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| Autism Autism is an umbrella term for a wide spectrum of disorders referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) or Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). They are a group of neurobiological disorders that affect a child's ability to interact, communicate, relate, play, imagine, and learn. These disorders not only affect how the brain develops and works, but may be related to immunological, gastrointestinal, and metabolic problems. The term spectrum is important in understanding autism because of the wide range of intensity, symptoms and behaviors, types of disorders, and considerable individual variation. A child with ASD may have a striking lack of interest and ability to interact, limited ability to communicate, and show repetitive behaviors and distress over changes, as in the case of many with classic autism. On the other end of the spectrum are children with a high functioning form of autism who may have unusual social, language and play skills, as in Asperger Syndrome. Signs and symptoms begin in early childhood, often within the first year of life. Research has shown that the earlier the diagnosis is made, the earlier treatment can be initiated. The earlier that therapy is begun, the better the outcome for the child. The four core areas of deficit are (1) social interaction, (2) communication, (3) repetitive behaviors and restricted interests, (4) regulatory and sensory systems. Mind Matters Clinics services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder include:
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