What’s Asperger Syndrome?
Asperger Syndrome (AS) was “officially” recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders for the first time in the fourth edition published in 1994.
Asperger syndrome is the term applied to the mildest and highest functioning end of what is known as the spectrum of pervasive developmental disorders (or the autism spectrum). Asperger syndrome represents that portion of the continuum which is characterized by higher cognitive abilities, at least normal IQ by definition and sometimes ranging up into the very superior range.
The most obvious hallmark of Asperger Syndrome and the characteristic that makes them so unique and fascinating, is their peculiar, idiosyncratic areas of “special interest”. In AS the interests appear most often to be specific intellectual areas. Often, they will show an obsessive interest in an area such as math, aspects of science, reading or some aspect of history or geography, wanting to learn everything possible about that subject and tending to dwell on it in conversations.
The other major characteristic of AS is the socialization deficit. They are often deeply frustrated and disappointed by their social difficulties. Their problem is not a lack of interaction so much as lack of effectiveness in interactions. They seem to have difficulty knowing how to “make connections” socially. They display an inability to effectively “read” others’ needs and perspectives and respond appropriately.
Adults with AS are often highly valued by their employers who appreciate them for their dedication, commitment, honesty and innate drive to do things well.
What is coaching?
Coaching is an interactive, one-on-one partnership that helps you clarify your goals and develop an action plan to achieve them. Through a series of questions a coach will help you explore and find solutions to issues as quickly as possible; guide you in creating the future rather than focus on past or even present dilemmas.
What can coaching do for me?
It can help uncover strengths, limiting beliefs, learn new skills and develop strategies to work around limitations, and set realistic goals. A coach does not diagnose any medical condition, provide psychotherapy, or advise on medical treatments.
How long does coaching take?
That’s up to you. Together, we’ll set goals and determine a plan, which we can review periodically. Usually, a term of 3 months (with sessions taking place weekly or every-other-week) is the suggested minimum. Most people engage a coach for 6 to 8 months, after which they taper their sessions or transition to other forms of support.
Where does coaching take place?
In-person coaching is available for individuals in East Hanover and Fairfield, New Jersey, over telephone, or via Skype (anywhere). Employer-sponsored coaching can take place at your place of business.
Is coaching covered by insurance?
No, because coaching is not a medical service. However, some employers engage coaches to work with their employees on things like communication, management and leadership skills. Your human resources department can provide information on whether company-sponsored coaching is available.
How do I find out if coaching is right for me?
Contact me to arrange a FREE, no-obligation session via telephone. We’ll talk about your goals, how coaching can help, and you can sample some actual coaching so that you can decide whether it’s right for you.