AUTISM
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals communicate, interact socially, and process information. It is characterized by challenges in social interaction, difficulties with verbal and non-verbal communication, and the presence of restricted, repetitive behaviors or interests.
ASD varies widely in its presentation and severity, making it a "spectrum" disorder. Each individual with autism has a unique combination of strengths and challenges, which can impact their daily life, relationships, and ability to navigate different environments.
Accurate diagnosis and understanding of autism are essential for providing tailored support, interventions, and resources to help individuals reach their full potential.
How can Dr. DeSantis & Associates help?
Dr. Danielle DeSantis has extensive experience helping individuals navigate the challenges associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Over the years, she has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in diverse settings, including hospitals, schools, colleges, mental health clinics, community agencies, residential facilities, private practices, and even in-home environments. Dr. DeSantis & Associates specialize in providing accurate, comprehensive evaluations and connecting individuals with the resources they need to thrive and reach their full potential.
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder is typically identified in early childhood, often before the age of three. Parents and educators may notice signs such as developmental delays, restricted and repetitive behaviors, difficulty with transitions, avoidance of peers, or challenges with communication. These observations are important, but it takes a thorough evaluation to determine whether these symptoms are related to ASD or another condition.
Accurate diagnosis is a complex process that requires time and expertise. At Dr. DeSantis & Associates, we guide families through every step of this journey, ensuring a clear and precise understanding of the individual’s needs.
ASD in Adults
Adults often come to us with longstanding questions about their experiences. Many report recognizing symptoms earlier in life but were never tested as children and have faced challenges as a result. With greater awareness of ASD, these individuals are now seeking answers and validation. We provide comprehensive testing for adults to help confirm or rule out a diagnosis, offering clarity and direction for future steps.
Why Testing Matters
A diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder can open the door to vital support and resources, including:
Development of 504 plans or Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) for academic success.
Access to workplace accommodations and disability services.
Creation of targeted treatment plans to address unique needs.
Beyond practical benefits, a clear diagnosis can be deeply validating, offering a sense of understanding and relief. Without an accurate diagnosis, it can be challenging to access appropriate treatment and resources, which may leave individuals and families feeling uncertain and unsupported.
At Dr. DeSantis & Associates, we are committed to helping individuals and families gain the clarity they need to move forward with confidence and the support they deserve.
Some facts about Autism:
Prevalence: Approximately 1 in 44 children has been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), based on estimates from the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network.
Gender Differences: ASD is more than four times more common in boys than in girls, highlighting a notable gender disparity in diagnoses.
Developmental Disabilities: About 1 in 6 children (17%) aged 3–17 years were diagnosed with a developmental disability during the study period from 2009–2017, as reported by parents. These conditions include autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), blindness, cerebral palsy, and others.
Request an Autism Evaluation
Autism testing is provided by a licensed clinical psychologist, and the tests administered by our team are considered the current gold-standard within our field, which meets DSM-V clinical criteria for an official diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
These tests are extensive, and can help to avoid misdiagnosis, or even correct a past misdiagnosis.
Note: Pricing for services can vary depending on insurance coverage or our self pay option. Dr. DeSantis & Associates will work with you to provide the options that best fit your individual circumstances.
Having Doubts? An Alternative to Testing:
For many reasons—cost, time commitment, uncertainty of symptoms—a full comprehensive evaluation for Autism Spectrum Disorder may not be the first step for you, or may not be an option at this time. For this reason, we have introduced an Autism Pre-Screen for Adults & Children for $44.99.
This short assessment consists of twenty-one (21) multiple-choice questions about your or your child’s past and current behaviors, and can determine if you or your child exhibit many of the traits which are associated with undiagnosed ASD.