Applied Behavior Analysis Application Overview

What is Applied Behavior Analysis? Let’s talk about it here.

therapy used for autism awareness
source: flickr.com

Can it help analyze behavioral issues such as those related to autism spectrum disorders or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? Does it help instill positive actions through positive reinforcement and behavior modification? Young autistic children are faced with challenges in their everyday life. With their existing developmental disorders and poor social skills, early intensive intervention is the best way to go for them. One effective treatment that could be very beneficial is ABA.

Why Is It Preferred Over Other Therapeutic Methods For Autism?

In retrospect, autism therapy is not just composed of one specific type of treatment for producing positive behaviors and social skills but is usually a collection of ABA principles and procedures that targets specific autistic behaviors. It is, however, important to note that ABA was created decades ago and is just one of the numerous types of therapies that are offered to children who are on the autism spectrum. Currently, it is considered the therapy from which all other treatments were derived and is commonly known in the therapeutic field for its positive reinforcement strategies. It is a major approach that is the origin of several other approaches. Due to a certain number of reasons, applied behavior analysis is the most renowned and suggested autism spectrum therapy. These reasons are:

Autism Speaks, the largest Autism related charity in the United States, recommends ABA for children on the autism spectrum.
Source: defense.gov

Applied Behavior Analysis

  1. Behavior Analysis Has Been Around For Ages

It is a derivative of behaviorism. Behaviorism was an old approach that was created in the 1920s by the behavior analyst, B.F. Skinner was contemplated to be the most significant American psychologist during that time. Due to the outgrowth, It became the most well-understood and well-established strategy among others, though it is gentler, and more broad-ranging than behaviorism.

  1. ABA Therapy Was Given Sufficient Focus

Programs for ABA were intensively investigated for the past few decades. ABA has become the basis for reference since it has established clear and measurable objectives that achieve positive outcomes, and is carried out and practiced in the same manner by an ABA therapist.

  1. Training For Applied Behavior Analysis Is Simple

Due to ABA therapists utilizing the study of behavior similarly, it is relatively more straightforward to train specific individuals for the behavioral strategies to be implemented. Usually, ABA programs are widely developed by a trained and board-certified behavior analyst; however, registered behavior technicians can be assigned to execute the technique.

The Efficacy of Behavior Therapy for Children on The Autism Spectrum

  1. ABA Is Effective In Managing Problematic Behavior

The ABA therapist identifies that children who are on the autism spectrum exhibit specific behaviors which are dissimilar, and there will be moments wherein the responses shown are bordering on the challenging side much like aggression and self-destruction or abuse. This analysis is often recognized as an efficient method to minimize such adverse, injurious problem behaviors and at the same time, encourage desired behavior. Autism Speaks, the largest Autism related charity in the United States, recommends ABA for children on the autism spectrum.

  1. Measurement Of Success Is Made Achievable

The reason that this analysis is set on specific, concrete objectives, measuring success has been comparatively more accessible than other therapeutic processes, making ABA the gold standard in autism therapy. Questioning whether ABA is the more effective solution does not emerge because complexities arise when comparing methods head-to-head.

Source: defense.gov

Behavioral Approach- The Best Type of Autism Therapy (Recommended By ABA therapy experts)

ABA therapists adept with ABA work hard in building desirable and appropriate behaviors while ending unacceptable ones. More often than not, children who are on the autism spectrum have difficulty in cultivating specific desirable target behavior such as social interactions (social skills), communication skills, executing eye contact, and so much more. On the other hand, some of the unwanted behaviors that are focused on and eliminated by the aba procedures are kicking, flapping, spinning, or hitting.

Final Thoughts

Due to the positive reinforcement and effectiveness of applied behavioral analysis (aba techniques) in dealing with behavior change and the abovementioned issues, applied behavior analysis has been considered the best type of autism therapy for years and is widely used by autism therapists around the world.

FAQs

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What Are The Five Components Of ABA?

What Are The Three Types Of ABA?

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Ways That Therapy Can Benefit ASD Parents

Source: penpencileraser.com

Parenting a child who is autistic may be one of the most fulfilling yet daunting things that some parents will ever go through. I know because I have been a therapist to one too many kids on the spectrum – and me being a parent of a 10-year-old daughter who is on the spectrum as well.

Many of the people I have helped and guided throughout my practice frequently asked me how I could do it as if I possess some magic weapon or special talent that they do not have. I, too, had my own path in therapy – as an individual in therapy – that enabled me the most and helped me learn the skills, I was required to have to go through this challenge. That personal journey was also the reason why I chose to be the therapist that I am today.

As parents to ASD children, we become proficient at investigating, seeking, and paying all the appropriate therapies for our kids, although we are also inclined to set aside our very own needs. To survive and thrive on this parenting path that we are now navigating, finding professional assistance may be beneficial at one point or another.

Below are some important ways that therapy can benefit parents with children who are on the spectrum.

Parenting Abilities. Parenting an ASD child can be very distinctive from parenting a typical child. Often, there are sensory problems to consider, medical interventions, therapies, safety issues to decide on, and educational choices to make, to name a few. Almost always, these kids also come with mental health conditions and self-management complications. Parents may become confused and tremendously overwhelmed when confronted with everything.

A therapist who is trained and experienced in providing the essentials of ASD families is crucial. This mental health professional can definitely assist parents in learning how to prioritize their needs and lessen the stress and anxiety related to overwhelm. When I talk to couples with ASD kids, I often remind them that an autism diagnosis does not destroy a relationship but rather their reaction to it could.

Source: parentmap.com

Keeping It Strong With Your Partner. Reports have been released that kids with autism have relatively higher marital conflict and divorce rates than typical kids. That definitely comes to no surprise, as problems and stressors are commonly far worse.

Autism spectrum disorder tends to place a vivid light on whatever matters were already existing. A therapist who is aware of the continuous stress that ASD places on the whole family can assist partners in navigating the challenges and other issues while keeping the bond with your partner strong.

Keep in mind, though, that this is not something that happens overnight. It’s a process that takes patience, time, and perseverance. However, the outcomes are worth the wait. I am certain that therapy saved more than half of my marriage.

Adapting To The Diagnosis. The ASD diagnosis itself is frequently devastating for us parents. It can become a demanding process that could take a year or even more, with several consultations with various professionals. Parents are usually confronted with multiple emotions in the entire process, including guilt, fear, extreme worry, and anxiety – and too much time waiting. Numerous parents are told that their kid is not actually on the spectrum, and then you hit the dead end with more queries and answers.

No matter what the result is, truly, the pain and grief are very real. Oftentimes, knowledge of the stages of grief and the acceptance that grief is recurring somehow help parents adapt. Each individual responds differently to grief, and the way one responds has something to do tremendously with what really occurred and whether or not they have handled it efficiently. An individual might require therapeutic management such as EMDR therapy or cognitive restructuring to overcome the pain and overwhelm of the unraveled diagnosis.

Stress Control. Stress plays a suggestive role in the emergence of disease. It literally causes sickness. For us to be healthy, we have to learn ways of controlling or regulating stress effectively. The everyday stress of an ASD parent is tremendous and persistent. A therapist can help by providing a supportive hand and ear, teaching self-care skills, and substantiating parenting efforts. Therapy aims to help a person go through a tough time or be utilized regularly during the parents’ journey. I have been helping several parents place my phone number on speed dial, and others have been in therapy routinely for years while their ASD child is growing up.

Source: discovermagazine.com

Conclusion

Most people agree that we won’t be able to hand an empty glass, that we must don our own oxygen masks to help other people. If you are like me – a parent of an ASD child, therapy can make a big difference in the way you handle this longstanding situation that you’ve been handed. Ultimately, it is a win-win for the whole family.

 

 

Therapists’ View On Autistic Children Going To Preschool

 

Source: yourmedicalinfo.net

If you have the choice of letting your autistic child stay at home just until they are mature enough to attend kindergarten, are you going to do it? Your answer will be dependent upon some vital factors, which include:

  • Your community’s provisions and open-mindedness to an autistic child
  • Your child’s preferences, needs, and challenges
  • The accessibility of school (or out-of-school) therapists at a rate that you can afford
  • The availability of a proper preschool program
  • Your personal capacity and commitment to work hand in hand with your autistic child on learning and developing social interaction skills.

Home School Advantages And Disadvantages

Advantages: Homeschooling can be suitable for preschoolers with the spectrum. It offers a secure and convenient setting that is customized to your child’s requirements, and it can be an appropriate place for tough therapy that is frequently suggested. Sensory input is controllable, and outlooks remain stable throughout the day. Numerous therapists believe that because home is a familiar setting, it is favorable for learning and that parents make the best teachers and therapists.

Play therapies like floor time and Relationship Development Intervention are commonly provided in a natural setting by parents. Specialized schools and facilities might not even have these types of platforms. If you are offering developmental therapy, then the home setting might be the most appropriate choice.

Disadvantages: Conversely, the option of home care and schooling implies that a person, most probably a parent, must be capable and willing to stay with the autistic toddler at home. So the stay-at-home parent is expected to be incapable of having a regular job, as he will not have the energy and the time to work outside of the house when he has spent most of his time caring for the autistic preschooler. In addition, most kids on the spectrum do well in a very predictable and repetitive setup. If you have other kids or an online job, homeschooling may become chaotic, loud, and erratic.

Source: appliedbehavioralanalysisprograms.com

Perhaps the role of a parent as a home teacher or therapist to a child on the spectrum might not be for everybody. The role typically involves being a therapist during the day, dealing with your child’s behaviors and moods outside the home while going to the parks or when shopping, and being a case manager for the numerous medical professionals and therapists that you might now include in your life. Unfortunately, some parents can efficiently handle this type of challenge, but others find it tough, draining, and depressing.

Preschool Advantages And Disadvantages

Advantages: In numerous communities, full or partial-day preschool is accessible and often free to all families. Kids with ASD get academic guidelines as well as some in-school therapy. Many aspects also offer at least some private preschool platforms geared towards kids with special needs. A private preschool might be a good match, depending on your kid’s offerings and needs as well.

Preschools or kindergarten schools also provide a very important benefit to a group of friends and their parents, and that is quite hard to establish from scratch going up if you have a child on the spectrum.

Disadvantages: A preferable preschool setting can be wonderful, but it is also a fact that numerous preschools are far from idyllic. You might notice that your autistic child is getting very little in terms of experience or perhaps having an unpleasant experience. You may realize that the known ‘trained’ personnel are essentially teacher’s assistants who previously attended lectures on Autism Spectrum Disorder. You may also discover that other kids in your child’s circle are less disabled than your child, which makes learning and socializing difficult.

If your autistic child is at a normal preschool, despite early interventions, you might notice that normally developing kids might be less keen to reach out to your child during their school and out-of-school activities and other social events.

Final Thoughts

Source: autismineducation.org.au

Regardless of your option (home school or preschool), it is vital to remember that you have the option to change your decision. In fact, you can even choose to try both. There is no definite right or wrong. The decision you make will relate most especially to your family, your place, and definitely, your child. As you take into account your decision, consider these questions:

  • What does the possible parent think about performing the function of a stay-at-home teacher of an autistic child? Would they probably feel fatigued, overwhelmed, or resentful? Or, otherwise, will they feel eager, energized, or encouraged?
  • Can you afford to have one parent stay home and not have a regular job?
  • What do the rest of your kids need? Will managing an autistic preschooler at home take too much of your time and energy that you won’t be able to care for your other kids?
  • If your autistic child is comparatively engaged or social or fits suitably in a prevailing preschool program, it might be better to give it a try. On the other hand, if your child seems to require a lot of personalized therapy, homeschooling would be a more beneficial choice.

 

 

Life With Autism: Accepting The Diagnosis Through Counseling

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Is your child recently diagnosed with autism? Or perhaps, are you going through changes or milestones in your child’s life, making acceptance of their condition difficult? You may now be sending them to school, and suddenly, coping with their autism seems much harder than it was. It may be your first time having a person with autism in the family, making you feel uncertain and confused.

In any situation, acceptance is a process. From denial, we may all go through anger, bargaining, and depression before finally reaching acceptance. Also, acceptance is not a linear and one-time process, especially for a lifetime challenge such as living with autism. There will always be instances of denial, bargaining, depression, and anger throughout this journey. It is okay to struggle because this journey is not an easy one.

As a parent, you would want to get all the help you need in raising your child with autism. Just like raising any other child, it always takes a village. Love and acceptance start in a nurturing home so they can one day face the world. How do you begin living life with autism?

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an umbrella term of a developmental disability with a wide range of presentations. Unlike other conditions, the signs and symptoms of autism are usually different for every child. There are red flags that may help diagnose ASD early in a child’s life. However, each child with autism is unique with their own set of needs.

According to CDC, data shows one in every 54 children is diagnosed with autism. The increasing data can be alarming, but it may indicate something good. It shows more children are being diagnosed and receiving the intervention they need. Through the years, we learn more about autism and how we can help children with this diagnosis.

Counseling is vital in understanding the impact of your child’s diagnosis. With understanding comes acceptance and learning how we can manage life with autism.

Parenting A Child With Autism

Raising a child with autism also requires basic parenting skills in child-rearing. You must be good at being a parent because you will also do what all other parents do. As parents, we must learn techniques in organizing the home, managing behavioral tantrums, teaching skills, and so much more.

Always allow yourself to have room for improvement and constant growth. You may attend parenting seminars, talks, classes, and counseling so you can get to know more tips and techniques. After learning, practice and application allow you to see what works and what does not work for your child. The key is to grow with your child and adapt to the changes they may need through time.

Individual Counseling – Caring For Yourself To Care For Others

A child with autism may need more attention and energy compared to other children. It is normal to feel stressed and burned out as you care for your child. However, healthy well-being allows us to be better caregivers. Talking to a counselor may help you deal with your struggles so you can help your child and your family. Counseling will facilitate your coping in difficult situations such as moments of distress, anxiety, maladaptation, and mental or emotional struggles.

Source: pixabay.com

The Power Of Early Intervention

The sooner you learn and accept the diagnosis of your child, the better. It allows them to get the help they need right away for better outcomes. We can minimize delays, and your child will find it easier to cope once they receive intervention early on.

There are different types of intervention available for children with autism. These are not designed to cure autism. It teaches your child the skills they need to become functional and independent. Among the available treatments, counseling and therapies are:

  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
  • Occupational Therapy (OT)
  • Speech Therapy
  • Floortime
  • TEACCH
  • Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)
  • Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT)
  • Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)

Family Counseling – Getting On The Same Page

It is essential to work together as a family when it comes to raising your child with autism. There should be consistency, so they would not get confused and biased. Family counseling may facilitate communication and understanding at home to create a nurturing environment for your child. We must work together to manage our expectations and manage our roles as parents.

Support groups are also available for parents of children with autism. Counseling in groups provides parents a safe space to share their struggles and also learn from other parents.

Take Note Of Their Strengths And Struggles

Every child faces their own set of accomplishments and challenges every day. These strengths and struggles are more apparent in children with autism. Some of them are exceptionally good at one field or task, while they need more help in others. For example, your child with autism may have an incredible photographic memory or is very gifted in the music and arts. But for the most part, they have difficulty making friends.

As parents, we need to know the individual skills, interests, quirks, and difficulties our children face every day. To find these out, we can observe them in their everyday mundane tasks. But more importantly, we can help them find their cutting-edge skills and nurture them. Doing these will not only boost your child’s self-confidence, but you’ll also help them achieve more in life.

Source: pexels.com

Advocate For Awareness, Acceptance, And Inclusion

As parents, we have strong instincts in protecting our children. Your fear for your child’s present and future is valid. In a world where stigma and discrimination for children with disabilities prevail, we become advocates. It begins with acceptance within us.

Children with autism are exceptional with their own set of strengths and unique abilities. They are just like the rest of us, even if they have their way of seeing and understanding the world. A diagnosis with ASD does not change your child. They are the same precious being you held as they were born. Their diagnosis only allows you to understand them better.

As your child grows, you would want to create the same opportunities for them. Your acceptance of autism can radiate into the world so they can have a bigger, more nurturing space to grow. When we advocate for autism awareness and acceptance, we also fight for their inclusion in society, autism family therapy could also be a big help to improve their lives in general. Then, you can ease your worries as they grow into a world where people with autism are not treated differently.

Best Counseling Types For Managing Autism In Children

Autism is a neurobiological disorder that affects a person’s capacity to speak, learn, and interact with the world around him or her. Repetitive behavior and excessive routines such as obsession with a specific object and unnecessary movements are characteristics of people diagnosed with this disorder.

Source: pixabay.com

While medications and treatment are also helpful in addressing symptoms of Autism, interactive therapies and play-based approaches are also beneficial. Here are some of the best counseling and therapy types that your doctor may integrate with managing your child with Autism.

Occupational Therapy

An allied medical professional called an Occupational Health Therapist might also help your child be more accustomed and independent in daily routines, personal habits, and other activities. This may include teaching your child how to properly eat, use utensils, wear clothes, and hold crayons and pens. A session may focus on learning how to play or work various recreation activities.

Occupational Therapists may use various methods and activities during therapy. These of which may include interactive strategies that use assistive technologies specialized for your child’s individual needs.

Speech Therapy

A licensed speech-language pathologist or speech pathologist can help teach children with Autism various communication skills such as word articulation, effective listening, sentence construction, and many others. Sessions in speech therapy are usually dedicated to learning verbal directions, determining social cues and how to respond to them, or participating in self-paced conversations with people.

The setting might be dependent on your child’s present needs. Your Speech Therapist can select if a personal and controlled environment or a group dynamic is the best fit for your child’s preferences. There are also times when your therapist might ask you if you would like assistive communication tools for your child’s progress.

Social Skills Therapy

There are therapy sessions called to practice and develop social skills among children with Autism. It is a safe area where children learn how to work and get along with others while learning about active participation in social situations. Session in social skills therapy offers children with Autism an opportunity to enjoy while learning how to interact with people such as the other kids without Autism.

Speech therapists or autism specialists are usually the ones who manage and facilitate sessions of social skills therapy.

Applied Behavioral Analysis

This form of behavioral therapy uses rewards to support and reinforce positive behaviours or teach new skills to children with Autism. However, goals in this therapy are usually based on the individual. They might be focusing on:

  • Learning effective communication
  • Developing social skills
  • Learning hygiene and personal care techniques
  • The school works like hold crayons and pencils.

Moment-by-moment and timely feedback are essential in ABA therapy. That is why parents and caregivers are also trained. There are various techniques in Applied Behavioral Analysis. They are the following:

  • Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT)
  • Discrete Trial Training (DTT)
  • Verbal Behavior Intervention (VBI)
  • Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI)

Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)

Source: pexels.com

Although relatively new, RDI has been trademarked as a form of therapy for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. RDI is most beneficial for children who are only starting with therapy. 

Sessions in RDI aim to teach children how to engage and establish relationships with their parents and siblings. Like most therapies for Children with Autism, RDI focuses on the disorder’s lack of social skills or interaction.

To maximize the opportunities and success of therapy, parents are usually trained and assisted in using all possible options to teach their child with Autism. This will allow active feedback to let him or her develop essential social skills.

Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)

PECS Activity uses picture trading for complimentary items or activities. Children with Autism who find it hard to speak or understand cues may benefit from this program. However, PECS can be challenging to try for kids who are unwilling to communicate and whose interests aren’t in objects or specific activities.

Therapeutic Horseback Riding

Sometimes dubbed as “hippotherapy”, this unique form of therapy places a child in a horse with the goal of adjusting to the movements of the horse. This is attributed as a form of physical therapy style and has been effective in making children less irritable and hyperactive.

Sensory-Integration Therapies

Children with Autism might find it hard to process sensory cues such as sounds, too bright lights, food textures, and loud noises. Enrolling in Sensory-Integration Therapies teaches your child to process these triggers. This is done by increasing slowly but gradually their tolerance with uncomfortable sensory cues via an interactive play-based program.

Nutrition Therapy

Due to sensitivity and selectivity, children with Autism might find it hard to get the recommended nutrition daily. A Registered Nutritionist or Nutrition Specialist can help design better meal plans for the child’s preferences and limited diet. When food and nutrition needs are met, the child may still grow as a healthy adult, even under special types of diet.

Gluten-free and Casein-free diets are the usual food customs for people with Autism.

Communication Interventions 

Communication interventions are essential in behavior therapy. People with Autism might have difficulties in expressing their needs and desires. This lack of effective communication may result in conflicts and misunderstandings with people diagnosed with Autism.

Teaching communication skills may be done through technologies such as iPads or virtual platforms. But more effective processes usually include social learning through peer tutoring, amplifying games, and other group dynamics.

Source: pexels.com

There are plenty of evidence-based therapy and counseling types that may assist the development and growth of children with Autism. They can range from those that allow personal growth or others that facilitate social interactions. Along the way, parents’ help is usually in need as an assistive approach in therapy.

Apart from choosing which therapy will fit your child’s needs and preferences, parents must also be careful in choosing which care provider to ask for help and advice. Ensure that your therapist is proven, licensed, and skilled enough to manage your child’s special needs. It is also essential to recognize if your child feels safe and enjoys the therapy. If you see that your child is not growing or is not learning enough, it is better to ask for help from your doctor or find better therapy providers to suit what your child needs.

Questions About Online Therapy

Why Online?

Online therapy is a nontraditional type of therapy that parents with autistic children should consider. Choosing Online therapy isn’t common but could be for the kid. What are its benefits?

Choosing virtual counseling isn’t common but could be for the kid. What are its benefits?
Source: pixabay.com

Mental Health Conditions

Can Online Therapy Help?

Living with mental health conditions is tougher than most people can ever fathom. I would know because I had been surrounded by loved ones who suffered from various mental health conditions that made them require traditional therapy.

The first one I encountered was my big brother. He was on the autism spectrum and had licensed clinical social workers around him all the time. My memory was of him crying – no, wailing – loudly in the house because Mom tried to hug him. I learned early from the licensed providers not to make physical contact with my brother unless he opened his arms without prompting.

The second one was my best friend. She did not manifest any symptoms of mental health conditions at the beginning that the licensed clinical social workers talked to me about. In truth, she was one of the smartest pupils in our school. However, it turned out that my best friend had Asperger’s syndrome – another form of autism that made it challenging for her to recognize emotions. While other kids made fun of her as she needed teen counseling and medication management services, I stood beside her and sometimes even fought the bullies for her (without the clinical social workers knowing, of course).

Then, I had a roommate in college with eating disorders. The initial red flag was that she would order buckets of fries and at least a dozen burgers from McDonald’s, and then she would disappear in the bathroom for hours. I only found out when I caught her trying to purge. Still, I did not judge her because of her mental health condition. Teen counseling therapy would have benefited her.

Traditional Therapy Versus Online Therapy

What’s The Difference?

Due to such situations that I found myself in, I thought that being a mental health professional and providing medication management services to people with mental disorders was my calling. These include issues like substance abuse, depression, stress, and even online couples therapy issues. I thought long and hard about what I could do in my life, considering I knew I did not want to lose time with my big brother. After some time, a brilliant idea crossed my mind: online therapy. Essentially, it is talk therapy (and other therapies) conducted through a trusted online counseling platform. You can also think of it as video therapy sessions.

I was already a licensed psychiatrist when I thought of it so I could prescribe medication. I technically had two years of professional experience at the time, but I knew that my heart was not in it. But since I still wanted to help people get affordable counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, virtual therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and other mental health benefits out of an online platform, I began taking lessons and even earned counseling certifications.

This is one of the biggest benefits of online therapy: cheaper costs per session. And this is a big factor because not everyone with a mental health condition can afford in-person care. So it can be a great option for many, especially for those who need unlimited messaging features.

There are several mental health benefits of trying counseling services.
Source: pixabay.com

Best Online Counseling Service

BetterHelp is among the best options that offer affordable medical care and mental health crisis services.

Can I Talk To A Counselor Online?

Yes, if you prefer online therapy on chosen sites, you can do them for free. There are platforms like 7 Cups of Tea that offer services such as unlimited messaging at zero cost, knowing that some people who need mental health counselors do not have extra bucks to spare. Some platforms also offer something like a monthly subscription, which is still affordable. After all, you don’t need to drain your health savings account just to schedule appointments for an initial visit or initial consultation, say, for teen counseling or other services.

You don't need to drain your health savings account just to schedule appointments for an initial visit or initial consultation.
Source: pixabay.com

How Effective Is Online Therapy For Mental Conditions?

Does It Work?

A virtual provider is practically as good as a licensed assigned marriage and family therapist who performs in-office therapy, face-to-face therapy, or in-person care therapy. It differs insignificantly because the process allows people to talk or chat with the best online services expert whenever they need mental health resources, teen counseling, exposure therapy, or online cognitive behavioral therapy services. This fact has been proven in a 2018 study.

The caveat is that a limited number of mental health services can be offered during online therapy service, even by a licensed mental health professional or psychiatric nurse practitioner. The reviews say the companies have therapists who specialize mainly in providing emotional support for anxiety and mood disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression, phobia, minor eating disorders, etc.). Many of them also allow for unlimited messaging. The thing about unlimited messaging is it can help ease the worries of many people since they know they can rely on someone when they need help. Just the mere act of letting them know about unlimited messaging can assuage some of their worries.

BPD, Eating Disorders, Etc.

If you have a borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe eating disorders, or other illnesses that require medication management, a licensed therapist on these platforms may not be suitable for you as they cannot prescribe medication.

How To Become An Online Therapist

All online counseling pros go through the same training from the best programs, whether they choose to offer online therapy services or not. You need to start by getting a master’s degree in counseling. After that, you should do an internship to gain some experience in the field as a mental health professional. It’s only when you complete your hours as an intern that you can apply for a mental health counseling license and then decide to conduct weekly sessions for counseling.

Considering you want to remain one of the online licensed therapists, updating your knowledge on mental health medical care regularly is a must. That’s especially true since we often see mental health advancements in virtual and video therapy programs, online counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and all therapy services in general.

What do you get out of online therapy services? Are they really helpful for those with depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems?
Source: wikimedia.org

How Much Do Online Therapists Make?

Online therapy costs approximately $30 per hour of a therapy session on an online therapy program or online therapy platforms like BetterHelp. Though this online therapy cost is considerably lower than what face-to-face therapy experts and other mental health professionals get from giving mental health support through pride counseling sessions, this rate is still higher than what many virtual licensed professional counselors or therapists get. Some may not appreciate its financial assistance. It also depends if you work under best platforms that allow for a monthly subscription or something similar.

Talkspace Or BetterHelp?

It depends on the medium of therapy that you prefer to use. In case you only want unlimited messaging with mental health professionals and to remain anonymous online, you may think that Talkspace online therapy is one of the best online therapy options. However, if you wish to see your counselor through video sessions and also enjoy unlimited messaging, BetterHelp is one of the best online therapy platforms.

Note that both platforms offer unlimited messaging. As I mentioned a bit before, unlimited messaging is something that can help people in their daily lives because unlimited messaging means there is always help available.

Virtual platforms can be possible if you have gadgets like cellphones or tablets. You can get it from the comfort of your home.
Source: pixabay.com

Is BetterHelp Worth It?

Yes, BetterHelp is worth the money. Not only does it extend the convenience of getting help without leaving your room, but it also offers a high level of anonymity that you cannot guarantee to obtain when you walk into a counseling facility. You can feel safe knowing your monthly subscription is worth it.

Is Talkspace Or BetterHelp Cheaper?

Talkspace online therapy is cheaper than BetterHelp by at least $10. The reason is that the former offers fewer media of counseling than the latter, but note that both offer unlimited messaging.

Can You Cancel BetterHelp At Any Time?

Yes, you are free to cancel BetterHelp at any time. The online relationship counseling platform does not bind you in any contract that will prevent you from leaving whenever you wish to.

If You Want To Discontinue, Can I Get My Money Back From BetterHelp?

Yes, you can technically get your money back from BetterHelp, provided that their team has investigated your issue with their services and deemed you worthy of getting a partial or full refund. You may send an email to them for further assistance.

How Do I Request A New Counselor, BetterHelp?

Assuming you have already picked the online platform and want to change your licensed marriage, family counseling, and teen counseling experts or switch therapists for affordable online therapy, you can open your profile and click the Change Counselor button. Doing so will show you up to six profiles of different mental health professionals, complete with therapist availability. If none of them works, you may click Find a Therapist again to switch therapists for virtual therapy and video sessions.

Can BetterHelp Write Prescriptions?

No, BetterHelp’s mental health services cannot prescribe medication for you – the online therapy platform can only provide the best online therapy services of 2022. Despite that, BetterHelp partners with Brightside, which dispatches licensed marriage and family therapists, licensed professional therapists, or family therapists who offer mental health services remotely and can prescribe medication. Do not hesitate to inquire about how they can help you, even during the initial consultation or in the following sessions.

Do not hesitate to inquire about how they can help you, even during the initial consultation or in the following sessions.
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What Raises Dopamine Naturally?

Your lifestyle choices affect your body’s dopamine production more than anything. Practically speaking, doing too much of anything may be exhilarating at first, but it can make you feel blue later. You need to find balance in your activities to elevate your dopamine level naturally.

Can An Online Therapist Write Prescriptions?

Not exactly, especially if the therapist only has certifications to provide cognitive behavioral therapy. But in case the therapist is also a psychiatrist, they can do that.

Can BetterHelp Diagnose You Online?

Unfortunately, no, BetterHelp cannot conduct mental health diagnoses or prescribe mental health medication to their clients. BetterHelp has licensed marriage and family therapists, family therapists, or licensed professional therapists, but online therapy companies cannot offer a diagnosis without in-person therapy sessions. Sometimes, they can also offer teen counseling services through cognitive behavioral online therapy interaction.

Does Virtual Therapy Accept Insurance?

Not all the time. You’ll have to discuss health insurance portability with your insurance provider’s company. Some companies cover best online therapy health insurance but not all.

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Conclusion On Online Therapy Service

The challenge that I did not see coming after I pursued best online therapy and  and became a certified licensed therapist was figuring out which online therapy platform to use. Setting up an online therapy website for myself was out of the question, considering I did not have the time and money to do that. I did not want to offer online therapy full-time and in-person or traditional therapy either, given that that would consume too much of my time. Luckily, I eventually found one that could protect my future clients and me from digital crime. The bonus was that I could continue looking after my big brother, who had mental health conditions of his own.

FAQs On Online Therapy Services

  1. Is Virtual Therapy Secure?

  2. Who Are The Best Candidates For Online Counseling?

  3. What Are The Perks Of Free Counseling On The Web?

  4. How Does One Pay For His Counseling Sessions?

  5. Does Couples Therapy Provide Help For Couples?

  6. What Is The Best Online Platform For Therapy?

  7. Where Can I Talk To Someone For Free?

  8. Is Therapy Online Free?

  9. Who Is Not Suitable For Online Therapy?

  10. Is Online Therapy Okay?

  11. Can I Use BetterHelp For Free?

  12. Where Can I Get A Therapist For Free?

  13. Is There A Therapist I Can Text?

  14. Is BetterHelp Legit Now?

  15. What Is The BetterHelp Controversy?

The Impact Of Autism To Family Life

 

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When a child in the family is diagnosed with autism, it doesn’t only transform the life of the child but of the entire family as well. Stress levels are high due to erratic therapy appointments, home treatments, and other problems at work and home. Financial burdens would also come in, as treatment and therapy are quite expensive, and having the option for online therapy helps a lot.

These sources of stress will impact family life in different unfavorable ways. Parents are obliged to care for their autistic child, let alone all their children and the rest of the family. Managing the stress of being parents could build strength in the family and the marriage, but this needs a strong support system and, of course, hard work.

The impact of autism spectrum disorder to parents and families are seen in several ways.

Impact To Marriage. Research reveals that parents who have autistic children had almost 10% changes in filing for divorce than other parents. Marriage stressors may include:

  • Quality time as a couple becomes hard because of the many therapies and doctors’ appointment schedules.
  • Parents usually acknowledge their child’s ASD diagnosis through different means and different times, and this may cause conflict between both of them.
  • It is daunting and frustrating to look for childcare.
  • Financial burdens can cause issues between parents.

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Impact Between Siblings. A child diagnosed with having the spectrum also has a big impact on his brother or sister. Siblings also go through a lot of stresses confronted by the rest of the family. Further, parents might not give them sufficient attention and support because their hands are full with commitments for their autistic child. In other families with children with ASD, a more severe type of sibling rivalry is often seen. Some families can overcome these problems if they are in control of the factors that increase their stress and anxiety.

Emotional Impact. Autism spectrum disorder covers many emotional struggles for the entire family, which begins even before the diagnosis and progresses indefinitely. The Pediatrics Journal reported that moms of kids with ASD frequently graded their mental health status has average or poor. Unlike the general population, the level of stress that these moms go through is much higher. Aside from this, parents of children with ASD mostly encounter:

  • Social isolation
  • Shame over their child’s erratic behavior when they are in the public
  • Depression and insecurity over other parents not having to experience what they are going through
  • Guilt from the thought that they might have done something that caused the autism
  • Bitterness towards their child and remorse for feeling bitter
  • Hopelessness because there is no cure for autism

Impact On Finances. A family who has an autistic member is often confronted with heavy financial burdens. The cost of treatments and therapies is usually not covered by private health insurers, which is a bit costly. Parents pay for doctors’ visits and medications, which results in big financial debts. Pediatrics stated that families with ASD children went through almost 15% of loss in their family funds. Full-time jobs become difficult for both parents, so the risk of losing a job is high, severely affecting the family’s financial situation.

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A good initial step to solving the problems that arise in families because of autism is gaining more knowledge of how it impacts family members and connections. Counseling can guide parents in learning how to manage communication and marriage problems, autism family therapy can be a big help, while psychotherapy helps tackle the impact of autism mentally and emotionally. They can also try joining support networks where they get to meet fellow parents with autistic kids. On the other hand, parents, too, should take good care of themselves to be efficient caregivers to their children.

How Parents Can Avoid Stress

Undoubtedly, stress is part and parcel of one’s life, but there are still things that parents can do to get rid of stress and be successful in tackling the challenges of having an autistic child.

Be organized. Often, stress is associated with not being in control of things. Being organized is an efficient means to get things and even stress levels manageable. In your everyday life, for instance, concentrate on having things done one at a time. Try practicing family rules and routines and make adjustments for your child with autism. Staying organized can help your child manage their autism in adulthood. You can also try integrating technology in autism education to help alleviate the amount of work you do personally.

Stick to family traditions. Traditions in the family provide a sense of balance amidst stressful times. You may need to make changes to your previous traditions to meet your child’s needs. For instance, your usual long trips on the weekends may need to be done closer to home so that you don’t need to drive long hours, and emergencies can be handled better when you’re not too far away from home.

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Take care of yourself. When you have an autistic child, it not uncommon to neglect self-care. However, you can decrease the stress and anxiety in the family by ensuring that all members are given time to do the things that they love to do. Make a list of things that each member’s hobbies or bucket lists and then try to incorporate these and plan on which ones to do next. Remind the family, including you, that fun and happiness are part of one’s daily life.

 

 

Children With Mental Health Conditions

Do you have a kid with mental health condition?

happy kid on the playground
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This year could not have gotten worse for my family members and me. For starters, the pandemic took place and forced all of us to hide in our houses for months. Then, I lost my job when the company could no longer pay its employees, while my husband’s job only had him working for three out of six days a week. But the mother of our worries rooted back from when a psychiatrist said that my three-year-old child, Jaren, had low-functioning autism.

According to the children’s mental health diagnostic and statistical manual, most parents would often claim that their children were special, but I was among those few individuals who did not want to admit that my child had been extra special from the beginning.

Our Family Journey

The warning signs of low-functioning autism spectrum disorder began to manifest in my son from the early child’s age of three. Since my husband and I both had full-time jobs, I left Jaren at the daycare center on our ground floor. It was a seemingly easy setup, to be honest. I would drop my child off at the daycare around 8 A.M., visit him during my lunchtime, and pick him up at 4 P.M. after work.

However, after a month of following that routine, the kind teacher at the center pulled me to the side one day, saying she wanted to talk to me about Jaren. I thought she would tell me that our child is a prodigy at something, but her careful words took me off guard.

The teacher said, “Mrs. Jefferson, you have a sweet and gentle child. He doesn’t make a mess like other children and merely does as he’s told. Unfortunately, I need to suggest bringing Jaren to a psychologist for children because he hasn’t been speaking at all.”

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Like a mama bird, I initially wanted to curse the teacher and tell her to mind her own business. After all, no parents would be fond of hearing that there was possibly something wrong with their beloved child. That’s especially true for me since Jaren was our only child, and he was perfect in my eyes. But I closed my eyes and counted up to ten and thought that his teacher was merely concerned about his welfare.

After scheduling an appointment with a health care child psychologist and doing a few tests on Jaren, we found out that he was autistic.

Protecting My Son From The World

My husband and I couldn’t help but cry after the child’s mental health professional or child’s health care provider revealed the sad news. Although there was no question about the endless support we would give to our child, we knew that Jaren’s life wouldn’t always be easy. The older our child became, the more he would come across narrow-minded people who might not understand the children’s mental health condition.

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The first thing I suggested was to homeschool Jaren for the rest of our child’s daily life. I assumed that that was the best way to protect our child from the world and the haters that live in it, as well as secure his mental health. Despite that, my husband argued that we could shield our child from anything by letting him live like a normal child. Granted, Jaren would have to take special education classes, but my child could be around other people often, which would help improve his social and communication skills despite his mental health condition.

I eventually agreed to my husband’s idea. More than anyone else, I wished for my child not to be defined by his mental health condition (mood swings or mood disorders, eating disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, developmental disorders, post traumatic stress disorder). Our child could still try to achieve any dream he might have, and his dad and I would forever have his back. Nonetheless, I had to add a few rules that my husband thankfully agreed with in dealing with the mental illness of our child.

Not Letting The Boy Play Alone Outside

The ultimate rule was to keep Jaren from playing outside on his own, even if it was just in our fenced backyard. The paranoia might come from the countless kidnapping movies I watched, but there was no harm in reducing the risk of that ever happening.

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Saying No To Sleepovers Without Either Of Us

Many parents in my child’s daycare center or school had been introducing sleepovers to their children, but I was not 100% into it. The only time that Jaren could try that was if it took place in our home, and my husband or I were present. This way, we could ensure that our son was cared for very well.

Enrolling The Child To Self-Defense Classes

Again, it’s perhaps my paranoid brain talking, but I encouraged my spouse to let our son take self-defense classes. While it was a challenge for him to follow instructions quickly for his mental health condition, I figured that taking him there every week for as long as possible would do him some good.

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Source: pixabay.com

Final Thoughts

Finding out that your only son had mental low-functioning autism with attention deficit was the most significant blow to our family. No one expected this diagnosis of a child with a mental health condition, so we were unable to prepare ourselves for it mentally and emotionally. Still, we will always love Jaren, so we will try our best to protect his health from mental health conditions and everything that might endanger his life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Are Some Psychological Problems For Kids?

What Is The Most Common Psychological Wellness Problem In Early Childhood?

What Is A Common Psychological Wellness Problem In Kids?

What Happens To Children With Mental Health Issues?

How Do Mental Health Disorders Affect Children And Youth At School?

What Are The Effects Of Mental Health Problems?

What Are The Risk Factors That Affect Mental Health Of Students?

What Causes Mental Health Issues In Youth?

How Do You Deal With Mental Health Problems?

How Can We Prevent Mental Illness In Children?

How Do You Treat Mental Health Condition Without Medication Or Talk Therapy?

What Helps Mental Health Recovery In Children?

What Are The Best Foods For Mental Health Conditions?

How Long Does A Mental Health Condition Last?

Can Childhood Mental Disorders Be Cured?

Autism And Isolation During The Pandemic

There are a lot of misconceptions about how autistic people handle the pandemic situation. Most people believe that individuals with autism love isolation because they often feel the need to be alone. Well, somehow, it is true. However, it does not mean that autistic people do not feel sad and lonely from time to time. Honestly, most of them struggle with that aspect, especially now that they are experiencing heightened social limitations.

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Most of the time, it confuses many people, especially those who try their best to understand and accommodate the autistic ones. Often, people leave them alone, thinking they need space. There’s the assumption that autistic individuals prefer it to be that way. Unfortunately, the real problem is that autistic individuals cannot express themselves that well. Most of the time, it is hard for them to convince people to stay by their sides. Autistic individuals are afraid to admit that they do not want to be alone.

But not all autistic individuals are the same. Some can express themselves in a way that others can understand easily. However, it does not guarantee that these people’s mental health will not go down after that. That is because most autistic individuals are not used to change. So when they try and make even simple adjustments on the way they express themselves, many behavioral issues can come out. It is a bit weird how autistic people deal with others because they can show mixed emotions in one particular circumstance. Perhaps that explains why the majority of people entirely want to leave them alone.

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The Autistic Life Under Home Quarantine

Autistic people somehow function because they follow specific routines. But now that there’s a global health crisis, everything around them becomes way too challenging. Due to the drastic change, these people force themselves to do things they are not used to. Quite often, even walking outside for a couple of blocks becomes a struggling decision for them. They worry too much that they can no longer feel the desire to be happy at some point.

With this Coronavirus issue where home quarantine is essential, it is a challenging moment for people with autism. Some of them are living on their own, and some are barely seeing anybody. Most of their conversations with other people are through social media and video conferencing platforms. Some spend time chatting, texting, and telephone calls as well. Sometimes, these people do not go out of their homes even if they want to. With the likes of that routine, many people can quickly conclude that it is how autistic people deal with the pandemic situation. But the truth to that is most of these individuals also need company.

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The majority of people with autism, though they like to be alone, need some companionship. At some level, being with someone allows them to function well. They can either be in the form of a romantic relationship, friendship, or family. Honestly, as much as they appreciate being away from absolute pressure during this crisis, autistic individuals still need someone in their lives. Yes, they need alone time to be able to prepare themselves in dealing with the unpredictable world outside. However, it does not mean they heed isolation.

Also, people with autism need regular therapy and so it’s a good thing that online therapy apps such as BetterHelp are now available in the time of the pandemic. People with autism don’t need to leave the comfort of their homes to have access to regular therapy. A lot of people have tried and got satisfied with how it turned out.

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People should recognize that some individuals cannot handle the stress, anxiety, and loneliness caused by this pandemic. That even if some tell others that they are used to the situation, no one should think that isolation is entirely okay. In times like this, people should spare moments to speak, communicate, and be there for these autistic individuals.

How People With Autism Cope With COVID-19

The spread of COVID-19 is causing extensive disruption to all our lives. But for children with autism, it is twice more damage. It becomes incredibly hard for them to make adjustments, especially in the routine changes. The pressure can lead to an increase in stress, anxiety, and even depression. In unfortunate instances, it can negatively promote challenging behaviors. And for parents and caregivers of children with autism, the whole experience can mean a lot different. The struggle of juggling work and home responsibilities can somehow lead to emotional and mental exhaustion. So to help children and parents deal with the adjustment during this pandemic, here are some of the best things to do.

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Establish New Routines

To cope with the disruptions in this time of global health situation, it is useful to establish new routines. No, it does not have to be a total routine make-over because a small and little by little changes are enough to sustain a better function.  These new sets of tasks can help children with autism develop better emotional and mental strength and allows the whole family to avoid stress and anxiety as well. The entire family can begin by adjusting the morning routines and add something from there. Like for example, after waking up, let the kids arrange their beds before they head towards their breakfast. Or allow them to do some 5 to 10 minute stretching before they take a bath. Parents can also use the children’s school schedule as a guideline to add better transitions between activities and breaks.

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Transition From School To Home

It is essential to understand that children with autism will not easily comply with the changes in their routines, even if the task only requires a small effort. Regardless of what it is, autistic children will find it stressful and exhausting. During this pandemic time, the biggest challenge for them is not going to school. So for some, the whole experience can cause trauma and unwanted behavior. For others, it will need more than a simple transition. So to be able to arrange impressive progress of transitioning, parents should allow kids to still do what the kids are used to do. These include waking up early, taking a bath, putting on kids’ school uniforms, and even pretend to ride a bus to school. From there, the transition can happen by removing some of the daily school tasks in an alternate process. There should be an alternative activity that will take the spot of the familiar routine.

Aside from school, therapies will also need to transition. Since we need to reduce physical interactions during this time, treatment will shift to online platforms like that of BetterHelp. No need to worry because these platforms employ licensed therapies that are professional and knowledgeable.

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Create A School Space At Home

Children with autism love school, and not visiting it for an extended period can negatively affect their emotional and mental behavior. But since there are not many parents who can do due to the pandemic situation, they might as well create a school space at home. It will allow autistic children to feel and experience familiar habits regardless of a different environment. So to accomplish this, parents can try setting up a room that will enable school space activities. They can incorporate some of the children’s preferred classroom by putting up a desk and chairs.  Parents can also copy an educational ambiance by setting up a blackboard, piling up some books, and even arranging art materials inside the room. If possible, parents can also use visual support to help increase children’s understanding. To make it more interesting for kids, parents can allow the children to assist in creating their new school space at home.

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Dealing with the life effects of the pandemic is not easy. And for kids with autism experiencing challenging behavior during this time, parents must understand their essential roles in providing what’s best for them.