Evaluating the Success of a Parent-Professional Autism Network

Abstract

Family counselors working with families and children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders may seek assistance from a variety of sources in order to support their clients. Despite the need, few community resources are available to meet the varied and complex needs of families. The authors discuss a community-based program that can be used as an adjunct to family counseling. Specifically, this study used a survey and interview to examine perceptions of the benefits of participation in this program. The study identified four themes: (1) knowledge, (2) altered living patterns, (3) heightened coping skills, and (4) desired changes. These themes supported parental views of the success of the parent-professional networking group. Considerations for both family counseling practice and research are considered.

Families With Children Diagnosed With Autism

“…Few studies proved to be helpful in working with the autism population. For example, one study found that family counseling may be helpful in early counseling sessions to increase family knowledge of ASD and prioritizing goals within the family structure (Lock et al, 2013). Implementing positive help-seeking behaviors may require change and acceptance within the family unit and how they react to stressful situations.…”

“…Counselors who find themselves working with families and their children with autism must also consider the family's cultural values and how they may differ or align with mainstream culture (Lock et al, 2013). As the rise of ASD and comorbidity affects children, family beliefs about causes must be considered when a family is initially diagnosed.…”

“…Family units with a child with autism may require members of educational, therapeutic, and medical professionals to collaborate helping parents access all the support and resources needed for them and their child. A study by Lock, Bradley, Hendricks, and Brown (2013) found that members involved in a parent-professional networking group reported high levels of satisfaction with the increased knowledge and understanding of research-based interventions for their child but wanted more one-to-one contact to discuss their child. Some of the perceived benefits from being involved in the network were increased parental understanding, empowerment, knowledge, and camaraderie (Lock, Bradley, Hendricks, & Brown, 2013).…”

“…Cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based practice that places emphasis on thoughts and behaviors to improve mood and overall functioning (Lock et al, 2013). CBT has been effective in treating anxiety in young persons with ASD (Reaven, Blakeley-Smith, Culhane-Shelburne, & Hepburn, 2012; White, Schry, Miyazaki, Ollendick, & Scahill, 2015).…”

Effectiveness of Solution-Focused Consultations on Parent Stress and Competence

“…Parenting is a challenging and stressful task that often evokes intermittent feelings of incompetence (Kohn, 2005). This is primarily because the parent or caretaker role is complex and associated with multiple demands (Lock, Bradley, Hendricks, & Brown, 2013; Shumaker & Medoff, 2013). These demands include providing for children’s physical and safety needs, expressing love and affection, setting limits and providing discipline, arranging for educational opportunities, as well as many other responsibilities (Baumrind, 1975; Kohn, 2005; Sommers-Flanagan & Sommers-Flanagan, 2011).…”