Share WhatsApp
BOOK NOW

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Updated: July 23, 2022

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that occurs due to differences in the brain, otherwise known as neurodiversity.  Neurodivergent people who are ‘on the spectrum’ will often experience problems with social communication and interaction.  Neurotypical people (that is, those who do not have an ASD) may find it difficult to understand the behaviours of those affected by autism.

Get Help With This

What Is ASD?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a wide array (i.e., a spectrum) of conditions that individuals are born with.  Asperger’s Syndrome is one example of an ASD, and they are normally detected at a young age.

 

Autism is not a disease or illness with a cure, rather it is a difference in the brain and how it works.  If you are on the spectrum, you will be for life, you can however gain support if it is required.  ASDs are characterised by difficulties with things most people take for granted.

 

Like the ability to understand how others may think or feel, difficulties with verbal and non-verbal communication, and social skills.  Those on the spectrum may hold rigid interests, repeat tasks, feel sensitive to light or sound, struggle with unfamiliar situations or social events, and need more time to understand things.

 

Indeed, because autism relates to a difference in the brain, naturally those who are neurodiverse have different needs when it comes to moving, learning, or paying attention.  According to Autism.org.uk, autism affects 1 in 100 people in the United Kingdom today, with an estimated 700, 000 autistic children and adults in the UK.

What Are The Symptoms?

Common Symptoms In Adults:

  • Difficulty understanding what others are thinking or feeling and in expressing feelings
  • Getting very upset if routine is changed, due to preferring a strict routine
  • Struggling with phrases because things are taken literally
  • Experiencing anxiety in social settings
  • Or preferring one’s own company and finding it difficult to make friends.

Less Common Symptoms In Adults:

  • Appearing rude, uninterested, or blunt without intending to
  • Not grasping social etiquette (for example, interrupting people)
  • Avoiding eye contact
  • Getting too physically close to others
  • Taking it badly if others get too close or make physical contact
  • Noticing patterns, small details, smells, or sounds others don’t
  • Being very interested in certain activities and subjects
  • Planning things very carefully before doing them.

Symptoms In Females & Males

Autism is often undiagnosed in girls and women because it can present differently in females and males.  Females generally appear to cope better in social situations, but this is because girls are usually quieter, and often hide their feelings because this is considered ‘normal’.

Symptoms In Older Children

  • Older children may appear to struggle to understand what others are thinking or feeling
  • Find it difficult to express how they feel
  • Get very upset if their routine is changed as they like a strict routine
  • Show a lot of interest in certain activities and subjects
  • Struggle with phrases because they take things literally
  • Become upset when asked to do something
  • Or prefer their own company, and find it difficult to make friends

Symptoms In Young Children

  • Children with autism may avoid eye contact
  • Not smile back when you smile at them
  • Not respond when you call their name
  • Repeat the same phrases or movements (for example, rocking, or finger flicking)
  • React to sounds, smells, or tastes that they do not like in a very upset way
  • Or talk less than other children.

What Causes Autism?

The research suggests that there is no one cause for autism, rather, its development is influenced by the interplay between genes and environment because of how this impacts early brain development.

Genetics: Autism runs in families.  A parent does not have to be impacted by autism themselves, however if they carry one or more genes that increase the risk, it is more likely that their child will develop autism.

Environment: may reduce or increase the risk of developing autism for those who are genetically predisposed to autism in a small way.  Increased risk may occur if either parent is of advanced age; Due to pregnancy or birth complications (e.g., extreme prematurity, low birth weight, multiple pregnancies (twin, triplet, etc), or pregnancies spaced less than a year apart).  Prenatal vitamins which contain folic acid, taken before, at conception, and throughout pregnancy can decrease risk.

How Phinity Therapy Can Help

At Phinity we understand that there is no cure for autism and no one treatment.  Depending on where you are on the spectrum, and in life stage, we will work with you to support your needs and goals.

 

For example, for some children, therapy might focus on supporting learning and development, improve communication, social, and behavioural skills, for symptom reduction and improved functioning.

It can be overwhelming for parents when you review the myriad of home and school based interventions and treatments, especially as your child’s needs can change over time.  We will recommend options and attempt to provide these to you where possible.

We will work with you to understand the needs of your child which will inform the treatment strategy.  This could include behaviour and communication, education, family, or other therapies as appropriate.

Treatment for adults is different, and could involve cognitive, verbal, and applied behavioural therapy.  This again will depend on your specific needs, for example, it may relate to anxiety, relationship problems, social isolation, or work difficulties.  A thorough initial assessment will help guide treatment goals and approach.

We work together to support you toward an improved quality of life and outlook.  There are various therapeutic approaches for adults, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), physical therapy, or occupational therapy.

What Causes Autism?How Phinity Therapy Can Help

Frame-31357.8d559ee9904a4427c4814653442675d9.

Clients' Common Questions

Client Reviews

See what clients are saying about their sessions at Phinity.
Anonymous
1 week ago
Phinity Therapy has been great, supportive, professional, and easy to talk to. I felt comfortable from day one. Highly recommend!
Read More
Verified
Brett
1 month ago
From the very first session, Phinity Therapy stood out. The environment feels safe, and the guidance I’ve received has made a noticeable difference in how I approach life’s challenges. It’s not just therapy, it’s growth, clarity, and genuine care.
Read More
Verified
Keena
1 month ago
I've had a wonderful experience with Phinity Therapy. The team is professional, compassionate, and truly committed to helping clients grow. I felt heard, supported, and understood throughout my journey. Highly recommended!
Read More
Verified
Brian
2 months ago
I can honestly say Phinity Therapy has been a really positive part of my journey. From the beginning, they made the process feel easy and welcoming, which helped a lot when I was feeling unsure about starting therapy. The team genuinely cares — you’re not just another appointment on the calendar. They took the time to understand what I needed and matched me with someone who was a great fit. The sessions feel personal, not clinical, and the support is consistent and sincere. They offer a wide range of services, but more importantly, they create a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported. I'm really grateful I found them.
Read More
Verified
Brian
2 months ago
Phinity Therapy has been a truly supportive space in my mental health journey. The therapist really took the time to understand me, and each session felt tailored to my needs. I’ve gained clarity, tools to cope, and a renewed sense of confidence.
Read More
Verified
Sam
2 months ago
Phinity Therapy’s services genuinely made a difference for me. I loved how flexible they were—offering both online and in-person sessions—and everything felt really tailored to what I needed. The whole process felt supportive and easy to follow, and I walked away with tools that actually helped in real life.
Read More
Verified
Samuel
3 months ago
Phinity Therapy has been incredible. Their team made me feel understood and supported from day one. The personalised approach helped me manage anxiety and improve my well-being. Every session felt safe, welcoming, and impactful. Highly recommended for anyone seeking genuine, effective mental health support.
Read More
Verified
Chanel
3 months ago
I had a genuinely uplifting experience with Phinity Therapy. From the moment I connected with their friendly team in the UK, I felt supported and understood. Their warm, compassionate approach combined with personalized, evidence-based treatments truly helped me manage anxiety and boost my emotional well-being. Each session felt like a safe space where I could work through challenges at my own pace. If you’re looking for quality mental health care, holistic therapy, and expert guidance, I highly recommend Phinity Therapy for anyone seeking a transformative and caring mental health journey.
Read More
Verified
Gracie K
10 months ago
Thank you Phinity!
Read More
Verified
Llyod D
10 months ago
Therapy with Rehanna has been nothing short of life-changing. From the very first session, I felt comfortable opening up about things I’ve never shared with anyone. The insights I gained and the coping mechanisms I learned have made a profound difference in how I navigate my day-to-day life. This experience has given me a new perspective on my challenges, and I’m incredibly grateful for the compassionate and skilled guidance I received
Read More
Verified
References
Book Your Free Consultation
Today