Asperger’s

In 2013, the DSM-5 replaced Autistic Disorder, Asperger’s Disorder, and other pervasive developmental disorders with the umbrella diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While we recognize that Asperger’s is no longer being diagnosed under that title, many individuals still identify with the terminology – therefore, we continue to use the term in applicable circumstances. Please note that this page is just an overview of a select few resources; more options for various categories can be found on the appropriately-labeled pages of the Resources & Information directory.

 

 

General Support

 

Provides information, support and advocacy for anyone living with autism. Information about relevant resources in Calgary, get a Disability ID card, support with navigation of those services, autism library, support groups, free Talk Support service for adults with ASD, free swimming, special events and more.

     
    Autism Awareness Centre

    Provides information and educational resources on autism from a local and international point of view. The centre offers conferences, resources (books and DVDs) to provide families and stakeholders abreast of the latest information on autism. Autism Awareness Centre offers customization of autism book collections for all types of organizations.

       
      Sinneave Foundation

      Adult Life/Work Training Programs for adults with ASD, including Asperger’s.

         

         

        Diagnosis

         
        Psychologists can diagnose autism. Typically, they will provide an assessment and a diagnosis for a fee. We have a list of psychologists on our website who provide assessments and diagnoses (fees are typically paid out-of-pocket or covered by private extended health care benefits such as your employer’s).
        Any medical doctor (MD), including family doctors, can diagnose a condition if they have the expertise. Dr. Gregory Skinner, a Family Physician in Calgary who offers this service, is not accepting patients unless it’s a direct referral from healthcare providers. https://www.autismexists.com/

        Psychiatrists need a referral from your family doctor (covered by Alberta Health Services).

         

         

        Other diagnoses and assessments

         
        CanLearn Society

        A team of psychologists, physicians, and literacy specialists to help support children, youth, and adults unlock their learning potential.

           

           

          Social and Support

           
          Autistic Support Network (ASN) at Autism Calgary

          This peer support group meets twice per month at Autism Calgary, usually the first and third Thursday of the month. To register, please contact Hannah.

             
            Go Group

            For adults with Asperger’s Syndrome or high functioning autism. Must be PDD ineligible. These adults meet weekly for recreational and social activities. Waitlist expected. To register contact Autism Aspergers Friendship Society.

               
              Autism Asperger’s Friendship Society (AAFS)

              Typically for kids on the spectrum, there are opportunities for adults as well.

                 

                 

                Employment

                 
                Auticon Canada

                An IT consulting firm that hires adults with ASD to work as consultants in various roles within the IT field.

                   
                  Calgary Alternative Employment Services

                  Works with each client to identify their ideal work setting and employment support needs. Job interviews and employment placement are facilitated in accordance with the client’s goals. We then provide ongoing follow-up support to both the client and the employer in order to strengthen their skills and working relationship as well as ensure job satisfaction and retention.

                     
                    Ready Willing and Able (RWA)

                    Free individual coaching and support for individuals on the autism spectrum who are already employed, enrolled as post-secondary students or who are entrepreneurs with profitable small businesses.

                       
                      Sinneave Foundation

                      Adult Life/Work Training Programs for adults with ASD, including Asperger’s.

                         
                        Society for Autism Support and Services (SASS) – Adolescent and Adult Services

                        Offers a range of skill enhancing employment readiness and work-experience programs for adolescents and adults on the autism spectrum. Their programs include employment readiness programs and employment supports currently offered through Ready, Willing and Able.

                           
                          Spectrum Advantage

                          Employment program for adults on the autism spectrum 18-30. Also offers employers the opportunity to get involved with the next level of diversity in the workplace.

                             

                             

                            Housing

                             
                            Aspires Housing Group

                            Parents group which meets monthly to discuss housing opportunities and options for adults living with ASD.

                               
                              Homespace

                              Providing supportive, affordable housing for Calgary’s most vulnerable people.

                                 
                                The Mustard Seed

                                Provides basic services (shelter, food and clothing) and support services (including employment, health and wellness, and spiritual care), as well as housing for those in need.

                                   
                                  Onward Homes

                                  Horizon Housing and Forward Housing have merged as a new not-for-profit force for affordable housing in Calgary. Providing affordable, integrated and supported homes to tenants with a variety of special needs including individuals living with mental health challenges, physical disabilities, families and seniors living below the poverty line, and the working poor. Need a referral by a partnering agency to access.