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WRITTEN BY: Tammy C. Perez, M.A., NCC, LCDC, LPC

REVIEWED BY: Dr. Terry Schroeder on April 18, 2023

Autism

 

What is Autism?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. This condition is categorized as a spectrum disorder due to the varying individual symptoms and severity.

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Autism is commonly detected in childhood. Some individuals, though, may not be diagnosed until they are adults. Although there is no cure for autism, early intervention and therapy can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with the disorder.

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What causes Autism?

The specific cause of autism is not known but research has indicated that it may result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

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Certain genetic mutations and variations may increase the risk of developing autism. Additionally, differences in brain development and function have also been observed in individuals with the condition.

Environmental factors, such as exposure to chemicals or toxins during pregnancy or early childhood, may increase the risk of autism. Other factors, such as maternal illness or infection during pregnancy, may also be linked to its development.

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Research confirms autism is a complex disorder rooted in multiple causes and is not the result of negative upbringing, vaccinations, or other social factors.

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What are the symptoms of Autism?

Symptoms of autism vary widely between individuals. Common signs and symptoms of the condition include difficulty with social interactions, communication issues, repetitive behaviors, narrow or intense interests, sensory sensitivities, and problems with change.

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Those with autism may struggle to make eye contact, understand nonverbal communication, or respond appropriately to social cues. They may have language issues involving speech development delays or a lack of language communication. Also, they frequently engage in repetitive behaviors such as hand-flapping, spinning, or rocking. Additionally, they may become highly fixated on specific topics or activities and need help shifting their focus to other things. Being highly sensitive to differing sounds, lights, textures, or smells has also been observed.

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How is Autism treated?

Autism treatment plans consist of a combination of therapies and interventions developed for each individual's specific symptoms and may evolve as needs change. Treatment for autism includes behavioral therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and medication.

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Behavioral therapy focuses on changing specific behaviors and teaching new skills to people with autism. Examples include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) treatment, which uses positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors, and social skills training, which helps those with autism learn social cues and improve their communication skills.

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Speech therapy focuses on improving communication skills, including language, articulation, and social communication. It can help individuals with autism learn to communicate more effectively, express their needs and desires, and interact more successfully with others.

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Occupational therapy helps develop skills necessary for daily living, such as fine motor skills, sensory processing, and self-regulation. Occupational therapy can also help those with autism manage anxiety, improve focus and attention, and develop coping strategies.

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Although no medications can cure autism, some may help manage symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or hyperactivity.

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How does Autism affect brain health?

Research has shown that individuals with autism have structural and functional differences in some regions of their brains compared to neurotypical individuals. The amygdala, a part of the brain that plays a role in processing emotions, was shown to be more prominent in those with autism. Additionally, studies suggest that the connectivity between different brain regions may be dissimilar in people with autism.

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Abnormalities in the production and regulation of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which can affect brain function and behavior, have also been observed.

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The relationship between autism and brain health is complex, and researchers are still determining its effect on the brain. Additionally, not all individuals with autism will have the same brain differences or experience the same symptoms, as autism is a spectrum disorder with a wide range of symptoms and severity.

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How can Brain Frequency™ help?

The Brain Frequency™ AI system is an innovative therapeutic approach to improving brain health and wellness. We use proprietary science-based technology to promote optimal brain functioning across mental, emotional, physical, and social domains. Our diagnostic technology and individualized treatment protocols help decrease or eliminate trauma-related symptoms and various mental health disorders.

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The Brain Frequency™ 3 Step Treatment Process consists of; first, performing a Baseline EEG and completing Psychometric Assessments; second, conducting a Brain Frequency Consultation; and third, Initiating Treatment.

An Electroencephalogram (EEG) analyzes brain waves and produces a brain map identifying current and optimal frequencies in 19 areas of the brain. Based on the individualized brain map, Brain Frequency™ will determine possible diagnoses of various mental health disorders or brain trauma for the provider to consider during treatment. Brain Frequency™ AI software provides clinicians with an "Approval Ready" treatment plan using personalized protocols based on each patient's needs.

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Those suffering from symptoms of autism can efficiently and effectively improve their brain health and wellness by using the Brain Frequency™ AI system. Our innovative system drastically reduces the time needed to properly diagnose and construct treatment plans leading to a faster recovery and greater quality of life.

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RESOURCES

 

Substance Abuse & Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/

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Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA): https://www.hrsa.gov/

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National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): https://www.nimh.nih.gov/

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Center For Disease Control & Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/


American Psychological Association (APA): https://www.apa.org/

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National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.nih.gov/

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National Suicide Prevention Line: https://988lifeline.org/

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National Library of Medicine: https://medlineplus.gov/

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Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/

 

WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/ 

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