What is Autism?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that can influence how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world around them.

​Autistic individuals may have differences in:
  • Communication and language
  • Social interaction and understanding
  • Sensory processing (e.g. sound, touch, movement)
  • Routines, flexibility, and predictability

Every autistic person is different. Some may need more support in daily life, while others may benefit from targeted support in specific areas.

Autism is not something that needs to be “fixed.” Support focuses on understanding each individual and helping them participate meaningfully in their everyday environments.
Signs of Autism

Signs of autism can vary widely, but some common indicators families may notice include:
  • Delayed or different communication development
  • Reduced or different use of eye contact and gestures
  • Preference for playing alone or difficulty with back-and-forth interaction
  • Strong interests or focused topics
  • Preference for routines or difficulty with change
  • Sensory sensitivities (e.g. noise, textures, lights)
  • Differences in emotional regulation

​If you’re unsure, it can help to speak with your GP or a clinician to explore whether further support or assessment may be helpful.
Do I Need a Diagnosis to Get Support?

Not always.
Many children can begin therapy and support without a formal diagnosis. Early support can help build communication, regulation, and daily living skills.

However, some pathways (such as NDIS funding, school supports, or formal planning) may require an assessment or diagnosis.
If you’re unsure, our team can guide you through your options.
How We Support Children with Autism

Our approach focuses on understanding each child’s strengths, preferences, and environment.

​We work closely with families, educators, and support teams to develop practical strategies that support everyday participation.
Support may include:
  • Building communication and interaction skills
  • Supporting emotional regulation and coping strategies
  • Developing daily routines and independence
  • Supporting transitions and flexibility
  • Creating sensory-friendly environments
  • Reducing overwhelm and distress
  • Parent coaching and practical strategies for home
What Autism Support Looks Like Day-to-Day

​Support is practical and tailored to your child’s everyday life.
This may include:
  • Helping your child communicate their needs in ways that work for them
  • Supporting smoother transitions between activities
  • Developing routines for mornings, school, and home life
  • Adjusting environments to reduce sensory overload
  • Working with schools to support participation
  • Coaching parents with strategies that fit your family
The goal is to make everyday life more manageable, predictable, and supportive.
Multidisciplinary Autism Support

Depending on your child’s needs, support may involve a combination of services:

Occupational Therapy (OT)
  • Sensory processing support
  • Emotional regulation and self-regulation
  • Daily living skills and independence
  • Routines and environmental adjustments

Speech Pathology (SP)
  • Communication and language development
  • Social communication skills
  • Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) where appropriate

​Psychology
  • Emotional wellbeing and mental health support
  • Behavioural and cognitive strategies
  • Assessment support where appropriate

Counselling
  • Supporting emotional expression and coping
  • Building confidence and self-understanding

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)
  • Understanding behaviour as communication
  • Reducing distress and increasing safety
  • Developing proactive, supportive strategies
Autism Assessments

If you are considering an autism assessment, our team can guide you through the process and help determine the most appropriate pathway.
An autism assessment may help:
  • Determine whether autism may be contributing to your child’s presentation
  • Identify strengths and support needs
  • Inform school supports and planning
  • Guide therapy and intervention approaches

​Assessments are structured, supportive, and focused on understanding your child, not just providing a label.
Getting Started

If you’re unsure where to begin, that’s completely okay.

​You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Our team can talk through your concerns, help you understand your options, and guide you toward the right supports.
​​Book a free 20-minute call with our team

Our team is here to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us an email here
​
We support families across Perth, Mandurah, and all of Western Australia through in-person and telehealth services.
Helpful Resources

We’ve created a range of free guides to support families exploring autism. 
These guides can help you explore your concerns and decide what next steps may be helpful.

​Autism Signs and Symptoms Checklist by Age (1–10 Years)
Understand common signs across different ages

What To Do If You Think Your Child Might Be Autistic
A step-by-step guide for parents

​Early Signs of Autism
Learn what to look for in younger children

​Do I Need an Autism Diagnosis for My Child?
Understand when a diagnosis is helpful and when it’s not

Early Intervention Without a Diagnosis
How to start support straight away
Understanding the Autism Assessment Process
If you’re considering an assessment, it can help to understand what’s involved.

Autism Assessment Process in Perth & Mandurah
Learn who is involved, what to expect, and how to get started
Download the Printable Autism Checklist
Understand common signs across ages
Autism and the NDIS: What Families Need to Know

If your child has been diagnosed with autism, you may be considering whether the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) is the right next step.

Access to the NDIS is not based on diagnosis alone. The NDIS looks at how your child’s needs impact their everyday functioning, including communication, social interaction, learning, and daily routines.

Many families are unsure:
  • Whether their child may be eligible
  • What information is needed
  • How the application process works

​We’ve created a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process and what to expect.
Starting Support Early

You don’t need to wait for everything to be clear before getting help.

​Starting early can:
  • Build important developmental skills
  • Reduce frustration for your child
  • Support your family with practical strategies
Autism Support in Perth, Mandurah & Peel Region

​We work with families at all stages, including:
  • Parents exploring early signs
  • Children awaiting assessment
  • Families with a confirmed diagnosis
  • NDIS and private clients

We provide autism support services across:
  • Mandurah
  • Perth Metro
  • Rockingham
  • Falcon
  • Peel region and surrounding areas

​Services are available via:
  • Home visits
  • Community-based sessions
  • In-clinic appointments
  • Telehealth
Autism ASD Frequently Asked Questions

What are the early signs of autism in children?
​Early signs of autism may include differences in communication, social interaction, play, and sensory processing. Some children may have delayed speech, reduced eye contact, difficulty engaging in back-and-forth interaction, or strong preferences for routines. Signs can vary widely between individuals.

How is autism diagnosed?
Autism is assessed through a comprehensive process that may include interviews, questionnaires, observations, and standardised tools. This helps build a clear understanding of a person’s communication, behaviour, and development. A diagnosis is typically made by a qualified clinician such as a Clinical Psychologist, paediatrician, or psychiatrist.

Do I need an autism diagnosis before starting therapy?
Not always. Many children can begin therapy and support without a formal diagnosis. Early intervention can help build communication, regulation, and daily living skills. Some funding pathways or supports may require formal assessment, but support can often start earlier.

What therapies support autism?
Support is tailored to each individual and may include:
  • Occupational Therapy for sensory processing, regulation, and daily living skills
  • Speech Pathology for communication and language development
  • Psychology and Counselling for emotional wellbeing
  • Positive Behaviour Support to understand behaviour and build supportive strategies
A multidisciplinary approach is often most effective.

How can I support my child with autism at home?
Helpful strategies may include:
  • Creating predictable routines
  • Using visual supports and clear instructions
  • Supporting communication through gestures, visuals, or AAC
  • Providing sensory-friendly environments
  • Responding calmly during moments of distress
Parent coaching can help tailor strategies to your child’s needs.

What helps a child with autism when they are overwhelmed?
When a child is overwhelmed, it is helpful to focus on co-regulation:
  • Reduce sensory input and demands
  • Offer a quiet, safe space
  • Use calm, simple language
  • Allow time for recovery before problem-solving
Support should focus on reducing distress rather than correcting behaviour.

What environments are best for children with autism?
Children with autism often benefit from environments that are:
  • Structured and predictable
  • Clear in expectations and routines
  • Supportive of sensory needs
  • Flexible to allow breaks and regulation
Small adjustments at home and school can significantly improve participation.

Can children with autism attend mainstream school?
Yes. Many children with autism attend mainstream schools. With the right supports, adjustments, and understanding, they can participate successfully. Some children may also benefit from additional supports or alternative educational settings depending on their needs.

What challenges do children with autism experience?
Autism can affect individuals in different ways, but common areas may include:
  • Communication and language differences
  • Social interaction and understanding
  • Sensory sensitivities (e.g. noise, textures, movement)
  • Emotional regulation
  • Flexibility with routines or change
Support focuses on understanding these differences and building strengths.

What does autism support focus on?
Autism support focuses on helping individuals participate meaningfully in everyday life. This may include:
  • Building communication skills
  • Supporting emotional regulation
  • Improving independence and daily routines
  • Reducing overwhelm and distress
  • Supporting families with practical strategies
The goal is to support each person’s strengths, preferences, and goals.
​Your Support​ Matters
If you find these resources helpful, please support us in creating more valuable content by leaving a review on Facebook and Google.
Your feedback helps us continue to provide support and information that benefits our community.
​Stay updated with our latest resources and tips by liking us on Facebook!
Helping Your Child to Attend and Concentrate
Discover effective strategies to help your child improve attention and concentration at Belong Health. Our expert tips focus on minimising distractions, engaging in enjoyable activities, and using positive reinforcement to enhance your child's focus and learning experience, fostering their development and success.
How to Become an Emotion Coach for Your Child
Learn how to become an effective Emotion Coach for your child with insights from Dr. John Gottman’s research. Discover parenting strategies that foster emotional understanding and resilience, helping your child navigate their feelings and develop strong communication skills. Empower your parenting journey today!

Have a question? or need more information

Our friendly team are happy to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us a message

    Contact Us

13 Littleton st, Falcon

Phone: 08 9586 3934

EMAIL US
OFFICE HOURS:         MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:30am - 4:30pm

BELONG HEALTH'S Paediatric Occupational Therapy SERVICES FOR Perth region

A: Alexander Heights, Alfred Cove, Applecross, Applecross North, Ardross, Armadale, Ascot, Ashby, Ashfield, Attadale, Atwell, Aubin Grove, Aveley
B: Balcatta, Balga, Ballajura, Banjup, Banksia Grove, Baskerville, Bassendean, Bateman, Bayswater, Beaconsfield, Beckenham, Bedford, Bedfordale, Beechboro, Beeliar, Beldon, Belhus, Bellevue, Belmont, Bennett Springs, Bentley, Bibra Lake, Bicton, Booragoon, Boya, Brabham, Brentwood, Brigadoon, Broadway Nedlands, Brookdale, Bull Creek, Burns Beach, Burswood, Bushmead, Butler
C: Canning Vale, Cannington, Carabooda, Carine, Carlisle, Carramar, Caversham, Champion Lakes, Churchlands, City Beach, Claremont, Clarkson, Cloverdale, Cockburn Central, Como, Connolly, Coogee, Coolbellup, Coolbinia, Cottesloe, Craigie, Crawley, Currambine
D: Daglish, Dalkeith, Darch, Darlington, Dayton, Dianella, Dog Swamp, Doubleview, Duncraig
E: East Cannington, East Fremantle, East Perth, East Victoria Park, Eden Hill, Edgewater, Ellenbrook, Embleton
F: Ferndale, Floreat, Forrestdale, Forrestfield, Fremantle
G: Gidgegannup, Girrawheen, Glen Forrest, Glendalough, Glengarry, Gnangara, Gosnells, Greenmount, Greenwood, Guildford, Gwelup
H: Hamersley, Hamilton Hill, Hammond Park, Harrisdale, Haynes, Hazelmere, Heathridge, Helena Valley, Henderson, Henley Brook, Herdsman, Herne Hill, High Wycombe, Highgate, Hilbert, Hillarys, Hilton, Hocking, Hovea, Huntingdale
I: Iluka, Inglewood, Innaloo, Jandabup, Jandakot, Jane Brook, Jindalee, Jolimont, Joondalup, Joondanna
K: Kallaroo, Karawara, Kardinya, Karragullen, Karrakatta, Karrinyup, Kelmscott, Kensington, Kenwick, Kewdale, Kiara, Kings Park, Kingsley, Kingsway, Kinross, Koondoola, Koongamia
L: Landsdale, Langford, Lathlain, Leederville, Leeming, Lexia, Lockridge, Lynwood
M: Maddington, Madeley, Mahogany Creek, Maida Vale, Malaga, Manning, Marangaroo, Mariginiup, Marmion, Martin, Maylands, Melaleuca, Melville, Menora, Merriwa, Middle Swan, Midland, Midvale, Millendon, Mindarie, Mirrabooka, Morangup, Morley, Mosman Park, Mount Claremont, Mount Hawthorn, Mount Lawley, Mount Nasura, Mount Pleasant, Mount Richon, Mullaloo, Munster, Murdoch, Myaree
N: Nedlands, Neerabup, Nollamara, Noranda, North Beach, North Coogee, North Fremantle, North Lake, North Perth, Northbridge, Nowergup
O: O'connor, Ocean Reef, Orange Grove, Osborne Park
P: Padbury, Palmyra, Parkerville, Parkwood, Pearsall, Peppermint Grove, Perth, Piara Waters, Pinjar, Queens Park, Quinns Rocks
R: Red Hill, Redcliffe, Ridgewood, Riverton, Rivervale, Roleystone, Rossmoyne, Rottnest Island
S: Salter Point, Samson, Sawyers Valley, Scarborough, Seville Grove, Shelley, Shenton Park, Sinagra, Sorrento, South Fremantle, South Guildford, South Lake, South Perth, Southern River, Spearwood, St James, Stirling, Stoneville, Stratton, Subiaco, Subiaco East, Success, Swan View, Swanbourne
T: Tamala Park, Tapping, The Vines, Thornlie, Treeby, Trigg, Tuart Hill
U: Upper Swan
V: Victoria Park
W: Wangara, Wanneroo, Warwick, Waterford, Watermans Bay, Wattle Grove, Wattleup, Welshpool, Wembley, Wembley Downs, West Leederville, West Perth, West Swan, Westfield, Westminster, White Gum Valley, Whiteman, Willagee, Willetton, Wilson, Winthrop, Woodbridge, Woodlands, Woodvale, Wungong
Y: Yangebup, Yokine​
© COPYRIGHT 2026. BELONG HEALTH ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Belong Health
G-DG08MQWCJD G-DG08MQWCJD