What is Autism Spectrum Disorder and Occupational Therapy?

The neurological disorder known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is typified by difficulties with communication, social interaction, and repetitive activities. It often presents in early childhood and affects each individual differently, with a wide range of strengths and support needs. Early intervention and consistent therapeutic support are key to enhancing functioning and quality of life.

Psychowellness Center, a leading mental health care provider in West Delhi, offers specialized, evidence-based Occupational Therapy (OT) for individuals with Autism. Their dedicated team of occupational therapists works collaboratively with children and families to develop personalized strategies that promote independence and developmental growth.

Occupational Therapy focuses on improving daily life skills, sensory integration, and motor coordination. At Psychowellness Center, therapy goes beyond addressing delays, emphasizing meaningful engagement, emotional well-being, and functional independence. People with autism can succeed in their social, intellectual, and personal lives with a methodical and caring approach.

Signs and Symptoms

ASD varies widely in symptoms and severity. Key characteristics often fall under three broad areas:

Social Communication and Interaction Difficulties
• Limited eye contact
• Difficulty understanding social cues or body language
• Delayed or absent speech development
• Challenges with back-and-forth conversations
• Preference for solitary play
Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests
• Repetitive movements (e.g., hand-flapping, spinning)
• Insistence on sameness or routines
• intense concentration on a single subject or item
Sensitivities to sounds, lighting, and textures, for example

1. Other Associated Symptoms
  • Delayed motor milestones
  • Difficulty with transitions or changes
  • Unusual responses to sensory input (e.g., hypo- or hypersensitivity)
  • Tantrums or meltdowns due to overstimulation or frustration

Types of Autism

While the DSM-5 groups autism under a single diagnosis (ASD), individuals can vary in the level of support required:

Level 1 (Requiring Support):
Mild behavioral and social communication issues; capable of functioning on their own with little assistance.

Level 2 (Requiring Substantial Support):
Marked deficits in verbal and nonverbal communication, and inflexible behaviors that interfere with functioning.

Level 3 (Requiring Very Substantial Support):
severe difficulties with social contact, communication, and adaptive functioning; needs a lot of help.

Causes and Risk Factors

Although the exact origins of autism are still unknown, research suggests that a mix of environmental and genetic variables may be responsible:

Biological and Genetic Factors
• Genetic mutations or hereditary traits
• Brain development differences (e.g., neural connectivity)

Prenatal and Perinatal Factors
• Advanced parental age at conception
• Exposure to toxins or infections during pregnancy
• Low birth weight or premature birth

Environmental Influences
• Vaccines are not supported by any evidence.
• Early life experiences or environmental stressors may play a contributory role in some cases

OT for Autism

Occupational Therapy helps individuals with ASD improve their ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) and navigate their sensory and social world effectively.

Role of Occupational Therapy in Autism
• Improving gross and fine motor abilities
• Improving self-care routines (e.g., feeding, dressing, toileting)
• Supporting sensory regulation and integration
• Promoting social interaction, play, and classroom involvement
• Building executive functioning skills
How OT Works
Occupational therapists create structured, individualized plans that focus on meaningful goals and functional independence.
Goals of OT Intervention:
• Promote independence in daily life
• Reduce sensory sensitivities and meltdowns
• Improve attention and motor coordination
• Enhance communication through visual and sensory strategies
• Develop coping mechanisms for frustration or transitions

Assessment and Diagnosis

Techniques of Sensory Integration Therapy for Autistic Child — **Clinical Evaluation** • Comprehensive developmental history and behavioral observation • Parent interviews and input from caregivers or teachers
**Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5-TR)** • The existence of limited, repetitive behavioral patterns;
Persistent deficiencies in social communication and interaction • Symptoms must be present in the early developmental period and cause functional impairment
**Screening Tools and Assessments** • Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) • Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) • The M-CHAT, or Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers • Sensory Profile Assessments
**Medical Evaluation** • Hearing and vision tests • Neurological or genetic testing if needed to rule out other conditions

Evidence-based approaches used in OT

Best Child Psychologist in Agra Uttar Pradesh — **Sensory Integration Therapy (SIT)** • Helps children process and respond to sensory input appropriately • Addresses sensory-seeking or sensory-avoidant behaviors
**DIR/Floortime Approach** • Builds emotional connection and communication through play • Fosters developmental milestones through child-led interaction
**TEACCH Method (Structured Teaching)** • makes use of timetables, visual aids, and organized procedures • Increases predictability and reduces anxiety
**Social Skills Training** • Teaches turn-taking, joint attention, and peer interaction • Enhances school readiness and group participation
**Parent and Family Training** • Empowers caregivers with tools to support the child at home • Encourages consistency across environments for better outcomes

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER