ABSTRACT
What a privilege it has been to work with this intriguing syndrome since its
inclusion in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, 4th revision (DSM-IV) in 1994.
Through the years, I have seen the interest in and knowledge about this disorder
expand in an exponential fashion. Most assuredly, this has contributed to some
extent to the increased incidence and prevalence of the disorder in the United
States. I received my first referral of an individual with Asperger’s disorder in
1996 from a local adult psychiatrist who “had never heard of Asperger’s syn-
drome.” Neither had I, but, as a young passionate second-year resident with
aspirations of becoming a child and adolescent psychiatrist, I agreed to see this
person. Thus began the development of a fervent passion in my clinical and
research career that opened up the opportunity for numerous subsequent referrals
for evaluation and treatment. Outcomes have been varied and are often depen-
dent upon access to resources, supportive collaboration from the school system,
parent advocacy, and commitment to treatment. There has been no greater joy
than to witness those individuals with Asperger’s disorder that have finally
obtained their goals as adults and no greater frustration than confronting
obstacles that impede the optimal potential that some could achieve. Two par-
ticular cases are outlined below and encompass issues commonly seen for
individuals seeking treatment and providers delivering care. Details of the first
case have been modified to protect confidentiality. Details of the second case are
provided with the informed consent of the individual.
