Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Care in Atlanta, GA
At Progressive Medical Center, we take a functional medicine approach to autism that goes beyond symptom management. We investigate the root causes of autism-related symptoms and develop individualized care plans that support your child’s whole health—mind, body, and brain.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges in communication, social skills, behavior, and sensory processing. It is called a “spectrum” because symptoms and severity vary greatly from person to person.
Common Autism Symptoms Include:
- Delayed speech and language development
- Repetitive behaviors or routines
- Difficulty with eye contact and social interaction
- Sensory sensitivities (light, noise, textures)
- GI issues, food intolerances, or sleep disturbances
While traditional approaches often stop at behavioral therapies, functional autism treatment addresses what may be happening beneath the surface—biologically, nutritionally, and environmentally.
Our Functional Medicine Approach to Autism Care
At Progressive Medical Center, we specialize in root-cause autism treatment. Our team uses advanced diagnostic testing and evidence-based natural therapies to identify imbalances that may contribute to autism symptoms. This personalized approach gives your child the best chance to thrive.
“We don’t just look at a child’s diagnosis—we look at what’s going on underneath. That’s where healing begins.” – Dr. Melanie Wardle
Meet Dr. Melanie Wardle — Functional Pediatric Specialist
Dr. Melanie Wardle, leads our pediatric functional medicine program with compassion and deep clinical insight. She brings over a decade of experience helping children with autism and neurodevelopmental disorders thrive through integrative care. She is certified in Biomedical treatments with medical academy of pediatric special needs for autism and utilizes this certification to provide personal, individualized care.
As both a pediatric board certified provider in osteopathic training for osteo-manipulation and a mother, Dr. Wardle blends science and heart. She partners with parents to create comprehensive wellness plans that address the unique biology and needs of each child.
Why Root-Cause Autism Care Matters
Addressing the underlying causes of autism symptoms allows us to help children improve in meaningful and lasting ways. While we support traditional therapies like ABA and speech, our goal is to strengthen the body and brain’s ability to heal and regulate naturally.
Many children with autism have underlying health issues—such as chronic inflammation, gut dysbiosis, or nutrient deficiencies—that may not be visible on the surface but significantly affect mood, cognition, and behavior. By addressing these imbalances, we’re not just managing symptoms—we’re creating a stronger foundation for learning, development, and emotional resilience. This is especially important during critical stages of brain growth in early childhood.
Additionally, the root-cause approach empowers parents with actionable insight. Instead of a one-size-fits-all treatment plan, families receive customized strategies tailored to their child’s unique biology. Whether it’s discovering a food sensitivity that triggers meltdowns or identifying a toxic exposure affecting focus, these insights often bring clarity and relief to parents who’ve long sought answers. When the body is supported at the cellular level, progress is not only possible—it’s sustainable.
What to Expect: Your Child’s First Visit
When you schedule an autism consultation with Dr. Melanie Wardle at Progressive Medical Center, here’s what you can expect:
Step 1: In-Depth Health History Review
Your first visit begins with an in-depth conversation. Dr. Melanie Wardle takes the time to understand your child’s full developmental story, including medical history, nutrition, behavior patterns, sensory challenges, emotional health, and any previous therapies or diagnoses. This comprehensive intake helps us identify patterns that may be connected to underlying biological imbalances.
Step 2: Diagnostic Testing
We then perform a series of targeted diagnostic tests to investigate what’s happening inside the body. These tests often include bloodwork, stool analysis, and urine panels to evaluate gut health, immune function, nutrient levels, toxin load, food sensitivities, and metabolic performance. We may also explore mitochondrial function, genetic markers (such as MTHFR), inflammation, and detox pathways. These labs are essential to uncover the root causes of your child’s symptoms.
Step 3: Personalized Functional Medicine Plan
Based on your child’s lab results and personal history, Dr. Wardle works collaboratively with your family to create a fully customized treatment plan. This plan may include dietary changes, nutritional supplementation, gut healing protocols, detoxification strategies, IV nutrient therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Each recommendation is carefully chosen to support your child’s unique biology, reduce symptom burden, and promote lasting neurological and physical healing.
Step 4: Ongoing Support
Healing is a journey—especially for children with autism who are constantly growing and evolving. We continue to monitor your child’s progress through regular check-ins and follow-up appointments. As new challenges arise during developmental transitions (e.g., changes in sleep, behavior, digestion, or emotional regulation), we adapt the treatment plan accordingly. Our goal is to remain a trusted partner in your child’s health, offering continuous support through every phase of growth.