High Functioning Autism: There Is Hope!
It often begins when parents notice something is different with their child. The child often fixates on specific topics, struggles with focus, and has difficulty understanding emotions and making friends. These challenges are often flagged in school, leading to an ADHD diagnosis, yet symptoms may worsen over time, leaving parents uncertain. In many cases, the issue is not ADHD but High-Functioning Autism (Asperger’s), a condition frequently misdiagnosed in childhood. But what exactly is High-Functioning Autism, and how is it treated?
What is High Functioning Autism?
High Functioning Autism (HFA) refers to individuals on the autism spectrum with average or above-average intelligence who may struggle with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, and rigid thinking. Children with HFA often have intense interests and strong memories but may find it challenging to read social cues or adapt to change. They might also experience heightened sensitivity to sounds, textures, or environments. With early intervention, therapy, and structured routines, children with HFA can develop social skills, emotional regulation, and confidence. Therapy provides tailored strategies to help them thrive while equipping parents with tools to create a supportive environment. I have spent the past 16 years working with children, adolescents, and adults with HFA.
Common Symptoms of High Functioning Autism
High Functioning Autism is a spectrum, meaning each person has their own combination of symptoms, each at different intensities. While each person is unique, there are similarities. Below is a list of symptoms common to most with HFA:
Difficulty Understanding Social Cues
Difficulty Making Friends
Intense Focus on Special Interests
Difficulty Managing Emotions
Overstimulation
Problems with Executive Functioning
Problems with Back-and-Forth Conversations
Excessive Literal Thinking
Excessive Rigidity
Social Anxiety
Obsessions Over Interests
Can High Functioning Autism Be Cured?
This is a trick question, as Autism is part of a person’s personality. There are positives and negatives to being on the Spectrum. Many on the Spectrum can see solutions to problems others miss and can be outstanding researchers. Why would we want to “cure” this? The goal is to use a person’s strengths while finding solutions for their weaknesses. This is where therapy can come in. Therapy can help teach coping skills and strategies to combat the negatives of Autism, such as rigidity and obsessions.
How I Treat High Functioning Autism
As a therapist, I first work to form a therapeutic alliance with the Client and work to improve communication skills. I work on enhancing the Client’s strengths while combating their weaknesses, such as social skills or anger management. I work to set goals for therapy, then work each session on these goals. I also work on other problems, such as Anxiety, Depression, or an Addiction to Electronics. I have over 16 years of experience treating High Functioning Autism and have assisted hospitals, treatment centers, and even the FBI. Below is a small list of what I work with during therapy:
Autism Assessment
Combating Obsessions
Managing Rigidity
Build Healthy Routines
Anger Management
Improve Sleep
Career Concerns + Indepedence
Teach Healthy Coping Skills
Manage Stress & Anxiety
Social Skills Training
Improve Communication Skills
Family Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
...And More!
I Think My Child Has High Functioning Autism, What Do I Do?
If you are in Texas, I recommend contacting me and scheduling an appointment. I provide Teletherapy to anyone in Texas. I will talk to you and your child and determine if High-Functioning Autism is a possible diagnosis. Regardless of the diagnosis, I can help you and your child by teaching them socialization, coping skills, and how to interact better with each other. In addition, I will work with your child to utilize the strengths Autism provides.
If you live outside of Texas, I have written a book for people on the Autism Spectrum, So You Have Autism, Now What? 30 Days of Learning, Change, and Empowerment. It is available through Amazon via E-Book and Paperback.
Getting Started Is Easy
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Schedule Session
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Contact Information
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does Therapy Work?
A therapy session lasts 45 minutes, where you work on goals set during previous sessions. During this time, I may teach specific skills or discuss problems that have occurred recently. While working with children, I will talk to the parent alone at the beginning or end of the session and speak to the child individually. Therapy sessions are highly flexible and can be what you determine is needed.
How Does Therapy Last?
That depends on you, as therapy is individualized. It depends on the problems you are experiencing and how long you wish to see the therapist. However, therapy often lasts months to treat Autism, as this is a problematic condition. It is common for me to see Clients for six months or longer. However, depending on your need, I provide sessions weekly, twice a month, or monthly.
How Much Does Therapy Cost?
Therapy is an investment and does not come cheap. Due to my over 16 years of experience, I charge $200.00 a session. I have treated hundreds of people with High Functioning Autism and understand the thought process behind it. I provide a Sliding Scale upon request based on household income. While the cost is high, therapy can be life-changing for your family.
Do You Provide In-Person Sessions?
No, I provide teletherapy sessions only for residents of Texas.
Is Teletherapy Secure?
Yes. The program I use for Teletherapy encrypts the connection between me and the Client, ensuring no one can spy on the session. It is HIPAA Compliant and requires no software download for the Client. It also works on Tablets, Smartphones, and Computers. Unlike most therapists who use Skype, I take your privacy and confidentiality seriously.
What Is Your Therapeutic Style? You Don't Just Sit and Take Notes All Session, Do You?
No! Many therapists have the bad habit of taking notes all session and asking questions, such as, “How does that make you feel?”. In my sessions, I focus on creating a calm environment where we work to solve problems. I am goal-oriented and work to teach skills. I am hands-on, direct, but compassionate.
How Do I Know If You Are A Good Fit?
I suggest you look through this website to learn more about my work. Also, I recommend you Contact Me, as I provide a 15-minute free consultation where you can ask questions and give me an idea of your problems.
Resources
End The Excuses! It Is Time To Commit!
Are you tired of your situation and know it is time to change? You have read about my Therapy Program, so now it is time to schedule your Free 15-Minute Consultation. Click the button below to complete the form.
