Autism/Asperger's/Austism

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Expert: - 12/2/2010


Question
I have an 18 year old daughter.  I would like to have her tested.  I am having trouble finding a qualified doctor in New York State.  Is there a registry for doctors specializing in this field.

Answer
Hi Wanda,

I would recommend calling the New York State physician licensing body and ask them how to find a qualified practitioner. Your county mental health authority may also be able to direct you to someone.

You may be able to get a referral from your daughter's doctor. Generally, this kind of testing is done by a psychiatrist or, in some areas, a psychologist.

If you daughter is covered under your health insurance, check your preferred provider directory for behavioral health, psychology or other similar services.

Since your daughter is now a legal adult, she will have to consent to the 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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