What to Do After an Autism Diagnosis

Receiving an autism diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Whether you suspected it for a while or the news came as a surprise, it’s normal to feel unsure about what steps to take next. The good news? You’re not alone—and early support can make a big difference.

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we work closely with families navigating the journey after an autism diagnosis. This guide will walk you through clear, actionable steps to help your child thrive, from understanding the diagnosis to choosing the right interventions.

Take a Breath—You’re Not Alone

An autism diagnosis is not the end—it’s the beginning of a more informed, supportive journey. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. Children on the spectrum may have unique strengths and challenges.

Rather than focusing on what your child can’t do, it’s important to focus on building a personalized plan that helps them reach their full potential.

Step 1: Understand the Diagnosis

Understanding autism helps you advocate better for your child. Read credible resources, ask your healthcare provider for clarification, and don’t hesitate to request a written evaluation report.

If you are in Phnom Penh, you can also access autism-specific developmental assessments at OrbRom Center. These assessments help identify your child’s strengths, needs, and the most suitable support strategies.

Step 2: Build a Support Team

Early support is key. Your next step should be assembling a team of professionals to work with your child. This may include:

• Occupational therapists (to support sensory and motor skills)

• Speech therapists (to improve communication and language)

• Behavioral therapists or developmental specialists

• Special education teachers

At OrbRom Center, we offer a Special Needs Intensive Intervention program that brings together specialists across disciplines to support your child’s development in a coordinated and individualized way.

Step 3: Explore Therapy Options

Early intervention services are most effective when started as soon as possible. Depending on your child’s assessment results, the following therapies might be recommended:

• Speech Therapy: For children with language delays, limited vocabulary, or trouble with social communication.

• Occupational Therapy: For improving sensory processing, fine motor skills, and daily living tasks.

• Behavioral Intervention: For developing adaptive behavior, routines, and reducing problematic behaviors.

These services are available right here in Phnom Penh at OrbRom Center, where our team customizes interventions based on your child’s age, developmental level, and learning style.

Step 4: Create a Routine

Children with autism often feel more secure with structure and routine. Establish consistent schedules for meals, play, sleep, and therapy. Visual schedules, timers, and social stories can help your child understand what to expect throughout the day.

Your child’s therapists at OrbRom can help design these routines and train you to implement them at home and in the community.

Step 5: Learn and Connect

Educate yourself as much as possible about autism. Join support groups, attend workshops (if available), and connect with other families in Phnom Penh facing similar challenges. These connections provide emotional support and practical advice.

You don’t have to know everything at once—but taking small steps to learn will empower you and your child.

Step 6: Be Your Child’s Advocate

No one knows your child like you do. You’ll be their biggest advocate—in school meetings, therapy sessions, and everyday life. Learn about your child’s rights and speak up when necessary to ensure they receive the support they deserve.

At OrbRom Center, we encourage family involvement in all therapy programs. We work with you, not just your child, to promote long-term success.

Step 7: Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Every child on the spectrum develops at their own pace. Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Your child’s journey will look different from others, and that’s okay.

With love, structure, and the right support system—your child can flourish.

Where to Begin in Phnom Penh?

If you’re in Phnom Penh and unsure where to begin, start with a comprehensive developmental assessment at OrbRom Center. From there, we can guide you toward appropriate therapies, build a tailored intervention plan, and support you at every step.

We offer a safe, inclusive space where children with autism can learn, grow, and thrive—while families receive the tools and knowledge they need.

An autism diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity to begin meaningful, individualized support for your child. By taking proactive steps—starting with a trusted center like OrbRom in Phnom Penh—you can build a strong foundation for lifelong growth.