of experience, our team walks alongside children, adults, and families to build connection, confidence, and lifelong skills.

“What are the signs of autism in adults? What are the early signs of autism in children?”

“What are the signs of autism in adults? What are the early signs of autism in children?”

Autism Manifests Differently in Every Individual
Autism is a spectrum, meaning symptoms and experiences vary widely. While some individuals struggle with rigidity—feeling there is only one correct way to do things—others experience high anxiety when required to adapt to new situations. In some cases, autism is manifest in perseveration, where a person becomes intensely focused on a single topic or idea. Gender plays a role in how autism shows up, too. Males often exhibit more noticeable social difficulties, while females may experience a persistent feeling of being different or misunderstood.

Autism Can Overlap with Other Conditions
Many symptoms of autism resemble those of ADHD, learning disabilities, and processing disorders. In some cases, symptoms of anxiety, depression, or trauma can mimic autism, leading to misdiagnosis. Because of these complexities, accurate diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation. At Lifegrowth, we assess executive functioning, social skills, and emotional well-being to ensure that each individual receives a personalized treatment approach targeting the true root of their challenges.

Autism Treatment is Individualized, Not One-Size-Fits-All
There is no single approach to autism treatment—it must be customized based on each individual’s needs. Our process starts with a thorough evaluation, including psychological testing, to identify the root causes of symptoms. Some adults or children may benefit from social skills training to improve relationships, while others need support in handling change and developing flexibility in their thinking. Executive functioning challenges—such as black-and-white thinking, organization, and problem-solving—are often addressed, with a focus on learning strategies that encourage adaptability and growth.

How Does Lifegrowth Help?

At Lifegrowth, we have over 40 years of combined experience in helping individuals and families cope with the unique challenges of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Parents, we understand the broad needs your child has from social and school to family dynamics and we match treatment and parental support with the unique personality and needs of your child. Adults, you can count on comprehensive support for your unique needs.

Whether its social skills, relationships, building tolerance for change or perspective-taking, we will help you build confidence, meaningful relationships, and improve your quality of life.

Common Autism symptoms we treat include:

  • Difficulty with social communication and interaction

  • Restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests

  • Different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention

  • Sensory sensitivities

  • Deficits in inductive reasoning

Frequently Asked Questions

How does autism affect employment and workplace interactions?2025-05-09T12:02:33-04:00

Workplace interactions can be tricky for autistic individuals, such as difficulty with social interactions, adapting to changes, or managing sensory sensitivities. Workplace accommodations, such as clear communication, predictable routines, and sensory-friendly environments can help autistic employees be highly productive, especially in roles that emphasize attention to detail or problem-solving.

What challenges do autistic adults face in relationships and social interactions?2025-05-09T12:02:46-04:00

Autistic adults may struggle with interpreting social cues, maintaining conversations, or understanding unwritten social rules. This can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, but with the right strategies, meaningful relationships are absolutely possible.

What accommodations can schools provide for autistic students?2025-07-25T15:22:46-04:00

The accommodations a child needs are going to be specific to their unique blend of challenges. Your therapist can work with you and your child’s school to tailor accommodations to their specific needs.

What are the early signs of autism in children?2025-05-09T12:03:21-04:00

Because autism is on a spectrum from severe cognitive and functional deficits to high functioning, these signs can vary significantly. Low functioning autism is usually easy to identify due to significant verbal, social, and cognitive impairment. High functioning autism can be trickier, as the child may function well in many areas. Early signs of high functioning autism are lack of social responsiveness or difficulties with social interactions, high rigidity and resistance to change, and getting “stuck” on topics or behaviors are common. Sensory difficulties and “odd” behaviors such as walking on tip toes, hand flapping, or rocking are also sometimes present.

Can autism develop later in life, or is it always present from childhood?2025-05-09T12:03:40-04:00

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that is present from early childhood.

Our Trained Counselors

At Lifegrowth, our counselors are highly trained professionals with expertise in Autism across all age groups. They use evidence-based approaches to help clients understand and manage their Autism effectively. With ongoing training and a commitment to personalized care, our team provides tailored strategies to address each client’s unique needs, fostering resilience and confidence.

  • Courtney Cavett, LAPC

    Boyertown, PA Office

  • Carla Bidwell, LPC

    Boyertown, PA Office

  • Jonathan Ambrose, LPC

    Boyertown, PA Office

Resources for Autism

External Resources

Reading

  • ​1001 Great Ideas for Teaching and Raising a Child With Autism by Veronica Zysk and Ellen Notbohm

  • Autism Life Skills by​ Chantal Sicile-Kira

  • Changing the Course of Autism: A Scientific Approach for Parents and Physicians by Bryan Jepson

Note: The resources and information on this page are meant for general information purposes only. Lifegrowth is not responsible for the information or claims made by these resources.

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