Reviewed by the Ridge RTC Clinical Team

We’ve come a long way with teen Asperger’s treatment. And for parents, that means more options, more tools, and more ways to ensure a child has what they need as they navigate the world with this form of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). 

Below, we’re covering what parents should know about teenagers with Asperger’s-like symptoms, including why treatment is essential and an overview of the modern approach to care. 

(Please note that the term “Asperger Syndrome” is no longer a medical diagnosis. Instead, the symptoms associated with it now fall under the broader umbrella of ASD, though many parents still use the term to describe high-functioning autism traits in teens.)

Table of Contents:

• Symptoms of Asperger Syndrome in Teens
• Why Treatment is Essential for a Teen with Asperger’s
• Treatment Approaches
• Our Approach
• Learn More

Symptoms of Asperger’s in Teens

As it is understood today, this form of ASD is associated with a wide range of symptoms related to difficulties with emotional regulation, socialization, and sensory processing. 

Teenagers often present with average or above-average intelligence. Symptoms are defined by a few common traits that include:

• Rigid routines
• Difficulties reading social cues
• Hyperfixation on certain topics or hobbies
• Challenges with conversational communication
• Restricted or repetitive behaviors
• Sensitivity to sensory inputs
• Poor organizational skills

Sound familiar? As you can see, the symptoms closely mirror the symptoms of high-functioning ASD at large, an overlap that at least partly explains why these diagnoses were eventually combined. 

Why Treatment is Essential for a Teen with Asperger’s

Teenagers with Asperger’s-like symptoms may experience isolation, anxiety, or depression. Many also struggle with peer relationships and school pressures, and are at an increased risk of low self-esteem or burnout. 

Left undiagnosed and/or untreated, all this can lead to widespread health and behavioral effects that include higher rates of substance use disorder, inequalities in education and income, and a higher chance of engaging in illegal behaviors.

Remember: ASD is a lifelong condition. There is no cure, and no outgrowing it with age. For parents, it’s a must to lend proper support and seek out professional help as early as you can. Doing so can make all the difference in a teen’s well-being and future, especially when it comes to mitigating the many challenges noted above. 

Treatment Approaches

There is no magic pill for treating ASD, but there are approaches that are proven to help manage the symptoms, such as. 

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Used to minimize repetitive behaviors, improve social skills, and help teens better pick up on social cues. 
• Social Skills Training: Used to improve communication and socialization skills, and includes targeted role-playing to help teens build peer connections and practice new skills in a safe environment. 
• Structured Environments: A well-defined physical space that provides autistic teens with clear boundaries, predictable routines, and a lack of extreme sensory input. 

Our Approach

Residential care isn’t always necessary for treating autistic teens. However, in some cases, it does provide a safe and supportive space where teens can focus on confidence-building, independence, and social-emotional growth. 

Here at the Ridge RTC, we take an individualized approach to residential care for teens on the autism spectrum, ensuring that each of our clients receives a treatment plan best suited to their unique strengths and challenges. For our clients, this often means providing a blend of clinical therapy, experiential learning, and family involvement. Group therapy is another key part of the puzzle, providing teenagers with a chance to practice their new skills in real-time among trusted peers. 

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating symptoms of ASD in teens. Our therapeutic model accounts for this by assuring our clients get a tailored plan and a clear path forward for themselves and their loved ones. While the plan is always different, the goal is usually the same: help autistic teens manage symptoms more productively so they can go on to a bright, happy, and healthy future. 

Want to Learn More?

Early, specialized treatment can help teens navigate adolescence with strength, support, and confidence. 

We encourage parents to reach out and learn more about what’s available for treating ASD in their child. Explore our website or get in touch today for additional information on the Ridge RTC and our residential treatment programs.

The Ridge RTC clinical (and medical) team comprises experienced medical professionals, therapists, clinical specialists, and board-certified psychiatrists. Together, they bring a broad range of expertise to support each teen’s unique needs throughout their treatment at our facilities.