How can I support my autistic child?

Autism is a lifelong condition. There is no ‘cure’, but there are lots things you can do to help an autistic child overcome their challenges.

Types of support available

Working with therapists, like psychologists, family therapists, speech and language therapists and occupational therapists, you and your child can learn key coping skills that can really help overcome some of the challenges those with autism face.

The following types of therapy can have a significant impact on your child’s quality of life:

• CBT
• Family therapy
• Social skills training
• Communication skills training
• Speech and Language therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Educational support

The benefits of seeking support

Engaging in therapy for you, your child or even your whole family can have considerable benefits to all. It can be stressful managing challenging behaviours, but working with an expert family therapist can help alleviate stress and give you effective skills that can make family life much more settled.

Children’s brains have an amazing capacity to learn, so many families are amazed with the amount a child can learn through social and communication skills sessions (with a psychologist, psychotherapist or other therapist trained and experienced in ASD). The great thing is, these skills can last a lifetime and are a real investment in their future.

Every child will struggle with different things and at different times – what works for one won’t necessarily work for another. Finding a therapist who is able to adopt a flexible approach to working with your child is key.