Being diagnosed with autism as an adult can be disorienting and isolating; however, if you can understand the condition and how it affects perceptions, relationships, and your relationship with the world in general, a happy and successful life is attainable. Through an introduction to the autism spectrum, and how the Level 1 diagnosis is characterised, the author draws on personal experiences to provide positive advice on dealing with life, health, and relationships following an adult diagnosis. The effect of autism on social skills is described with tips for dealing with family and personal relationships, parenting, living arrangements, and employment. Important topics include disclosure, available resources, and options for different therapeutic routes. On reading this book, you will learn a lot more about the autism spectrum at Level 1, be able to separate the facts from the myths, and gain an appreciation of the strengths of autism, and how autism can affect many aspects of everyday life. Drawing from the author's lived experience, this book is an essential guide for all newly diagnosed adults on the autism spectrum, their families and friends, and all professionals new to working with adults with ASDs.
This anthology includes essays from a diverse group of adult-diagnosed autistic people. Our essays reflect the value of knowing why—why we are different from so many other people, why it can be so hard to do things others can take for granted, and why there is often such a mismatch between others' treatment of us and our own needs, skills, and experiences. Essay topics include recovering from burnout, exploring our passions and interests, and coping with sensory overload, especially in social situations.
This handbook details best practices and discusses ongoing challenges in assessment and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Chapters address assessment and diagnostic protocols, developmental considerations in ASD assessment, and issues concerning comorbid psychological and medical conditions. Various aspects of the disorder are emphasized throughout the handbook - from assessment in adolescent and adult populations to the latest findings in neuropsychology. The book concludes with future directions for research and clinical applications, focusing on universal screening, improved assessment methods, and earlier and more accurate diagnosis. Topics featured in this handbook include: Types of ASD assessment. Report writing for ASD evaluations. Stress and satisfaction in the diagnostic process. Clinical and neuropsychological perspectives from comorbid diagnosis of ASD and ADHD. Executive functions in ASD. The Handbook of Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder is an essential reference for researchers, clinicians, professionals, and graduate students in clinical child and school psychology, child and adolescent psychiatry, and social work as well as rehabilitation medicine/therapy, behavioral therapy, pediatrics, and educational psychology.
This authoritative resource, now thoroughly revised for DSM-5, has set the standard for the comprehensive assessment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Leading experts demonstrate how to craft a scientifically grounded profile of each child’s strengths and difficulties, make a formal diagnosis, and use assessment data to guide individualized intervention in clinical and school settings. Chapters review state-of-the-art instruments and approaches for evaluating specific areas of impairment in ASD and co-occurring emotional and behavioral disorders. Considerations in working with children of different ages are highlighted. With a primary focus on children, several chapters also address assessment of adolescents and adults. New to This Edition *Chapter on key implications of DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, plus related updates throughout the volume. *Chapter on advances in early identification (ages 0–3). *Chapter with in-depth case examples illustrating the evaluation decision-making process and common diagnostic challenges. *Chapters on pseudoscience (including strategies for advising parents) and future directions in the field. *Current assessment data, numerous new and revised measures, and cutting-edge screening approaches.
Adult Autism Diagnosis Workbook: The Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Embracing Your Adulthood Diagnosis: Includes Personal Narratives Understanding adult autism can be a complex journey, filled with numerous questions and a search for clarity. This is where "Adult Autism Diagnosis Workbook: The Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Embracing Your Adulthood Diagnosis" steps in, serving as a meticulously crafted tool to empower, educate, and illuminate your path towards understanding and acceptance. Written with immense care and sensitivity, this guidebook aims to simplify the process of an adult autism diagnosis by offering an in-depth exploration of the disorder, its many manifestations, and the unique challenges and strengths that accompany it in adulthood. Autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition, and this workbook understands that by providing a tailored approach to handling your individual journey, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and personal growth. From the onset, the book demystifies the autism spectrum disorder by breaking down its definition, history, and the latest scientific findings. It delves into the complexities of the diagnostic process, explaining it step-by-step, thus making it less intimidating. Recognizing the fear, confusion, and relief that often accompanies an adult diagnosis, the book places significant emphasis on fostering self-compassion, acceptance, and patience. The workbook incorporates interactive elements, which include reflective exercises and cognitive strategies that not only facilitate a deeper understanding of oneself but also offer practical advice on managing day-to-day activities. By encouraging introspection, these exercises help in identifying personal patterns, strengths, challenges, and interests, assisting individuals in embracing their neurodiversity. Additionally, the book outlines effective communication strategies and coping mechanisms for dealing with sensory sensitivities and social difficulties - common hurdles that individuals with autism face. It provides tools to overcome such challenges, ultimately fostering self-reliance and confidence. Moreover, the workbook is enriched with real-life narratives and testimonials from adults who received their autism diagnosis later in life. These personal stories instill a sense of solidarity and inspire hope, showing that while the journey may be challenging, it is equally rewarding and empowering. Recognizing the prevalence of comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression among adults with autism, the guide provides valuable insights into managing these conditions. It emphasizes the importance of mental health and self-care, offering advice on seeking professional help and utilizing therapeutic interventions. The book also discusses the significance of building a supportive community and creating an inclusive environment. It offers resources to connect with others on the autism spectrum, providing guidance on advocating for oneself and one's needs in various scenarios - be it personal, social, or professional. At its core, the "Adult Autism Diagnosis Workbook: The Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Embracing Your Adulthood Diagnosis" is about embarking on a journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and growth. It serves as a constant companion, holding your hand as you navigate the world of adult autism. Whether you are newly diagnosed, suspect you may be on the spectrum, or are seeking to understand a loved one better, this guide serves as a compassionate, informed, and comprehensive resource. It underscores that an autism diagnosis in adulthood is not a roadblock, but rather a gateway to understanding oneself better and leading a fulfilling life. With its emphasis on embracing neurodiversity and self-acceptance, this workbook is an empowering asset. It invites you to look beyond the challenges and focus on the potential that lies within you. So, embrace your diagnosis, embark on this enlightening journey, and discover the unique and wonderful individual that you are.
I am Special is a programme for helping children, teens and adults on the autism spectrum to understand themselves and their diagnosis, gain confidence and thrive. Specially-designed worksheets, included as online material, are completed to build up a unique and personal book about the individual and promote self-understanding.
In this book a group of international experts guide the reader through the clinical features of adults with autism spectrum disorders, describe the care needs of patients and their families, explain the evolution of the disorders into old age, and highlight what can be done to help. Detailed attention is paid to the medical and psychiatric problems of adults with these disorders and the approach to their education and professional integration. In addition, expert neuroscientists summarize current views on the neurobiology of autism. Autism spectrum disorders are devastating neurodevelopmental disorders. Although diagnosis and therapeutic interventions usually take place in infancy, they are chronic lifelong conditions. Surprisingly, the literature on autism spectrum disorders in adults is scarce. Moreover, most mental health professionals working with adults have little training in autism, and adult mental health services around the world are rarely prepared to address the needs of these patients, which tend to increase with age. This book therefore fills a crucial gap in the literature and will prove useful for all who care for and deal with adults in the Autistic Spectrum.
A diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be confusing and overwhelming for all involved, and it can be difficult for parents to know how best to approach the subject with their child. This easy-to-use interactive workbook gives parents the help they need to explain ASDs to their child and provide practical and emotional support following diagnosis. Parents are invited to work through each chapter with their child as they grow older and go through adolescence, encouraging them to talk through how the ASD affects each area of their life, from making friends to problem-solving to planning a career. The information and advice is presented in a clear and positive way to help both parent and child understand more about what the diagnosis means for them. As the workbook is completed an invaluable record of development will be created for parent and child to look back on together. This hands-on workbook is an essential resource for parents and carers looking for guidance on explaining ASDs from diagnosis onwards to children aged 10 and up.
What if instead of being weird, shy, geeky or introverted, your brain is wired differently? For adults with undiagnosed autism spectrum disorder (ASD), there is often an "aha!" moment--when you realize that ASD just might be the explanation for why you've always felt so different. "I Think I Might Be Autistic: A Guide to Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis and Self-Discovery for Adults" begins from that "aha!' moment, addressing the many questions that follow. What do the symptoms of ASD look like in adults? Is getting a diagnosis worth it? What does an assessment consist of and how can you prepare for it? Cynthia Kim shares the information, insights, tips, suggestions and resources she gathered as part of her own journey from "aha!" to finally being diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome in her forties. This concise guide also addresses important aspects of living with ASD as a late-diagnosed adult, including coping with the emotional impact of discovering that you're autistic and deciding who to share your diagnosis with and how.
This book is a resource for parents to help and guide their Special Needs Teen to transition and develop skills.Life becomes increasingly challenging for parents once their wards enter their teenage years. It is never easy to manage a teen, not to mention handling one with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other forms of special needs.Life and Social Skills are extremely important for Tweens and Teenagers with Special Needs. Developing these skills can improve the self-esteem of the child and their sense of belonging. In addition, friendships and social relationships give the child the know-how for managing emotions, reacting to the feelings of others, as well as improving their ability in negotiation, cooperation, and solving problems.It doesn't matter if the child prefers to be on their own or has one or many friends; a good number of life skills will help them know how to act in altered social circumstances, from chatting with a shopping mall aide to being a part of family assemblies or enjoying themselves at teenage parties.This workbook will help parents to help and guide their teenage children to developSocial SkillsFriendship SkillsSelf AdvocacyExecutive Functional SkillsPractical Living SkillsDeveloping a Career PathJob SkillsPeople SkillsAnd much moreGrab this book today to help your teen live a better quality of life
