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CHILDREN • ADULTS • FAMILIES
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ATTENTION-DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER
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ANXIETY
ANXIETY
ANXIETY
AUTISM
Understanding
Autism in Children
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Symptoms of
Autism in Children
AUTISM
Physical symptoms
Autism often appears in the way children move or respond to their environment. You might notice repetitive movements, like hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning, which children often use to self-soothe or express excitement. Many children with autism have sensory sensitivities—they may be bothered by certain clothing textures, foods, or loud noises. Sleep can also be a challenge, with difficulties falling or staying asleep.
Coordination may be affected, making tasks like handwriting, sports, or other motor skills harder to manage. Children may also respond to pain or temperature in unusual ways, either overreacting or seeming not to notice sensations that would bother most children.
Emotional & Mental
Children with autism often experience emotions very intensely. Even small changes to routines or daily schedules can feel overwhelming, leading to distress or meltdowns. Social interactions can be exhausting because children must work hard to understand facial expressions, tone of voice, and unwritten social rules that others navigate naturally. Anxiety is common, especially in unfamiliar or unpredictable situations, and children may feel pressure to hide their natural behaviors to fit in.
This can lead to frustration, sadness, or withdrawal. At the same time, when children are engaged in their special interests, they often show remarkable focus, creativity, and talent, demonstrating strengths that are unique to their way of thinking.
When to seek an evaluation
Consider seeking an evaluation if your child consistently struggles with daily life, school, or social situations. Signs may include difficulty making friends or maintaining relationships, intense reactions to changes in routine, or becoming easily overwhelmed by sensory input such as loud sounds or certain textures. Regular meltdowns, emotional distress, or challenges with communication and learning can also indicate the need for support.
Early evaluation can help you understand your child’s unique needs, access appropriate support, and develop strategies for success at school, home, and in social settings. Understanding your child’s neurotype can be life-changing, helping them feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
What is Autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how children communicate, process sensory information, and interact with others. It is a lifelong difference that usually appears in early childhood, though it may look different for every child. Some children are diagnosed early, while others may not be recognized until later, especially if they’ve learned to mask their traits.
Children with autism often have strong interests in specific topics, prefer predictable routines, and may respond to sensory experiences differently than their peers. These differences can affect daily life, school, friendships, and family routines. With understanding, guidance, and support, children with autism can thrive and reach their full potential.
Common forms of Autism in Children
Autistic Disorder: Children may have significant challenges with communication and social interaction. They may develop language later than typical peers, have very focused interests, and find social situations difficult. Many children with this form of autism benefit from ongoing support in everyday activities.
Asperger’s Syndrome: Children with Asperger’s usually develop language on time and may have average or above-average intelligence. Social subtleties like understanding jokes, facial expressions, or conversation cues can be challenging. They often excel in their areas of interest but may need guidance navigating social situations.
What are the root causes of Autism?
Autism is a neurological condition that affects how children think, communicate, and experience the world. While it may look different in each child, research shows that genetics are the main factor—if one child in a family has autism, siblings are more likely to be autistic. There isn’t a single “autism gene”; it’s the result of many genes interacting together.
Environmental factors during pregnancy may also play a role, such as older parental age, certain pregnancy complications, or prenatal infections.
ATTENTION-DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER
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Gold-standard
Evaluation framework
Complementary consultation
Your child’s autism assessment begins with a comprehensive consultation, either over the phone, online, or in person, where parents and children can share their experiences openly. Our evaluations focus on understanding how your child communicates, processes sensory information, and behaves in different situations. This includes exploring social interactions, responses to changes in routine, and engagement with specific interests or activities.
For many children, participating in an assessment from a familiar environment either at home or in a comfortable clinic setting helps them feel at ease. Being relaxed often allows children to show their natural behaviors, making the assessment more accurate and meaningful.
Clinical Assessment
If initial screening suggests autism, we move on to a detailed clinical assessment. This step involves looking closely at your child’s medical and family history, early development, social and communication experiences, sensory preferences, and daily routines. Using the DSM-5 criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ADOS-2, ADR-I) Your senior clinician will evaluate behaviors and patterns that may not have been noticed before, building a complete picture of your child’s strengths, challenges, and needs.
Autism can look different in each child, depending on age, personality, and environment.
Parents often notice traits in their children that may also reflect traits in themselves. Our goal is to provide clarity and understanding, helping families make sense of behaviors that may have felt confusing or challenging, while using recognized clinical guidelines to ensure an accurate, thorough assessment.
Diagnostic Report and further recommendations
After the assessment, you will also receive a full clinical report, outlining the assessment results, your clinician’s observations, and how your child’s profile aligns with DSM-5 criteria. This report includes practical recommendations tailored to your child’s needs at home, in school, and in social settings. Your clinician will also walk you the findings and explain whether your child meets the criteria for autism. For many families, this brings relief and a clearer understanding of their child’s experiences.
We approach autism as a neurological difference, not a condition requiring treatment. Our focus shifts to identifying practical adjustments that can improve daily functioning and quality of life. whether that’s sensory adjustments, communication supports, or simple changes in routines. We also highlight your child’s strengths and help you build on them, giving them the skills and confidence to navigate learning environments and daily life more comfortably.
AUTISM
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Speak with your dedicated care navigator in an initial consultation where we focus on understanding your unique situation and gather essential information.
Free consultation
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Via the client portal, You'll be matched with a Nuvirtis clinician who specializes in exactly what your child needs.
Appointment scheduling
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Choose between our virtual, hybrid or in-person assessment pathways - based on what suits your family best.
Choose desired pathway
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Begin the assessment process. Our clinicians use proven tools such as ADOS-2, ADI-R, and adhere strictly to the diagnostic guidelines set out by the DSM-5.
Begin assessment
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Assessment
Initial
Connect with your provider via online video conference to talk about your concerns, discuss your goals, and receive a comprehensive clinical diagnosis.
Three in four parents say their child's assessment lifted the weight of uncertainty off their shoulders.
Build the confidence they'll carry forever.
Measurable results your whole family feels.
Client satisfaction isn't just a goal - it's what drives every decision we make.
Frequently asked questions
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