Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), often simply called autism, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and processes information about the world around them.

ASD is considered a spectrum because individuals may experience symptoms in different ways and at varying levels of support needs.

In 2013, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) combined several previously separate diagnoses into one diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder. These earlier diagnostic categories included:

• Autistic Disorder

• Asperger Syndrome

• Pervasive Developmental Disorder–Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

• Childhood Disintegrative Disorder

Today, these conditions are understood as part of a single autism spectrum diagnosis.

Signs and Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism typically begins in early childhood, although some individuals are diagnosed later in adolescence or adulthood. Symptoms can affect daily functioning at school, work, and in relationships.

Common characteristics of autism fall into two main areas: social communication differences and behavioral patterns.

Social Communication Differences

Many individuals with autism experience differences in social communication and social interaction, including:

• Difficulty maintaining eye contact

• Challenges understanding facial expressions, tone of voice, or sarcasm

• Trouble recognizing or expressing emotions

• Feeling overwhelmed in social environments

• Difficulty understanding personal space

• Limited or delayed speech (approximately one-third of autistic individuals are minimally verbal or nonverbal)

Behavioral and Sensory Patterns

Autism may also involve patterns of behavior or interests that are repetitive or highly focused.

Examples may include:

• Repetitive body movements such as rocking, hand-flapping, or spinning

• Repeating actions with objects (pressing buttons, flipping switches)

• Strong interest in specific topics or activities

• Lining up toys or organizing objects in a particular way

• Difficulty adjusting to changes in routines

• Sensory sensitivities such as fascination with lights or moving objects

Every autistic individual is unique, and not everyone will experience all of these characteristics.

Does My Child Need an Autism Evaluation?

Parents often seek an evaluation when they notice differences in their child’s communication, behavior, or social interaction.

You may want to consider an autism evaluation if your child:

• struggles with social interaction

• has delayed language development

• shows repetitive behaviors

• has intense interests or sensory sensitivities

• has difficulty adapting to changes in routine

A comprehensive psychological evaluation can help determine whether autism or another developmental condition may be present.

How Is Autism Spectrum Disorder Evaluated?

Autism evaluations are comprehensive assessments designed to understand a child’s developmental profile, strengths, and support needs.

At Grace Psychological Services, autism evaluations typically include:

• clinical interviews with parents or caregivers

• developmental history review

• behavioral observations

• standardized psychological testing, including examining strengths and weaknesses in cognitive processing areas

• input from multiple sources when appropriate

Dr. Grace Reyes-McDonald has specialized training in autism assessment and is trained to administer the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2), which is considered part of the gold-standard assessment tools for autism. Another valuable tool that is used particularly for high-masking individuals is the Monteiro Interview Guidelines for Diagnosing the Autism Spectrum, Second Edition, a neuro-affirming, strengths-based diagnostic tool used by clinicians to assess autism across the lifespan.

Research indicates that effective autism assessment should:

• consider the child’s developmental history

• gather information from multiple sources

• include standardized assessment tools

• evaluate functioning across different environments

What Autism Services are Available?

Grace Psychological Services offers several services to support individuals with autism and their families, including:

• Comprehensive autism evaluations

• Psychological and psychoeducational testing

• Counseling and support services

Our goal is to help individuals and families gain a clearer understanding of strengths, challenges, and appropriate supports.

Who Provides Autism Services?

Autism evaluations and related services are provided by trained clinicians at Grace Psychological Services.

Dr. Grace Reyes-McDonald, PhD, LP, SP

Dr. Reyes-McDonald is a bilingual (English-Spanish) Licensed Psychologist and School Psychologist with specialized training in the evaluation of autism spectrum disorder and other developmental conditions.

Autism Evaluations in The Woodlands and Greater Houston

Grace Psychological Services provides autism evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults in:

• The Woodlands

• Spring, Texas

• Conroe, Texas

• The Greater Houston area

• Great Texas via virtual evaluations

How to Schedule an Autism Evaluation

If you have concerns about autism or would like to schedule an evaluation, our team is happy to help.

We can answer your questions, discuss the evaluation process, and help determine the next steps for your child or family.

Contact Grace Psychological Services today to learn more about autism assessment services and schedule an appointment. We offer ASD services for residents of Spring, The Woodlands, Conroe, the Greater Houston Area, and all surrounding communities.

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