Expert: Paul Johnson - 5/24/2010

Question
My son has struggled his whole life beginning with developmental delays that led to him always falling behind in school, which eventually led to him being labeled "behavior disorder" and sent to a school that especially handled those "types" of kids until he was able to graduate. He is now 23 years old and we have never been able to get a diagnoses or an answer despite having him in and out of therapy and psychiatrist offices. Due to his overwhelming fear of being socially involved and his inability to communicate effectively he has always become easily frustrated and overwhelmed and has been recieving disability for several years. I feel that he has asperger syndrome though he has never been diagnosed. For years I have searched for answers as to what the solution could be for my son, I believe that I have finally found it! My question is, where do we start? What doctor do we see first? How do I go about having him diagnosed? Thank You!

Answer
Hey Leah,
Thank you for you important question. It is impotant to point out it is your adult son that must match your enthusiasm for what his diagnosis is and if you were to be more interested in what his issue is than he is, he will resist what you find.

Yes I would agree he appears to have Asperger like symptoms. I would reccomend that the two of you were to visit web sites where many Aspies visit and write. compare their messages to his experiences. I blog for Autism hangout. but there is also OASIS and Wrong Planet. If he believes there is a good match, pursue a psychotherapist or Psychologist that is well versed in Autism.

Let me know where the exploration leads.