Occupational Therapy can support children and adults with autism to improve how they communicate, play and relate to others.

What is autism?
Autism spectrum disorder, or autism, is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with communication and social interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviours, interests and activities (including sensory processing issues).
Autism is sometimes accompanied by other forms of disability, including intellectual and learning impairments.
While autism is a lifelong condition, allied health professionals such as Occupational Therapists can help people with autism develop new skills and adapt their environment to improve their everyday functioning at home, in school and the community.

How do Occupational Therapists work with people on the autism spectrum?
Occupational Therapists are experienced in working with people on the autism spectrum. We’re skilled at assessing skill levels in developmental areas, and identifying the barriers that keep participants from being independent and engaging in meaningful activities.
Working as part of a team, with parents, teachers, family members and other health professionals, our therapists work one-on-one with the child or adult to review areas such as motor skills, sensory processing, emotional regulation, cognitive skills, and interactions with caregivers and others, to determine the level of support they need.

What are the benefits of occupational therapy for people with autism?
Occupational Therapy can make enormous improvements to a person’s everyday life. We aim to help people cope better with daily life by improving communication and learning at school and work, improving play and interactions with others, and minimizing repetitive behaviours. We also find ways to support a person’s sensory processing needs by developing individual sensory diets and strategies.
The types of real-life, everyday skills that can be developed through Occupational Therapy include:

• Daily living skills such as personal care, and the instrumental activities of daily living, such as meal prep, cooking, cleaning, shopping and money management
• Communication and social skills, such as taking turns, engaging in cooperative activities, sportsmanship, and engaging in social clues
• Gross motor skills such as balance, postural control, coordination and ball skills
• Fine motor skills used for handwriting, buttoning, using cutlery, and manipulating small, everyday objects
• Sensory processing skills to decrease the impact of high sensitivities and seeking behaviours
• Cognitive functions such as problem solving, impulse control, memory and attention
• Self help

Learning all of these skills through Occupational Therapy can help with developing better self-esteem, confidence, and independence.