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Most kids with ASD are either hypersensitive or hyposensitive to stimuli like noises, lights, touch, etc.
If someone has Autism and/or PTSD, he/she may be more prone to sensory overload and startle more easily.
That means there’s not much information about how typical treatment methods can or should be adjusted for patients with ASD.
According to this article, a nurse could…
Offer home-based services
Use more visual aids, such as gradient scales to describe degrees of emotion
Keep appointment times regular and predictable as much as possible
Provide sensory toys or allow children to bring their own
Emphasize the possibility of a “happy ending” after trauma―“this correlates well with the documented effectiveness of social stories, narratives and role-playing in therapy involving individuals with ASD”
Be mindful of how often society dismisses the emotions of autistic people
Involve other trusted caregivers
…and more. Essentially, the therapist should keep the child’s unique strengths and limitations in mind at each step and be open to flexibility.
Remember to…
Not take behavior personally
Be willing to listen without pressuring him/her to talk
Identify possible triggers and help him/her avoid them
Remain calm and understanding when he/she is emotional
Let him/her make age-appropriate choices so he/she feels in control of his/her life
Be patient
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