Autism Spectrum Disorder

Adult and Child Psychiatrist in San Diego, California

Autism Services offered in San Diego, CA

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can have effects on children and adults that range from mild to severe. If you worry your child might have ASD, visit experienced psychiatrist Sanjoy Sathpathy, MD, and his team at So Cal Psychiatric Care in San Diego, California. The team offers comprehensive treatments to support people of all ages with ASD and improve their quality of life.

Autism Spectrum Disorder Q&A

What is autism spectrum disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) causes children and adults difficulties with social interactions and communication. Some have mild impairments, while others suffer from severe disabilities, which is why the condition has a spectrum.

Some children and adults have high-functioning autism (Asperger’s syndrome). This condition shares many similar traits, such as not understanding facial expressions and lacking social skills.

However, many people with high-functioning autism manage to fit in with society and are often extremely intelligent. They can learn to imitate expected behaviors even when they don’t understand them.

What symptoms does autism spectrum disorder cause?

ASD can cause various problems, and your child might experience some or many of them to varying degrees. Common ASD behaviors include:

Problems making eye contact
Not responding to their name
Struggling with back-and-forth conversation
Facial expressions and gestures that don’t match the situation
Problems understanding other people’s facial expressions and actions
Repeating certain phrases and behaviors
Having intense interests in limited topics
Inability to learn and remember details
Distress at slight changes in routine
Increased sensitivity to light, sound, or touch

Symptoms can be contradictory, though. For example, some children are less sensitive to light, sound, or touch.

Many children who don’t have ASD sometimes exhibit these symptoms, so it can be hard to tell without an expert assessment and diagnosis at So Cal Psychiatric Care. Early intervention enables children with ASD to access vital services and treatment.

How is autism spectrum disorder treated?

ASD isn’t an illness that needs curing. Autism is a part of your child’s unique makeup, and they often have remarkable gifts alongside challenges to navigate.

The So Cal Psychiatric Care team focuses on helping your child manage the problems they encounter in daily life. Behavioral and other forms of talk therapy can often help autistic children understand their differences and, in many cases, celebrate them.

The team has considerable experience in helping people of all ages affected by ASD to live more rewarding, happier lives. Wherever you or your child is on the autism spectrum, you can both benefit from expert therapies and ongoing support.