What is the best treatment option for defiant teens with Asperger’s and High-Functioning Autism?

By Mark Hutten, M.A.
Although there is no single treatment that is right for all teens on the autism spectrum, available supports and treatments include:
  • Dietary interventions
  • Occupational therapy
  • Medication
  • Experiential therapy
  • Physical activity and exercises designed to improve motor skills and coordination
  • Physical therapy
  • Special education services pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, including an Individualized Education Program (IEP)
  • Role modeling
  • Recreational therapy
  • Psychotherapy
  • Speech therapy

The frustration of not being able to express themselves, combined with social challenges, leads some Asperger’s teens to develop behavioral problems or become depressed or anxious. Treatment should address these needs as well as help the teenager manage his or her other symptoms.

In some cases, the teen may need more specialized, in-depth services than a public school can provide. Therapeutic boarding schools that specialize in autism spectrum disorders and learning disabilities are highly effective alternatives. In a highly structured setting, under the guidance of teachers and staff with specialized training and experience, these young people develop the skills they need to maximize their potential. Therapeutic boarding schools offer:
  • Social skills training
  • Small class sizes and favorable teacher-student ratios
  • Minimal distractions in an environment conducive to learning
  • Education and training on self-advocacy
  • Extracurricular activities tailored to each teen’s interests
  • Family involvement
  • Hands-on learning opportunities
  • High level of personalized attention
  • Consistent routines and predictable schedules
  • Communication and life skills development

Also, summer camps for teenagers with Asperger’s and high functioning autism are a shorter term option that has proven beneficial (and fun).


More resources for parents of children and teens with High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's:

==> How To Prevent Meltdowns and Tantrums In Children With High-Functioning Autism and Asperger's

 ==> Parenting System that Significantly Reduces Defiant Behavior in Teens with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism

 ==> Launching Adult Children with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism: Guide for Parents Who Want to Promote Self-Reliance

 ==> Teaching Social Skills and Emotion Management to Children and Teens with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism

 ==> Parenting Children and Teens with High-Functioning Autism: Comprehensive Handbook

==> Unraveling The Mystery Behind Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism: Audio Book
==> Parenting System that Reduces Problematic Behavior in Children with Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism

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