Can Level 2 Autism Become Level 1?

Key Points:

• Autism levels are based on support needs, which can change over time.
• Therapies like ABA can help individuals develop skills that may reduce the need for support.
• Shifting from Level 2 to Level 1 autism depends on multiple factors, including intervention, environment, and individual progress.

Understanding Autism Levels

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is divided into three levels based on the level of support a person needs. Level 1 is classified as "requiring support," whereas Level 2 is "requiring substantial support." But can someone with Level 2 autism progress to Level 1 over time? The answer varies.

Support needs are not set in stone. With the right interventions, therapy, and life circumstances, some individuals with Level 2 autism may develop skills that allow them to function with less support, potentially moving toward Level 1. However, autism itself does not "go away"—rather, the way it presents and the level of assistance required may change.

What Factors Influence a Shift from Level 2 to Level 1?

While every autistic person has unique needs and progress rates, several key factors can influence whether someone with Level 2 autism may eventually require less support:

1. Early and Consistent Intervention

Intervention plays a crucial role in developing communication, social, and daily living skills. The earlier and more consistently an individual receives support, the better the chances of skill-building and increased independence.

• ABA Therapy: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps children and adults improve behaviors, communication, and adaptive skills.
• Speech Therapy: Many autistic individuals struggle with verbal communication. Speech therapy helps with language development, alternative communication methods, and social interaction skills.
• Occupational Therapy: Daily living skills, fine motor coordination, and sensory processing challenges can be addressed through occupational therapy, promoting independence.

2. Individual Differences in Cognitive and Adaptive Skills

Some individuals with Level 2 autism have higher cognitive abilities, allowing them to develop coping strategies that reduce the need for external support. However, intelligence alone is not a determining factor—adaptive skills, or the ability to navigate daily life, are equally important.

• People with strong problem-solving skills and flexibility in thinking may find ways to manage social and environmental challenges better over time.
• Emotional regulation and self-advocacy can also play a role in requiring less external support.

3. Environmental and Social Support

A supportive environment can make a significant difference in an autistic individual’s ability to function with more independence. This includes:

• Family and Caregiver Support: Parents and caregivers who are well-educated on autism and intervention strategies can create an environment that fosters growth.
• School and Workplace Accommodations: Proper accommodations and understanding from educators and employers can help individuals manage challenges without additional formal support.
• Community Inclusion: Acceptance and accessibility in social settings can empower individuals with autism to navigate everyday interactions more confidently.

4. Coping Strategies and Self-Advocacy

Over time, some individuals learn coping strategies that help them manage sensory sensitivities, communication difficulties, and executive functioning challenges. These strategies may include:

• Learning how to self-regulate emotions and stress.
• Using assistive technology or alternative communication methods.
• Developing structured routines to navigate daily tasks with greater ease.

What Does It Mean to Move from Level 2 to Level 1 Autism?

If an individual moves from Level 2 to Level 1, it does not mean they are "less autistic." Instead, it means they have developed skills that reduce their need for outside support. This could manifest as:

• Greater ability to participate in social interactions with minimal guidance.
• Improved communication skills, leading to more effective self-expression.
• Increased independence in daily tasks, such as dressing, cooking, or working a job.

However, even if support needs change, challenges related to autism—such as sensory sensitivities, executive functioning difficulties, or social fatigue—may still persist. The goal of intervention is not to "cure" autism but to help individuals develop the skills they need to thrive in their unique way.

Signs That Support Needs Are Changing

If you’re wondering whether an autistic child or adult is shifting toward needing less support, look for these signs:

• More effective communication: They can express their needs and feelings more clearly.
• Better self-regulation: Fewer meltdowns or shutdowns in response to stress or sensory input.
• Increased independence: They can complete daily tasks without frequent assistance.
• Greater adaptability: They can handle changes in routine with less distress.
• Improved social engagement: They initiate and maintain interactions more easily.

While these signs indicate progress, continued support may still be necessary, even if in a different form.

The Role of ABA Therapy in Supporting Growth

ABA therapy is one of the most effective approaches for helping individuals with autism develop skills that can lead to greater independence. Through personalized programs, ABA therapy focuses on:

• Building communication skills to express wants, needs, and emotions effectively.
• Teaching adaptive behaviors to navigate daily life with less difficulty.
• Developing social skills for improved interactions with peers and family.
• Enhancing emotional regulation to manage stress and sensory challenges.

For families in North Carolina and Indiana, our ABA therapy services provide tailored support to help children and adults with autism reach their full potential. If you're seeking professional guidance, reach out to us to learn how ABA therapy can make a difference.