Relationship Development Intervention

Hi there

I have a 14 year old son and he is on the lower end of the spectrum. Over the years he has had regular Speech Therapy, O.T and Physio. We also did some ABA when he was quite young. Even though he made progress I always felt that there was something missing between us. I was my son's carer and that was the extent of our relationship. A few years back I had the opportunity to learn about RDI (Relationship Development Intervention). We ended up starting our journey with RDI and actually haven't looked back. The connection that I now have with my boy is really delightful. Another big bonus is that I can now take my son out into the community and not be housebound, as we were two years ago. I have my life back and my son is also expanding his horizons.

Sorry for the long story but I thought it would be interesting to start an RDI thread. Perhaps you have a story to tell or you haven't heard of RDI. I look forward to your response.

Morgie over 12 years ago

My husband has not been diagnosed (and isn't sure yet if he wants to be), and I am struggling to understand what I can do to help him. He had never even considered that he could possibly have Aspergers until rescently. So it has been a big shock to him, I was not surprised when he told me the results he had got on an online ASD test though. I have talked to him about how he feels, and he has opened up to me lately, much more than he ever has done, but other than listening and trying to be supportive, I feel and (from our conversation last night) so does he, that I should be doing more to accomodate his behaviour. Previously I had put it down to being arrogant and at times uncaring. It is difficult to change the way I respond to him, even though I am now aware of what may be causing his behaviour.
I have heard of RDI, but have no idea if it could help us, and how to start looking into it, any help would be appreciated.