This is a wonderful way to meet with local people affected by Asperger's Disorder (Asperger Syndrome) for support and discussion.
Location: 5900 Coyle Avenue, Suite D, Carmichael CA 95608.
(on the corner of Manzanita and Coyle - we are on the 2nd floor).
Cost: $5.00 per person
Read on for more information from our organizer....
Hello and welcome to the Sacramento Asperger's Syndrome Meetup Groups. I am a psychologist who has worked with many children, teens, and adults with Asperger's or other spectrum disorders. I started this group in 2006 because I wanted a forum where those on the spectrum and their friends and family could meet each other and share information, resources, and support.
The group has exceeded my expectations and continues to grow. We generally have an average of 6-10 people at each group, usually a combination of newcomers and returning folks. The group is usually a mix of those on the spectrum (older teens and adults) as well as friends and family.
We do not select topics for discussion in advance. We first go around the room and briefly introduce ourselves (and it is fine to pass and just listen). Then we see what needs people have and go from there. Generally, I find that even shy, nervous, or hesitant members contribute to the discussion. Our group members are extremely supportive, kind folks, and most people (even those who really had mixed feelings about attending) end up more comfortable than they anticipated.
If you are on the spectrum (or think you might be) and have never met another person on the spectrum, I hope you will consider coming to at least one of our meetings. Isolation, while often familiar and comfortable, can also get lonely and can insidiously contribute to anxiety and depression.
Sometimes people email me and ask if it is OK to attend even if they're not "sure" they have Asperger's. My answer is yes, definitely. The label of Asperger's in an approximation and a moving target. There is no "right" way to be an "Aspie"! If you have experienced social challenges and tend to be obsessive or restrictive in your interests or behaviors, you will probably have much in common with others who attend our groups.
Growing up as an "Aspie" is a daunting, often traumatic journey. You may have been the target of teasing, bullying, or not-so-benign neglect by your peers (or even your family). Please give yourself the opportunity to begin healing from that by meeting others who have "been there, done that".
If you are a friend or family member of someone on the spectrum, you too may feel overwhelmed and alone. It can be inspiring and very educational to hear our members talk about their experiences. Sometimes what you learn from our teens and adults will help you help your friend or child have an easier time.
The group is designed to be "no pressure" - no pressure to talk, to share personal information, or to commit to regular attendance. If you show up once and only once, that is fine. If you want to come every month, that's fine too. There is no pressure to "mingle", but if you are looking to build a friendship and not sure how to do that, this can be a place to explore that idea. Members have gotten together socially outside the group a few times and I encourage anyone interested in that to let others know.
In addition to our actual meetings, this website also has a message board where you can pose questions or ideas. I am happy to see you contribute your thoughts and resources, so please don't be shy about using this part of meetup. (As with most websites, please remember that this is a public forum and your information is not confidential. This is not a "private" group - others can access these pages as well. You may want to sign up with just your first name for confidentiality.)
I hope to see you at one of our meetings! If you have additional questions about the group, don't hesitate to email me.
Debra Moore, Ph.D.
Hello everyone, Our meetings are held at the offices of Fall Creek Counseling Associates, located at 5900 Coyle Avenue (Suite D, upstairs), on the corner of Coyle and... Learn more
