Understanding Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a multifaceted developmental condition marked by significant challenges in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and patterns of repetitive behavior. Although every individual with autism is unique, there are common characteristics, including heightened attention to details, increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli, and difficulties in social communication and interaction.

Autism now impacts an estimated 1 in 36 children in the United States, according to the CDC, a significant increase from 1 in 750 children diagnosed in 2000. This remarkable shift in prevalence reflects our evolving comprehension of the disorder, driven by heightened awareness and advocacy. As a result, more children are being accurately diagnosed, highlighting the importance of early intervention and support.

The Three Support Levels of Autism

Level One: Requiring Support

- Noticeable challenges with social communication and interaction
- Issues transitioning between activities
- Can typically function independently with some support

Level Two: Requiring Substantial Support

- Marked deficits in verbal and nonverbal social communication skills
- Demonstrates inflexibility in behaviors
- Requires substantial support in various environments

Level Three: Requiring Very Substantial Support

- Severe deficits in verbal and nonverbal social communication skills
- Displays repetitive behaviors that significantly interfere with functioning
- Requires very substantial support for the daily living activities, limited response to social overtures

Where Is Your Family in The Autism Process?

No matter where you are on your autism journey, we're here to support you every step of the way. Click the buttons below to find tailored information for you and your family.

Not Sure?

Nobody knows your child better than you do, so if you have concerns about your child’s growth and development, don’t be afraid to seek answers and support.

Newly-diagnosed?

Being the parent of a child who has received an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming. The good news? You’re already reading this and exploring options, which means you’re being proactive! While the day that your child receives an autism diagnosis is one you’ll never forget, there are equally unforgettable victories on the horizon. There is hope.

Already on the Journey?

For children with autism, change can be difficult and their needs will evolve. At KGH, our transitional model provides children and their families with seamless support as they grow, avoiding abrupt changes in their care with flexible support attuned to their individual needs.

Not Sure?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disorder associated with significant challenges in social interaction, speech and nonverbal communication, and restricted/repetitive behaviors. Nobody knows your child better than you do, so if you have concerns about your child’s growth and development, don’t be afraid to seek answers and support.

The first step? Learning the signs of autism. While it’s important to remember that autism presents differently in every child, there is some commonality in behaviors that can point in the direction of it. These can help you decide if it’s time to bring in your child for a developmental screening or evaluation.

Ready to talk about your concerns?

KGH has a team of experienced psychologists available to provide the answers your family needs. There are no waitlists for our expert diagnostic evaluations, and you don’t need a doctor’s referral or medical diagnosis to get started. Visit our contact page and get in touch with us today!

Wondering if your child could be on the autism spectrum?

Take the autism screener today. Once submitted, we will reach out to you to share your child's results and get your questions answered!

Take The Autism Screener

Our Toddler Autism Screen or M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers; 2009 Diana Robins, Deborah Fein, & Marianne Barton) consists of 20 yes or no questions, is tailored specifically for children ages 1 to 4 and can help determine if a professional evaluation is warranted for your child.

Newly-diagnosed?

Being the parent of a child who has received an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming. The good news? You’re already reading this and exploring options, which means you’re being proactive! While the day that your child receives an autism diagnosis is one you’ll never forget, there are equally unforgettable victories on the horizon. There is hope.

Working together, we can help your family learn and grow. You’ll build skills and confidence. You’ll find friendship and support. You’ll be backed by a dedicated team of professionals deeply invested in your family’s success.

Your Next Steps After a New Diagnosis

KGH’s Guide to Support and Success

Get Professional Guidance

Understanding your child’s unique needs is key to their development, and KGH is here to provide expert guidance. Our team of specialists collaborates with you to create a personalized plan that supports your child’s growth. We offer comprehensive insights, additional resources, and tailored strategies to help your child thrive and to support your family every step of the way.

Start Therapy Services

Early intervention is crucial for children with autism, particularly before age 5. At KGH, we help your child take full advantage of this critical period, offering programs that engage their brain during its most adaptable stages. By starting therapy early, we optimize developmental gains in communication, socialization, and independent learning, laying the foundation for success at home and in school.

Build a Support System

Navigating the complexities of autism requires a strong support system. KGH provides both emotional and practical support tailored to your family’s needs. We guide you in building a robust network, ensuring you have the reassurance and solidarity needed during this journey. Sharing your child’s diagnosis can be challenging, but we offer resources to help you communicate with loved ones positively, fostering a supportive environment.

Join the Autism Community

Connecting with others who understand your experience is invaluable. KGH helps you build a sense of community by linking you with other families and caregivers who share similar experiences. Through our support groups and community events, you’ll find belonging, emotional support, and access to resources that make a difference in your family’s journey.

Already on the Journey?

A new school? A different routine? Shifting peer groups?Just looking for something more?

For individuals with autism, change can be difficult and their needs will evolve. At KGH, our transitional model provides children and their families with seamless support as they grow, avoiding abrupt changes in their care with flexible support attuned to their individual needs.

With programs and services tailored to your child’s age and skills, as well as consultation services and specialized workshops to help you understand and overcome new challenges, we are here to give you the tools to successfully support your child through young adulthood.

Therapy for Every Age, At Every Stage

Toddlers & Early Childhood

The years from age one through five are some of the most important in a child’s development, particularly for children with autism. KGH is dedicated to helping your child build a strong foundation for lifelong learning so they have the tools they need to thrive in school and beyond. We support your child’s growth with innovative, play-based therapy designed to optimize their developmental trajectory. Our licensed and certified team members utilize the Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention (NDBI) approach, integrating ABA therapy in a fun, developmentally appropriate manner.

At KGH, our goal is to close the gap between your child’s current learning challenges and their developmental milestones. Through engaging and social experiences, we work closely with your family to ensure your child can:

  • Gain functional communication and language skills
  • Develop play and social skills
  • Follow instructions and stay safe
  • Socially engage with peers and in groups
  • Successfully interact with others in various settings
  • Complete potty training
  • Eat a variety of foods
  • Find effective solutions for challenging behaviors
  • Learn effectively from group instruction
  • Transition smoothly into elementary school

Elementary School

Starting school for the first time can be daunting for any child, but learning how to navigate it can be even more challenging for children with autism and their families. KGH offers one-on-one support and coordinated, personalized care to make sure this critical time in your child’s development is met with compassion and expertise at home, at school, and in the clinic. With us, you are never in it alone.

At this age, we’ll work closely with you to ensure your child can…

  • Learn from others naturally
  • Hang out with a group of peers
  • Use receptive and expressive language
  • Be flexible
  • Establish a typical school routine
  • Build social skills
  • Eat a variety of foods
  • Find solutions for challenging behaviors
  • Transition into middle school.

Middle School

It’s natural for children and their families to feel overwhelmed by the many social, emotional, and physical changes preteens experience, which is why our clinicians combine deeply personalized therapy plans with school consultations and whole-family support services. KGH knows the importance of making sure your child’s treatment team keeps up with their changing needs.

At this age, our evidence-based treatment empowers your child and family to…

  • Develop executive functioning skills
  • Learn about and prepare for puberty
  • Understand safety issues
  • Deal with peer pressure and bullying
  • Become independent in daily routines
  • Improve relationship and social skills
  • Manage texting and social media use
  • Find solutions to challenging behaviors
  • Transition to high school

High School and Young Adulthood

Watching your child make the transition from adolescent to young adult can fill you with pride… and worry. KGH can help you and your teen take the next steps, with services that focus on teaching teens and young adults the necessary skills to gain and keep meaningful employment, strengthen their independence, and be active and successful members of their community.

At this age, our services help young adults…

  • Understand safety issues
  • Advocate for themselves
  • Prepare for college
  • Get employment assessment and support
  • Increase community independence
  • Learn about sexuality and prevention
  • Manage texting and social media use
  • Find solutions to challenging behaviors
  • Gain housing and residential supports
  • Access day programming

The Right Support at the Right Time

At KGH, we take a personalized approach and work closely with each child and their family to ensure we are meeting their unique needs and strengths, recognizing their individuality. We pride ourselves on our ability to guide children with autism from childhood to early adulthood by providing the right support at the right time throughout the journey. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. By creating customized plans that align with your child’s developmental milestones, the goal is to always achieve the best possible outcomes.