The Difference Between
Non-verbal Learning Disorder and
Asperger's Syndrome (NLD vs AS)

So far in the description of AS and NLD they sound remarkably similar, don't they? What's the difference?

Not very much.

From a clinical standpoint, the same set of behaviors can describe both NLD and AS, but from a different perspective: NLD from a neuropsychological view, AS from a psychiatric/behavioral view. It may also be important to indicate that they are not mutually exclusive. A Yale Child-Study Group found that up to 80% of children who meet the criteria for Asperger's Syndrome also have Non-verbal Learning Disorder. It also tends to be the people with more pronounced behavioral symptoms that have Asperger's, where as less pronounced symptoms tend to have Non-verbal Learning Disorder.

Once you suspect NLD or AS, tell your doctor and let the professionals sort through the diagnosis. There are no medications for either condition, (although sometimes medication may be prescribed for anxiety or depression) and since each person is unique in what therapy is needed, the two conditions really only seem to differ in terms of severity.