Hi Everybody,
I thought I would join this forum to see if anyone can help me. I'd be very grateful...
I know a woman on the autistic spectrum to whom particular routines and rituals are very important. The trouble is, these have become so elaborate it is now very difficult for her to get out into the community, and she spends most of the time at home.
It can take several days for her to complete one of her 'days' e.g. it can take wednesday, thursday and friday for her to eat the three meals she needs to to complete 'Wednesday'. She does snack, but will not go to bed till she has completed one of her days. She cannot access day services as she can't get far enough in her routine regularly enough to get out at a reasonable time each day. She seems unhappy and depressed but unable to reduce her routines and rituals to get a better quality of life.
I was wondering if anyone knew of anyone who specialised in helping autistic people managing routines and rituals? The challenging behaviour expert on her local social services team has not been able to help. I was wondering does anyone know of someone who has the expertise to help? There should be money to pay for help, if anyone has a good recommendation - something in the London area...