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Adult Asperger Syndrome and the Utility of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

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Abstract

Asperger syndrome (AS) is a developmental disorder that was first recognized in the United States in 1994 with the publication of DSM-IV (American Psychiatric Association, Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, 1994). As a relatively new concept to the United States, both within the professional community and public awareness, the diagnosis has most often applied to children, but there is a large cohort of affected adults who have never been diagnosed or properly treated. Many of these individuals are now seeking treatment for the symptoms of AS and/or comorbid mental health problems (e.g., mood and anxiety disorders). Clinicians are in need of practical and evidence-based interventions to address the problems presented by this growing patient population, but there are few such resources available. This article will present a framework for conceptualizing the mental health needs of adults with AS, using the evidence-based approaches found in the cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) literature to inform treatment.

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    Valerie L. Gaus

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  1. Valerie L. Gaus
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Correspondence to Valerie L. Gaus.

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Gaus, V.L. Adult Asperger Syndrome and the Utility of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. J Contemp Psychother 41, 47–56 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10879-010-9159-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10879-010-9159-8

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