Autism? Neurodivergent? What Really Matters.

What causes autism? Why do some children thrive while others don't? What's the most effective treatment? Diane Cross, CEO of Fraser, Minnesota's largest provider of autism and mental health services answers these questions and more. Key Takeaways: Parents: If you think something isn’t quite right with your child, don’t wait. Build a relationship with a pediatrician, talk with other parents, get a second opinion, and follow the science. Timing matters: The earlier the diagnosis and intervention, the better. Prior to age 4, is best since a child’s brain has more plasticity. Autism isn’t necessarily abnormal—it’s different. We all have different gifts and strengths. Those of us who are neurotypical may be the ones left behind if we don’t recognize and embrace those differences. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. Every child and every family needs a plan that’s tailored to them. The goal isn’t to “fix” autism—it’s to help each child reach their full potential. Links: Fraser Website: https://www.fraser.org/ Online Autism Screening tool: https://embrace-autism.com/raads-r/ Connect with Archelle ArcHealth Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.archellemd.com/newsletter⁠⁠⁠ Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakupforyourhealth⁠⁠ #PatientAdvocacy #HealthcareAccess #EmpoweredPatient #PatientExperience #HealthPodcast #speakupforyourhealth #PatientJourney #HealthcareStories #autism #ASD #autismspectrumdisorder #neurodivergence #Fraser #developmentalchallenge #parenting