Dr. Astrid Heathcote, Licensed Clinical Psychologist

This page is dedicated to provide adults and parents with children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) with well-researched and practical information and updates on facilitating their child's overall growth and experience.

What is Autism?

Autism is a very complex neurobiological disorder that affects about 1 in 150 individuals of all racial, ethnic, and social groups; it is four times more likely to affect boys than girls. Autism can impair a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. Autism spectrum disorders can be diagnosed  by age 3 or even earlier. Many children and adults with an autism spectrum disorder live very productive and happy lives, however early diagnosis is crucial for early intervention to faciliate language and social skills development. If a parent suspects that something is "not right" with their young child's development, it is wise to consult with a specialist such as a clinical psychologist, as soon as possible. For a consultation and additional information on autism spectrum disorders feel free to call Dr. Heathcote at 480-275-2249.

Congratulations you have Aspergers! If you or your child have been diagnosed with Aspergers, don't get caught up in the label or terminology. Living with Aspergers is not much different from anyone else's but requires a strong support system (parents, teachers, and psychologist) of individuals who are willing to go "the extra mile" for the individual diagnosed with Aspergers. Most problems arise within misunderstandings and -translations of situation-specific challenges for all people involved. People with Aspergers have an endless repertoire of learning and sometimes benefit from having a "translater" and person to dissect social situations, someone who truely seems to understand their social and academic dillemas; if it weren't for many of those complex social situations that are difficult to read and understand, people with Aspergers really would not have any problems. It is the social context and language that makes it hard to "survive" on a day to day basis. In fact, individuals with Aspergers have numeruos strenghts that make it appear a fallacy to call it a "disorder". As one teenager with Aspergers explained to me " I think I am genetically evolved". Since societal demands are not about to change any time soon, we must adjust the environment as best as we can and give individuals with Aspergers the best tools to succeed from a young age on.

 The video below demonstrates the many great accomplishments of those with autism.  Albert Einstein, for example, displayed behavior and symptoms that coincide with a diagnosis of Asperger Disorder or higher functioning autism.