Language Therapy For Children

Autism and Social Language

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a lifelong developmental disorder.  Children on this very wide and varied spectrum may have severe intellectual and communication differences while others have milder challenges with learning and socializing.  Regardless of severity, all individuals with autism face some degree of challenge with day-to-day communication and social awareness.  While our clinicians cannot provide a diagnosis of autism, we assist families in identifying warning signs and help them with appropriate referrals for diagnostic assessment with a qualified doctor or child psychologist.

Early diagnosis and intervention can positively enhance children’s lives and educate and empower families. Our clinicians focus on helping children make pleasurable and meaningful connections with others and regulate their behavior to allow for learning and growth.  Even prior to a formal diagnosis, our SLPs begin working on developing connections and social interaction through techniques that honour each child’s unique interests and way of looking at the world.

Our team tailors therapy to each child’s strengths, interests, and needs, ensuring that play and social connection remain at the heart of learning and progress. Sessions are individualized, and we place a strong emphasis on parent collaboration. During play-based therapy, clinicians carefully consider each child’s sensory preferences and adapt activities accordingly.

We draw upon a range of evidence-based intervention models to meet each child’s unique needs. These may include:

• Autism Navigator®
• The Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)
• Hanen More Than Words®
• Social Thinking® Methodology
• Gestalt Language Processing / Natural Language Acquisition (NLA)
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)