Asberger's Syndrome

My daughter is 20, she will be entering her third year of college.  She has never been formally diagnosed with Asberger's, but I have done extensive research and talked with several phychology professionals and some learning difference professors regarding my suspicions. (I said all this to give some validitity to my "opinion.)   I was wondering if you could help me.  The reason why I have not had her formally diagnosed is because I waited too long. (It would have been free in the public school system.  When she was in grammar school, she was in a small private school and didn't need to be formally diagnosed.(there was no need, and I didn't think I would matter)  I didnt think she would ever go off to college, but shewanted toand it all happened too fast and I just couldn't get the right psychiatrist.  No one knew anything of Asberger's and they all said she was ADHD.  She is so Asberger's if you just spent some time with her.  This one "Dr" said "I can tell just looking at her".  If you know anything of Asberger's you can't tell from looking at them, they "look" perfectly normal!  You have to spend time.  He wanted to put her on Ritalin.  Ritalin!?  I asked him how much research he did on Asbergers and it was like he research the Wikapedia definition! :(.  Please help me help her.. I need to get her diagnosed. and also she is having other issues with much anxiety.  much back pain constantly,

[Rachel Thompson, Ph.D., BCBA]

As you recognized, Asperger's Disorder is diagnosed by behavioral characteristics and certainly not by physcial appearance. In addition, I would recommend seeking a second opinion if you ever feel that a professional is rushing to medication. At this point, it would make sense to seek diagnosis if that will allow your daughter to gain access to some services that will help her to be successful. Your daugher's school should have an office that handles accomodations for students with special needs. This office might be a useful starting point.

[mommacossa]

yes, Her college had an office that offered her "temporary accomodations" but since she was not "formally" diagnosed, they could not give her the kind of accomodations she really needed.  I am having difficulty finding a qualified informed Adult psychiatrist who deals with Asbergers' syndrome.  We are in Westchester County in New York.  I am willing to travel to NYC or Connecticut.  

[Rachel Thompson, Ph.D., BCBA]

You are lucky to be close to several large metropolitan areas, which will make it a bit easier to find a qualified professional within a reasonable distance. You might consider using the psychologist locator available at the website of the American Psychological Association (http://locator.apa.org/). I don't believe that psychologists are listed by speciality, but you could certainly do a separate search on local professionals. Also, if you haven't already, you might consider speaking with someone in the college office to see if there is a professional who they recommend.