Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children and Adults: Evaluations & Treatment

At Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, we provide comprehensive evaluations and ongoing treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) across the entire lifespan, from young children through adulthood. Whether you are a parent concerned about early developmental signs or an adult who has wondered about lifelong differences, our experienced team offers thorough, evidence-based assessments and individualized support. Our goal is to deliver accurate diagnoses and practical, compassionate care that helps each person thrive in their own way.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world around them. It is called a “spectrum” because it presents differently in every individual; some people need substantial support while others live independently with minimal assistance.

There is a popular saying in the autism community that perfectly captures this truth: “If you know one person with autism, you know one person with autism.”

Autism begins in early childhood and is lifelong. Core characteristics often include differences in social communication, restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior, intense interests, and sensory sensitivities. Autism is not a disease or something that needs to be “cured,” but rather a different neurotype that benefits from understanding, accommodations, and targeted support.

Signs and Symptoms of Autism in Children

Autism can show up in many different ways during early development, and every child’s presentation is unique. Some children show clear signs by 18-24 months, while others may appear more subtle until preschool or later.

Common signs and symptoms in children

• Delayed or atypical speech and language development
• Difficulty with back-and-forth social interactions (e.g., limited eye contact, not responding to name)
• Challenges with joint attention (not sharing interests in objects or activities with others)
• Repetitive movements or speech (hand-flapping, repeating, scripted speech)
• Strong preference for routines and resistance to change
• Sensory sensitivities (over- or under-reacting to sounds, textures, lights, or smells)
• Intense, focused interests in specific topics or objects

Many children with autism also show remarkable strengths, such as exceptional memory, pattern recognition, or attention to detail. Early evaluation is important because timely support can make a significant difference in communication, social skills, and long-term outcomes.

Signs and Symptoms of Autism in Adults

Autism is not just a childhood condition. Many adults live with undiagnosed autism because they learned to mask their differences or grew up in supportive environments that hid the need for formal diagnosis.

Common signs of autism in adults

• Feeling constantly exhausted after social interactions, even with people you like
• Finding small talk and unspoken social rules confusing, anxiety-provoking, or draining
• Having very deep, intense interests in specific topics
• Becoming very upset or overwhelmed by changes in plans or routines
• Being highly sensitive to certain sounds, lights, textures, or smells
• Communicating in a very direct and honest way, sometimes without realizing how it affects others
• Struggling to start tasks, switch between tasks, or finish things
• Experiencing very strong emotions that are hard to identify or describe
• Preferring to spend time alone or with just one or two people rather than large groups
• Having a very strong sense of fairness and getting upset when things feel unfair

A number of people experience some of these traits from time to time. Having just a few of these symptoms does not necessarily mean someone has autism. Autism Spectrum Disorder is diagnosed when there is a combination of these characteristics that have been present since early childhood and cause meaningful challenges in daily life, work, or relationships.

Many adults on the spectrum also have real strengths, such as strong focus, attention to detail, honesty, and deep loyalty to the people they care about.

Why autism is sometimes diagnosed later in life

Many adults receive a diagnosis after increased life demands (college, career, parenting) make masking more difficult. Others seek evaluation after a child or family member is diagnosed and they recognize similar traits in themselves.

A late diagnosis can bring profound relief, self-understanding, and access to appropriate accommodations and support.

How Common Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism is more common than many people realize. Current estimates suggest that approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States is diagnosed with ASD. Among adults, the rate is believed to be similar, though many remain undiagnosed – especially women, people of color, and those who are higher-functioning or have strong masking abilities. Autism affects all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

When Should Someone Seek an Autism Evaluation?

You or your child may benefit from an evaluation if developmental or social differences are creating challenges in daily life. For children, this might include speech delays, limited social engagement, or significant behavioral concerns. For adults, it might involve ongoing difficulties with relationships, work, or feeling “different” without knowing why.

If these differences are causing stress, anxiety, depression, or functional impairment, a professional evaluation can provide clarity and open the door to meaningful support.

How Autism Is Diagnosed

At Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, autism evaluations are comprehensive and individualized. The process typically includes:

• A detailed developmental and medical history
• Clinical interviews with the individual and/or family
• Standardized observational tools (such as the ADOS-2 when appropriate)
• Review of any previous records or school reports
• Assessment for co-occurring conditions (ADHD, anxiety, depression, etc.)

Our clinicians use evidence-based methods and take the time necessary to understand the full picture. Diagnoses are made collaboratively with the patient and family, never rushed.

Why Choose Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates for Autism Evaluations and Treatment?

Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates brings together highly credentialed psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and psychologists with extensive experience in autism across the lifespan. Many of our providers have trained at leading academic medical centers and maintain strong connections with local resources and specialists. We offer both in-office and telehealth appointments, flexible scheduling, and the ability to treat co-occurring mental health conditions in one setting. Whether you are seeking a first-time evaluation or ongoing support, our team provides thorough, compassionate, and individualized care tailored to each person’s unique needs.

If you or a loved one may be on the autism spectrum, we invite you to reach out. An evaluation can be the first step toward greater understanding and support.

*Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates provides evaluations and treatment for individuals 5-6 and older for Autism and mental health struggles related to this condition.

For patients 18 months to 5 years of age, we recommend our affiliate RiseNow Autism Innovations, which provides evaluations for diagnosis within 4 weeks, and education for families, while they wait for state resources to begin.