Autism Spectrum Disorder: Where to start?

Brain Care
Written By Brain Care

When a child receives a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), parents embark on a journey that can feel overwhelming, confusing, and at times isolating. As a parent navigating this path, you're not alone. According to recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, approximately 1 in 100 Australians lives with autism spectrum disorder, with the condition affecting people across all walks of life.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person perceives and interacts with the world around them. The term "spectrum" acknowledges the wide range of experiences, strengths, and challenges that individuals with ASD may have. No two children with autism are exactly alike, just as no two children without autism are exactly alike. In Australia, ASD is diagnosed based on characteristics in two main areas:

  • Differences in social communication and interaction

  • Restricted or repetitive behaviours, interests, or activities

These characteristics typically appear in early childhood, though they may not be recognised until later, particularly in cases where the presentation is more subtle. Australian diagnostic rates show a gender difference, with approximately four males diagnosed for every female. However, growing research suggests this disparity may reflect diagnostic biases rather than actual prevalence, as autism may present differently in girls, often leading to missed or delayed diagnoses.

The path to an autism diagnosis typically begins with concerns about a child's development or behaviour. If you notice signs that concern you, your first step is usually to consult your GP or maternal and child health nurse, who may refer you to a paediatrician. A comprehensive autism assessment typically involves a multidisciplinary team, which may include a paediatrician, psychologist, speech pathologist, and occupational therapist.

Medicare provides rebates for some of these services through the Chronic Disease Management Plan or Better Access to Mental Health initiative, though out-of-pocket costs can still be substantial.

Support for Individuals with Autism or ASD

Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can trigger a wide range of emotions. Many parents describe feelings of grief, relief, fear, or uncertainty—sometimes all at once. This emotional response is normal and valid. The diagnosis represents a significant shift in how you may have envisioned your child's future, and it takes time to process this change. A trauma-informed approach to parenting a child with ASD recognises that both diagnosis and the ongoing challenges can be emotionally taxing for parents. Self-care isn't a luxury but a necessity. Parents can access support through:

  • Parent support groups run by state autism associations

  • Psychology sessions through Medicare's Mental Health Care Plan

  • Online communities connecting families

  • Respite care services through the NDIS or state-based programmes

Building resilience as a parent involves acknowledging your emotions, seeking support when needed, celebrating small victories, and developing realistic expectations. Remember that your wellbeing directly impacts your capacity to support your child effectively.

Psychological interventions play a crucial role in supporting children with autism spectrum disorder. These approaches focus on developing skills, managing emotions, and improving quality of life. Several evidence-based psychological interventions have shown promising results.

Psychological interventions for Autism and ASD

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy is one of the most well-researched psychological interventions for children with ASD, particularly for managing anxiety and depression, which commonly co-occur with autism. The Autism CRC (Cooperative Research Centre) has identified CBT as an effective intervention with moderate to strong evidence supporting its use. CBT for children with autism typically involves:

  • Explaining the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours

  • Identifying anxiety-provoking situations

  • Developing coping strategies and relaxation techniques

  • Gradual exposure to challenging situations

  • Problem-solving skills development

Mindfulness practices help children with autism develop awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations without judgment. These approaches can be particularly helpful for managing anxiety and improving attention, including strategies to:

  • Recognise emotional states earlier

  • Develop calming strategies

  • Improve focus and attention

  • Reduce reactivity to sensory stimuli

  • Build emotional regulation skills

Psychologists often use tools like emotion thermometers, visual schedules, and social stories to support the development of these skills.

Social Skills Development: Social communication differences are a core characteristic of autism spectrum disorder. Psychological approaches to developing social skills include:

  • Structured social skills groups

  • Video modelling

  • Social stories and comic strip conversations

  • Peer-mediated interventions

  • Play-based therapy

  • Art therapy

These interventions are often delivered by psychologists in collaboration with speech pathologists, occupational therapists, and educators to ensure skills generalise across different environments.

While psychological interventions form a crucial component of support, they often work best as part of a comprehensive approach. Several evidence-based models used incorporate psychological principles alongside other therapeutic techniques.

Positive Behaviour Support and Early Childhood Intervention

Behavioural approaches focus on understanding the function of behaviours and teaching new skills through structured learning opportunities. These include:

  • Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA): Systematic teaching of skills through reinforcement

  • Positive Behaviour Support (PBS): Creating supportive environments and teaching alternative behaviours

  • Early Intensive Behavioural Intervention (EIBI): Comprehensive early intervention using behavioural principles

These approaches incorporate psychological elements such as reinforcement, motivation, and understanding the relationship between environment and behaviour. 

The NDIS also provides individualised funding for reasonable and necessary supports for eligible Australians with permanent and significant disability, including autism spectrum disorder. For children under 7, the Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) pathway provides access to the NDIS. Psychological supports that may be funded through the NDIS include:

  • Individual therapy sessions with psychologists

  • Group-based social skills programmes

  • Parent training and education

  • Behaviour support planning

  • Emotional regulation programmes

The NDIS takes a person-centred approach, meaning that supports should be tailored to the individual needs and goals of each child and family. For updated information, please visit the NDIS website.

Medicare-Funded Options

Medicare provides rebates for some psychological services through:

  • Mental Health Care Plans: Providing up to 10 subsidised sessions with a psychologist per calendar year

  • Chronic Disease Management Plans: Allowing access to allied health professionals

  • Helping Children with Autism Program: Providing Medicare rebates for diagnosis and early intervention

These options can be particularly valuable for families waiting for NDIS access or those who don't meet NDIS eligibility criteria.

Looking at the future

As children with autism spectrum disorder grow and develop, their needs and the psychological supports they require will evolve. Transitions between life stages require particular attention and planning. Australia's first National Autism Strategy, launched in 2023, aims to improve outcomes for individuals with autism across education, employment, health, and community participation. This represents a significant step forward in recognising the importance of lifelong support.

Supporting a child with autism spectrum disorder involves understanding their unique profile of strengths and challenges, accessing appropriate interventions, and creating environments where they can thrive. Psychological approaches offer valuable tools for developing emotional regulation, social understanding, and coping strategies.

The journey of parenting a child with autism has its challenges, but it also brings opportunities for growth, connection, and advocacy. By understanding the Australian support landscape and connecting with the vibrant autism community across our country, you can build a network that sustains both you and your child.

Brain Care offers a range of assessments and therapeutic interventions for Austism and ASD. If your child is diagnosed with Autism or you suspect they might be, contact our psychology clinic in Tweed Heads, where counselling is available for children, teens, adults, couples and families. Often the first step is the hardest, but Brain Care is here to support you through the rest of your journey.

Resources and References

National Organisations

State-Based Autism Associations

Mental Health Support

  • Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

  • Lifeline: 13 11 14

  • Parentline: 1300 30 1300

  • SANE Australia: 1800 18 7263

 

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