About ASPIA
Asperger Syndrome Partner Information Australia (ASPIA) is a Sydney-based support group and information source for those who are involved in or interested in marriage and long-term relationships with adults with Asperger's Syndrome (or suspected of having Asperger's Syndrome).
As well as hosting a quarterly support group meeting (formerly monthly), we provide resources and newsletters, answer enquiries, organise seminars, and promote awareness within the community about Asperger's Syndrome in adults and marriage.
Founded as GRASP Partner Support Group in 2003 by Carol and Lyn, ASPIA became an incorporated association on 29 July 2005.
ASPIA does not currently hold deductible gift recipient status. However, as a self-funded association that is run by volunteers and which does not receive any government or non-government funding, all support is welcome!
If you'd like to make a non-tax-deductible donation to ASPIA, click the Donate button.
Supporting partners of adults with Asperger's Syndrome
ASPIA's purpose
ASPIA's purpose is to acknowledge the difficulties and differences in an Asperger marriage, and to provide objective information on how Asperger syndrome impacts on a relationship and what steps can be taken to reduce the confusion, conflict and crushing emotional experiences that characterise the private lives of those affected.
Meeting and speaking with other partners face-to-face brings an enormous sense of validation for our experiences, which can become an invaluable source of strength and inspiration.
We're not here to catastrophise the difficulties in an Asperger marriage and bring about its downfall. In fact, many partners have been helped by gaining an understanding of Asperger syndrome, which has enabled them to change their expectations of their partners, and to strengthen themselves and their relationships.
Those who've been unable to stay with their relationships testify to finding a place of closure for all their confusion, pain and sense of failure.
The importance of seeking professional help
We strongly recommend that partners seek help from a professional experienced with Asperger syndrome in adults and relationships. There is guidance that can be given in this context that a support group or written information cannot give, and specific characteristics and situations can be addressed.
At no time has ASPIA claimed, nor does ASPIA claim, to be providing professional advice to its members and enquirers. Whilst all care is taken to share information from reliable sources, ASPIA does not take responsibility for the way this information is implemented in personal situations.
At all times ASPIA encourages partners and other affected individuals to seek professional advice relevant to their individual situation from a qualified practitioner such as a psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor.