What we treat
A neurodevelopmental condition characterised by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviours.
Autism can show up in lots of different ways. Here are some common signs:
Socially, you might find it tricky to read social cues or make friends.
Communication - you may have delayed speech or struggle with back-and-forth conversations.
Repetitive behaviours can be preferred. You may have specific routines or movements that you regularly repeat.
Sensory sensitivities - like certain sounds, lights, or textures may feel overwhelming.
Intense interests - you might have super deep knowledge about specific topics.
Unexpected changes in routine might be really stressful.
Literal thinker which maybe hard for you to understand sarcasm or figures of speech.
Making eye contact might feel uncomfortable.
You might have some challenges with coordination or fine motor skills.
Planning, organising, and managing time might be tricky.
Remember, these can vary a lot from person to person. You don't need to tick all these boxes to have autism.
Autism, also known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It's a complex condition that often shows up early in childhood, but its symptoms can be varied. People with autism might be total chatterboxes with sky-high IQs, while others might find talking and learning in school a bit tricky. Interestingly, some people don't realise until they're older that their childhood experiences or current challenges might be linked to autism. Others might have known about their autism since they were children, but are now facing new hurdles.
Autism covers a wide range of experiences - there's no one-size-fits-all. Some people with autism might breeze through conversations and ace their exams, while others might need a bit more support when it comes to communication and learning. It's worth noting that just because you're experiencing some social or functional difficulties doesn't automatically mean you have autism. Other factors like mood disorders or personality traits could also be at play. That's why it's always a good idea to chat with a professional if you have concerns.
No one knows what causes of autism, but researchers think it's probably a mix of genetic and environmental factors. It’s widely thought that factors that play a role include:
Genetics - autism tends to run in families.
Environmental factors, such as parental age, pregnancy complications, or exposure to certain chemicals might increase the risk.
Brain differences and neurological conditions - the way the brain develops and functions might be different in people with autism.
It's important to remember that autism isn't caused by bad parenting or vaccines - these are myths that have been thoroughly debunked by science.
If you're facing challenges related to autism, chatting with a psychologist can be super helpful. Someone.health has a variety of psychologists who help people with autism. Here's how they can help:
1. Understanding - they'll help you get to know your unique autism traits better.
2. Coping strategies - ways to manage challenges and reduce stress.
3. Emotional skills - learn to recognise and regulate your emotions more effectively.
4. Social skills - develop strategies for making and maintaining friendships with others.
5. Sensory management - there are techniques to cope with overwhelming sensory experiences.
6. Life skills: Work on things like organisation, time management, and independence.
7. Self-advocacy: Learn how to communicate your needs effectively.
8. Relationship support: Get help navigating romantic relationships or family dynamics.
Our Someone.health psychologists will work with you, in your time and at your pace. We’re here to support you and help you develop skills to navigate life. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have known about your autism for years, a psychologist can offer valuable support strategies. Book a Someone.health psychologist now.
Psychologists available online
Tell us what matters to you, compare suitable appointments and keep your care details in your patient profile.
Find an appointmentIt will not always be obvious and it could be gradual. But when you start feeling better, then that means that the therapy is working.
You'll also be able to see things more clearly as you progress with your talk therapy. Healing, however, is not always so clear-cut. There will always be ups and downs. If that happens, you can talk to your psychologist about your progress and be open with what you're feeling.
Australia has regulatory bodies to ensure we maintain consistent and high standards across the psychology profession.
Yes. They are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA), listed with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), and individually selected and monitored by Someone.health's expert clinical team.
Appointments are available immediately
Once you have signed up and we have verified your details, you can choose a psychologist who is available immediately. Our website displays in order of the first available appointment.
Only your GP or a psychiatrist can prescribe medication.
Medication can only be prescribed by medical doctors, which includes general practitioners (GPs) and psychiatrists.
If you need the services of a psychiatrist, please visit Call To Mind, a telehealth service specialising in psychiatry.