Autism is a developmental disorder that usually shows up in the first three years of life. Broadly defined autism, 'autistic spectrum disorder' (ASD) is a condition that affects people of all ages. Originally identified in 1943, autism used to be a rare occurrence till a decade ago. But the rapid rise in its incidence is really an ominous portent for the future. Millions of people have been diagnosed as autistic in the US.

About four times more common in boys than in girls, autism is a life-long brain disability that seriously affects many areas of development.

hose suffering from Autism have serious problems with both speech and nonverbal communication. They may also find themselves in a position not to interact socially. However, there is no cause for worry. Speech therapy will stand you I good stead if you are suffering from autism. The central part of treatment for autism, sspeech therapy has the potential of addressing a wide range of communication disorders for autistic persons. Several scientific studies have demonstrated that speech therapy has proved successful in improving the communication skills of people with autism.

Speech-language pathologists are therapists who specialize in rehabilitating persons with language problems and speech disorders. The therapists work closely with the autism treatment team. They help in the early screening and detection of the affected person.

To find out the appropriateness of the kind of speech language intervention, assessment is the first step a speech therapist has to take. Once the diagnosis of autism has been made, speech therapists assess the t ways to treat communication disorder thereby enhancing the quality of the sufferer’s life. These assessments are used to implement the best course of therapy possible. All this amounts to the necessity of comfortable working by a Speech and Language Therapist in a highly structured team as well as independently.

Throughout therapy, the speech-language pathologist also works closely with a range of different health professionals including physicians, audiologists, psychologists, social workers, teachers, and occupational therapists. The best approaches to speech therapy include components of early diagnosis and individualized treatment. However, family involvement is an absolute must for the treatment of autism .

What are the benefits of speech therapy for autism?
Speech therapy can improve overall communication. This makes it possible for people with autism to improve their ability to form relationships and function in day-to-day life.

Speech therapy can help the person with autism in a number of ways. The speech therapist helps the sufferer by articulating words well , communicating both verbally and nonverbally, developing conversational skills, exchanging ideas and much more.

Right time to start speech therapy for autism 
The earlier the treatment for autism, the better. Autism usually appears before the age of 3. Starting speech therapy at the earliest is of utmost importance. With early screening and diagnosis, the suffer can improve communication skills and their grasp of spoken language. So it is advisable to get an evaluation done by a speech-language pathologist as soon as you have any type of concerns. Research has shown that those who receive intensive treatment are most likely to improve the most .

The article above is part of our website blog and does not represent opinion or advice of Marissa A Barrera and other staff members.