Should you explain the diagnosis?

An article by Tony Attwood, Ph.D. author of the bestselling book, Asperger Syndrome, has written this essay which applies to AS or High Functioning Autism. It covers the whys, when, and hows of explaining the diagnosis with emphasis on the strengths of the individual. Dr. Attwood is an AHA Advisory Board member.


Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT)

An article by Valerie Gaus, Ph.D., author of Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Adult Asperger Syndrome. With the recent growth in awareness of autism spectrum disorders, there are increasing numbers of adults with Asperger syndrome (AS) and High-Functioning Autism (HFA) seeking diagnosis and help for their problems in daily living. Psychotherapists who work to meet the needs of this expanding patient population may find guidance in the literature on cognitive-behavior therapy. As outlined in this article, there is evidence that these approaches can be useful in helping these adults find relief from their daily stress while also capitalizing on their strengths. AHA Advisory Board member

What Does A Student With Asperger Syndrome Need In A School Program An article by Lynda Geller, Ph.D. Least restrictive placement is an educational term that means that we want to provide students with the proper level of support for success without placing them in unnecessarily restrictive environments. Dr. Geller is a member of AHA's Advisory Board, and faculty at Bank Street.

How Do I Explain My Decision To Use Science-Based Treatments For Autism When Friends And Relatives Often Insist I Try Something New?

An article by David Celiberti, Ph.D., BCBA-D and Pamela F. Colosimo, Ph.D. of the Association for Science in Autism Treatment. This article is an essential read for all;  families, professionals  - seasoned and new to the field,  and all interested in the spectrum.

One-on-One Play Dates

An article by Marsha Parrish, the mother of a 9 year old with Asperger Syndrome. It was originally printed by Aspen of New Jersey and then used in the booklet given out at Common Connections which AHA cosponsored. These tips for helping your child make friends are well thought out and very helpful.

Grandparent Power!
How Extended Family Can Enhance the Lives of Kids on the Autism Spectrum
An article by Dan Coulter, the dad of a young man with Asperger Syndrome and the owner of Coulter video along with his wife Julie.
The word "family" can evoke powerful memories and emotions. Thinking of family recalls the Robert Frost line, "Home is the place where, when you have to go there, they have to take you in." When grandparents are involved, the line could often be changed to, "…they can’t wait to take you in."

Evidence-Based Practice: Melding Art with Science
Thank you to Diane Twachman-Cullen, Ph.D., CCC-SLP and Autism Spectrum Quarterly (www.ASQuarterly.com) for the use of this excellent article on research methods which explains why decisions must be based on sound reasoning.

Beyond Guilt or InnocenceAn article by Dennis Debbaudt, Investigator and Journalist.
Dennis Debbaudt is a freelance reporter with experience writing for the Detroit News. After his son was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, he became interested in the problems faced by people on the spectrum in the legal system (especially because of perceptual problems), and on improving the awareness among law enforcement officers of the issues that arise. He has written several books on this topic, and in conjunction with police departments has developed teaching curriculums.

Parallel Play
This article from the August 20, 2007 New Yorker has the same name as the book, published in August 2009, by Tim Page. Tim Page was music critic for the magazine. The article and book talk about his childhood and late diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome.

The Secrets of Autism - this link is for the cover story of Time Magazine (May 6, 2002) which can be previewed at the site and which can be read in full by purchase or archive subscription. Requires Javascript.