What does this diagnosis mean?
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication.
Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. The ways in which people with autism learn, think and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged.
Who can provide the diagnosis?
In most provinces and territories, only physicians or psychologists are licensed to diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In some communities, appropriately trained nurse practitioners may also make this diagnosis.
