Blog

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) represent a group of conditions that occur in individuals whose mothers consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These conditions can result in a variety of physical, behavioral, and learning problems. While there is no cure for FASD, there are treatments that can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Among these, […]

Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is an innovative, holistic approach designed to meet the complex needs of vulnerable children, often referred to as “kids from hard places”. Developed by Dr. Karyn Purvis and Dr. David Cross at the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development, TBRI focuses on building trust and meaningful connections as a foundation for […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. It’s a spectrum disorder, meaning it varies in severity and symptoms from person to person. There has been an increased discussion of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and aASD. PDA is characterized by an individual’s overwhelming avoidance of everyday demands and expectations. This […]

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is a group of conditions that occur in individuals who were exposed to alcohol during gestation. These conditions can cause a variety of physical, behavioral, and learning problems. One potential consequence of FASD that requires further attention is the heightened risk of substance abuse in affected individuals. FASD affects each […]

In an age dominated by digital devices, the humble board game may seem like a relic of the past. However, these traditional forms of play offer a wealth of benefits that can’t be replicated on a screen, particularly when it comes to teaching social skills. This blog post aims to shine a light on the […]

The rise of social media has transformed the way we communicate and interact, presenting both opportunities and challenges. For individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), social media can be a double-edged sword, offering a platform for connection and expression, but also potential risks to mental health and mood. This blog post aims to shed light […]

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. In the digital age, where screens have become an integral part of our lives, understanding the relationship between screen time and ADHD has gained significant importance. This blog post aims to explore the impact of screen time on […]

Mood disorders, including depression and anxiety disorders, can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. They are often characterized by intense and prolonged emotional states that interfere with daily activities. While professional treatment is crucial for managing these disorders, the importance of self-care as a complementary strategy cannot be understated. This blog post aims to […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social communication, behavior, and sensory processing. While Autism is a complex disorder on its own, it often occurs alongside other mental health diagnoses. These additional diagnoses are known as comorbid conditions and can have a significant impact on individuals with Autism and their families. In […]

Reciprocal play, a pivotal phase in the lives of young children, is where the foundation for meaningful social interactions begins to take shape. As they engage in back-and-forth exchanges, share toys, and take turns, children are not just having fun; they are learning valuable life skills. Reciprocal play typically starts to make its appearance when […]

We are often asked about the best strategies for helping young minds navigate the complexities of social interactions. One essential skill is social problem-solving skills. These skills empower kids to handle social challenges, build relationships, and grow into empathetic, confident individuals. Social problem-solving skills are like a compass that guides children through the intricate landscape […]

Autism, a complex neurodevelopmental disorder, affects millions of children worldwide. The benefits of recognizing autism in its early stages cannot be overstated. In this blog post, we’ll explore why early identification of autism is so crucial and the profound positive impact it can have on individuals and their families. One of the most significant benefits […]

Conversations are the heart and soul of human interaction, and their development starts early in life. The ability to engage in reciprocal conversation is a fundamental skill that paves the way for meaningful social interactions. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of the early development of reciprocal conversation in children and why […]

Diagnosing autism in toddlers is a delicate and comprehensive process that involves the expertise of psychologists and a variety of assessment tools. Two key components in this evaluation are the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) and parent interviews. In this blog post, we’ll explore how these tools are used by psychologists to assess […]

One of the most valuable life skills we can teach children is self-advocacy. This powerful skill not only equips them to express their needs, wants, and preferences but also fosters independence, confidence, and a strong sense of self. Self-advocacy is more than just a set of techniques; it’s a mindset. Self-advocacy includes the abilities to […]

While SPD is often diagnosed in childhood, its effects can persist into adulthood. Adults with SPD might find themselves navigating a world filled with sensory triggers that can influence their emotional responses and overall well-being. Sensory sensitivities, difficulty filtering out irrelevant sensory information, and challenges in adapting to various environments can all contribute to emotional […]

We are often asked to provide recommendations for children who are diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Treatment plans can vary greatly depending on the individual’s symptoms and needs. Here are some potential recommendations: Early Intervention Services: Accessing early intervention services is crucial for children with FASD. These services can include speech therapy, occupational […]

Intervention Strategies Understanding the connection between Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and emotion regulation is vital for effective intervention and support: Sensory-Based Interventions: Occupational therapy with a sensory integration focus can help individuals with SPD adapt to sensory stimuli. This might involve sensory diet plans, therapeutic activities, and exposure to gradually increasing sensory experiences. Emotion Regulation […]

As human beings, we experience the world through our senses-sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell and movement. Our ability to process sensory information helps us navigate our environment and respond appropriately. However, for individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), this experience can be quite different and complex. In this blog post, we will explore what […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. People with ASD have trouble with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. ASD is a lifelong condition, but with early intervention and support, people with ASD can live happy and fulfilling lives. Signs and Symptoms of Autism The signs and symptoms of […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual’s social communication, behavior, and sensory processing. One common challenge that individuals with ASD face is motivation. Low motivation can impact daily life, from academic and work performance to participating in activities and social interactions. However, there are several strategies and interventions that can […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) are two distinct conditions that can share some similarities in their symptoms. However, it is important to understand that these two conditions are not the same and require different diagnostic criteria and treatment approaches. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between ASD and […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can have a significant impact on relationships, and when both partners are on the Autism spectrum, it can create unique challenges. However, with the help of couples therapy, partners on the spectrum can learn effective communication strategies, improve their emotional connection, and build a stronger relationship. Couples therapy is a form […]

Maintaining a healthy relationship can be challenging, even for neurotypical individuals. When one partner has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it can add an extra layer of complexity to the relationship. However, couples therapy can be a beneficial tool for partners with ASD to learn new communication skills and build a stronger relationship. Couples therapy is […]

Self-diagnosis is becoming increasingly common in today’s society. People are turning to the internet and social media platforms to gather information and to diagnose themselves with various conditions. While self-diagnosis can be empowering for some, it can be dangerous for others, especially when it comes to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual’s social communication, behavior, and sensory processing. While there is no cure for ASD, there are several therapeutic approaches that can be effective in helping individuals with ASD to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. In this blog post, we […]

If you have a child with a disability in Colorado, you may have heard of Individualized Education Programs (IEP) and 504 Plans. Both are legal documents that provide accommodations and support for students with disabilities, but they have different purposes and requirements. Here, we will explore the differences between IEP and 504 Plans in Colorado […]

Depression and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are two very different mental health conditions, but they can present with similar symptoms. In some cases, Depression may mimic ADHD, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. Here, we will explore the similarities and differences between depression and ADHD and why it is important to get a proper […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and LGBTQ+ identity are both unique experiences that can present their own set of challenges. However, when an individual with ASD is also part of the LGBTQ+ community, they may face additional challenges and discrimination that can impact their mental health and overall wellbeing. In this blog post, we will explore […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. It is characterized by difficulties with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. ASD is a lifelong condition, but with early intervention and support, people with ASD can live happy and fulfilling lives. In the past, it was thought that Autism was a […]

Executive functioning refers to the cognitive processes needed to plan and complete tasks and includes skills such as:  Initiation: This involves a person’s ability to begin tasks independently and within a timely manner. Planning: This involves identifying and taking the steps necessary to finish a task or accomplish a goal. Planning includes determining the amount […]

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the prevalence of autism continues to increase in the United States and, as of 2022, 1 in 44 children are diagnosed as autistic. However, there continues to be a discrepancy in autism diagnosis and treatment across racial groups. Regardless of socioeconomic status, Black, Latino/Hispanic, and […]

Compared to males, women are at an elevated risk of their Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) going undiagnosed due to their difficulties being mislabeled or misunderstood. Women often require more severe autistic symptoms as well as increased cognitive and behavioral problems to be identified as autism. It has been found that teachers tend to underreport autistic […]

Students with ADHD often struggle with the following: Speaking out of turn, resulting in interpersonal difficulties  Problems following instructions, especially if they are presented with multiple steps    Forgetfulness across settings Problems starting and completing large or long term projects without direct supervision    Difficulty participating effectively in group products due to distraction and/or impulsivity    Deficits in […]

Autism Spectrum Disorder Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) manifests itself in unique ways from person to person. For the purpose of teaching a child with ASD, it is important for school staff to embrace the concept of neurodiversity. Neurodiversity is the idea that students experience and interact with the world around them in different ways. Teachers […]

What is Emotional Regulation and Why is it Important? Emotional regulation is an individual’s ability to effectively manage and respond to a situation that might provoke emotions such as stress, anxiety, annoyance, anger, and frustration. A person with strong emotional regulation skills can: Notice when they become emotionally charged. Consider the consequences of their responses. […]

Behavioral issues can be common among children with autism. Understanding behavior and how to respond to it, specifically in a positive way, can help parents or caregivers overcome some of these behavioral challenges. What is Behavior? Behavior is the way in which a person acts or conducts oneself, especially towards others. Behavior is measurable and […]

What ages range do you assess for FASD? We are able to provide diagnostic evaluations for children as young as 12 months who have known or suspected prenatal exposure to alcohol, although for children younger than 3 with a suspected diagnosis of FASD, it is more difficult to definitively determine a diagnosis.  This is why […]