Category: Autism

How Social Skills Training Can Improve Mental Health for Teens with Autism

The teenage years are challenging for many young people, but for those with autism, they can be especially difficult. Teens with autism often struggle with social skills, which can lead to a cycle of mental health challenges. This cycle includes social anxiety, depression and anxiety, withdrawal and isolation, and increased fear and anxiety. Fortunately, social skills training can help break this cycle and improve mental health outcomes for teens with autism.

Social anxiety is a common challenge for teens with autism. They may feel uncomfortable in social situations, find it hard to start or join conversations, or struggle to understand nonverbal cues like facial expressions and body language. This can lead to avoidance of social situations, which can further exacerbate anxiety and depression.

Depression and anxiety are also common challenges for teens with autism. They may feel misunderstood or isolated, which can lead to feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. This can also lead to increased anxiety and fear about social situations, which can further perpetuate the cycle of mental health challenges.

Withdrawal and isolation are common coping strategies for teens with autism who struggle with social skills. They may retreat into themselves, spending more time alone or engaging in solitary activities. This can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression.

Increased fear and anxiety are common outcomes of the cycle of mental health challenges facing teens with autism. They may become more afraid of social situations and interactions, which can lead to further isolation and withdrawal. This can also lead to a decrease in self-esteem and confidence.

The Importance of Social Skills Training for Autistic Teens

However, social skills training can help break this cycle and improve mental health outcomes for teens with autism. By learning social and life skills, they can become more comfortable and confident in social situations, which can lead to improved mental health and overall well-being.

Some of the key skills that can be taught through social skills training include:

• How to use appropriate conversational skills: This includes learning how to initiate and maintain conversations, as well as how to listen and respond appropriately.
• How to appropriately use electronic forms of communication: This includes learning how to use email, text messaging, and social media in appropriate ways.
• How to handle rejection, teasing, bullying, rumors/gossip, and cyberbullying: This includes learning how to respond to negative interactions in a constructive and healthy way.
• How to start, enter and exit conversations between peers: This includes learning how to join conversations, as well as how to gracefully exit them when necessary.
• How to choose appropriate friends: This includes learning how to identify and choose friends who are supportive and positive influences.
• How to appropriately use humor and assess humor feedback: This includes learning how to use humor in appropriate ways, as well as how to interpret and respond to feedback.
• How to organize successful get-togethers with friends: This includes learning how to plan and host social events, as well as how to navigate potential challenges or conflicts.
• How to handle arguments and disagreements with friends and in relationships: This includes learning how to communicate effectively, as well as how to resolve conflicts in a constructive and healthy way.

How ROWI Can Help

ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers offer individualized treatment plans for teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We are proud to offer the UCLA PEERS® Program (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) for Adolescents, a 16-week evidence-based social skills intervention for motivated teens who are interested in making and keeping friends and/or handling conflict and rejection. With ROWI’s support, your teen will be able to make friends and keep friends as we teach them social and life skills. To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 805-356-3477.

By learning these skills, teens with autism can become more confident and successful in social situations, which can lead to improved mental health outcomes. With the right support and resources, they can break the cycle of mental health challenges and build fulfilling and rewarding social relationships.

Supporting Autistic Teens: Tips for Parents and Caregivers

Autism is a neurological condition that affects how an individual perceives the world around them. It can manifest in various ways, making it difficult for people with autism to socialize, communicate, and form relationships with others. Autism signs often present themselves in childhood, but some individuals may not receive a diagnosis until adolescence or even adulthood. In this blog, we’ll discuss how parents can support their autistic teenagers.

Autism Signs in Older Children and Teenagers

In older children and teenagers, autism signs can be more subtle than in younger children. However, they still display certain behaviors that indicate they have autism. These may include:

• Difficulty making eye contact
• Difficulty with nonverbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions
• Difficulty understanding social cues and norms
• Restricted interests and hobbies
• Repetitive behaviors or routines
• Sensory sensitivities, such as being sensitive to light or sound

How to Support an Autistic Teen

Supporting an autistic teen requires patience, understanding, and empathy. Here are some ways parents can support their autistic teenagers:

1. Create a predictable routine: Autistic teens often benefit from having a routine and structure in their daily lives. This could include set meal times, bedtimes, and designated times for activities and hobbies.
2. Encourage independence: While it’s essential to create a routine, it’s also important to encourage independence. Autistic teens may struggle with self-care tasks, such as grooming and hygiene, but gradually teaching them to perform these tasks on their own can build their confidence and independence.
3. Provide clear instructions and expectations: Autistic teens may struggle with understanding social norms and expectations, so it’s essential to provide clear instructions and expectations. Use concrete language and avoid figurative language or sarcasm, as they can be confusing.
4. Allow for downtime: Autistic teens may become overwhelmed by social situations or sensory input, so it’s essential to provide opportunities for downtime. This could be as simple as setting aside a quiet space for them to relax in or encouraging them to take breaks when they feel overwhelmed.
5. Seek support: Parenting an autistic teen can be challenging, so it’s important to seek support from other parents, support groups, or professionals who specialize in autism.

How to Talk to an Autistic Teenager

Communication can be challenging for autistic teens, so it’s important to communicate with them in a way that they understand. Here are some tips for communicating with an autistic teenager:

1. Use clear and direct language: Autistic teens may struggle with understanding sarcasm, idioms, and figurative language. Use clear and direct language when communicating with them.
2. Listen actively: Autistic teens may have difficulty expressing themselves, so it’s important to actively listen to them when they do communicate.
3. Avoid overstimulation: Autistic teens may become overwhelmed by too much sensory input, such as loud noises or bright lights. It’s essential to communicate with them in a calm and quiet environment.

Parenting an autistic teenager can be challenging, but with patience, understanding, and support, it’s possible to create a safe and nurturing environment for your child. By creating a routine, encouraging independence, providing clear instructions, allowing for downtime, and seeking support, you can support your autistic teenager through the challenges they face. 

How ROWI Can Help

ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers specializes in treating a variety of mental health issues, including autism. Our services include therapy, counseling, and support groups for both teens and parents. If you’re struggling to support your autistic teenager, ROWI can provide the support and resources you need to help your autistic teen thrive. To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 805-356-3477, and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, and verifying your insurance to get you, your family, and teen started on your journey to mental wellness.

Treatment Options for Teens with Autism: Effective Therapies and Activities

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social communication, behavior, and sensory processing. The symptoms of autism can vary greatly, and there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for it. However, there are effective treatments for autism in teens that can help them improve their social skills, communication, and behavior.

It is essential to find a treatment plan that works for each autistic teen’s unique needs. That is why it is crucial to work with professionals who have experience in treating ASD. At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we specialize in providing comprehensive and evidence-based treatments for teens with ASD. Our goal is to help each teen realize their capabilities and achieve their full potential.

Therapy options for teens with autism vary and can include:

1. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy: ABA therapy is a behavior-based treatment that is used to help autistic teens improve their social skills, communication, and behavior. This therapy involves breaking down complex skills into smaller, more manageable steps, and rewarding the teen for achieving each step.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a talk therapy that focuses on helping autistic teens change negative or unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. This therapy can be helpful in reducing anxiety and improving communication and social skills.
3. Speech and Language Therapy*: Speech and language therapy can help autistic teens improve their ability to communicate verbally and non-verbally. This therapy can also help them understand social cues and develop social skills.
4. Occupational Therapy*: Occupational therapy can help autistic teens improve their ability to perform daily living tasks and develop sensory processing skills. This therapy can also help them with motor skills and coordination.

In addition, there are various therapeutic activities and training programs to support autistic teenagers, including:

1. Social Skills Training: Social skills training is a crucial aspect of treatment for teens with autism. It can involve role-playing, modeling, and group therapy sessions. These activities can help autistic teens learn how to initiate conversations, make friends, and navigate social situations. At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we offer the UCLA PEERS® program, an evidence-based social skills intervention specifically designed for teens with ASD. The program focuses on teaching teens skills such as starting and maintaining conversations, making and keeping friends, and handling peer pressure. The PEERS program has been shown to improve social skills, reduce loneliness, and increase social opportunities for teens with ASD.
2. Art Therapy: Art therapy can be a helpful tool for autistic teens to express themselves and communicate their emotions. This therapy can involve painting, drawing, and other forms of artistic expression.
3. Music Therapy: Music therapy can be a helpful tool for autistic teens to develop communication skills, improve mood, and reduce anxiety. This therapy can involve playing musical instruments, singing, and listening to music.

Ultimately, finding the right combination of therapy and activities for each individual teenager is essential to successful treatment of ASD. 

How ROWI Can Help

At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we offer evidence-based treatments, as well as a range of therapies and activities to meet the unique needs of each individual with ASD. We believe in providing comprehensive and individualized care to help teens with ASD reach their full potential.  To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 805-356-3477, and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, and verifying your insurance to get you, your family, and teen started on your journey to mental wellness.

*While ROWI does not offer Speech and Language Therapy or Occupational Therapy services, we are able to connect families of teens with autism to respected practitioners with those expertises.

Navigating Adolescence with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Insights and Guidance

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. It is usually diagnosed in early childhood, but some ASD cases may go undiagnosed until adolescence. As a result, many autistic teenagers face unique challenges during this critical time in their lives. In this blog, we will explore the impact of ASD on adolescence, the behavior of autistic teenagers, and the intersection of puberty and autism.

How Does Autism Affect Adolescence?

Adolescence is a period of rapid physical, emotional, and social development. For autistic teenagers, the transition to adolescence can be particularly challenging because they may struggle with social interaction and communication. This can lead to difficulty forming and maintaining friendships, and feeling isolated from their peers. In addition, autistic teenagers may have trouble understanding social cues, which can lead to misunderstandings and social conflicts.

ASD can also affect the academic performance of autistic teenagers. They may have difficulty with organization, time management, and following instructions. This can lead to poor grades and a lack of motivation to succeed in school. Furthermore, autistic teenagers may experience sensory overload, which can make it difficult to focus in class and complete assignments.

Autistic Teenager Behavior

The behavior of autistic teenagers can vary widely depending on the individual. However, some common behaviors associated with ASD in adolescence include:

• Difficulty with social interaction and communication
• Repetitive behaviors or routines
• Limited interests or preoccupations
• Sensory sensitivities
• Difficulty regulating emotions

Some autistic teenagers may also engage in self-injurious behaviors or have aggressive outbursts. It is important to note that these behaviors are not intentional, but rather a result of the individual’s difficulty with communication and self-regulation.

Parents, caregivers, and teachers can support autistic teenagers by providing a structured and predictable environment. This may include creating a daily routine, using visual schedules, and providing clear instructions. In addition, it is important to provide opportunities for social interaction, such as group activities or clubs, that align with the teenager’s interests.

Puberty and Autism

Puberty is a challenging time for most teenagers, but it can be particularly difficult for those with ASD. Autistic teenagers may struggle with the physical and emotional changes that come with puberty, and may have difficulty understanding and managing their emotions. In addition, the social pressures of adolescence can be overwhelming for autistic teenagers, who may feel even more isolated and misunderstood.

Parents and caregivers can support autistic teenagers through puberty by providing age-appropriate information about bodily changes and sexual health. It may also be helpful to discuss social boundaries and appropriate behavior in relationships. In addition, it is important to provide a safe and supportive environment for teenagers to ask questions and express their feelings.

Autism Spectrum Disorder in Teenagers

Autism spectrum disorder can have a significant impact on adolescence. Autistic teenagers may face challenges with social interaction, communication, and academic performance. However, with the right support and understanding, autistic teenagers can thrive during this critical time in their lives. By providing structure, opportunities for social interaction, and age-appropriate information, parents, caregivers, and teachers can help autistic teenagers navigate adolescence and prepare for adulthood.

How ROWI Can Help

At ROWI Teen & Parent Wellness Centers, we offer evidence-based treatments, as well as a range of therapies and activities to meet the unique needs of each individual with ASD. We believe in providing comprehensive and individualized care to help teens with ASD reach their full potential. To find out more, use our contact us form or call our Admissions Team at 805-356-3477, and one of our helpful coordinators will assist you in completing an application, scheduling an assessment, and verifying your insurance to get you, your family, and teen started on your journey to mental wellness.

A diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder typically occurs in toddlerhood or early childhood.  It is possible for physicians, clinicians, and parents to miss or overlook the sign of Autism until late childhood, adolescence, or even adulthood.  People that are diagnosed later often have received another diagnosis while the underlying Autism went undetected.  Many people with Autism have a co-morbid (co-occurring) diagnosis of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and/or Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Even when a person is diagnosed later in life, the symptoms will have been present since they were very young.  Though they may have been masked, in order to qualify for an Autism diagnosis, symptoms must have been present from early childhood.

Why do some children receive an autism diagnosis later in life?

The symptoms of Autism may be masked for many reasons and therefore diagnosis during early childhood did not occur.  People with Autism that are high functioning are usually of average or even above-average intelligence.  In many situations, children with undiagnosed Autism have immense strengths that do not raise many red flags in the elementary school settings.  When children are able to do well in school, perform well on an IQ test and communicate it will usually send parents, teachers, and pediatricians to explore other options for a child’s unexpected or unusual behaviors.  When academic work becomes more abstract and social interactions become more complex these children/adolescents begin to show more challenges in the home, school, and community settings. 

Some research suggests that females are less likely to be diagnosed at a young age.  A 2015 study titled “Sex and gender differences in autism spectrum disorder,” reports that symptoms of autism manifest differently in females and tend to display better functional social skills and awareness than males on the autism spectrum.

What are the early signs of autism disorder?

There are some signs to be aware of if you are unsure if your loved one may be on the autism spectrum but is undiagnosed. Some of the signs to look for are being overly anxious in social situations, appearing blunt or rude without intention, avoiding eye contact or giving uncomfortable eye contact, difficulty making and/or maintaining friendships, and difficulty understanding what others are thinking and feeling (theory of mind), having exquisite knowledge about a narrow topic of interest, engaging in strict routines and becoming dysregulated when change occurs, difficulty understanding social norms and social cues and high levels of sensory sensitivity (smells, tastes, textures).

If you think you or your loved one may have an autism spectrum disorder your physician or a mental health professional can support and guide you to find the appropriate referrals for a neuropsychological assessment.  These assessments are usually completed by a clinical psychologist.  When a diagnosis occurs later in life, there are appropriate therapies and ASD programs including cognitive behavioral therapy, social skills training, and behavioral therapy that can help a person to gain more insight into themselves as well as increase socially appropriate interactions and behaviors.

Having a loved one diagnosed later in life may come with guilt due to not recognizing the signs earlier.  It is important to remember that receiving a diagnosis for many people that have an autism spectrum disorder begins a journey toward self-awareness and acceptance.