What To Do If You Think You Have Aspergers

Question

I suspect that I have Aspergers. What course of action should I take - if any?

Answer

Because individuals with Aspergers are among the most high-functioning and able on the autistic spectrum, they are also the most likely to slip through the diagnostic net. Although many are diagnosed as kids, others reach adulthood either undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

The key to getting an accurate diagnosis is finding a professional who has experience diagnosing children, teens and adults with Aspergers (High-Functioning Autism). A clinician whose only experience is with "low-functioning" autism may not be as helpful. Here is a list of clinicians who have experience in diagnosing Aspergers.

Grown-ups with Aspergers who seek help with challenges they face are sometimes misdiagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental illnesses. It is important that adults questioning whether or not they have Aspergers seek the services of a professional experienced in diagnosing Aspergers.

Does it matter if you get a diagnosis or not? Well, if you are functioning well and have a job, and are happy with the life you have, then there may be no reason to get a diagnosis. Conversely, if you are struggling in important areas in your life, a diagnosis can provide a framework for understanding and learning about behavioral and emotional challenges that have seemed unexplainable until now. Although challenges in sensory integration (i.e., the ability to organize sensory information for use by the brain) are not considered diagnostic criteria, most – if not all – Aspies have a sensory challenge of one kind or the other.

Some areas of difficulty where Aspergers could possibly be a factor include the following:

1. Are parties uncomfortable or overwhelming? Social events are a great way to meet people, and they can be essential for business, dating, and even marriage. But if you are uncomfortable because you are unsure of what to wear, how to start conversations, you have a hard time reading body language, then these “fun events” can be murder.

2. Do you a problem focusing on what others are saying while looking at them?

3. Do you avoid social events because you can't hear the person next to you over the hum of the crowd, or you don't like the touch of shaking people's hands or having people pat you on the back?

4. Do you have a passionate interest in a certain subject or topic? Perhaps you've been called OCD, but you think you're just very interested in one incredibly fascinating subject matter. This passionate topic could help you in other areas of your life, if only you knew how to use it.

5. Do you have a tough time making or keeping friends, and don't understand why? Or perhaps your peers are only interested in you when you're engaged in an activity or interest that you share, but you have not built a personal relationship.

6. Do you have trouble in getting and keeping a job that reflects your abilities even though your credentials look great on paper? It could be that you are very talented but don't have a clue as to how to do the sell yourself during an interview. Maybe the office politics are just something you don't get, so you are routinely passed up when it comes to promotions.

7. Has someone you are very fond of pointed out certain behaviors that drive them crazy and suggested that you might have Aspergers. Maybe there is something to their suggestion.

8. Have you ever met someone special that you wanted to get to know better, but didn't have a clue as to how to go about asking him or her out on a date?

9. If you are a college student, do you have trouble keeping up with coursework and finishing a degree? Perhaps you could use some help in getting and staying organized and planning your time.

Why you should get a diagnosis, if indeed you do have Aspergers:

1. Getting a diagnosis may help you find the strategies you need to be more successful in the areas where you are facing challenges.

2. It may help others in your life understand why you are the way you are, and respond to you differently.

3. There are Aspergers support groups out there (on-line and off-line) who can help you in many ways so you don't have to feel isolated and figure everything out for yourself.

4. There is a whole community of people who get who you are, how you think, how you feel, and that you can share experiences with.

5. You can begin the process of learning to live more adaptively with an Aspergers brain.

6. You may be eligible for service services in areas of need thanks to having a diagnosis - perhaps help with finding a job or a place to live. 

How to find out if you have Aspergers or not:

1. If you know any mothers or fathers of kids with Aspergers, ask them about the clinicians in your area familiar with Aspergers. If those clinicians can’t help you, they will hopefully refer you to someone in your area familiar with Aspergers.

2. One way to find the right person in your geographical location is to contact The Global and Regional Aspergers Partnership (GRASP), and the Autism Society of America (ASA). These organizations may have chapters in your area. If not, they can provide you with the names of professionals who would know someone to refer you to, in your geographical area.

3. Typically you need to see a clinical social worker, a licensed professional counselor, a psychologist, a psychiatrist or neuro-psychiatrist. It is important to see a professional who specializes in Aspergers, especially one who is familiar with Aspergers in grown-ups.

List of Aspergers Clinicians in the U.S.

==> The Aspergers Comprehensive Handbook

List of Aspergers Clinicians in the U.S.

Below is a list of professionals (e.g., clinicians, counselors, medical doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, etc.) who have stated that they are familiar with Aspergers (high-functioning autism) and are willing to evaluate children, teens and adults who have the disorder.

If you are a professional who specializes in Aspergers and other autism spectrum disorders and want to get listed, send me an email [mbhutten@gmail.com] with your request to be listed on MyAspergersChild.com. Provide information regarding your credentials as well as your contact information.

These Aspergers professionals are listed by the U.S. State they practice in and by their names in alphabetical order:

ALABAMA
________________________________________
G. Michael Shehi, MD
Mountain View Hospital
3001 Scenic Highway
Gadsden, Alabama 35904
Phone: (256) 546-9265

________________________________________
ARIZONA
________________________________________
G. Dean Bathel, LCSW, LISAC
5210 E Pima Suite 140
Tucson, AZ 85712
Phone: (520) 275-6780
________________________________________
Natasha Hill, LCSW
Hill Child Counseling
891 E. Warner Rd. #100-215
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Phone: (480) 612-4444

________________________________________
CALIFORNIA
________________________________________
Linda Andron-Ostrow, LCSW
1637 Malcolm Ave. Ste. 2
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Phone: (310) 475-9620
E-Mail: linda@factfamily.org
Web Site: www.factfamily.org
________________________________________
Abbe Barron DMD, PhD
337 So. Beverly Dr. Suite #206
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Phone: (310) 476-7810
E-Mail: abbebarron@gmail.com
________________________________________
Janet L. Bowden, MA, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapy, Inc.
3685 Motor Ave., Ste. 230
Los Angeles, CA 90034
Phone: (310) 559-1071
E-Mail: JanetLBowden@aol.com
Web Site: members.tripod.com/janetlbowden
________________________________________
Mara Bruckner, M.F.T.
4505 Las Virgenes Road
Suite 217
Calabasas, CA 91302
Phone: (818)725-7924
e-mail: mbrucknermft@gmail.com
website: www.marabrucknermft.com
________________________________________
Robin Burkholz M.A.CCC
973 S. Westlake Boulevard
Suite # 105
Westlake Village, California 91361
Voice/Fax: 805-374-7888
website: www.robinburkholz.com
email: robin@robinburkholz.com
________________________________________
Michael Cohn, PhD
Clinical Psychologist
Calif License # PSY6064
14025 Panay Way, Suite A
Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Phone: (213) 851-6481
________________________________________
Marian Lane Diamond, PhD
Diamond and Associates
250 Bel Marin Keys Blvd., Suite D-5
Novato, CA 94949
Phone: (415) 382-7927
E-Mail: mdiamond@sonic.net
________________________________________
Carrie N. Dilley, PhD
Synergy Psychological, Inc.
505 W. Sierra Madre Blvd.
Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Phone: (626) 539-2001
E-Mail: DrCarrieDilley@gmail.com
Web Site: www.SynergyPsychological.com
________________________________________
Carl E. Drake, MD, PhD
Diablo Behavioral HealthCare
4185 Blackhawk Plaza Circle
Suite 210
Danville, CA 94506
Phone: (925) 648-4800
Web Site: www.behaviorquest.com
________________________________________
Rita Eichenstein, PhD
Clinical Psychologist
California License #14536
Cedars-Sinai Medical Towers
8635 West Third Street, 685-W
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone: (310) 202-6301
________________________________________
Shawna Fishman, MFT
1460 7th Street, Suite #201
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Phone: (310) 339-9565
E-Mail: shabefi@aol.com
________________________________________
Sarita Freedman, PhD
Licensed Psychologist
Adults & Children, Developmental Disabilities
Author, Developing College Skills in Students with Autism & Asperger’s Syndrome
26540 Agoura Road, Ste. 100
Calabasas, CA 91302
(818) 999-9330
________________________________________
Bruce M. Gale, PhD
16430 Ventura Blvd., Suite 107
Encino, CA 91436-2135
Phone: (818) 788-2100
E-Mail: bgale@behaviortech.net
________________________________________
Donald P. Gallo, Ph.D., ABPP
Board Certified Clinical Psychologist
21241 Ventura Blvd. Suite 180
Woodland Hills, Ca. 91364
dgallophd@aol.com
www.donaldgallo.com
________________________________________
Brian D. Halevie-Goldman, MD
Diablo Behavioral HealthCare
4185 Blackhawk Plaza Circle
Suite 210
Danville, CA 94506
Phone: (925) 648-4800
Web Site: www.behaviorquest.com
________________________________________
Leslie A. Hendrickson-Baral, MEd
3636 Fourth Avenue, Suite 210
San Diego, CA 92103
Phone: (619) 220-2458
E-Mail: neurobics2000@yahoo.com
Web Site: www.attention-training.com
________________________________________
Kenneth L. Herman, PhD
1137 Huntington Drive, Suite A-2
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Phone: (323) 344-0123
E-Mail: ken@docherman.com
Web Site: www.docherman.com
________________________________________
Bruce Hirsch, PhD
130 S. Euclid Ave., Ste. 1
Pasadena, CA 91101
Phone: (626) 395-7833
E-Mail: drbruce@sbcglobal.net
Web Site: www.brucehirschphd.com
________________________________________
Amy Keller, MFT
350 S. Lake Avenue, Suite 284A
Pasadena, CA 91101
Phone: (626) 396-9468
________________________________________
Lynn Kilroy, Ph.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
11340 W. Olympic Blvd., Suite 320
Los Angeles, CA 90064
lynnkilroyphd@gmail.com
310-446-8088
Specializing in psychotherapy with children, teen, adults and
families impacted by Asperger's Syndrome
________________________________________
Jerry Lindquist, PhD, OTR
8699 Holder Street
Buena Park, CA 90620
Phone: (714) 563-6556
________________________________________
Debra Moore, PhD, Director
Fall Creek Attention and Behavior Centers
5900 Coyle Avenue, Suite D
Carmichael, CA 95608
Phone: (916) 344-0900
E-Mail: drdmoore@pacbell.net
Web Site: www.psychpages.com
________________________________________
David Morrison, Psy.D.
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
1337 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Suite 200
Thousand Oaks, Ca 91362
(805) 368-8376
davepsyd1@gmail.com
________________________________________
Kyle D. Pontius, PhD
Adult & Child Psychology
License #PSY14186
23441 South Pointe Drive, Ste. 200
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Phone: (949) 454-9016, x3
E-Mail: drkyle@um.att.com
Web Site: www.drkyle.net
________________________________________
Meredith Rimmer, Ph.D.
P.E.D.S
5363 Balboa Boulevard, Suite 436
Encino, CA 91316
Phone: 818.906.8151
Email:drmrimmer@yahoo.com
Specializing in diagnosis, testing/assessment,
and treatment for ASD
_______________________________________
Edward Ritvo, MD
10570 Rocca Way
Los Angeles, CA 90077
Phone: (310) 825-0220
________________________________________
Patricia Robinson, MA, MFT
2500 Old Crow Canyon Road, Ste. 218
San Ramon, CA 94583
Phone: (925) 915-0924
E-Mail: patricia@patriciarobinsonmft.com
Web Site: http://patriciarobinsonmft.com
________________________________________
Karen L. Schiltz, Ph.D.
Karen Schiltz Ph.D. and Associates
4764 Park Granada, Suite 109, Calabasas, California 91302
Phone: 805-379-4939; 818-518-1057
E-Mail: officemanager@karenschiltz.com
Web Site: www.karenschiltz.com
________________________________________
William J. Shryer, LCSW, BCD
Diablo Behavioral HealthCare
4185 Blackhawk Plaza Circle
Suite 210
Danville, CA 94506
Phone: (925) 648-4800
E-Mail: bahaviorquest@aol.com
Web Site: www.behaviorquest.com
________________________________________
Ilene Umen, M.A.CCC-SLP
Woodland Hills, California 91364
Phone: 818-906-0407
email: iumen@aol.com
________________________________________
Curt Widhalm, MA, LMFT
4519 Admiralty Way, Suite C
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Phone: (424) 571-3557
E-Mail: curt.widhalm@gmail.com
Web: curtwidhalm.com
________________________________________
Eileen Zaroff, M.A. LMFT
17737 Ventura Blvd.,
Encino, Ca. 91316
818-886-9410 Extension 2
or
24509 Walnut Street,
Newhall, Calif. 91321
661-287-5996 Extension 2


________________________________________
COLORADO
________________________________________
Gary Macdonald, PhD
1175 Osage Street, Suite 201
Denver, CO 80204
Phone: (303) 573-0839 x107
E-Mail: garymac@lifelongaes.com
Web: www.lifelongaes.com
________________________________________
Tiffany Wind, PhD
3300 E. 1st Ave. Suite 650
Denver, CO 80206
Phone: (303) 829-9724
E-Mail: drtiffanywind@gmail.com

________________________________________
CONNECTICUT
________________________________________
Michael S. Cohen, PhD, ABPP
CT and NY Licensed Psychologist
7 Whitney Street Extension
Westport, CT 06880
Phone: (203) 381-9396
E-Mail: michael.cohen.phd@post.harvard.edu
Web Site: www.michaelcohen.phd.com
________________________________________
Marcia Eckerd, PhD
Associates for Children and Families, P.C.
83 East Avenue Suite 217
Norwalk, CT 06880
Phone: (203) 299-1331
E-Mail : eckwestoff@aol.com
________________________________________
Eric B. Nicholson, MD, PhD
16 River Street
Norwalk, CT 06850
Phone: (203) 838-8168
________________________________________
Fred R. Volkmar, MD
Yale Child Study Center
230 South Frontage Road
P.O. Box 207900
New Haven, CT 06520-7900
Phone: (203) 785-2510

________________________________________
FLORIDA
________________________________________
Caroline L. Bias, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
2000 Derby Glen Drive
Orlando, FL 32837
Phone: (321) 947-6282
Web: www.floridapediatrictherapy.com
________________________________________
Myles L. Cooley, PhD, ABPP
9121 N. Military Tr., Suite 218
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
Phone: (561) 694-0001
Web Site: www.drmylescooley.com
________________________________________
Gary M. Eisenberg, PhD
Clinical and Child Psychologist
950 Glades Road, Suite 1A
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Phone: (561) 392-1414
Web: www.iser.com/eisenberg-FL.html
________________________________________
Gregg L. Friedman, MD
2500 East Hallandale Beach Blvd., Ste 702
Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
Phone: (954) 456-1996
________________________________________
George Kachmarik, MS, LMHC
FL 2199MH
Pasadena Villa Adult Residential Center
119 Pasadena Place
Orlando, FL 32803
Phone: (407) 246-5250
________________________________________
Timothy P. Kowalski, MA, CCC
Speech-Language Pathologist
Professional Communication Services, Inc.
1401-A Edgewater Dr.
Orlando, FL 32804
Phone: (407) 245-1026
Web Site: www.socialpragmatics.com
________________________________________
George Lindenfeld, PhD, ABPP
Frederick Avenue
Daytona Beach, FL
Phone: (904) 257-0780
________________________________________
Lynda Mance, LCSW
Mandarin Counseling
12058 San Jose Blvd., Ste 703
Jacksonville, FL 32223
Phone: (904) 260-0454
Web: www.mandarincounseling.com
________________________________________
Krista M. Marchman PhD
215 Celebration Place, Suite 500
Celebration, FL 34747
Phone: (321) 559-1222
________________________________________
David W. Peterson, EdD, LCSW
TeamWork, LLC
237 Lookout Place, Ste. 200
Maitland, FL 32751
Phone: (407) 252-5418
________________________________________
Marie T. Rogers, PhD, PA
Licensed Psychologist
Florida License #PY6312
3650 N. Federal Highway, Suite 209
Lighthouse Point, FL 33064
Phone: (954) 782-6461
________________________________________
Bonnie Slade, PhD
4951 Babcock Street Suite 3
Palm Bay, FL 32905
Phone: (321) 729-0870
E-Mail: drslade@digital.net

________________________________________
GEORGIA
________________________________________
Candice L. Barnette, MA, CCC-S
6815 Forest Park Drive
Suite 124
Savannah, GA 31406
Phone: (912) 352-4045
E-Mail: BarnetteC@aol.com
________________________________________
Rees Chapman, Ph.D.
108 Mountain Drive
Dahlonega, GA 30533
Phone: (706) 864-0695
Website: www.DrChapman.org
________________________________________
Michael Johns, PsyD
3678 Vineville Avenue
Macon, GA 31204
Phone: (478) 477-2220
E-Mail: dr.johnsnvps@gmail.com
________________________________________
Drs. Melissa Lang & Dana Weinstein
Center for Psychological and Educational Assessment
6111 Peachtree Dunwoody Road
Building F Suite 103
Atlanta, GA 30328
Phone: (770) 352-9952
E-Mail: info@atlantachildpsych.com
Website: www.atlantachildpsych.com
________________________________________
Robert W. Montgomery, PhD, BCBA
Reinforcement Unlimited
PO Box 1572
Woodstock, GA 30188
Phone: (770) 591-9552
E-Mail: RWM@Behavior-Consultant.Com
Web: www.behavior-consultant.com
________________________________________
Michael Mueller, PhD, BCBA
Southern Behavioral Group
1950 Spectrum Circle, Suite 400
Marietta, GA 30067
E-Mail: mmueller@southernbehavioral.com
Web: www.southernbehavioral.com
________________________________________
M. Kevin Turner, PhD
Transitions of Augusta
103 Rossmore Pl.
Augusta, GA 30909-5769
Phone: (706) 364-7165
________________________________________
LaRonta M. Upson, PhD
913 Main Street, Suite H
Stone Mpountain, GA 30083
or
212 Arrowhead Boulevard
Jonesboro, GA 30236
Phone: (770) 375-8124
Web: www.healthyyoungminds.com

________________________________________
HAWAII
________________________________________
William M. Bolman, MD, FAPA
1600 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 620
Honolulu, Hawaii 96816
Phone: (808) 944-2597
E-Mail: wmbolman@pixi.com
________________________________________
David E. Roth, MD, FAPA
Mind & Body Works, Inc.
3036 Diamond Head Road
Honolulu, HI 96815
Phone: (808) 923-7684
E-Mail: mbwfrontdesk@gmail.com
Web: www.mind-bodyworks.com

________________________________________
IDAHO
________________________________________
Jack Alban, PhD
Idaho License # PSY 162
111 Palmer Drive
Nampa, ID 83686-8313
Phone: (208) 467-2741

________________________________________
ILLINOIS
________________________________________
Jerry L. Boyd, PhD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
P.O. Box 406
1901 Eighteenth Street
Charleston, IL 61920
Phone: (217)348-7911
Fax: (217)348-3909
E-Mail: jlboyd@advant.com
________________________________________
Bryan Bugay, LCPC
550 Frontage Road, Suite 3515
Northfield, IL 60093
Phone: (773) 318-8959
E-Mail: b-r-y-a-n@comcast.net
Web: www.bryanbugay.com
________________________________________
Todd R. Lendvay, PsyD
1644 Colonial Parkway
Inverness, IL 60067
or
9113 Trinity Drive
Lake In The Hills, IL 60156
Phone: (847) 458-7442
E-Mail: t.lendvay@att.net
________________________________________
Aimee Micetic, MA, LCPC
13717 South Route 30, Unit 159
Plainfield, IL 60544
Phone: (815) 676-6535
E-Mail: aimee@encouragingchanges.com
Web: www.encouragingchanges.com
________________________________________
Anthony Rotatori, PhD
Sandra Burkhardt, PhD
Saint Xavier University
3700 W. 103rd St.
Chicago, IL 60655
Phone: (773)298-3476
E-Mail: burkhardt@mercy.sxu.edu
________________________________________
Dana Steiner, LCPC, BCPC
1800 Nations Drive, Suite 202
Gurnee, IL 60031
Phone: (847) 668-6290
E-Mail: dana@danasteiner.com
Web: www.danasteiner.com
________________________________________
Frederika C. Theus, PsyD
University of Illinois at Chicago
Institute on Disability and Human Development
1640 West Roosevelt Road
MC 626
Chicago, Illinois 60608
Phone: (312)413-1490
E-mail: ftheus@uic.edu
________________________________________
Elizabeth A. Zavodny, PsyD
The Institute for Family Development
15010 S. Ravinia Ave., Suite 19
Orland Park, IL 60462
Phone: (708) 403-3200
E-Mail: InstituteFamilyDevelopment@juno.com

________________________________________
IOWA
________________________________________
Dick Socwell, MS, MSEd
Licensed Psychologist #529
ADHD Clinic of Eastern Iowa
3100 E Avenue NE, Suite 101
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52405
Phone: (319) 396-1066
E-Mail: rsocwell@mchsi.com

________________________________________
KANSAS
________________________________________
Dana K. Fitzer, LSCSW
ASAP Expert Counseling
8906 W 97th Street
Overland Park, KS 66212
Phone: (913) 952-6696
E-Mail: ASAPexpertcounseling@yahoo.com
Web: ASAPexpertcounseling.com

________________________________________
MAINE
________________________________________
Ginger Walker, LCPC-C
836 Main St. (2nd Floor)
Westbrook, ME 04092
Phone: (207) 615-9692
E-Mail: integrativepsychotherapy100@gmail.com

________________________________________
MARYLAND
________________________________________
Tom Holman, PhD
19642 Club House Road, Suite 610
Gaithersburg, Maryland 20879-3046
Phone: (301) 990-0792
E-Mail: tom@tomholman.com
Website: www.tomholman.com
________________________________________
Karen Kuell, MSW, PhD
4424 Montgomery Avenue, Suite 300
Bethesda, MD 20814
Phone: (301) 951-1990
________________________________________
Jorge C. Srabstein, MD
20528 Boland Farm Road, Suite 207
Germantown, Maryland 20876
Phone: (301) 916-5300
________________________________________
Carol Watkins, MD
2360 W. Joppa Rd. Suite 223
Baltimore, MD 21093
Phone: (410) 329-2028
E-Mail: ncpa@qis.net
Website: http://www.ncpamd.com
________________________________________
Anthony B. Wolff, PhD
Spectrum Behavioral Health
1509 Ritchie Highway
Arnold, Maryland 21012
Phone: (410) 757-2077

________________________________________
MASSACHUSETTS
________________________________________
Sangeeta Dey, PsyD
Pediatric Neuropsychologist
594 Marrett Road, Suite 22
Lexington, MA 02421
Phone: (781) 799-8585
E-Mail: dey.ccnc@gmail.com
________________________________________
Ann A. Helmus, PhD and 6 colleagues
NESCA Neuropsychology & Education Services for Children & Adolescents
90 Bridge Street
Newton, MA 02458
Phone: (617) 658-9800
E-Mail: ahelmus@nesca-newton.com
Web: www.nesca-newton.com
________________________________________
Wayne Klein, PhD
Family Neuropsychology
741 Pond Street
Franklin, MA 02038
Phone: (617) 512-9166
E-Mail: Klein@Family-Neuropsychology.com
Web: http://Family-Neuropsychology.com
or
Rehab Hospital of the Cape & Islands
RHCI for Children
280-D Route 140
Forestdale, MA 02644
Phone: (508) 833-4166
E-Mail: WKlein@Partners.org
Web: www.rhci.org
________________________________________
Margaret A. McPhee, PhD
Center for Neurointegrative Services
394 Lexington Street
Lexington, MA 02420-2825
Phone: (781) 862-2333
E-Mail: mmcphee@cns-consult.com
________________________________________
Cheryl Muzio, PsyD
Clinical Psychologist
40 Center Street, Suite A
Northampton, MA 01060
Phone: (413) 586-7123
E-Mail: cmuzio@aol.com
________________________________________
Liana Peňa Morgens, PhD
Clinical Neuropsychologist
298 Crescent Street
Waltham, MA 01453
Phone: (781) 899-1160
E-Mail: lmorgens@hms.harvard.edu
Web Site: www.psychsteps.com
________________________________________
Fran Peterson, MEd, CAGS, LMHC
Family Works
51 Union Street, Suite 304
Worcester, MA 01609
Phone: (508) 791-9340
________________________________________
Helene Pniewski, MD
Timothy Martin, PhD
89 Access Road, Unit 24
Norwood, MA 02062
Phone: (781) 551-0999
E-Mail: info@cfpsych.org
Web Site: www.cfpsych.org
________________________________________
Allan J. Rooney, PsyD
Clinical Neuropsychology
418 Main Street, 3rd Floor
Worcester, MA 01608
Phone: (508) 757-5694
Web Site: www.allanjrooney.com
________________________________________
Jeff Turley, MD
475 School Street
Suite 17
Marshfield, MA 02050
Phone: (781) 934-9325
________________________________________
Stephen J. Wieder, MD
155 Low Street
Newburyport, MA 01950
Phone: (978) 462-3496
E-Mail: swieder@comcast.net
Web Site: www.wieder.yourmd.com

________________________________________
MICHIGAN
________________________________________
Richard Howlin, PhD
114 North Main Street
Chelsea, MI 48118
Phone: (734)475-6070
E-Mail: rhowlin@aspergersmichigan.com
________________________________________
Jed Magen, DO
College of Osteopathic Medicine
Michigan State University
Phone: (517) 355-4456

________________________________________
MINNESOTA
________________________________________
Andrea Bieberich, PhD, LP
11900 Wayzata Blvd., Suite 132
Minnetonka, MN 55305
Phone: (952) 835-6776
________________________________________
Anne J. Ford, LICSW, LLC
17819 Hutchins Drive
Minnetonka, MN 55345
Phone: (952) 470-1186
Web Site: www.ajfordtherapy.com
________________________________________
Mitch Leppicello, LICSW
1789 Woodlane Dr. Suite C
Woodbury, MN 55125
Phone: (651) 739-7539
E-Mail: mleppicello@usfamily.net
________________________________________
Robin McLeod, PhD
Counseling Psychologists of Woodbury
1789 Woodlane Drive, Suite C
Woodbury, MN 55125
Phone: (651) 739-7539
E-Mail: mcleod@cpwmn.com
Web: www.cpwmn.com
________________________________________
Steven J. Ruff, MA, LAMFT
Nystrom & Associates, LTD
Merchants Bank Building
7300 West 147th Street, Suite 204
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Phone: (952) 997-3020
________________________________________
Sandy K. Sondell, PhD, LP
Pediatric Consultation Specialists, PLLC
3021 Harbor Lane North, Suite 210
Plymouth, MN 55447
________________________________________
Susan Storti, PhD, CCC
Jennifer Bennett, MS
Learning & Language Specialists
1405 Lilac Drive
Golden Valley, MN 55422
Phone: (763) 545-7708
E-Mail: learnlang@aol.com

________________________________________
MISSOURI
________________________________________
William G. Collins, PhD
Reintegrative Health Institute
1610 Des Peres Road, Suite 340
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Phone: (314) 984-8412
Web Site: www.rhistl.com
________________________________________
Kathy Harms, PhD
Kathy Harms & Associates
851 N.W. 45th Street - Suite 110
Kansas City, MO 64116
Phone: (816) 452-7775
E-Mail: drharmsassociates@sbcglobal.net

________________________________________
MISSISSIPPI
________________________________________
James W. Irby Jr., PhD, ABPP
4500 I-55 North
Highland Village, Suite 234
Jackson, MS 39211
Phone: (601) 982-8531

________________________________________
MONTANA
________________________________________
Lynn Carlson, LCSW
100 Second Street East
Whitefish, MT 59937
Phone: (406) 863-4810

________________________________________
NEBRASKA
________________________________________
Lorrie E. Bryant, PhD
Licensed Psychologist
Nebraska License #469
Behavioral Pediatric and Family Therapy Program
4501 South 70th Street, Suite 120
Lincoln, NE 68516
Phone: (402) 483-1936
(Children and Adolescents Only)
_______________________________________
Diane C. Marti, PhD
Williamsburg Behavioral Psychology, LLC
3801 Union Drive, Suite 206
Lincoln, Nebraska 68516
Phone: (402) 489-2218
E-Mail: dcmarti@wpblincoln.org
(Children, Adolescents, Adults, Families, & School/Employer Consultation)
________________________________________
Caryll Palmer Wilson, PhD
Williamsburg Behavioral Psychology, LLC
3801 Union Drive, Suite 206
Lincoln, Nebraska 68516
Phone: (402) 489-2218
E-Mail: behavioralpediatrics@gmail.com
(Children, Adolescents, Adults, Families, & School/Employer Consultation)

________________________________________
NEVADA
________________________________________
Katherine Z. Souza, PhD
Community Chest, Inc.
991 South "C" St.
Virginia City, Nevada 89440
Phone: (775) 847-9311
E-Mail: Katherine@communitychestnevada.net

________________________________________
NEW HAMPSHIRE
________________________________________
Larry Welkowitz, PhD
Asperger Resource Group
Keene State College
Keene, NH 03435-3400
Phone: (603) 358-2517
E-Mail: lwelkowi@keene.edu

________________________________________
NEW JERSEY
________________________________________
Michael J. Asher, PhD
Behavior Therapy Associates, P.A.
35 Clyde Road, Suite 101
Somerset, NJ 08854
Phone: (732) 873-1212
E-Mail: behaviortherapy@aol.com
Web Site: www.behaviortherapyassociates.com
________________________________________
Ronald Barabas, MD
3350 Highway 138W
Bldg. 1, Suite 117
Wall, NJ 07719
Phone: (732) 556-0200
________________________________________
Holly L. Blumenstyk, MEd, LDTC
20 Community Place, Ste. 8
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: (973) 540-0995
Web Site: www.learningassoc.com
________________________________________
Annette L. Becklund, MSW, LCSW & Associates
Valley Park Office Complex
2517 Highway 35 G-103
Manasquan, NJ 08736
Phone: (732) 292-2929
E-Mail: AnnetteLBecklund@gmail.com
________________________________________
Thomas D. Boyle, Ph.D.
675 Morris Avenue
Suite 202
Springfield, New Jersey
Phone: (973) 467-9422
________________________________________
Nevine Fahmy, MD
Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist
50 Bridge St.
Metuchen, NJ 08840
Phone: (732) 754-4354
E-Mail: NKFAHMY@cs.com
________________________________________
Steven B. Gordon, PhD, ABPP
Behavior Therapy Associates, P.A.
11 Clyde Rd., Suite 103
Somerset, NJ 08873
Phone: (908) 873-1212
________________________________________
Elliot A. Grossman, MD
205 Ridgedale Ave.
Florham Park, NJ 07932
Phone:(973) 966-6333
E-Mail: PDNEURO@AOL.com
________________________________________
Daniel B. LeGoff, PhD
1001 Laurel Oak Rd., Suite E-2
Vorhees, NJ 08043
E-Mail: dlegoff@thecnnh.org
Web Site: www.thecnnh.org
________________________________________
Mark Mintz, MD
1001 Laurel Oak Rd., Suite E-2
Vorhees, NJ 08043
E-Mail: mmintz@thecnnh.org
Web Site: www.thecnnh.org
________________________________________
David P.Osterhout, LCSW, BCD
Elmwood Business Center
Building #3, Suite 303
733 State Highway #70, East
Marlton, NJ 08053
Phone: (856) 782-8383
________________________________________
Mark Pesner, PhD
Fairfield Commons
271 Route 46 West
Suite G101
Fairfield, NJ 07004
Phone: (973) 276-9040
E-Mail: markpesner@yahoo.com
________________________________________
Gilda D. Rivera, MS, OTR/L
Occupational Therapy Associates of Princeton
219 Wall Street
Princeton, NJ 08540
Phone: (609) 921-1555
E-Mail: grivera@otap.net
Web: www.otap.net
________________________________________
Howard Rudominer, MD
59 Springbook Road
Livingston, NJ 07039
Phone: (201) 716-9500
________________________________________
Kai-ping Wang, MD
Adult, Adolescent & Child Psychiatrist
Hudson Psychiatric Associates, LLC
79 Hudson St., Suite 203
Hoboken, NJ 07030
Phone: (201) 222-8808
Web: hudsonpsych.com

________________________________________
NEW MEXICO
________________________________________
Robert Annett, PhD
Behavioral Pediatrics Clinic
Department of Pediatrics
University of New Mexico - Health Sciences Center
Albuquerque, NM
Phone: (505) 272-2345
________________________________________
Jim Jenson, MD
Department of Psychiatry
University of New Mexico
Phone: (505) 272-6130
________________________________________
Mary LeCaptain, EdD, ABPP
2741 Indian School Road
Albuquerque NM 87106
Phone: (505) 255-8682
________________________________________
Kim A. Rubin, MA, LMSW, NCSP
Rubin Educational Resources
1800 Old Pecos Trail, Suite J
Santa Fe, NM 87505
Phone: (505) 989-8910
Web Site: www.rubinedu.com

________________________________________
NEW YORK
________________________________________
Candice Baugh, MA, LMHC
26 Court St., Ste. 1210
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Phone: (917) 604-3578
E-Mail: Candice.Baugh@gmail.com
________________________________________
Kenneth A. Bonnet, PhD, ABPN
114 East 32nd Street
Mezzanine Floor
New York, New York 10016
Phone: (212) 889-6540
________________________________________
Joseph Coppolo Jr, PsyD
3 William Avenue
Staten Island, NY 10308-3142
Phone: (718) 967-5404
E-Mail: DrCoppolo@aol.com
________________________________________
Jennifer Daily, LCSW
276 5th Ave. Ste. 507A
New York, NY 10001
Phone: (917) 727-3163
E-Mail: Jennifer@jenniferdailycounseling.com
Web: www.JenniferDailyCounseling.com
________________________________________
Andy DeBaun, CSW
52 Booth Street
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Phone: (914) 773-0770
________________________________________
Lynda Geller, PhD
Spectrum Services
303 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1003
New York, NY 10016
Phone: (212) 686-3535 x205 or (718) 406-3848
E- Mail: lynda.geller@aspergercenter.com
Web: aspergercenter.com or spectrumservicesnyc.com
________________________________________
Greg Hannahs, MD
49 West 24th Street, Suite 610
New York, NY 10010
Phone: (646) 369-4797
________________________________________
Glenn S. Hirsch, MD
NYU Medical Center
Child Study Center
550 First Ave, NB 21E7
New York, NY 10016
Phone: (212) 263-8704
________________________________________
Nursel Kahya, PhD, BCBA
8 Beaver Hollow Lane
Airmont, NY 10952
Phone: (845) 290-0365
E-Mail: drnurselkahya@yahoo.com
________________________________________
Jeffrey I. Kassinove, PhD
124 West 79th Street, Suite 1E
New York, NY 10024
Phone: (212) 580-0080 or (516) 592-7404
E-Mail: Jkassinove@yahoo.com
Website: www.nypsychological.com
________________________________________
Robert Katz, MD
Affiliated: Sagamore Children's Psychiatric Center
Private Practice: Syosset, NY
Phone: (516) 364-6545
________________________________________
Amy Keller, MS CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
100 West 26th St. Apt. 11C
New York, NY 10001
Phone: (516) 782-8804
E-Mail: amy.keller@gmail.com
________________________________________
Martin L. Kutscher, MD
Pediatric Neurological Associates
125 South Broadway
White Plains, NY 10605
Phone: (914) 997-1692
Web Site: www.PediatricNeurology.Com
________________________________________
Steven Marcal, PsyD
Center for Disability Services
314 South Manning Blvd.
Albany, NY 12208
Phone: (518) 437-5732
________________________________________
Ruth Nass, MD
NYU Medical Center
400 East 34th Street, RR 311
New York, NY 10016
Phone: (212) 263-7753
________________________________________
Richard R. Pleak, MD
Schneider Children's Hospital, Suite 135
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
Phone: (718) 470-3517
________________________________________
June Rousso, PhD
15 West 72nd Street Apt. 16N
New York, NY 10023
Phone: (212) 496-4111
E-Mail: enuj49@aol.com
________________________________________
Lisa Salvato, PhD
19 West 34th Street, Penthouse
New York, NY 10001
Phone: (646) 530-8536
E-Mail: nycchildpsychology@yahoo.com
Web Site: www.drlisasalvato.com
________________________________________
James Snyder, MD
Long Island Psychiatric, PLLC
2 Main Street, Suite 8
Roslyn, NY 11576
Phone: (516) 626-2182
Web Site: www.lipsychiatric.com
________________________________________
Alan V. Tepp, PhD
800 Cross River Rd.
Katonah, NY 10536
Phone: (914) 232-1000
E-Mail: aadrtepp@optonline.net
Web Site: www.drtepp.com

________________________________________
NORTH CAROLINA
________________________________________
Lisa C. Brewer, MA
Licensed Psychological Associate, NC License #1234
665 A Israel St.
Hendersonville, NC 28739
Phone: (828) 693-3338
________________________________________
Steven R. Edelman, MA, LPA
Behavioral Counseling and Psychological Services, PA
916A Hay Street
Fayetteville, NC 28305
Phone: (910) 485-1703
________________________________________
Michael L. Reed, EdD, PhD, NCSP
Psychological/Therapeutic Resources, LLC
504 Pollock Street
New Bern, NC 28562
E-Mail: ptr@embarqmail.com
Web: ptrnewbern.com
________________________________________
Hal Shigley, PhD
3717 National Drive, Suite 220
Raleigh, NC 27612
Phone: (919) 909-2288
Web: www.shigleycounselingcenter.com
________________________________________
Seth E. Tabb, MD
Family Psychiatry & Psychology Associates, P.A.
104-A. Fountainbrook Circle
Cary, North Carolina 27511
Phone: (919) 233-4131
Fax: (919) 233-4168
E-Mail: STabb@fppa.com
Web Site: www.fppa.com
________________________________________
David A. Verhaagen, PhD
Trey Ishee, PsyD
Frank W. Gaskill, PhD
Southeast Psychological Services
2701 Coltsgate Road, Suite 101
Charlotte, NC 28211
Phone: (704) 365-6262
Web Site: www.southeastpsych.com

________________________________________
OHIO
________________________________________
Carol A. Bline, PhD
Developmental Associates
2386 Parkview Drive
Grove City, OH 43123-1858
Phone: (614) 578-1185
________________________________________
Daniel L. Davis, PhD
Tennenbaum and Associates
5151 Reed Road
Columbus, Ohio 43220
E-Mail: drdandavis7@yahoo.com
________________________________________
C. Christopher Fiumera, PhD, BCFE
204 South Gay Street
Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050
Phone and Fax (740) 392-5399
E-Mail: Fiumera@aol.com

________________________________________
OREGON
________________________________________
Jay Edwards, PhD
Emanuel Medical Office Building
501 North Graham, Suite 365
Portland, Oregon 97227
Phone: (503) 219-9992
________________________________________
Darryn M. Sikora, PhD
Oregon Health Sciences University
Child Development and Rehabilitation Center
707 SW Gaines Rd./P.O. Box 754
Portland, Oregon 97207
Phone: (503) 494-2749

________________________________________
PENNSYLVANIA
________________________________________
Michael P. Freidman, EdD
15 Presidential Blvd. Suite 202
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Phone: (610) 667-6269
E-Mail: mfreidman@mindspring.com
________________________________________
Linda M. Gourash, MD
Behavioral and Developmental Pediatrics
Fort Couch Towers
180 Fort Couch Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
Phone: (412) 831-0355 x1 (appts) or x534 (voice)
________________________________________
Margaret J. Kay, EdD
Licensed Psychologist
Nationally Certified School Psychologist
2818 Lititz Pike
Lancaster, PA 17601-3322
Phone: (717) 569-6223
E-mail: MJK@MargaretKay.com
Web Site: http://www.margaretkay.com
________________________________________
Robert Sherry, PhD
302 Castle Shannon Blvd.
Pittsburgh, PA 15234-1404
Phone: (412) 344-5554
E-Mail: rs413@aol.com
________________________________________
Cynthia Stauffer, MS
Licensed Psychologist
New Passages
3235 North Third St.
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Phone: (717) 579-6715
E-Mail: Psychocin@comcast.net
________________________________________
Robert Elden Wilson, MD, PhD
Saint Vincent Health Center
232 W 25th Street
Erie, PA 16544
Phone: (814) 452-5490

________________________________________
RHODE ISLAND
________________________________________
Laurence M. Hirsberg, PhD
One Regency Plaza, Suite 2
Providence, RI 02903
Phone: (401) 351-7779
________________________________________
Lori L. McKinsey, PsyD
Developmental Disabilities Program
Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital
1011 Veterans Memorial Parkway
East Providence, Rhode Island 02915
Phone: (401) 434-3400 ext. 158

Private Practice:
44 Love Lane
Warwick, Rhode Island 02886
Phone: (401) 885-0462
E-Mail: lmckinsey@edgenet.net

________________________________________
SOUTH CAROLINA
________________________________________
Idalyn S. Brown, PhD
Suite 115
222 West Coleman Boulevard
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
Phone (843) 216-6400
E-mail: ibrown1@bellsouth.net

________________________________________
TENNESSEE
________________________________________
Janis G. Neece, PhD
Cherokee Health Systems
7714 Corner Road, Ste. 105
Powell, TN 37849
Phone: (865) 947-6220
or
Cherokee Health Systems
6350 West Andrew Johnson Highway
Talbott, TN 37877
Phone: (423) 317-9344, ext. 3
________________________________________
Karen L. Weigle, PhD
The TEAM Centers, Inc.
Director of Clinical Services and The Chattanooga Autism Center
Medical Towers, Suite 102
1000 East Third Street
Chattanooga, TN 37404
Phone: (423) 622-0500

________________________________________
TEXAS
________________________________________
Alex Alexander, PhD
1220 Ector Street
Denton, TX 76201
Phone: (469) 446-1588
E-Mail: alexanderai@verizon.net
Web Site: www.iser.com/alexander-TX.html
________________________________________
Christopher J. Anagnostis, PhD
Clinical Psychologist (Child and Adolescent)
6410 Southwest Blvd., Suite 105
Fort Worth, TX 76109
Phone: (817) 732-6767
E-Mail: DrChris@FortWorthPsychology.com
www.FortWorthPsychology.com
________________________________________
Woody C. Childress, PhD
5658 Westcreek, Suite 400
Fort Worth, TX 76131
Phone: (817) 731-2468
E-Mail: w_childress@yahoo.com
http://www.childresseducational.com
________________________________________
Pilarita Cortez, MD
Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics
125 West Hague Suite 320
El Paso, Texas 79902
Phone: (915) 532-1005
________________________________________
Paul T. Elliott, MD
600 University Village Center
Richardson, TX 75081
Phone: (972) 234-0352
________________________________________
David L. Falkstein, PhD, LSSP
101 W. McDermott, Suite 109
Allen, TX 75013
Phone: (214) 727-0250
or
302 E. Brockett St.
Sherman, TX 75090
Phone: (903) 891-0506
E-Mail: DFalksteinphdllc@aol.com
________________________________________
Bruce Feltrup-Exum, MDiv, LMFT
3840 Hulen Street, Ste. 602
Fort Worth, TX 76107
Phone: (817) 735-4165
________________________________________
Maria Fishel, PhD, LSSP
4534 Westgate Blvd., Suite 230
Austin, TX 78745
Phone: (512) 748-6373
E-Mail: DrFishel@russianpsychologist.com
________________________________________
Steven Gutstein, PhD
The Connections Center
4120 Bellaire Blvd.
Houston, Texas 77025
Phone: (713) 838-1362
E-Mail: gutstein@connectionscenter.com
www.connectionscenter.com
________________________________________
James R. Harrison, PhD
402 West Lamar, Suite 102
Sherman, Texas 75090
Phone: (903) 868-2961
________________________________________
Ethel W. Hetrick, PhD
Oak Forest Psychological Services
2834 Bill Owens Parkway
Longview, TX 75605
Phone: (903) 759-6588
________________________________________
Greg Hupp, PhD
Hill Country Behavioral Medicine
1001 Ave. E
Marble Falls, TX 78654
Phone: (830) 265-4554
E-Mail: dochupp@texasbmed.com
www.texasbmed.com
________________________________________
Dr. Melinda Lang and Jamie Thomas
737 Oakwood Trail
Fort Worth, TX 76112
Phone: (817) 994-8040
E-Mail: docscudder@ev1.net
________________________________________
Beth Lusby, PhD
Cornerstone Assessment and Guidance Center, LP
1213 Hall Johnson, Suite 200
Colleyville, TX 76034
Phone: (817) 428-9810
E-Mail: drbeth@cagclp.com
www.cagclp.com
________________________________________
Robert Mandell, PhD
AAA Mental Health
2007 N. Collins Blvd., Suite 503
Richardson, TX 75080
Phone: (972) 690-6700
E-Mail: aaamentalhealth@aol.com
Web: www.aaamentalhealth.org
________________________________________
Denise McCallon, PhD
Clinical Child Psychologist
Children's Medical Center of Dallas
Department of Psychiatry
University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas
1935 Motor Street
Dallas, TX 75235
Phone: (214) 456-5912
________________________________________
Rachelle K. Sheely, PhD
The Connections Center
4120 Bellaire Blvd.
Houston, Texas 77025
Phone: (713) 838-1362
www.connectionscenter.com
________________________________________
Sarah L. Sirbasku, PhD
595 Round Rock West Drive, Suite 303
Round Rock, TX 78681
Phone: (512) 279-8353
E-Mail: drsarah@drsarahs.com
www.drsarahs.com
________________________________________
Alicia Snow, PhD
The Learning Assistance Center
28301 Tomball Parkway, Ste. 400
Tomball, TX 77375
Phone: (713) 240-8609
E-Mail: alisnow@prodigy.net
________________________________________
Alice R. Wiedenhoff, PhD
Clinical Psychologist
Child Study Center
1300 West Lancaster
Fort Worth, TX 76102
Phone: (817) 336-8611
Fax: (817) 870-4860
or
6040 Camp Bowie, Suite 58
Fort Worth, TX 76116
Phone: (817) 732-7748
Fax: (817) 370-8504
________________________________________
H. Denise Wooten, PsyD
1422 W. Main, Ste. 206
Lewisville, Texas 75067
Phone: (972) 436-6158

________________________________________
VIRGINIA
________________________________________
C. Rick Ellis, EdD
Spectrum Psychological Services
1020 Independence Blvd., Ste. 204
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Phone: (757) 640-1882
E-Mail: crickellis@cox.net
________________________________________
Robert S. Falk, PhD
Dominion Behavioral Healthcare
703 N. Courthouse Rd., Suite 101
Richmond, VA 23236
Phone: (804) 794-4482
________________________________________
Michael Oberschneider, PsyD
Ashburn Psychological Services
44110 Ashburn Shopping Plz., Suite 251
Ashburn, VA 20147
Phone: (703) 723-2999
Web: www.ashburnpsych.com
________________________________________
Christina Ralph, PhD
MindWell Psychology
4455 Brookfield Corporate Drive, Suite 101
Chantilly, VA 20151
Phone: (703) 568-2045
Web Site: www.mindwellpsychology.com
________________________________________
Jorge C. Srabstein, MD
5201 Leesburge Pike, Suite # 1002
Falls Church, Virginia 22041
Phone: (703) 578-3900
________________________________________
Patricia Velkoff, PhD
243 Church Street, N.W., Suite 300-A
Vienna, Virginia 22180-4434
Phone: (703) 938-6100

________________________________________
WASHINGTON
________________________________________
Darrow A. Chan, PhD
Northwest Psychological Services
1104 Market Street
Kirkland, Washington 98033
Phone: (425) 827-3019
________________________________________
Judith E. Gorman, MSW, DCSW
Biofield Healing Arts
5275 S. April Drive
Langley, WA 98260
Phone: (360) 321-7226
E-Mail: jgorman@whidbey.com
________________________________________
Christopher Nelson, PhD
Wilburton Ridge Office Park
365 118th Avenue SE, Suite 110
Bellevue, WA 98005
Phone: (206) 459-4817
E-Mail: drchrisnelson@comcast.net
________________________________________
Thomas M. Stallone, PsyD, PC
Attention Disorders Clinic of Vancouver
100 East 13th Street
Vancouver, WA 98660
Phone: (360) 696-1646
________________________________________
Cary Louise Terra, MA, LMFT
Terra Therapy
600 1st Avenue, Suite 526
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: (206) 890-4858
E-Mail: Cary@terratherapy.org
Web: www.terratherapy.org
Blog: http://aspiestrategy.blogspot.com

________________________________________
WISCONSIN
________________________________________
Chris Nelson, PhD
American Foundation of Counseling Services
130 E. Walnut Street Suite 700
Green Bay, WI 54301
Phone: (920) 437-8256
E-Mail: cnelson@afcscounseling.org


Aspergers professionals in other countries:


Australia

Anthony Attwood, PhD
The Macgregor Specialist Centre
568, Kessels Road
Macgregor
Brisbane
Queensland 4109
Phone: (61) 73349 7683

Janine Manjiviona, PhD
PO Box 2121
Lower Templestowe, 3107, Melbourne
Phone: (03) 9891 6835
E-Mail: janine.m007@optushome.com.au

Julie Peterson, Clinical Psychologist
Embracing the Other Half Psychology Clinic
43 Livingstone Ave.
Pymble NSW
Australia 2073
Phone: (02) 9988 0760
E-Mail: julie@otherhalf.com.au

______________________________

Canada

Sharon H. Blott, BSW, MEd
Registered Psychologist # 2612
745 - 37th Street NW
Calgary, Alberta T2N 4T1
Phone: (403) 270-9400 #110

Joel Jeffries, MB, FRCPC
Clarke Institute
250 College Street
Toronto ON M5T 1R8
Phone: (416) 979-6863

Shawn Reynolds, PhD
6770 - 129 Ave.
Edmonton, Alberta T5C 1V7
Phone: (780) 440-0708
E-Mail: shawnrab@hotmail.com

Kevin Stoddart, PhD
180 Bloor Street West, Suite 601
Toronto ON M5S 2V6
Phone: (416) 920-4999

______________________________

Hong Kong

Caleb Knight EdD
Child and Family Centre
15F The Strand
49 Bonham Strand East
Sheung Wan,
Hong Kong
Phone: 852 2543 0993
E-Mail: cknight77hk@yahoo.com

______________________________

Mexico

Julian Martinez Carbonell, MD
Cayetano Rodriguez # 49 Colonia Centro.
Xalapa, Veracruz Mexico
Telefono: 18-84- 12

J. Gomez-Plascencia, MD
Eclipse 2745 J. del Bosque
CP 44520 Guadalajara
Phone: (3) 647-0328

Jose Eduardo San-Esteban, MD
San Francisco 2-101
Col.Del Valle
Mexico City
Phone: (525) 669-3879

Jorge Trevino-Welsh, MD
Ave.Hospital #106
Col. Sertoma
Monterrey, Nuevo Leon
MEXICO
Phone: 528 3464535
E-Mail: neurojtw@mail.giga.com

______________________________

United Kingdom

Tim Williams
Department of Psychology
University of Reading
Earley Gate
Reading RG6 2AL
Phone: 0118 949 5008
E-Mail: sxswiams@rdg.ac.uk


More Aspergers clinicians are listed below in the comments section...

Children on the Autism Spectrum and Bed-wetting

Nocturnal enuresis (bed-wetting) is one of many issues Aspergers (AS) and High-Functioning Autistic (HFA) kids face. In comparison, it is likely a less important problem, but a problem nonetheless. Many of these young people have trouble with nocturnal enuresis, because they have difficulty in toilet training.

Why the difficulty in toilet training? A number of factors are involved:

• Kids on the autism spectrum are not good at imitation, which makes the process of potty training more difficult.
• Some do not even feel the wetness of the bed, which can complicate the training methods to help them overcome nighttime bed-wetting.
• Many of these children are also hypotonic, which is a condition that includes a lax form of muscle control as well as a failure to respond or recognize stimuli (e.g., the need to urinate).

By age 5, nocturnal enuresis remains a problem for about 15 percent of AS and HFA kids.

Causes—

No one knows for sure what causes nocturnal enuresis, but various factors may play a role:

• Hormone imbalance. During childhood, some children don't produce enough anti-diuretic hormones (ADH) to slow nighttime urine production.
• Small bladder. Your youngster's bladder may not be developed enough to hold urine produced during the night.
• Structural problem in the urinary tract or nervous system. Rarely, nocturnal enuresis is related to a defect in the youngster's neurological system or urinary system.
• Chronic constipation. A lack of regular bowel movements may make it so your youngster's bladder can't hold much urine, which can cause nocturnal enuresis at night.
• Diabetes. For a youngster who's usually dry at night, nocturnal enuresis may be the first sign of diabetes. Other signs and symptoms may include passing large amounts of urine at once, increased thirst, and fatigue and weight loss in spite of a good appetite.
• Inability to recognize a full bladder. If the nerves that control the bladder are slow to mature, a full bladder may not wake your youngster — especially if your youngster is a deep sleeper.
• Sleep apnea. Sometimes nocturnal enuresis is a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which the youngster's breathing is interrupted during sleep — often because of inflamed or enlarged tonsils or adenoids. Other signs and symptoms may include snoring, frequent ear and sinus infections, sore throat, and daytime drowsiness.
• Stress. Stressful events — such as becoming a big brother or sister, starting a new school, or sleeping away from home — may trigger bed-wetting.
• Urinary tract infection. A urinary tract infection can make it difficult for your youngster to control urination. Signs and symptoms may include bed-wetting, daytime accidents, frequent urination, bloody urine and pain during urination.

Risk factors—

Several factors have been associated with an increased risk of nocturnal enuresis, including:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Nocturnal enuresis is more common in kids who have ADHD.
• Family history. If both of a youngster's parents wet the bed as kids, their youngster has an 80 percent chance of wetting the bed, too.
• Sex. Nocturnal enuresis can affect anyone, but it's twice as common in boys as girls.

Complications—

• Although frustrating, nocturnal enuresis without a physical cause doesn't pose any health risks. The guilt and embarrassment a youngster feels about wetting the bed can lead to low self-esteem, however.
• Rashes on the bottom and genital area may be an issue as well — especially if your youngster sleeps in wet underwear. To prevent a rash, help your youngster rinse his or her bottom and genital area every morning. It also may help to cover the affected area with a petroleum ointment at bedtime.

When to Call the Doctor—

Nocturnal enuresis that begins abruptly or is accompanied by other symptoms can be a sign of another medical condition, so talk with your doctor. The doctor may check for signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), constipation, bladder problems, diabetes, or severe stress. Call the doctor if your youngster:

• begins to wet his or her pants during the day
• complains of a burning sensation or pain when urinating
• has swelling of the feet or ankles
• has to urinate frequently
• is drinking or eating much more than usual
• starts misbehaving at school or at home
• suddenly starts wetting the bed after being consistently dry for at least 6 months
• your youngster is still wetting the bed at age 7 years

Also let the doctor know if you're feeling frustrated with the situation or could use some help. In the meantime, your support and patience can go a long way in helping your youngster feel better about the bedwetting.

Preparing for a doctor’s appointment—

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or your youngster's pediatrician. However, he or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in urinary disorders (pediatric urologist or nephrologist). Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect from your doctor:

1. Make a list of all medications, vitamins and supplements that your youngster is taking.

2. Write down any symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated. It can also be helpful to keep a diary of your youngster's bathroom visits. Write down when your youngster goes to the toilet, as well as whether or not he or she felt a sense of urgency to urinate. Also make note of how much your youngster has had to drink, especially after dinner.

3. Write down key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes.

4. Write down questions to ask your youngster's doctor. For example:

• Are there any alternatives to the primary approach that you're suggesting?
• Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me?
• Are there any drinking or dietary restrictions that my youngster needs to follow?
• Are there any side effects to medications?
• Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing?
• What treatments are available, and which do you recommend?
• What websites do you recommend visiting?
• What's causing my youngster to wet the bed?
• When might he or she outgrow wetting the bed?

Your time with your youngster's doctor may be limited, so preparing a list of questions can help you make the most of your time together. List your questions from most important to least important in case time runs out.

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them may reserve time to go over any points you want to spend more time on. Your doctor may ask:

• Does the nocturnal enuresis seem to be triggered by certain foods, drinks or activities?
• Does your youngster complain of pain or other symptoms when urinating?
• Has your youngster always wet the bed, or did it begin recently?
• How often does your youngster wet the bed?
• If you're divorced, does your youngster live in each parent's home and does the nocturnal enuresis occur in both homes?
• Is there a family history of bed-wetting?
• Is your youngster dry during the day?
• Is your youngster facing any major life changes or other stresses?

Try to be patient and understanding with your youngster. Nocturnal enuresis is a source of anxiety and frustration for your youngster. He or she isn't wetting the bed on purpose. While you're waiting to see the doctor, try limiting the amount your youngster drinks in the evening.

Tests and diagnosis—

Your youngster will need a physical exam. Depending on the circumstances, urine tests may be done to check for signs of an infection or diabetes. If the doctor suspects a structural problem with your youngster's urinary tract or another health concern, your youngster may need X-rays or other imaging tests of the kidneys or bladder.

Treatments and drugs—

Most kids outgrow nocturnal enuresis on their own. If there's a family history of bed-wetting, your youngster will probably stop nocturnal enuresis around the age the parent stopped bed-wetting. Generally, your youngster will be your doctor's guide to the level of necessary treatment. If your youngster isn't especially bothered or embarrassed by an occasional wet night, home remedies may be the ideal treatment. However, if your grade school youngster is terrified about wetting the bed during a sleepover, he or she may be more motivated to try additional treatments.

• Calm the bladder. If your youngster has a small bladder, an anticholinergic drug such as oxybutynin (Ditropan) or hyoscyamine (Levsin) may help reduce bladder contractions and increase bladder capacity. Side effects may include dry mouth and facial flushing.

• Change a youngster's sleeping and waking pattern. The antidepressant imipramine (Tofranil) may provide nocturnal enuresis relief by changing a youngster's sleeping and waking pattern. The medication may also increase the amount of time a youngster can hold urine or reduce the amount of urine produced. Imipramine has been associated with mood changes and sleep problems. Caution is essential when using this medication, because an overdose could be fatal. Because of the serious nature of these side effects, this medication is generally recommended only when other treatments have failed.

• Medication. Your youngster's doctor may prescribe medication to stop bed-wetting. Sometimes a combination of medications is most effective. There are no guarantees, however, and medication doesn't cure the problem. Nocturnal enuresis typically resumes when the medication is stopped.

• Moisture alarms. These small, battery-operated devices — available without a prescription at most pharmacies — connect to a moisture-sensitive pad on your youngster's pajamas or bedding. When the pad senses wetness, the alarm goes off. Ideally, the moisture alarm sounds just as your youngster begins to urinate — in time to help your youngster wake, stop the urine stream and get to the toilet. If your youngster is a heavy sleeper, another person may need to listen for the alarm. If you try a moisture alarm, give it plenty of time. It often takes at least two weeks to see any type of response and up to 12 weeks to enjoy dry nights. Moisture alarms are highly effective, carry a low risk of relapse or side effects, and may provide a better long-term solution than medication does.

• Slow nighttime urine production. The drug desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) boosts levels of a natural hormone (anti-diuretic hormone, or ADH) that forces the body to make less urine at night. Although DDAVP has few side effects, the most serious is the potential for seizures. This can happen if your youngster drinks too much when taking the medication. For this reason, don't use this medication on nights when your youngster drinks a lot of fluids. Additionally, don't give your youngster this medication if he or she has a headache, has vomited or feels nauseous.

Lifestyle and home remedies—

Here are changes you can make at home that may help:

• Adjust the child's diet. AS and HFA children commonly have a poor immune system and resulting food allergies. Because this may be one of the causes of bed wetting, perform an allergy test on the child, with a physician's permission, to rule this possibility out. Common allergies among children on the spectrum are dairy, grain and strawberries or citrus fruit. To test the child, take one of these categories of food at a time out of her diet completely for two weeks. At the end of the two-week period, give her the food item on an empty stomach. If she is allergic, she will react within 15 to 60 minutes. Continue on to a different category every two weeks until you have tested all three food categories.

• Avoid beverages and foods with caffeine in the evening. Caffeine may increase the need to urinate, so don't give your youngster drinks, such as cola, or snacks that have caffeine, such as chocolate, in the evening.

• Consider a bed-wetting alarm. A common problem among bed wetting in AS and HFA children is that they can't recognize the feeling of moisture. Also, some of these children are not bothered by wetting their bed. Bed-wetting alarms are waterproof censors that attach to bed sheets. When moisture occurs, a beeping alarm goes off. This wakes them up and prompts them to finish going to the bathroom in the restroom. It seems to be very effective for many children on the spectrum, but there are exceptions. Some children get very frightened by the sound, so it is important to consider the child's personality and consult a physician before attempting to use a bed-wetting alarm.

• Encourage double voiding before bed. Double voiding is urinating at the beginning of the bedtime routine and then again just before falling asleep. Remind your youngster that it's OK to use the toilet during the night if needed. Use small night lights, so your youngster can easily find the way between the bedroom and bathroom.

• Encourage regular toilet use throughout the day. During the day and evening, suggest that your youngster urinate once every two hours, or at least enough to avoid a feeling of urgency.

• Limit how much your youngster drinks in the evening. Having around 8 ounces of liquid to drink (about .25 liter) in the evening is generally enough, but check with your doctor to find out what's right for your youngster. There's no need to limit how much your youngster drinks, but some experts feel a good rule of thumb is for kids to have 40 percent of their liquids between 7 a.m. and noon, another 40 percent between noon and 5 p.m., and just 20 percent of their daily fluids after 5 p.m. However, don't limit fluids if your youngster is participating in sports practice or games in the evenings.

• Observe the child's bathroom behavior during the day. It is important to be aware of the level of his current potty training capability. Not being potty trained during the day can point to a developmental problem of not being able to imitate the concept of going to the bathroom in the first place. In this case, you should be patient and potty train the child in the same fashion you would most children. AS and HFA children may take longer to understand the concept as a whole. If they go to the bathroom with no problem during the day, you can assure yourself that they are able to grasp the concept. If this is the case, you need to explore other options of what the problem might be during the night.

• Take advantage of dry protection. For the comfort of the child as well as creating an easier clean up for you, use plastic mattress liners. In addition, have the child wear adult disposable moisture-locking underpants to bed. If needed, she may also wear them throughout the day. This will help contain most of the moisture from her pajamas and the bed sheets. Use these dry protection methods while you are working with the child's bed wetting situation to allow more comfort for both of you.

• Treat constipation. If constipation is a problem for your youngster, your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter stool softener.

• Wake the child up every few hours in the middle of the night and explain to him that he needs to go to the bathroom. Take him to the restroom. If you do this consistently every few hours for a few weeks, it will help implant the idea in his head to get up when he has to go to the bathroom.

Alternative medicine—

Many people are interested in trying alternative therapies to treat bed-wetting, and several therapies, such as hypnosis and acupuncture, appear to be somewhat effective. However, other therapies currently don't have evidence to support their use.

• Acupuncture. This treatment involves the insertion of fine needles in specific parts of the body. Acupuncture may be effective for some kids.
• Chiropractic therapy. The idea behind chiropractic therapy is that if the spine is out of alignment, normal bodily functions will be affected. However, there's little evidence regarding the use of chiropractic therapy for the treatment of bed-wetting.
• Diet. Some people believe that certain foods affect bladder function and that removing these foods from the diet could help decrease bed-wetting. More study is needed.
• Homeopathy and herbs. Although some people are interested in homeopathic remedies and herbal products, none of these has been proven effective in clinical trials.
• Hypnosis. Small trials of hypnosis coupled with suggestions of waking up in a dry bed or visiting the toilet in the night found that this therapy may help some kids stay dry throughout the night.

Be sure to talk to your youngster's doctor before starting any alternative therapy. Some treatments can be just as powerful as prescription medications or surgeries. Make sure the alternative therapies you choose are safe for your youngster and won't interact with other medications your youngster may take.

Coping and support—

Kids don't wet the bed to irritate their moms and dads. Try to be patient as you and your youngster work through the problem together.

• Be sensitive to your youngster's feelings. If your youngster is stressed or anxious, encourage him or her to express those feelings. When your youngster feels calm and secure, nocturnal enuresis may become a thing of the past.
• Celebrate effort. Don't punish or tease your youngster for wetting the bed. Instead, praise your youngster for following the bedtime routine and helping clean up after accidents.
• Enlist your youngster's help. Perhaps your youngster can rinse his or her wet underwear and pajamas or place these items in a specific container for washing. Taking responsibility for nocturnal enuresis may help your youngster feel more control over the situation.
• Plan for easy cleanup. Cover your youngster's mattress with a plastic cover. Use thick, absorbent underwear at night to help contain the urine. Keep extra bedding and pajamas handy.

With reassurance, support and understanding, your youngster can look forward to the dry nights ahead.

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Children on the Autism Spectrum and Social Phobia

The diagnosis of social phobia in Aspergers and high-functioning autistic (HFA) kids emphasizes the following:

1. A youngster with social phobia must show the capacity for age-appropriate social relationships with familiar people, and his/her anxiety must occur in peer contexts, not just with grown-ups.
2. Due to limitations of cognitive and perceptual skills, Aspergers and HFA kids with social phobia need not recognize that their fear in social situations is excessive or unreasonable.
3. The anxiety brought on by social situations may be evidenced by crying, tantrums, meltdowns, freezing, shutdowns, or shrinking from social situations with unfamiliar people.
4. There must be evidence of the social fears existing for a minimum of six months.

Developmental Pathways to Social Phobia—

1. Genetic factors: Taken as a whole, studies using twins to determine whether genetics play a significant part in the development of social phobia are inconclusive. Some twin studies have examined the heritability of shyness and social fears rather than the clinical disorder social phobia. Overall, these studies suggest that genetics play a modest to moderate role in the development of symptoms and temperamental traits associated with social phobia.

Studies examining the rates of social phobia in the offspring or in other first-degree relatives of socially phobic people show that social phobia rates in relatives are higher than in the relatives of people with other anxiety disorders or no disorder. Overall, these studies suggest that social phobia is at least moderately familial and possibly specific in its transmission. However, family studies cannot specifically sort-out the relative contributions of genetic influences and family environmental influences on the development of a disorder. Thus, the mechanisms behind this familial connection in social phobia still need clarification.

2. Normative developmental factors: Kids as young as 6 months through 3 years of age commonly show anxiety in the forms of stranger and separation anxiety. Some young kids, when confronted with a new social situation, throw tantrums, cling to a familiar person, avoid contact, refuse to take part in group play, and become overly vigilant. By late childhood and early adolescence, kid's fears of social evaluation of academic and social performance are forefront. Although at some point during their adolescence all youth will experience some level of anxiety about being judged in school or social situations, obviously not everyone goes on to develop pathological levels of social anxiety (i.e., social phobia).

3. Parenting/family environment factors: Research indicates that parent characteristics and family environment (through such mechanisms as modeling of avoidant responses and restricted exposure to social situations) are likely to have at least a moderate effect on the development of social phobia in kids and adolescents. It appears likely that if the parent's own anxiety is communicated to the youngster, a cycle is established in which parent and youngster reinforce each other's anxiety.

Controlling/overprotecting and less affectionate parenting styles have been found to be associated with social phobia in adult offspring, although the cause and effect relationship between these characteristics and social phobia is unclear. A major gap in this area is research that uses kids with social phobia or kids at high risk for social phobia, and this needs to be filled before the developmental impact of parental and family factors can be specified.

4. Physiological factors: Researchers have just begun to explore the physiology of social phobia, and studies have been primarily conducted with grown-ups. When facing phobic situations, socially phobic people commonly experience such symptoms as blushing, racing heart, sweating, and increased respiration, all of which are reactions associated with the autonomic nervous system (ANS). However, the few studies that have examined ANS functioning in socially phobic people have provided mixed results.

Other research has examined the function of the amygdala, a small region in the forebrain involved in the output of conditioned fear responses, e.g., freezing up behavior, blood pressure changes, stress hormone release, and the startle reflex. Hypersensitivity in the neural circuitry that centers on the amygdala may be responsible for behavioral inhibition in kids. The application of currently developing neuroimaging technologies to kids and adolescents may prove to be especially useful in elucidating the continuities and differences between social phobia in youngsters and in grown-ups.

5. Temperamental factors: A predisposition to timidity and nervousness has been believed to be a matter of inborn temperament. The majority of recent research in the role of temperamental factors in the development of social phobia focuses upon behavioral inhibition (BI). BI refers to a temperamental style that is characterized by reluctance to interact with and withdrawal from unfamiliar settings, people or objects. In infants, BI is typically manifest as irritability, in toddlers as shyness and fearfulness, and in school age kids as cautiousness, reticence and introversion. BI includes reactions that can be seen in behavior, such as interrupting of ongoing behavior, ceasing vocalization, comfort seeking from familiar persons, and retreat from and avoidance of unfamiliarity.

BI also includes reactions that are physiological, such as stable high heart rate, acceleration of heart rate to mild stress, pupillary dilation, and increased salivary cortisol. Overall, evidence to date suggests that a behaviorally inhibited temperament may predispose a youngster to the development of high social anxiety, although BI has yet to be definitively identified as a necessary precursor to the development of the clinical syndrome social phobia.

Treatment of Social Phobia—

1. Cognitive Behavioral Treatment (CBT): Treatment from the cognitive-behavioral perspective assumes that social anxiety is a normal and expected emotion. Social anxiety becomes problematic when it exceeds expected developmental levels and results in significant distress and impairment at home, school, and in social contexts. Anxiety is assumed to be comprised of physiological, cognitive, and behavioral components.

Cognitive behavioral treatment involves specific psycho-education, skills training, exposure methods, and relapse prevention plans for addressing the nature of anxiety and its components. Psycho-education provides corrective information about anxiety and feared stimuli; somatic management techniques target autonomic arousal and related physiological responses; developmentally appropriate cognitive restructuring skills are focused on identifying maladaptive thoughts and teaching realistic, coping-focused thinking; exposure techniques involve graduated, systematic, and controlled exposure to feared situations and stimuli; and, relapse prevention methods focus on consolidating and generalizing treatment gains over the long term.

2. Social Effectiveness Therapy for Children (SET-C): This treatment is appropriate for youth ages 8 through 12 and involves 24 treatment sessions held over a 12-week period. Each youngster participates in one group social skills training session and one individual exposure session each week, with structured homework assignments serving to promote generalization of the within session experience to the youngster's real life.

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==> 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

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