The condition causes emotional and communication problems

Peter Temple, 27, from York, has Asperger's Syndrome and his family said he had found regular sessions with a psychologist helpful.

But the local health authority said it was stopping the sessions because his high IQ meant he could not be classed as having a learning disability.

The North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust said it could not comment.

A spokesman said the trust would not comment on individual cases but confirmed that having Asperger's alone does not qualify a person for support.

'In tears'

Asperger's Syndrome causes communication and emotional problems.

Mr Temple said: "It was a bit of a shock. I was actually in tears with it.

"I thought things have just gone downhill."

Keith Temple, Peter's father, said: "It's ridiculous. Everybody knows people with autism have a spiky profile.

"They can be very good at some things and poor at others. It's the poor things that mean they need support."

The Bradford-based SACAR Trust, which supports people with Asperger's Syndrome and Autism, said it was common for people with the condition not to get help and the lack of support could lead to mental health problems.

Executive director Paul Donaldson said: "Lots of people, unfortunately, if they don't get the right support in place can regress.

"They can actually get anxiety, frustration and depression and if that occurs then sadly they may fall within the bounds of mental health because of the problems that is causing."