Autism Seminars, and When Your Quirks Are/Aren't Disordered

I went to a seminar three weeks ago called The Puzzle of Autism. It was meant to make sure that everyone working in the state was "on the same page" as far as diagnostic criteria, symptoms/characteristics, and treatment/accommodations are concerned. It also brought up a good opportunity to talk about my Asperger's and how it affects/enhances my ability to do my job.

To be honest, I didn't really learn anything new about autism spectrum disorders. I know what the prevalence is, I know what the most common treatment programs are, and I know what kinds of accommodations can be made. I use them in the speech room every day. A fellow SLP at my table did bring up an interesting point, however, and that point is the line between disorder and condition. Conventional wisdom says that autism spectrum disorders are chronic, or lifelong. But do they truly remain to be disorders, or do they change status as we get better at dealing with the symptoms?

I would not call my Asperger's a "disorder" in the classical sense at this point in my life. I consider it to be more like a condition or a part of my personality. Does having Asperger's present challenges that I may not otherwise face? Absolutely. Does it hinder my career or personal development or ability to function? That's a trickier question. At this point in my life, it doesn't. In the past, it most definitely affected my ability to function. It has not gone away. There are all sorts of active thought processes in my brain when I'm having a conversation, from controlling the volume of my voice to watching for clues that my communication partner is or isn't listening. These are thought processes for which, even after years of therapy, I need to put forth effort. It is easier now than it was five years ago but it is not automatic, subconscious or easy. I'm just much better at it.

I'm curious to see what others' thoughts are on this matter.