Mrs. Tracy Leah Hadel, Counselor/Therapist, LSCSW

Children may be diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome by a pediatric neurologist, child psychologist, or pediatric neuropsychologist. Once a child is diagnosed with Asperger's, he or she may receive therapy or other treatments. While there are no drugs specifically intended for Asperger's, some doctors may prescribe antidepressant SSRIs (selective serotonin inhibitors) or stimulant medication to improve the mental health of some Asperger's patients.

Therapy can also help people with Asperger's, notably by improving their communication and guiding them to overcome personal issues and social difficulties. In particular, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) can help patients identify patterns of repetitive behaviors and narrow interests that may hinder them. Conversely, therapists may also teach people how to take advantage of certain Asperger's symptoms, such as an intense focus on a single interest, and use it to positively affect themselves and others. Social skills training (SST) is another behavioral therapy that helps people with Asperger's. SST encourages people with Asperger's to refine their social and conversational skills in a safe environment. By learning social cues and practicing behaviors in real time, people can better adapt to social situations. For example, someone who struggles in workplace environments may memorize a number of talking points for use during normal conversation. Other treatments may include psychoactive prescription medications for stress and anxiety associated with Asperger's, as well as physical and occupational therapy for those struggling with coordination.

Although no cure for Asperger's syndrome currently exists, therapy can significantly enhance the quality of life for many "Aspies," or people with Asperger's syndrome. With ongoing therapy and support, people with Asperger's can learn to lessen their symptoms and while also strengthening their own interests and skills.

We don't yet know what causes depression, but it's thought that it is a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and social influences. Because of this, the most effective treatments for depression combine medication with psychotherapy. Therapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy, can be extremely helpful in resolving the negative thoughts and feelings that come with depression. It gives patients new tools that they can use themselves to cope when their depression is making them feel down.

Some of the common medications used to treat depression include antidepressants such as SSRI's (Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft) or atypical antidepressants (Cymbalta, Wellbutrin). It's important to remember that these medications have different effects on everybody, and no one medication works right for everyone. Patients may have to try a couple before finding the one that works just right for them. If the first medication they try doesn't work, they should talk to their doctor about trying something else. In extreme cases where medication is not enough, electro-convulsive therapy and hospitalization may be the answer to keeping a severely depressed person safe.

Depression is a difficult illness to deal with, but it is more common than believed and there are many people who can help. With the right treatment, individuals with depression can get back to fully enjoying life again.

Dialectical behavior therapy was developed when therapists attempting to use CBT techniques on the most seriously ill patients ran into a problem. When they suggested that a patient change their thoughts, these very vulnerable patients would become overwhelmed and turn aggressive or suicidal. DBT was developed to support these patients with acceptance and validation while still guiding them towards changing problematic thoughts. Although also used for suicidal and self-harming patients today, these days, DBT is mainly used to treat borderline personality disorder. It is one of the few effective interventions for this serious illness.

DBT has been shown to be very effective at reducing self-destructive behavior. It can also be used to teach new coping skills and increase a patient's self-esteem and motivation to become healthier.