Mental Health and Asperger's Syndrome: What Clinicians Need to Know

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explain what clinicians need to know and understand when treating individuals with Asperger's syndrome (AS). This paper addresses the presentation of AS and what clinicians need to focus on during intake, while establishing a therapeutic relationship, and the range and severity of co-morbid issues within this population. The paper also discusses diagnosis of AS and the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of symptoms of AS and explains the use of medication and psychosocial support.

KEYWORDS:

• Aspergers
• cognitive-behavioral therapy
• autism
• therapeutic alliance

Notes

This manuscript is original, has not been previously published, and is not being considered for publication elsewhere.