Types of Autism Spectrum Explained

Introduction

If you’ve recently heard the term Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), you may be wondering: Are there different types of autism?

This is one of the most common questions we hear from parents, educators, and even professionals across New Jersey. The answer is both simple and nuanced, while autism is now diagnosed as a single spectrum, there are still distinct profiles, presentations, and historical “types” that help us understand how it affects each individual.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

The different types of autism (past and present)
How autism is classified today
What these differences mean for treatment and support
Real-life insights from ABA therapy sessions

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects:

Communication
Social interaction
Behavior and sensory processing

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with autism.

ASD is called a spectrum because individuals can experience symptoms in very different ways and levels of intensity.

Are There Different Types of Autism?

Then vs. Now

In the past, autism was divided into several distinct diagnoses. Today, under the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition), all of these fall under one umbrella: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

However, understanding the previous types is still helpful, especially for parents and professionals who may hear these terms.

The 5 Historical Types of Autism

Before 2013, autism-related diagnoses were categorized under Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD).

1. Autistic Disorder (Classic Autism)

This is what many people traditionally think of as autism.

Common characteristics:

Delayed or absent speech
Limited social interaction
Repetitive behaviors
Strong need for routine

In our sessions, we’ve worked with children who initially had minimal verbal communication but, through structured ABA therapy, developed functional language over time.

2. Asperger’s Syndrome

Previously considered a “higher-functioning” form of autism.

Key traits:

Strong verbal skills
Difficulty with social cues
Intense, focused interests
Preference for routines

Today, Asperger’s is no longer a separate diagnosis but is included within ASD.

Many school-aged children in New Jersey classrooms who were once labeled with Asperger’s now receive ASD-based support through IEPs.

3. Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

Often called “atypical autism.”

Characteristics:

Some, but not all, autism traits
Milder or less consistent symptoms
Delayed development in specific areas

We’ve seen children with PDD-NOS profiles benefit greatly from targeted interventions that focus on specific skill gaps.

4. Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)

A rare and more severe form involving regression.

Key features:

Normal early development
Significant loss of skills (language, social, motor)
Regression typically after age 2

5. Rett Syndrome

A genetic neurological condition, primarily affecting girls.

Characteristics:

Loss of motor skills
Repetitive hand movements
Severe communication challenges

Note: Rett Syndrome is now separately classified and no longer considered part of ASD.

How Autism Is Classified Today

The Modern Approach: One Spectrum, Different Levels

Today, clinicians diagnose autism using severity levels rather than separate types.

DSM-5 Autism Levels

Level	Description	Support Needed
Level 1	Mild challenges with social communication	Requires support
Level 2	Noticeable difficulties and repetitive behaviors	Requires substantial support
Level 3	Significant impairments in communication and behavior	Requires very substantial support

This approach reflects the reality we see every day, no two individuals with autism are exactly alike.

Different Presentations of Autism

Even within the spectrum, autism can present in different ways.

1. Verbal vs. Nonverbal Autism

Some individuals speak fluently
Others communicate using AAC devices, gestures, or visuals

2. Regressive Autism

Loss of previously acquired skills
Often occurs between 15–30 months

3. High Support Needs vs. Low Support Needs

Varying levels of independence
Different therapy intensity requirements

Real-Life Example (EEAT)

In our work with families in New Jersey, we supported two children with very different autism profiles:

One child was highly verbal but struggled with social interactions and transitions (similar to former Asperger’s profile)
Another had limited speech and required intensive communication support

Despite these differences, both were diagnosed with ASD, and both made meaningful progress through individualized ABA programs.

This highlights an important truth:
It’s not about the “type” of autism—it’s about the individual child.

Why Understanding “Types” Still Matters

Even though autism is now one diagnosis, understanding different profiles helps:

For Parents

Set realistic expectations
Identify strengths and challenges
Advocate effectively

For Educators

Tailor classroom strategies
Adjust teaching methods

For Therapists

Design individualized treatment plans
Target specific developmental areas

Evidence-Based Support Options

1. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

ABA is one of the most researched and widely used therapies for autism.

According to the American Psychological Association:
ABA helps:

Improve communication
Reduce challenging behaviors
Build independence

In our sessions, we’ve seen children across all levels of ASD make measurable progress when therapy is consistent and personalized.

2. Speech Therapy

Supports language development
Helps with social communication

3. Occupational Therapy

Addresses sensory needs
Builds daily living skills

Autism Support in New Jersey

Families in New Jersey have access to strong support systems:

Early Intervention (0–3 years)

In-home therapy services
State-funded programs

School-Based Services (3+)

IEPs (Individualized Education Programs)
Classroom accommodations

Community Resources

Autism support groups
Therapy providers
Parent training programs

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of autism, both past and present, can help families, educators, and professionals better navigate the journey of Autism Spectrum Disorder. While the diagnostic system has evolved from separate categories to a unified spectrum, the core message remains the same: every individual with autism is unique.

Today’s approach focuses less on labeling and more on understanding each person’s strengths, challenges, and support needs. Whether a child is highly verbal or nonverbal, needs minimal support or more intensive intervention, the goal is always to help them build meaningful skills and thrive in their environment.

For families in New Jersey, this means access to a wide range of resources, from early intervention services to evidence-based therapies like ABA, designed to meet children where they are and help them move forward with confidence.

With the right support, guidance, and early action, children across the autism spectrum can continue to grow, learn, and achieve meaningful progress throughout their lives.

At Dream DIR ABA, we support families with personalized, compassionate, and evidence-based ABA therapy in New Jersey designed around your child’s unique strengths and challenges.

Learn how we can support your child’s growth, confidence, and long-term success. Contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of autism today?

Today, autism is diagnosed as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) rather than separate types. Previously, terms like Asperger’s syndrome and PDD-NOS were used, but they are now all part of the spectrum.

How do I know what level of autism my child has?

A licensed professional will evaluate your child using standardized assessments and determine their support level (Level 1, 2, or 3) based on communication, behavior, and daily functioning.

Does the “type” of autism affect treatment?

Not as much as you might think. Treatment is based on your child’s individual needs, not labels. Therapies like ABA are tailored to target specific skills such as communication, behavior, and social interaction.

SOURCES:

https://www.cdc.gov/autism

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd

https://www.apa.org/act/resources/fact-sheets/aba

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/regressive-autism

https://npistanbul.com/en/what-is-regressive-autism

Types of Autism: A Complete Guide for Families and Professionals in New Jersey