Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Early Understanding. Support That Grows with Your Child.
At KidsHeart Medical Center, we help families understand and monitor Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with care that’s grounded in evidence, tailored to each child, and shaped by real-world needs.
ASD affects how a child communicates, relates, plays, and processes the world. Early signs may be subtle. Diagnosis isn’t about labeling — it’s about unlocking support.
Our child psychologists and developmental specialists offer expert evaluations and family-centered guidance across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain.
What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts:
- Social interaction
- Verbal and non-verbal communication
- Play and imagination
- Sensory processing and behavior patterns
Children may:
- Avoid eye contact or show limited social interest
- Repeat words, phrases, or movements (echolalia or stimming)
- Have trouble adapting to changes or transitions
- Show intense focus on certain topics or objects
- React strongly to sound, touch, or textures
Autism exists on a spectrum — each child has their strengths, challenges, and needs.
When Should You Seek an ASD Evaluation?
Consider seeing a specialist if your child:
- Shows delays in speech or social skills
- Doesn’t point, gesture, or share interests by 12–18 months
- Has limited eye contact or engagement
- Struggles with pretend play or peer interactions
- Repeats behaviors or has intense fixations
- Responds unusually to lights, sounds, or textures
You don’t need to wait for certainty. Early screening means earlier support — and better developmental outcomes.
How We Assess and Support Children With ASD
Here’s what the process looks like:
- Detailed Developmental and Behavioral History: We review early milestones, social behavior, and communication patterns.
- Parent Interviews and Standardized Tools: Tools like ADOS-2 and questionnaires guide objective understanding.
- Play-Based Observations: We watch how your child engages — gently, respectfully, and without pressure.
- Diagnostic Feedback and Support Planning: If ASD is diagnosed, we help you understand what it means — and what to do next.
- Tailored Intervention Roadmap: We guide referrals to speech therapy, behavior therapy, occupational therapy, and school supports.
Our goal is not just to diagnose, but to empower families with direction and care.
Why Families Trust KidsHeart
- Licensed child psychologists experienced in ASD diagnosis
- Thoughtful, calm evaluation spaces for young children
- Clear guidance for therapy planning and school support
- Parent-sensitive feedback and emotional support
- Centers in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain
Because the earlier we understand your child, the better we can support their future.
Dr. Dolly Habbal
Consultant Psychologist – PhD in Clinical Psychology
Dr. Deiaaeldin Adel Hosny
Consultant Clinical Psychologist – American Psychology Association & British Psychological Society
No Doctors found! with ID: 12483
Wondering if Your Child Might Be on the Spectrum? Let’s Look Together.
We provide the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2), the best standard scale to assess Toddlers with any sign of Autism Spectrum Disorder, with full clinical reports. We also provide the Childhood Autism Rating Scale CARS, Gilliam Autism Rating Scale and the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales-3.
Early answers open the door to meaningful support — and we’re here to walk with you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes — early signs often appear by 12-30 months, and early diagnosis helps with timely intervention.
Not necessarily. Many children on the spectrum thrive with the right support and structure.
Autism is lifelong, but children often gain new skills and confidence with support.
No, but speech delays are one of many symptoms to consider evaluation.
An evaluation doesn’t force any decisions. It’s about clarity, not labels.