Hi All,
Advice is needed to whether this venture is really a good idea or not!
I am interested in finding out the need/want for a local private (affordable) Autism Support within the area. To aid with all areas of support from one to one therapy sessions, to transitions to school, signing, visual aids..? I currently am working within the NHS and am aware of the struggles parents in the area have obtaining support both PRE and POST diagnosis . I have over 3 years clinical experience working with children with ASD, including 1:1 play therapy sessions working on aiding a child's social and communication skills, assisting and devising visual aids/social stories , working with pre schools/nursery/schools . I have experience with the diagnostic process itself and have contributed to many diagnostic clinics over the years. Along with my clinical experience I have also researched areas of struggle; such as my paper looking at parent experiences of the diagnostic process and also researching into the use of menatolin with children with ASD.
Qualification wise I have a degree in Autistic Spectrum Disorders (along with too much other specialist training to even list), a 1st class undergrad degree in Psychology and an NVQ Level 3 in Childcare Learning & Development.
I already run 2 groups for parents with a child with ASD; a diagnosis support group and a parent workshop offering play skills/ advice through the NHS.
My concern in as I was trained through the NHS I do not have the "ABA" Label that all parents seem to have heard of and want for private support. I am trained just as well as an ABA tutor just not with the label(!)- ABA is more of a "learnt behaviour" rather then a genuine want and understanding (I didnt know if this stance would go against me?!)
I am curious to see if my services would be something that would be wanted within the area as I am soon to be a mother of 2 and interested in seeing where my qualifications & experience could take me! I am thinking of offering home services/school visits and therapy from my home as well as mobile services! Please feel free to get in touch and let me know! thank you!
