Autism is a lifelong condition impacting how an individual communicates and socially interacts with others. As it is a spectrum condition, autism affects people in unique ways. Though there are some common features, each autistic person has their own strengths and relative weaknesses.

The ‘triad of impairments’ (as formulated by researchers Wing and Gould) has shaped research and practice in autism and highlights difficulties in three key areas:

Social Interaction
Social Communication
Social Imagination

These are commonly associated with rigid and repetitive patterns of behaviour, routines and interests.

Autism is now often described as a difference rather than a disability or deficit. The Autism Education Trust (AET) identifies four key areas of difference:

Social Understanding
Communication
Interests and Information Processing
Sensory Processing

While differences will usually be present in the early developmental period, they may only become evident when social demands exceed capabilities.

Difficulties may be masked by learned strategies in later life or ‘copying’ peers, especially in more able individuals and females who can be very skilled at masking their difficulties. This masking can be exhausting and may result in low mood, anxiety, low self-esteem and other mental health issues.

As a HCPC-registered psychologist, I have expertise in autism

I have extensive experience of highly specialist psychological and educational assessments and enhanced skills in exploring profiles of those with autism.

I can work with an individual to explore what they are good at and identify areas of difference or specific difficulties highlighted above. I can gain insight into anxieties and worries caused or exacerbated by autism, and recommend ways of fostering positive mental wellbeing.

Psychological assessments throughout Colchester, Essex and Suffolk

If it seems that your child or a young person in your care may have autism, I can provide highly tailored advice to help you move forward. Contact me now to discuss your concerns. As part of any assessment, I can offer my personal and professional perspective and an indicative diagnosis.