Finding a therapist

[sisselcakes]

Good evening.

I think my boyfriend is at the point where he would be willing to see a therapist for relationship counseling. So many therapists are clueless about ASD, have unrealistic expectations, and put assumptions about "normal" on how Aspies function in a relationship.

I'd like to know how people have located therapists who were skilled to handle common relationship issues that arise between and NT and Aspie couples.

 

[Crossbreed]

Check the Autism Society of Florida for their local recommendations.

 

[WereBear]

There are NONE in my area, but I found a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who is willing to work with me.

Seeking out CBT specialists is helpful because their approach is appealing; it breaks down behaviors by thinking about them. It certainly matches the way I work.

 

[Guppyfry]

When I finally self-diagnosed with Asperger's, I was looking to get an official diagnosis - back then, most GP and counselors have never even heard of AS.

I looked specifically for a psychiatrist/psychologist with experience working with Autistics. It took a bazillion phone calls, but I finally got connected with someone - an autism specialist. (nowhere was she listed in the phone book - never would have found this person if I hadn't spent almost an entire day on the phone, calling different medical centers and asking questions).

She did confirm my own diagnosis, and offered support and counseling if I wished. I did see her a few times for counseling, and it was such a breath of fresh air to talk to someone who 'got' where I was coming from, and was able to reassure me and put my mind at ease over issues that were chewing me up inside.

 

[WereBear]

I'd like to know how people have located therapists who were skilled to handle common relationship issues that arise between and NT and Aspie couples.

I found my diagnostician with a search engine through Psychology Today. Then I emailed people who looked like they had the expertise, explaining what I was looking for. Then I sifted through the positive replies.

A good therapist wants to provide what you are looking for, and are cautious about getting into something they don't understand. It is, after all, a partnership. And should start that way.

 

[sisselcakes]

I found my diagnostician with a search engine through Psychology Today. Then I emailed people who looked like they had the expertise, explaining what I was looking for. Then I sifted through the positive replies.

A good therapist wants to provide what you are looking for, and are cautious about getting into something they don't understand. It is, after all, a partnership. And should start that way.

Great resource. Thanks

 

[sisselcakes]

When I finally self-diagnosed with Asperger's, I was looking to get an official diagnosis - back then, most GP and counselors have never even heard of AS.

I looked specifically for a psychiatrist/psychologist with experience working with Autistics. It took a bazillion phone calls, but I finally got connected with someone - an autism specialist. (nowhere was she listed in the phone book - never would have found this person if I hadn't spent almost an entire day on the phone, calling different medical centers and asking questions).

She did confirm my own diagnosis, and offered support and counseling if I wished. I did see her a few times for counseling, and it was such a breath of fresh air to talk to someone who 'got' where I was coming from, and was able to reassure me and put my mind at ease over issues that were chewing me up inside.

Thanks and wow! I find the same. I don't find people "advertise" their expertise, if there are even ppl in my area.

 

[Warmheart]

If there is one in your area, try The Arc. Many have an Autism NOW Center, including an ASD therapist (usually an LiCSW, MSW, or LMHC) on staff. Yes, they do indeed see adults!

Eva Mendez is all about ASD and relationships. She's in Boston, but she also does Skype for relationship/couples sessions. You might Google her to find her web page.

Best of luck!

 

[sisselcakes]

If there is one in your area, try The Arc. Many have an Autism NOW Center, including an ASD therapist (usually an LiCSW, MSW, or LMHC) on staff. Yes, they do indeed see adults!

Eva Mendez is all about ASD and relationships. She's in Boston, but she also does Skype for relationship/couples sessions. You might Google her to find her web page.

Best of luck!

Skype. I hadn't thought of that! Certainly it's possible. Thanks for the ideas.