Recognizing Autism Early: What to Look For and How to Get Help

Recognizing Autism Early: What to Look For and How to Get Help

Every child develops differently, but when something feels “off,” many parents experience a deep, intuitive concern that their child may need additional support. Early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can open the door to life-changing resources and interventions, giving children the best possible chance to thrive.

At Brain Treatment Center Ashburn, we specialize in early and accurate autism assessment, helping families get answers and build a meaningful plan forward. Our lead evaluator, Dr. Maria Juanpere, is a board-certified pediatrician and autism diagnostic specialist with over 30 years of experience in pediatric care.

🚨 Early Signs of Autism: What to Watch For

Autism symptoms can vary widely, but here are some common signs and behaviors parents or caregivers may notice between the ages of 1–4:

• Lack of eye contact or social engagement

• Delayed speech or loss of previously acquired language

• Limited gestures (waving, pointing, reaching)

• Repetitive movements (hand-flapping, spinning, rocking)

• Fixation on specific objects or routines

• Unusual responses to sound, touch, or textures

• Difficulty engaging in pretend play

• Inconsistent response to their name

These signs don’t confirm a diagnosis—but they do suggest it’s time for a professional evaluation.

🧠 Why an Official Diagnosis Matters

Getting a formal diagnosis of ASD is often the first step in gaining access to early intervention services, school accommodations, and insurance-covered therapies. Without documentation from a licensed evaluator, many families encounter delays in treatment or barriers to support.

At our clinic, autism evaluations are conducted by Dr. Juanpere using the ADOS-2, the gold standard in autism diagnostic tools. Her compassionate, evidence-based approach ensures families receive a clear diagnosis, a thorough report, and individualized recommendations for next steps.

We’re currently offering summer autism evaluations for $1,000—an accessible, streamlined way for families to get answers before the new school year.

💡 Next Steps: Real Resources That Make a Difference

Once a child receives a diagnosis, the next chapter is about getting the right tools in place.

Here at Brain Treatment Center Ashburn, we provide a range of innovative and integrative support services for children with autism:

🔷 MeRT Therapy (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy)

Many children with ASD exhibit brainwave dysregulation, which can impact language, mood, and behavior. MeRT uses gentle, personalized magnetic stimulation to help regulate brain activity, often improving communication, focus, and emotional regulation over time.

🔷 SPIN – Sensory Processing & Integration Neurotherapy

This OT-intensive program is designed for kids with autism, ADHD, or sensory disorders. It combines hands-on occupational therapy with brain-based integration work to support calm, functional responses to sensory input.

🔷 Functional Health & Nutrition

We assess underlying medical and metabolic contributors to autism symptoms, such as inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, gut health, and genetic factors like MTHFR mutations. With lab testing and targeted support, we help restore balance to the whole child, from the inside out.

Whether it’s behavioral regression triggered by food sensitivities or chronic immune stress affecting mood and sleep, these issues are often overlooked—but when addressed, they can result in meaningful improvements in your child’s daily life.

Together, these therapies provide a powerful complement to traditional speech and behavioral interventions, and we tailor every care plan to the child’s specific needs.

If you have questions or would like to schedule an assessment with Dr. Juanpere, give us a call at 703-844-0184 or visit www.braintreatmentcenterashburn.com.

You don’t have to wait to get your child the support they deserve.