CONDITIONS WE TREAT
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
What is autism?
Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complex developmental disorder that impacts how individuals perceive the world and interact with others. It is characterized by notable differences in social communication and interaction, alongside the presence of restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. As a spectrum condition, ASD manifests uniquely in each person, with a wide range of symptoms and varying levels of severity.
Signs and symptoms of autism in children
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) shows up as differences in how children interact with others, communicate, and behave. The signs can look very different from one child to another in how they appear and how noticeable they are. However, some common signs include a child having trouble with interactions and communication, repetitive actions or routines over and over, and having very specific interests that take up a lot of their attention.
Our thorough assessment model uncovers co-conditions to offer a precise diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to each child. Our team of specialists is uniquely qualified to support all variations of ASD and address common co-occurring factors.
Communication and social interaction
Difficulties with social reciprocity
Challenges with non-verbal communication
Difficulties forming and maintaining relationships
Common co-occurring factors
Delayed language development
Challenges with executive function
Anxiety and mood fluctuations
Unusual eating and sleeping habits
Gastrointestinal issues
Repetitive behaviors and restricted interests
Repetitive movements or behaviors
Repetitive or unusual language
Intense or restricted interests
Insistence on sameness and need for routine
Sensory sensitivities
THE BLACKBIRD HEALTH DIFFERENCE
“Access to comprehensive autism assessments should be a right, not a privilege. Evaluations must be affordable and conducted by experts who can distinguish autism from overlapping conditions like ADHD, anxiety, and trauma.
In today’s post-pandemic world, where stress, disrupted development, and increased screen use blur the picture, this expertise is more important than ever.”
— Coleen Vanderbeek, Psy.D., LPC, ASDCS, IMH-e
Diagnosis and understanding
While early diagnosis and intervention are important for children with ASD, getting a diagnosis at any age can be valuable and should not be overlooked. At Blackbird Health, we take a collaborative, individualized approach led by a team of diagnostic experts - including therapists and medical professionals - to meet each person’s unique needs.
To get the full picture, our evaluations consider a wide range of factors. We take the time to understand each individual’s neurodevelopmental profile, then work together to build a plan that honors their strengths while addressing specific needs.
Factors we consider
Cognitive profiles
Behavioral expression
Physical expression
Genetics
Psychosocial
Developmental levels
Environmental factors, such as feedback from teachers and trusted adults
Treatments
and goals
At Blackbird Health, we support autistic individuals in understanding themselves, building on their strengths, and navigating any challenges they may face. In doing so, we treat any co-occurring mental health conditions—such as anxiety, depression, and OCD—that can cause distress and interfere with well-being of individuals with ASD. Effective care involves recognizing how autism may influence the presentation and experience of these conditions and tailoring mental health interventions in a way that is respectful, accessible, and aligned with our neurodiversity-affirming principles. This dual diagnosis treatment can significantly improve an individual’s quality of life.
There are also several additional resources and therapies that support families facing ASD challenges. Here are the most widely used.
Educational interventions
Social-relational interventions
Speech therapy
Occupational therapy
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
DIRFloortime
Family supports
Goals for treating ASD co-occurring conditions vary for each individual and family, but some may include setting and implementing strategies for:
Self-awareness and identity
Anxiety management
Communication and self-advocacy
Coping and emotional regulation
Interpersonal boundaries and connection
Managing burnout, overwhelm, and shutdowns
Executive function and daily living
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“My son was put on a two-year waiting list to get a diagnostic assessment done. Out of my insurance network would have cost me upwards to $3,000 out of pocket. His pediatrician called Blackbird Health and they had no waitlist and were able to schedule us right away.
The clinical specialists are outstanding! Their empathy, combined with their breadth of knowledge, makes you feel relieved and safe. I trust this business explicitly. I am so grateful this company exists.”
—Jacqueline L., Vienna, VA
Through the Blackbird Health understanding-first approach, we envision a world where every young person is fully understood and receives support building the tools they need to thrive.
Tips for Traveling with Neurodivergent Kids
Parent Guide: How to support your family—and yourself—through the beautiful chaos of travel
By Coleen Vanderbeek Psy.D., LPC, ASDCS, IMH-e
Medically reviewed by Nicole Garber, MD, Chief Medical Officer
