Understanding Autism: Identification, Support, & Care

When Sarah’s 8-year-old son, Daniel (anonymized), started having daily meltdowns at school, she wasn’t sure where to turn. Teachers described his behavior as “agitated and aggressive,” but Sarah saw something different. Daniel wasn’t trying to be difficult. He was overwhelmed, frustrated, and anxious. After visiting an autism specialist at a nearby clinic, Sarah finally received answers that changed the course of their lives.

What Is Autism?
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, behaves, and interacts with others. According to the CDC, about 1 in 36 children in the United States has been diagnosed with autism. While autism is considered a developmental disability, many individuals with ASD have unique strengths alongside their challenges.

The term “spectrum” means that autism presents differently in each person. Some individuals may have mild difficulties in social situations, while others may experience more significant challenges such as speech delays, difficulty with emotional regulation, or sensory sensitivities.

Common Signs of Autism
Recognizing the signs of autism early can lead to better outcomes through timely intervention. Here are some common symptoms that may indicate a need for evaluation by an autism specialist:

• Difficulty with eye contact
• Delayed speech or language skills
• Repetitive movements (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking)
• Strong reactions to changes in routine
• Limited interest in peers or social interactions
• Intense focus on specific interests
• High levels of frustration or anxiety

In children and adults alike, agitation, aggression, or over-eating may also be coping mechanisms for sensory overload or communication difficulties.

The Role of an Autism Specialist
Autism specialists are professionals trained in the evaluation and treatment of individuals with ASD. At an autism clinic or center, specialists may include psychiatrists, psychologists, speech-language therapists, occupational therapists, and/or behavior analysts.

A comprehensive evaluation may include:

• Standardized diagnostic testing
• Developmental history
• Observation of social and communication behaviors
• Parent and teacher interviews

After the diagnosis, a specialist helps develop a personalized care plan that may involve behavioral therapy, educational support, social skills training, and when appropriate, medication.

Can Medication Help with Autism?
While there is no medication that cures autism, certain medications can help manage associated symptoms such as:

• Irritability and aggression
• Hyperactivity or impulsivity
• Anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Obsessive behaviors
• Over-eating and weight gain

A study published in Pediatrics found that up to 64% of children with ASD are prescribed at least one psychiatric medication to help manage symptoms.

Common medications include:

• Risperidone and aripiprazole for irritability and aggression
• SSRIs for anxiety or repetitive behaviors
• Stimulants or non-stimulants for attention and focus
• Melatonin or other mild sedative for sleep disturbances

​At our Houston-area autism clinic, our board-certified psychiatrists work closely with families to ensure medication decisions are carefully weighed and continually monitored.

Services Offered at an Autism Therapy Clinic
A high-quality autism therapy clinic offers more than just diagnosis. It provides ongoing services tailored to each individual’s needs. These may include:

• Behavioral therapy (ABA) to reduce challenging behaviors and teach life skills
• Occupational therapy to improve coordination, sensory processing, and daily living skills
• Speech therapy to support language and communication
• Social skills groups to build peer relationships
• Parent training to help families support development at home

Clinics that specialize in ASD often also provide services for co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, or developmental delays.  We are happy to refer you to autism therapy centers nearby to manage this aspect of care.  

Emotional Impact on Families
Parents of children with autism often experience high levels of stress. According to Autism Speaks, nearly 1 in 5 parents of children with ASD report symptoms of depression. Accessing the right care early, through a trusted autism specialist or center, can greatly reduce family stress and improve quality of life for everyone involved.

Sarah’s journey with Daniel didn’t end at the diagnosis. Through consistent therapy, a customized treatment plan, and medication for his severe agitation, Daniel began to thrive. His meltdowns became less frequent, and his confidence grew. Sarah credits the team at the local autism clinic for helping her son find his voice.

When to Seek Help
If you or someone you love is showing signs of autism, don’t wait to get help. Early diagnosis and intervention lead to the best outcomes. Whether you’re facing aggression, anxiety, frustration, or uncertainty, a qualified autism specialist can guide you toward the right services and support.

Your Family Psychiatrist: An Autism Clinic You Can Trust
At Your Family Psychiatrist in Houston, Texas, we offer compassionate and evidence-based care for individuals on the autism spectrum. Our clinic provides medication management and referrals for comprehensive services. We understand the emotional and practical challenges of navigating an autism diagnosis.
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Call us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can support your family.