Spectrum Disorders

Spectrum disorders are mental health conditions that affect individuals differently. Thomas A. Arzt, LCSW, BCD, is an experienced licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy for people with spectrum disorders at his office in Miller Place, New York. Tom takes a holistic and direct approach to psychotherapy to improve your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Call or schedule your spectrum disorder consultation online today.

What are spectrum disorders?

Spectrum disorders are neurodevelopmental disorders that cause ongoing challenges with social interaction, communication, limited interests, and repetitive behaviors. The severity of these challenges varies significantly, which is why they’re referred to as spectrum disorders.

Spectrum disorders fall under the umbrella of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As a neurodevelopmental disorder, signs and symptoms of spectrum disorders appear during childhood. However, they can go unnoticed in a child with mild symptoms.

It’s not uncommon for high-functioning individuals on the spectrum to be misdiagnosed with mental health conditions like depression, attention deficit disorder (ADD), or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). 

What are examples of spectrum disorders?

Spectrum disorders are collectively known as ASD. However, some health professionals may classify these disorders into a type based on the severity of symptoms, such as:

Pervasive developmental disorder (PDD)

PDD is characterized by delays in development that affect socialization and communication, appearing in children before age 3.

Asperger’s syndrome

Asperger’s syndrome is the mildest type of spectrum disorder. People with Asperger’s syndrome are intelligent and can manage their daily life but may struggle socially and have limited interests.

Autistic disorder

Autistic disorder causes more severe symptoms than PDD. 

Childhood integrative disorder

Childhood integrative disorder is the rarest type of spectrum disorder and causes the most severe symptoms. It was used to describe children who were developing normally and then suddenly lost their social, communication, and mental skills. 

What can I expect during a spectrum disorder consultation?

You can expect a comprehensive and patient-centered spectrum disorder consultation. Tom is an experienced mental health professional and understands the variations in symptoms.

He uses the medical model for your assessment, asking detailed questions to fully understand your mental, emotional, and physical health. 

What therapies benefit spectrum disorders?

Many therapies benefit spectrum disorders. Tom customizes your plan, incorporating approaches that help you reach your goals.

Types of therapies for spectrum disorders include:

Behavior and social skills training

Behavior and social skills training for spectrum disorders focuses on improving communication and social skills to benefit relationships. 

Job skills training

Job skills training may help you find a job that fits your skill set, prepare for an interview, or talk to your employer about your disorder.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Tom may use CBT to treat any underlying co-occurring mental health condition like depression or anxiety.

To find out more about therapy for spectrum disorders, call the office of Thomas A. Arzt, LCSW, BCD, or book an appointment online today.