Store

Autism spectrum disorders were called Asperger’s Syndrome or highly functioning autism (HFA) and were named after Hans Asperger, an Austrian Psychiatrist, who first described children with the characteristic in 1944. The name recently has been replaced by the term “autism spectrum disorder” (ASD). What is autism spectrum disorder? Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is typically characterized by the following symptoms: • Difficulties with social communication (difficulties understanding nonverbal expression and lack of social intuition) • Autistic thinking (reduced theory of mind, deficits in executive functioning) • Autistic perception highly precise, detail oriented, context-free and often overwhelming with problems of sensory integration) • Tendency for routines and stereotypical, repetitive behavior • Different perception and processing of emotions (difficulties to identify, name and regulate one’s own emotions) The term ‘Autism spectrum’ captures the fact that each affected person shows a unique set of symptoms. This accounts for the big differences between affected people despite the same diagnosis.  Assessment / Diagnostics To date, there are no clear biological markers or medicinal tests to diagnose ASD, like most other mental illnesses. Therefore, the diagnosis is based on a clinical assessment. Questionnaires can provide valuable information and can be used as screening tools. In addition to a detailed anamnestic exploration, the diagnosis also includes careful differential diagnosis. ASD can show multiple overlaps with other mental illnesses, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, highly giftedness, AD(H)D, schizoid, dissocial or narcissistic personality disorder. It is also important to distinguish automated coping strategies from true symptoms. For example, an affected individual may very well have learned to make eye contact and smile. This does not yet mean that this behavior is based on an intuitive need. I also offer assessments. Visit the assessments  page for further informaion. What are the advantages of getting diagnosed? In my opinion, a diagnosis is only as good as many phenomena in the person's life it can explain. Knowing about the diagnosis can therefore provide meaning and thus orientation. Knowing where you stand and that you are not alone with your perception of the world may have a reassuring and normalizing effect. You might not feel as much as an outside but rather belong to a group, namely that of neurodivers and autisic people. Having a clear diagnosis also opens up opportunities to obtain specialist information or seek support. Furthermore, the diagnosis can be an official legitimation to be and feel different, not to be misused as an excuse for any abnormal behavior, but as a first step on the way to self- acceptance and self-esteem. Therapy ASD has a genetic component and therefore cannot be eliminated or “cured" by therapy or medication. Therapy is based on the needs of the affected person and can include such topics as: • Self exploration: Learn the differences between ASD and neurotypical • Train your self awareness (emotions, body sensations, all senses, thoughts, impulses) • Train and discuss social interactions • Train emotion regulation and dealing with stress • Improve self-worth and self-acceptance • Learn how to deal with procrastination and attention problems • Learn how to deal with obsessive thoughts or behavioral patterns and rigid routines • Getting your questions about all kinds of topics answered (household, sports, relationships, sex, wor, hobbies, etc.). Any comorbid disorders can also be treated, e.g. depression / chronic exhaustion, anxiety, ADHD (even if there is no full diagnsis). Medication may be helpful for these diseases and could be administred by a Psychiatrist if needed. Why I like to work with patients with autism I have experienced autistic people to be reliable, unobtrusive, interested, humble, grateful, honest and direct (and much more). I appreciate all these features, maybe because I feel they describe me as well. However, I am not affected by autism. Links • Online alexithymia test • Short online self-test • tonyattwood.com.au  • autismspeaks.org/what-asperger-syndrome • autism.org.uk/about/what-is/asperger.aspx • webmd.com/brain/autism/mental-health- aspergers-syndrome#1 • autism-society.org/what-is/aspergers- syndrome/ • autastic.com • Good blog with lots of topics • autismus.ch/adressen.html  Book recommendations • Tony Attwood: "The Complete Guide to Asperger Syndrome” Order book  or any other book by Tony Attwood about the topic • Rudy Simone: “Asperger’s on the job: Must- Have Advice for People with Asperger's or High Functioning Autism, and Their Employers, Educators, and Advocates” Order book • Susan Moreno: “The Partner's Guide to Asperger Syndrome” Order book • Philip Wylie: “Very late diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome” Order book • Good list with books about Asperger’s