Asperger's Syndrome and High Fuctioning Autism: A Resource guide for Individuals and their Families in Marin County, California
Graduation Date
2011
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy
Department
Occupational Therapy
Department or Program Chair
Ruth Ramsey, EdD, OTR/L
Thesis Advisor
Stacy Frauwirth, MS, OTR/L
Abstract
The percent of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) receiving services in California has risen from 2.17% out of the total individuals served in 2000 to 6.87% in 2007-2008 (Easter Seals, 2008). The number of individuals diagnosed with ASD in California, including Asperger’s syndrome (AS) and high functioning autism (HFA), is expected to reach 70,000 by June 2012 (California Department of Developmental Services, 2007). Individuals diagnosed with AS/HFA are now reaching adulthood and in need of a transitional support system (Taylor & Seltzer, 2010). The purpose of this project was to provide a web-based resource guide of available occupational services and therapeutic supports for consumers, parents, and service providers in Marin County, California. A supplemental goal was to identify gaps in existing services. The resulting resource guide included 15 categories and 108 services to support individuals diagnosed with AS/HFA to participate in the primary areas of occupation, including social, leisure, educational, daily living, education, work, play, rest and sleep activities. A number of gaps in both school-based and general service and supports were also identified.