Just Got an Autism Diagnosis – What Now?

Receiving an autism diagnosis for your child can bring a mix of emotions – relief, confusion, worry, and a lot of questions. As your pediatrician, I want to reassure you that you're not alone, and this is the beginning of a new journey, not the end.
Here's what to do next:
* Breathe and Absorb: Give yourself time to process the information. It's okay to feel overwhelmed.
* Talk to Us: Schedule a follow-up appointment with me. We can discuss the diagnosis, what it means for your child, and answer all your questions.
* Learn More: Educate yourself from reliable sources. Understanding autism will help you advocate for your child.
* Explore Therapies: We'll discuss different types of therapies that can help, such as:
* Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): Helps with learning new skills and reducing challenging behaviors.
* Speech Therapy: Improves communication skills.
* Occupational Therapy (OT): Helps with daily living skills and sensory challenges.
* Build Your Support System: Connect with other parents, join local autism groups, or seek support from family and friends. You'll find a community ready to help.
Remember, an autism diagnosis helps us understand your child better and gives us a roadmap for supporting their unique strengths and challenges. Your child is still the amazing individual they've always been. We're in this together!