Asperger's

Our Community Adult Asperger Service (CAAS) offers a wide range of services to people with a diagnosis of an autism spectrum condition (Asperger's Syndrome or High Functioning Autism).

We work with people over the age of 18 who don’t have a learning disability, providing a range of person-centred care and support. This can include:

• diagnostic assessment, including second opinions
• group work including post diagnostic, coping skills and sensory groups
• specialist psychological or occupational therapy assessments and interventions
• advice and signposting to other relevant agencies, services and groups
• advice on arranging an assessment of your social care needs, where appropriate
• support to professionals in other teams and agencies to improve their understanding of the condition.

Our experienced team includes clinical psychologists, a consultant psychiatrist, occupational therapists, a specialist nurse therapist, assistant psychologists and team assistants.

If you, or a loved one, need to access this service, please contact your GP. If you, or your loved one, are already under the care of a Community Mental Health Team (CMHT), a diagnosis will be made by a doctor in that team. However, a second opinion may be sought through the CAAS by the relevant CMHT.

Carers

Advice and support for relatives/carers is provided by Dorset Adult Asperger Support (DAAS).

You may also find the following websites useful:

• National Autistic Society
• The Wessex Autistic Society
• NHS Choices (Living with Autism)

Where to access the service: