Autism Assessment
What Is Autism?
Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person develops, communicates, interacts with others, and processes the world around them.
It is called a spectrum because autistic individuals have different characteristics, strengths, and support needs. Some may require substantial support in their daily lives, while others may need limited support or assistance in specific areas.
Common Characteristics of Autism
Autism commonly involves the following characteristics:
1. Differences in Social Communication and Interaction
- Difficulty understanding unspoken social rules.
- Differences in conversational communication and interaction.
- Differences in understanding or using eye contact and non-verbal communication.
2. Repetitive Behaviours and Focused Interests
- Repetitive movements or behaviours.
- Strong and focused interests in particular subjects or activities.
- A preference for familiar routines and difficulty adjusting to unexpected changes.
3. Sensory Differences
- Increased sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, or touch.
- Reduced sensitivity to certain sensory experiences.
- Different ways of processing sensory information in everyday environments.
Dr. Fatema Tuj Johora Joti
Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist
Qualifications
MBBS, BCS (Health), MD (BMU/Ex-PG Hospital)
About & Biography
Dr. Fatema Tuj Johora Joti is a Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at AQIDAH. She completed her MD at BSMMU and worked as a Registrar at the National Institute of Mental Health in Dhaka. She provides compassionate, evidence-based care for children and adolescents.
Areas of Expertise
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Depressive Disorders
- Bipolar Mood Disorder
- Anxiety Disorders
- OCD
- Eating Disorders
- Behavioral Disorders
- Internet Addiction
- Borderline Personality Disorder
Appointment Time: Saturday to Thursday ( 10 AM to 8 PM)
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Jannatun Naim
Speech and Language Therapist
Qualifications
BSc, Certified Child and Adolescent Speech and Language Therapist
About & Biography
Jannatun Naim is a certified Speech-Language Therapist specialising in child and adolescent care. She trained at PISER and is affiliated with BUP (Bangladesh University of Professionals). She works with children presenting with language disorders, autism, and developmental communication challenges.
Areas of Expertise
- Child & Adolescent Speech Therapy
- Language Disorders
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Developmental Communication
- Dyslexia Support
Appointment Time: Saturday to Thursday ( 10 AM to 8 PM)
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# Autism Assessment for Children and Adults
A careful, respectful evaluation and clear next steps with AQIDAH Healthcare, available both online and in person.
Possible Signs of Autism in Children
No single sign confirms autism, and children develop at different rates. However, seeking professional advice may be helpful if you notice some of the following patterns:
- Does not respond to their name or rarely uses gestures such as pointing or waving.
- Limited back-and-forth play or social interaction.
- Delayed speech or language development, or repeating words and phrases.
- Strong distress when there are changes in routine.
- Repetitive movements, such as hand flapping, or repetitive play patterns.
- Unusual reactions to sounds, lights, textures, or food.
- Intense interest in particular topics or objects.
- Difficulty making or maintaining friendships.
Autism in Teenagers and Adults
Autism is sometimes missed during childhood, especially in girls and women and in people who have learned to "mask" their autistic characteristics.
Masking means hiding or copying certain behaviours to fit in with social expectations. This can be mentally exhausting and may affect a person's mental health.
Autistic teenagers and adults may recognise the following experiences:
- A lifelong feeling of being different or not fitting in.
- Exhaustion after social events or interactions.
- A strong need for routine and difficulty coping with unexpected changes.
- Sensory discomfort in everyday environments.
- Deep and long-lasting interests in particular subjects.
- Anxiety, low mood, or burnout that does not seem to have a clear cause.
These experiences can also have other explanations, which is why a professional assessment is important.
Why Seek an Autism Assessment?
An autism assessment can help individuals and families better understand developmental differences, identify support needs, and make informed decisions.
Some important reasons to seek an assessment include:
- Better self-understanding: To understand yourself or your child's strengths, challenges, and individual needs.
- Access to appropriate support: To access support at school, at work, or within the community.
- Guidance for therapy: To help guide appropriate therapeutic interventions and everyday support strategies.
- Identifying related needs: To explore additional concerns involving language, attention, or anxiety.
- Educational and workplace adjustments: To provide a basis for appropriate adjustments and accommodations, where available.
What Happens in an Autism Assessment?
A comprehensive autism assessment brings together several sources of information over one or more sessions. The process helps clinicians understand an individual's developmental history, communication, behaviour, and support needs.
The assessment usually includes the following steps:
1. Developmental and Personal History
For children, parents describe early developmental milestones, communication, behaviour, and current challenges.
For adults, the clinician explores childhood experiences, school history, work, relationships, and everyday functioning.
2. Observation and Interaction
The specialist observes communication, play, and social interaction using structured and recognised assessment methods.
3. Information from Others
Reports and observations from teachers, nursery staff, and family members can provide valuable information about the individual's behaviour and development across different settings.
4. Looking at Other Explanations
The clinician considers whether other conditions, such as language disorders, ADHD, anxiety, or hearing difficulties, may explain or accompany the difficulties.
5. Feedback and Assessment Report
You receive a clear explanation of the findings, whether or not autism is identified, along with practical recommendations and guidance for appropriate support.
Some individuals may require additional assessments, such as:
- Speech and language assessments.
- Cognitive assessments.
- Sensory assessments.
A multidisciplinary approach can be particularly helpful in understanding an individual's overall developmental and support needs.
After the Autism Assessment
Regardless of the assessment outcome, individuals and families should receive a clearer understanding of the concerns and guidance on the next steps.
If autism is identified, support may include:
1. Information and Family Guidance
Providing individuals and families with appropriate information about autism, its characteristics, and available support options.
2. Speech and Language Therapy
Speech and language therapy can help individuals who need support with communication, language development, and social communication skills.
3. Behavioural and Developmental Support
Appropriate behavioural and developmental interventions can help individuals develop everyday skills, improve independence, and manage specific challenges.
4. Psychological Support
Therapy may help individuals manage anxiety, low mood, emotional difficulties, and other related mental health concerns.
5. School or Workplace Adjustments
Appropriate adjustments can help create a more supportive environment for learning, communication, and everyday participation.
6. Community and Peer Support
Connecting with supportive communities and peer groups can help individuals and families feel understood and less isolated.
Support should celebrate individual strengths and respect each person's identity while addressing their specific challenges and support needs.
Preparing for an Autism Assessment
Preparing in advance can help make the assessment process more comfortable and productive.
Here are some helpful steps:
- Bring previous reports: Carry any previous medical reports, school records, developmental assessments, or relevant medical notes.
- Write down your concerns: Note your main concerns and specific examples of behaviours or developmental differences you have observed.
- Bring helpful materials for children: If available, bring home videos showing your child's behaviour and development, along with a familiar comfort item.
- Prepare your child: Explain the assessment visit using simple, calm, and reassuring language.
- Recall childhood experiences: For adults, reflecting on childhood memories and asking family members about their recollections may provide useful information.
Online vs. In-Person Autism Assessment
Some parts of an autism assessment, such as clinical interviews, discussions, and feedback sessions, can be conducted online.
However, direct observation of children's communication, behaviour, play, and social interaction often works best in person.
AQIDAH Healthcare offers both online and in-person assessment options. Our clinical team will guide you in choosing the most suitable approach based on individual needs and clinical requirements.
Myths and Facts: Autism Assessment
There are several misconceptions about autism that can create confusion and prevent individuals and families from seeking appropriate support. Understanding the facts is important.
Myth 1: Autism Is Caused by Bad Parenting or Vaccines.
Fact: Autism is not caused by parenting. Large-scale scientific studies have found no link between vaccines and autism.
Myth 2: Autistic People Lack Empathy.
Fact: Many autistic people care deeply about others. However, they may express emotions or understand and interpret other people's emotions differently.
Myth 3: You Can Tell Someone Is Autistic by Looking at Them.
Fact: Autism is not necessarily visible. Its characteristics vary significantly from person to person, and many autistic individuals may not have any outwardly noticeable signs.
Myth 4: Autism Only Affects Children.
Fact: Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition. Many teenagers and adults seek assessment later in life, particularly when they begin recognising characteristics that were previously misunderstood or overlooked.
Why Choose AQIDAH Healthcare?
At AQIDAH Healthcare, we approach autism assessment with patience, understanding, and respect.
We take the time to listen to your experiences, explain each step of the assessment process, and focus on individual strengths as well as challenges.
Our multidisciplinary services include:
- Psychiatry.
- Psychology.
- Speech and Language Therapy.
- Multidisciplinary Assessment and Care.
By bringing different areas of clinical expertise together, we aim to help individuals and families better understand their needs and explore appropriate support options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. At What Age Can Autism Be Assessed?
Concerns about autism can be explored from early childhood onwards. Autism assessments are also available for teenagers and adults who may not have been identified earlier in life.
2. Can a Child Be Assessed for Autism at a Very Young Age?
Yes. Early assessment can be helpful in identifying developmental differences and understanding a child's support needs. However, some children may require follow-up assessments as their development progresses.
3. Is Autism Something That Can Be Cured?
No. Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, not an illness that needs to be cured. Appropriate support, therapy, and adjustments can help autistic individuals develop skills, manage challenges, and improve their quality of life.
4. How Long Does an Autism Assessment Take?
The duration depends on the individual's age, developmental history, clinical presentation, and assessment requirements. Some assessments may require multiple sessions. Your clinician will explain the process when you book an appointment.
5. What Happens If the Assessment Does Not Result in an Autism Diagnosis?
Even if autism is not identified, you will receive a clear explanation of the assessment findings and recommendations for addressing the difficulties or developmental concerns you described.
Related Services at AQIDAH Healthcare
Take the First Step Today
Whether you are seeking an autism assessment for your child or yourself, understanding is the first step towards receiving appropriate support.
You do not have to figure it out alone.
Book an Autism Assessment with AQIDAH Healthcare and take the first step towards better understanding, guidance, and personalised support.
Aqidah Healthcare
Firoz Tower (13th Floor), 152/3B, Bir Uttam Nuruzzaman Sarak, Panthapath, Dhaka-1215
Book an Appointment: +8801339570424
Website: www.theaqidah.com