Expert: James Michael Roan - 6/19/2006

Question
I just wanted to let you know how I made out on the Australian Scale for Aspergers.  He scored 19 out of 24 questions and had 5 of the other characteristics symptoms! I was surprised to see how many I checked! I had my husband do the test with me so I could have his input also.  I tried to get him into Childrens Hospital of Phila to the place you had recommended and they said that even though I have 2 different insurances (B/S - Med Assist), they do not take my insurance and also they are not accepting any new patients at this time. So I called the Autism Society and they gave me some names of psycologiosts to call - so far I haven't heard from any of them but I will try to be patient!  I am so thankful to have found at least somewhere to turn because I truly had no idea what to do - I just knew that something is not right.  Thank you so much for at least giving me somewhere to turn!  It really means a lot!  I hope I can find out what I can do to help my son any way I can!  Thanks again!  

Answer
Hi Connie;

You are more than welcome. I work with many boys/men and a few girls with Asperger's Syndrome and have found it to be more of a unique cognitive profile than a syndrome or disorder. There are many socially related challenges during the school years, but these generally work themselves out if you stay on top of it. I suggest you purchase some materials from Dr. Tony Attwood. He is by far one of the most experienced and articulate therapists today and has excellent information for parents, teachers, and psychologists.

I also suggest you call your school district's special education department and make a referral. Schools are required to assess and provide some limited therapies all children suspected of having a disability between the ages of 0-21. Most schools are reluctant, however for legal reasons, to make a diagnosis of autism, which has for many years up until now been the territory of the medical profession. They still must serve children based on "assessed delay" and not eligibility category or diagnosis. A good and appropriate social assessment and a speech and language evaluation should be completed and will help to qualify him for special education and the services he needs.

Please be aware that most psychologists and pediatricians are not in the autism loop and are therefore very reluctant to diagnose AS. There are some listserves out there where you can ask others of a good psychologist knowledgeable about AS in your area. Also, taking in forms like the Australian Scale provides pediatricians and psycholoists with the data they need. Here is a VERY KEY POINT: Children with AS only look AS next to other children, Doctors are not likely to detect anything in a one-on-one encounter; they must be observed interacting with other children.

One last note: Pick up one or two of Professor Michael Fitzgerald's books on historical individuals he has forensically identified as having AS. These folks are everywhere and have been there throughout history. They, not neurotypicals (what people with AS call us), have been responsible for most all technological, scientific, and scholarly achievements in the world. Take care and in touch with any more questions.

Kind Regards,
James