Autism spectrum services

Autism, Asperger's Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder (NOS) are Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Research has found that 1 in 166 individuals has a diagnosis on the Autism Spectrum. These individuals have a wide range of symptoms, including difficulties in the areas of communication, socialization, repetitive behaviors, sensory hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity, motor planning, anxiety, gastrointestinal distress and sleeping schedule.

While a great deal of research has been conducted in a multitide of areas related to ASD, few solid findings regarding etiology and treatment have been found. What we do know is that ASD is a neurological disorder, and not the result of "frigid" parenting. We also know that certain approaches to learning and socialization have been found to significantly improve the cognitive ability, social skills and adaptive skills of those with ASD. However, there is not yet a "cure" for ASD.

New Leaves Clinic is dedicated to assisting individuals touched by ASD live more full and independent lives. We follow the current research, and can provide you with care that is developmentally appropriate for your child and based firmly in science.

Our ASD Specialist

Dr. Arnold is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in ASD and misbehavior. She has a wealth of experience providing assessment, diagnosis and treatment to families as well as research and community trainings/seminars on ASD. Dr. Arnold believes in working closely with families and participating in local "grass roots" efforts to meet the practical, day-to-day needs of parents and providers. She has fought for insurance rights and marched on Capitol Hill to advocate legal privileges for ASD families.

Dr. Arnold's experiences, training, research projects and publications are extensive. Please reference her biography and resume for a more complete understanding of her lifelong dedication to helping individuals and families touched with ASD.

Services provided

• Diagnosis (Click on each title for more information.)
  • Diagnostic Interview: I interview both parent and child (separately) regarding familial, academic, emotional, social, behavioral, medical and Autism/Asperger's specific history.
  • Cognitive Assessment: This assessment is given to the patient. This assessment discerns Nonverbal Learning Disability, Mental Retardation and cognitive differences betwen Autism & Asperger's.
  • Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule: This assessment is given to the patient. This is considered the premiere interactional assessment for the Autism Spectrum. It assesses for Communication, Reciprocal Social Interaction, Imagination/Creativity and Stereotyped Behaviors & Retsricted Interests.
  • Gilliam Autism Rating Scale / Gilliam Asperger's Disorder Scale: This is a parent questionnaire that assesses Stereotyped Behaviors, Communication Skills and Social Interaction Skills.
  • Behavior Assessment System for Children: This is a questionnaire that assesses for mental health difficulties commonly occuring in children. It assesses for Internalizing (i.e., sadness and anxiety), Externalizing (i.e., anger and hyperactivity) and Adaptive Behaviors. Parent, child and teacher complete this inventory, if possible.
  • Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale: This is a parent questionnaire that assesses independent, functional living skills in the areas of Communication, Daily Living Skills and Socialization.
  • Click here for Pricing
• Treatment
  • Children: I work with the child, parents and school to learn how to meet the child within their own paradigm. My goal is to respect the child, and find how bridges can be built. I am very good at "talking through the ASD" to the little person inside, and helping that person learn to ask for what they need from others instead of just getting frustrated.
  • Adults: I work with adults to understand themselves and their interaction style, accept what this means both personally and professionally, and find a sense of peace within themselves.
  • I no longer provide ABA treatment. While I firmly believe in this method, I no longer have the time to provide the service. I am now focusing on self growth & integration.
• Consultation regarding past assessments and diagnoses so you fully understand your child's skills and difficulties.
• School Assistance
• IEP Planning Assistance
• Train Teachers to work with ASD children and young adults
• Reduce Misbehavior/Frustration of child in class
• Family, Couple & Sibling Support
• Parent Training Groups

our goals

Our goals are to provide your family with:

• A consultation to discuss your goals and our ability to meet them
• Accurate assessment and diagnosis
• A firm understanding of the diagnosis/problem (i.e., how a diagnosis may impact your parenting style and your child's future)
• Information about multiple treatment strategies
• A plan that is: developmentally appropriate, founded in research, and fits within your family's beliefs and lifestyle
• Support while teaching you to implement the treatment plan
• Assistance in working with other professionals to support your child (e.g., academic & medical providers)

contacting dr. arnold

You may contact Dr. Arnold by e-mailing or calling.

walk far for naar 2005

Thank you for supporting New Leaves Clinic reach our goal for the Walk F.A.R. for N.A.A.R. inagural walk in Portland, Oregon. Together, we are helping scientists find the etiology of autism spectrum disorders, which will lead to the most effective treatment practices.

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