How does a speech pathologist work with autism?

28/03/2023 | Ebony Hanns
How does a speech pathologist work with autism? Image

Speech Pathologists are often a first point of contact for families after they receive a diagnosis of Autism.  Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) commonly results in difficulties with language and social skills which speech pathologists are experienced in treating. 

Autistic children and adults frequently have challenges with reading social cues (facial expression, body language etc) and this can lead to larger challenges in navigating social relationships. When social situations become uncomfortable or awkward it can become isolating. They can frequently face misunderstanding and judgement because of their difficulties in social skills.  

These difficulties can get in the way of an autistic person’s goals in school, work and building relationships with others. For autistic children it may make it more difficult to play with their friends, get along with their siblings and engage at school. It can often lead to frustration and behavioural outbursts when they can’t get their message across. It may also be  frustrating for their families who are trying to understand their needs and perspectives. 

What areas does a Speech Pathologist support Autistic individuals?
When should I start speech therapy? 

In a nutshell, it is always suggested  the earlier the better. 

Most research shows that early intervention (birth to 7 years old) has great benefits for autistic children and is likely to have long-term effects, and rely on less intervention in the older years. 

This doesn’t mean that progress cannot be achieved when the individual is older. In some areas (such as social skills) the individual needs to be more cognitively mature to work on these skills successfully. 

Does speech therapy work for autistic children?

Lots of research has been done looking at the outcomes of autistic children. Research has shown that speech therapy is beneficial for autistic children in developing their play, language, speech and social skills.

If you believe yourself or your child would benefit from support with communication or social skills but you need further guidance, you might like to consider seeing one of the speech pathologists at Prosper Health Collective for some extra support. These types of problems are best dealt with sooner rather than later before they become entrenched and more difficult to overcome.

(This blog uses identify-first language (‘Autistic individual’) as opposed to person first language (‘person with Autism’) due to input from disability advocacy groups. It is acknowledged that each individual has a right to identify with the language they feel most comfortable with.)