When I first met Travis he greeted me with a big hug, which is not typical for someone with autism. Then again, not much is typical when it comes to autism.  Travis Gougeon, 6, of Clawson Michigan began showing signs of the developmental disorder when he was 2.  His daily trials of relating to the world are supported by his parents Shannon and Bob Gougeon and younger brother Kyle, 2, who has yet to show symptoms.  Shannon says, “It started out at 25 months, our goal was for him to be mainstreamed, then reality hit.”

Autism diagnosis has been on the rise in recent years. In February of this year the CDC released results stating an average of 6.7 children out of 1,000 are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.  General characteristics of autism include difficulties with social interaction, problems with communication, repetitive behavior and obsessive interests.  There is no certainty of what causes autism.  Theories vary from genetic to environmental influences.  Though there is no cure for autism, symptoms for some individuals decrease with treatment and age.

Shannon works a part time job and Bob works two jobs to support costs for therapy Travis needs to improve his verbal and social interaction skills.  Therapies are expensive and not covered by the Gougeon’s insurance.  In addition to attending school in the special education department at Kenwood Elementary, Travis attends Play Therapy at the Judson Center and Occupational Therapy at the Beaumont Health Center once a week.

Travis communicates through body language and images, he is also learning how to use a visual communication device called the Mini-Mo.  He often becomes frustrated while in therapy and is most happy when he is with his family.  Travis is calmed by the stimulation of water and adjusts to his surroundings by looking up.