Aspergers Syndrome

Being a spectrum disorder treatments and therapies for Aspergers Syndrome vary depending on the traits exhibited. Medication is considered when other traits accompany Aspergers such as anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Other options might include using Behavioral Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists, Special Education Instructors, Psychiatrists, Counselors, and parental/family involvment and monitoring.

Behavioral Therapists can assist where children have sensory sensitivities to things like noise, light and touch. They can help identify and manage stressful situations. They also can assist with social skills training programs. Social skills can be like learning a foreign language to an Aspergers child. Training might include illustrations, repetition, and clear explanations of social situations.

Occupational Therapists work with developmental delays and difficulties with motor skills and physical coordination. Children with Aspergers often exhibit difficulty with handwriting, learning to tie shoes, picking up movements in P.E., and other fine motor skills. They have exercises and techniques that help improve motor skills and coordination.

Speech and Language Therapists can assist those having difficulties with volume, rhythm or tone in their speech.

Special Education Instructors will assist in the accommodations the school needs to provide to help them learn and work effectively. There is an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) that is usually necessary for these accommodations. Discussing the IEP with doctors and therapists for advice on what accommodations they recommend will help the teachers provide a proper working and learning environment.

Psychiatrists can assist in observing and diagnosing further problems such as depression, ADHD, schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorders early since people with Aspergers have been shown to have an increased risk for these disorders.

Counselors are there to assist the entire family. Parents, siblings, caregivers and extended family can benefit from special training and counseling. Coping techniques, discipline, and daily living experiences can be discussed to help everyone work through the struggles associated with Aspergers.

Parental monitoring should include regular monitoring and discussing with doctors and therapists the social skills and mental health development of an Aspergers child. Parents need to also continually discuss their child with teachers and school administrators about academic progress and social interactions and updating accommodations when needed. There is not a known way to prevent Aspergers syndrome however it is shown that early diagnosis and interventions are the best way to prevent behavioral, emotional, and family complications.