It is estimated that 1 in 68 children in the United States are affected by autism (from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – CDC). Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is a group of developmental disabilities that can result in a range of social, communication and behavioral challenges. Early intervention can help decrease difficulties and support the development of new skills. At the UWSHC, we provide individual or group services to assist people in meeting their communication potential.
Social situations may be difficult for us all at times but for some children and adults it is an ongoing, chronic issue caused by a social (pragmatic) communication disorder.
In 2013, the Diagnostic and Treatment Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition included a new diagnosis called social (pragmatic) communication disorder. This communication disorder describes individuals who, despite normal cognition, have significant problems using verbal and nonverbal communication for social purposes, leading to impairments in their ability to effectively communicate, participate socially, maintain social relationships, or otherwise perform academically or occupationally. This disorder may have some overlap with autism spectrum disorders but does not include some ASD behaviors (e.g., restricted or repetitive patterns).
We offer individual assessment to pinpoint aspects of communication that interfere with successful communication and offer strategies to promote communication.