Autistic Therapy
Autism is a neurological disorder that interferes with normal development
of reasoning and communication making learning difficult and can lead to
serious behavior problems. Autism has been called the “ultimate learning
disability” because people with autism have great difficulty understanding
both language and social behavior.
Some behaviors may include:
- stares into open areas; doesn't focus on anything specific.
- does not respond to his/her name.
- cannot explain what he/she wants.
- language skills are slow to develop or speech is delayed.
- doesn't follow directions.
- at times, seems to be deaf: tunes other people out.
- doesn't point or wave good-bye.
- doesn't understand the concept of pointing; will look at the pointing hand rather than the object being pointed at.
- used to say a few words or babble, but now he/she doesn't.
- throws intense or violent tantrums.
- has odd movement patterns.
- likes to spin around in a circle.
- likes being in a well-known place.
- hands cover the ears often.
- is overly active, uncooperative, or resistant.
- doesn't know how to play with toys.
- doesn't smile when smiled at.
- has poor eye contact.
- perseveration
- seems to prefer to play alone.
- takes things only for him/herself.
- is very independent for his/her age.
- does things "early" compared with other children.
- seems to be in his/her "own world."
- is not interested in other children.
- dislikes playing pretend.
- walks on his/her toes.
- shows unusual attachments to toys, objects, or schedules (e.g., always holding a string or having to put socks on before pants).
- spends a lot of time stacking objects, lining things up, or putting things in a certain order.
- unconcerned about—or completely oblivious to—nearby dangers (e.g., standing in the middle of a street even if there are cars).
This list is not comprehensive and lists those behaviors generally seen in children, not adults. Additionally, some of these behaviors may exist with or without the others in persons diagnosed with Autism.
Autism Facts:
- 500, 000 to 1,500,000 people in the U.S. have some form of PDD (Pervasive Developmental Disorder)
- 4 to 1 boys
- 2-6 in 1000 births
- One of the most common developmental disabilities
The team at DCH Rehabilitation works with other professionals trained in
this disorder to render the best possible care for your child. If you feel
your child may be autistic, please consult your pediatrician who can refer
you for diagnosis.
Driscoll Children's Hospital is committed to providing service to all children.
Driscoll Children's Rehabilitation and Medical Center
3533 S. Alameda Street
Corpus Christi, Texas 78411
Phone: 694-KIDS (5437)
Fax: (361) 694-4821
Driscoll Children's Hospital is committed to providing service to all children.
To determine if a child qualifies for financial assistance or for support
with insurance pre-authorization, contact Driscoll Children's Hospital’s
Patient Financial Services
at
(361) 694–5111.
Making an Appointment / Referral
A physician prescription or referral is required prior to making an appointment. A referral form can be obtained by calling (361) 694-4533 or (361) 694-6135.Referrals can be faxed to (361) 694-4821
For More Information
To make an appointment or for more information, call (361) 694-KIDS (5437).
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