Is this an official diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome?

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if a psychiatrist wrote down my diagnosis as being "Asperger's Syndrome", without any type of testing, and with only one or 2 sessions, does that count as an official diagnosis. I went to see him for 2 or 3 appointments, and he observed me in a group therapy setting a few times, and talked to my parents, and then I was diagnosed with aspergers. Does that count? He typed it on a piece of paper as my diagnosis.

I was under the impression that it takes a long time of many tests,etc. But this was like almost instant diagnosis.

I'm not so sure myself. I think my psychiatrist did that to me, but with ADHD instead of Asperger's Syndrome.

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My nephew Coke needs to eat! Obviously we're related.

Technically, it is an official diagnosis, but a poorly done one. For a properly done official evaluation, you need to be seen and properly tested by a by a psych doc with experience in treating people with Autism/Asperger's spectrum disorders. Obviously, the doc you went to doesn't have this experience. This doc just has limited knowledge of the subject, and wasn't about to put forth any time or effort on the testing process. Neither was he/she about to lose the fee by referring you to someone with the proper expertise in this area of neuropsychology. In my opinion this doc used a very slapdash, unprofessional method of diagnosis. If I were interested in doing any kind of therapy, I wouldn't want this person as my regular psych doc.

Since you are young enough to benefit from government and insurance funded treatment programs though, even a diagnosis from this psych doc will be a help. Just look for a doc experienced with Autism/Asperger's spectrum disorders to be your regular psych doc, though.

Your diagnosis is official. The interview with your parents makes it more credible, especially if your childhood was discussed.

I know a lot of people who have been diagnosed by a psychiatrist. In Canada, psychology services are not covered, so many end up seeing a psychiatrist. A full assessment with a psychologist costs around $1800 to 2000, a price that can be prohibitive for some.

A neuropsychology assessment can really help with school and employment. If you can, get one done. It can direct you in the right path.

Sounds reasonable.

Having been diagnosed myself, it may be an official diagnosis, but easily disputed. There is a battery of tests that one must take if the diagnosis is to be credible. And a disputed diagnosis may lead to problems later on in getting insurance or government help for the condition. I'd recommend going for the tests if your insurance will cover it.

Longshanks