Autism
MIND is a premier organization committed to delivering exceptional programs and services for individuals with Autism. We take great pride in being an integral part of Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health’s Funded Autism Program. In designing our facilities, we have collaborated closely with renowned Autism specialists from the U.K., ensuring that our spaces are tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals on the Autism spectrum.
Our holistic approach to planning goals and monitoring outcomes utilizes a variety of evidence-based standardized assessment tools. We embrace a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach that goes beyond the confines of therapy walls, and actively engage with the child’s teacher, family members, and caregivers; recognizing the importance of collaboration and support from all stakeholders. Our esteemed multidisciplinary clinical team is fully devoted to providing assistance and guidance to toddlers, children, adolescents, young adults and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and related challenges.
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition characterized by three primary features: challenges in social skills, difficulties in both receptive and expressive language skills, and engaging in restrictive and repetitive behaviors. According to a survey conducted by HBKU Qatar in 2019, Autism affects an estimated 1 in 87 children in Qatar. It is important to understand that each child with Autism is unique, and their specific strengths and challenges may differ. Our team at MIND recognizes the individuality of each child and provides tailored support and interventions to address their specific needs. We aim to promote their social and communication skills, enhance cognitive flexibility, address restrictive behaviors, and offer strategies to manage sensory processing difficulties.
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified significant indicators to be vigilant about, including:
- Avoids eye contact
- No response to name by 9 months
- No facial expressions (happy, sad, etc.) by 9 months
- No simple interactive games (pat-a-cake) by 12 months
- Few or no gestures by 12 months (e.g., no waving goodbye)
- No shared interests by 15 months (e.g., showing objects)
- No pointing to show something interesting by 18 months
- Doesn't notice others' distress by 24 months
- Doesn't engage with other children in play by 36 months
- Doesn't engage in pretend play by 48 months
- Doesn't sing, dance, or act by 60 months
- Orders toys and objects obsessively
- Consistently plays with toys in the same way
- Focuses solely on parts of objects (e.g., wheels)
- Gets upset over minor changes
- Displays obsessive interests
- Requires strict routines
- Exhibits self-stimulating behaviors (hand flapping, rocking, spinning)
- Reacts unusually to sensory experiences
- Delayed language, movement, or cognitive skills
- Hyperactive, impulsive, or inattentive behavior
- Epilepsy or seizures
- Unusual eating or sleeping patterns
- Gastrointestinal issues (e.g., constipation)
- Unusual emotional reactions
- Excessive anxiety, stress, or worry
- Unusual lack of fear or excessive fear
There are a number of medical and mental health conditions that are frequently associated with ASD, such as:
- Cognitive Delay
- Epilepsy
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Feeding problems such as picky eating and food avoidance
- Sleep disturbances
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Post-Diagnostic Support
Numerous interventions have demonstrated significant effectiveness and offer valuable support for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Support for ASD requires the collaboration of a skilled multidisciplinary team, aiming to alleviate symptoms, enhance cognitive abilities, develop daily living skills, and promote community participation. It is crucial to acknowledge that there is no universal solution applicable to all individuals. Each person, whether a child or adult with Autism, possesses distinct strengths and challenges. At MIND, our specialists focus on addressing the specific requirements of each individual and crafting an individualized therapy plan that is tailored to their unique needs.
As with any condition, early intervention is key. Our team of clinicians is dedicated to implementing behavioral intervention strategies and facilitating the development of social communication skills. We recognize the crucial importance of early intervention, as it aligns with the natural developmental period during which children acquire these skills.
Our comprehensive services to support individuals with Autism include the following offerings:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
- Customized Therapy Plan
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Sensory Integration
- Speech and Language Therapy
- Parent Training Services (Early Bird)
- Oral Placement Therapy (OPT)
- Psychotherapy
- Play Therapy
- Cognitive Training/Brain Training/Neuroplasticity
- Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)