Understanding Autism: Experts Discuss Early Signs, Diagnosis, and Support

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a topic of growing interest among parents and professionals alike, with many seeking clarity on signs, diagnosis, and support strategies.

Mental Health Matters host Lisa Ann Butcher, a Registered Clinical Counsellor and owner of Three Sisters Counselling Inc, spoke with Dr. Katharine Smart, a Pediatrician and former President of the Canadian Medical Association, and Samantha Hanley, a Registered Clinical Counsellor and behavioural consultant, to explore the realities of Autism.

What is autism?

Dr. Smart, who has extensive experience in pediatric health across Alberta, British Columbia, and the Yukon, explains that Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that begins in early childhood and continues throughout life.

“It’s really defined by challenges around social-emotional reciprocity—your ability to have social connectedness with other people—and restrictive and repetitive patterns of behaviour,” she says. “We’re looking for these differences from a young age, sometimes as early as infancy or toddlerhood.”

Autism is a spectrum, meaning no two individuals experience it in the same way. Some children may show early signs such as language delays, differences in social interaction, and a strong preference for routines.

Others may not receive a diagnosis until later in childhood when social expectations become more complex.

Recognizing early signs

For parents wondering if their child might have Autism, Dr. Smart outlines key indicators: delayed speech, differences in play, difficulty with transitions, and sensory sensitivities. “They may be more interested in objects than people, engage in repetitive motor behaviours, or have very focused interests,” she says. “Many struggle with changes in routine and can be highly sensitive to sound, textures, or visual stimuli.”

Samantha Hanley, who has worked with children with Autism and their families for over a decade, emphasizes the importance of early recognition and intervention. “Once a child is diagnosed, we work on expanding their skills—whether it’s communication, play, or managing transitions,” she explains. “For example, if a child only lines up their toy cars, we introduce new play concepts like taking the cars to a gas station or a car wash.”

Why a diagnosis matters

Some parents worry that labelling their child with Autism could be limiting. Dr. Smart reassures them that diagnosis isn’t about placing limits—it’s about providing understanding and access to support. “A diagnosis can help the adults in a child’s life understand them better,” she says. “Without that understanding, behaviours might be misinterpreted as defiance or difficulty when, in reality, they stem from how their brain works.”

Hanley adds that one of the biggest challenges for children with Autism is emotional regulation. “They can become dysregulated quickly because they struggle to communicate what they’re feeling,” she says. “That’s why teaching self-regulation techniques is crucial—not just for children but also for parents.”

Providing the right support

For parents in the Okanagan seeking an Autism assessment, Three Sisters Counselling provides diagnostic services for children six and older.

Dr. Smart, who has been leading Autism assessments in the Yukon, is now offering assessments in Kelowna. “When I first started in the Yukon, the wait time for an Autism assessment was seven years,” she recalls. “Now, we’re seeing many children each year and getting them the early intervention they need.”

She highlights the importance of early intervention in helping children with Autism develop necessary social and communication skills. “Lots of children and youth on the spectrum can have meaningful relationships,” says Dr. Smart. “They just need the right tools and support to thrive.”

Butcher, Hanley, and Dr. Smart all agree: that understanding Autism leads to better outcomes, stronger support networks, and a more inclusive community.

“People with Autism can have fulfilling lives, meaningful friendships, and successful careers,” says Dr. Smart. “The key is recognizing their strengths and providing the right support to help them succeed.”