Autism/testing

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Expert: - 12/8/2009


Question
My son now is 17 and is still in High school and he just does not seem to connect and relate , nor understand alot of things. Very smart.....though. His Doctor SAYS ADHD and I know he needs testing but where and how ?
KY  

Answer
Hi c,

At his age, you probably will not be able to convince the school to offer testing. Ask his doctor for a referral to an appropriate specialist for testing for ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome and depression. Any of these can have the effects you mention. If you insurance does not cover this, consult your county mental health organization to find out if he qualifies for any free testing.

Best wishes,
Catherine  

Autism

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Catherine Ridenour

Expertise

I can answer your questions about parenting your High Functioning Autisic or Asperger`s Syndrome child. In particular, questions about family life, discipline, siblings, finding resources, and working with (sometimes opposing) the educational system are welcome.

Experience

I am the parent of an Asperger's Syndrome child who is now 22 years old. She went undiagnosed for 14 years of her life, so I have done extensive reading and Internet research into the possible cause of her difficulties. Even a short 8 years ago, A.S. was practically unheard of by the public educational system.

We fumbled our way through her childhood and early adolescence without any effective outside support. In some ways, that may have been a blessing as we were focused on her abilities rather than a label for her disability. However, I can think of many times when knowing WHY would have been comforting.

Had we known very early on, some social skills interventions might have made her life in school easier. At this point, I like her for who she is so I do not regret how things have turned out. More importantly, she likes herself.

Education/Credentials
I have a Bachelor of Science in Education.

I have worked to educate myself about Autism in general and HFA/AS in particular.

NOTE:

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