Family Support Groups For Autism
There are thousands of support groups around the world. Finding a support group in your location is now made easy with a quick Google search. Simply type autism support group followed by your city or location. Autism Empowerment provides a worldwide listing of resources
There is no one institution that manages autism support groups in the United States. However, some large groups can have several branches or chapters in different locations across the country.
Here are some examples of autism support groups:
Support Programmes For Parents And Carers
EarlyBird , EarlyBird Plus , and Teen Life are support programmes for parents and carers, offering advice and guidance on strategies and approaches to working with young autistic children. The programmes work on understanding autism, building confidence to encourage interaction and communication, and understanding and supporting behaviour.
Parent And Caregiver Support Group
UPDATE: Postponed until further notice
In association with: Asperger Society Ontario Description: Provides a forum for learning, support, and the exchange of information for parents, family members and caregivers of children with Asperger Syndrome. No feesLocation: Toronto City Hall Committee Room #4 Meetings: Monthly last Monday of each month from 6:30 8:00 p.m.
www.parentsadvocacy.com Description: A support group for parents and caregivers to help them advocate for the programs and services their children with exceptionalities require. Information, resources and parent training is available via PAS. A new initiative is the creation of PAAT- The Parents Advocacy Association of Toronto & GTA Where Parents of Children With Special Needs Unite.Contact: Dr. Norm Forman416-429-8511 or PAAT 647-794-6679 email:
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Downtown Family Support Group
In association with: Gifted People Services and Community Matters TorontoDescription: Parent Support Group for parents of teens and adults with developmental disability. Includes speakers, discuss issues of concern to the group members.Location: Online through Zoom, must RSVPMeetings: 2nd Saturday every month from 1pm to 4pmContact: Dianna Jiang, , 647-886-9062
For Children And Young People
For people under 25, ask your council about their “local offer”.
This is the name for the support they provide for young people with special educational needs.
Every council has to have a local offer.
You can also get advice about the local offer from your local special educational needs advice service.
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Finding The Right Way To Support Yourself
Getting children the help they need from therapists will improve their lives significantly. When a child with autism receives the right therapy, they will feel more comfortable. They have the tools they need to communicate, learn, and navigate social interactions, and this empowers them to live independent, balanced lives. It is vital for young children to socialize with the adults in their lives, especially their parents or guardians. This means that parents must get support, through support groups, from other parents along with therapists or leaders who run the group. Finding ways to lessen the stress in your life will help you be there for your child, so you can encourage their growth and development.
Online Google Group Discussion Forum For Parents And Families Of Post
Our free online discussion forum is designed for parents of post-high school adults. Siblings, aunts, uncles, and other adult family members may also join this group. In this forum, you can share your concerns, questions, and successes with more than 300 other parents and family members throughout the US and Canada.
It is recommended that all members of Online Google Group Discussion Forums join with a gmail email account.
If you prefer to remain anonymous as a member of the Online Google Group Discussion Forum:
- Create a newgmailaccount before joining the forum. This will allow you to remain anonymous.
- Forward the emails related to the forum to your primary email address inbox.
- BUT only send emails from the Google Group dashboard to remain anonymous
- Make sure that when you “reply all” your personal email address is NOT the sender.
- ONLY use the Google Group Forum nameas the “reply all” sender
If you agree to join then you agree to follow forum guidelines.
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Autism Society Of Nebraska Adults On The Spectrum Support Group
Our Adult Social Group is open to individuals with an autism diagnosis or those who suspect themselves to be on the spectrum. We meet on the third Thursday evening of the month from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm at the UNO Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center. Parking is available in Lot E just north of the Community Engagement Center . Light snacks are served. If you have any questions, call 1-800-580-9279.
Referring You To Other Organisations
We may at times signpost enquirers on to other organisations. We cannot guarantee the service of other organisations we refer you to and therefore cannot make recommendations. These external websites and organisations are maintained by other groups. They are provided in good faith. The presence of a service does not necessarily imply that the National Autistic Society endorses or supports the originator, nor does the absence of a group imply that the National Autistic Society does not support it and cannot be held responsible for the quality of information provided.
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Reach Rethinking Autistic Childrens Health
This is a parent group seeking non-traditional therapies for their children. Join their discussion to learn about their approach to get children healthy, put parents into action and help them implement what they are learning. This group is very hands-on, come and be inspired to act! Meetings are monthly and will be held mainly at Natural Grocers at 17602 Wright Street . Some months there will be fun events like boot camps for the kiddos or a fun, relaxing event for mothers. For more information contact Ashley Ward at 402-317-0391 or .
As The Parent Of A Teen Or Young Adult With Aspergers Or High Functioning Autism:
- Do you feel like you’re giving your all to support your child?
- Is communicating with your child sometimes a battle of the wills?
- Do you feel like youre carrying the load, keeping things organized, dealing with childcare responsibilities, and not getting enough help?
- Do you feel judged and like people don’t really understand what you’re going through?
- Are you constantly going to battle for your child and acting as their greatest ally?
- Do you get little time to take care of yourself, and often feel drained?
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They Help Parents Cope
Another way in which support groups help parents of autistic children is by helping them cope. The journey of raising a child with autism can be a difficult one, and it is often filled with challenges.
Support groups provide a space for parents to share their experiences and offer each other advice on how to cope with these challenges.
Autism Society Of Nebraska Preschool Playdate
Join other Pre-K children with autism for a monthly playdate. Playdates are the third Saturday of each month from 10 am to 11 am in the upper level of the Autism Center of Nebraska, 90th and Q. Its one fun-filled hour of sensory and play activities hosted with the help of Creighton University OT students. Our children have so much fun they dont realize theyre working on critical skills. Cant wait to see you at preschool playdate! Call 1-800-580-9279 with any questions.
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Kinds Of Autism Support Groups
There are many kinds of support groups, and this applies to autism support groups as well. Groups can vary in purpose which is usually determined by the group leader.
- Peer-led support groups. These groups are led by parents of children with autism. They are often formed for giving and receiving advice, as well as getting emotional support.
- Education support groups. These are groups that focus on providing the latest information to its members. Some groups meet and encourage members to deliver a presentation about a certain topic regularly.
- Professionally-led support groups. These groups are usually led and funded by organizations who pursue autism as advocacy. Groups like these are often run by psychologists, social workers, or school personnel.
Aspergers Parent Support Group
This support group is for parents of children of any age with Aspergers Disorder at Williamsburg Behavioral Psychology, 3801 Union Dr., Suite 206, Lincoln . You will be able to talk with other parents and professionals about your parenting challenges and issues. You will receive helpful support, feedback and education about how to cope who is diagnosed with Aspergers Disorder. For more information call 402-489-2218, ask for Dr. Tapley or leave her a message.
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Autism Society Of Indiana Northeast Office
127 Airport North Office Park Fort Wayne, IN 46825
Autism Society of Indiana has Area Support Coordinators to assist individuals and family members living with autism. Coordinators are personally affected by autism and have a solid foundation of what it is like to have and manage an autism spectrum disorder. Because every part of Indiana has different needs, the coordinators work hard to know the services provided by local disability providers, community mental health centers, schools, hospitals, and state agencies. Also, check the ASI website for other programs they offer to support to families and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Social Media And Forums
There are many people with experience of autism offering support and sharing their stories on forums and social media.
You do not have to talk to others in online groups, but it can be helpful to look at what they’re saying.
A good place to start is the groups run by autism charities. But bear in mind the NHS does not monitor these sites.
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Confidentiality And Data Protection
For training and quality purposes there may occasionally be another person listening to your call. The personal data you provide will be used for administration, statistical and other purposes connected with the National Autistic Society and autism.Information is not disclosed to third parties for marketing or other purposes not connected with autism. Technical and organisational measures are taken to prevent unauthorised or unlawful processing or disclosure of information. Please see our privacy and data protection policy.
Other Mental Health Services & Autism Resources At Open Doors Therapy
Our San Francisco Bay Area mental health clinic focuses on supporting individuals with autistic traits. Our clinic provides telehealth online therapy for clients across the state of California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, the San Francisco Bay Area, and smaller Californian cities. We help those who identify as having Asperger’s, undiagnosed autism traits, etc. and their families. More specifically, our services include individual counseling, parent counseling, and groups. Some of our support and educational groups include those for college students with autistic traits and those seeking college transition training, young adults with autism,neurodiverse adults, working professionals, women who identify as neurodiverse, and gifted youth & caregivers. We offer an online parent support group to support autism parents and online group therapy. I have been blogging to provide timely autism resources for autistic teens and young adults! If you would like more information about any of these services, please reach out today!
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Autism Society Of Nebraska Elementary Social Club
Elementary Social Club is a monthly meet up featuring both guided and free play activities which allow our children to have fun in a judgment-free environment while building friendships and life skills. Our activities are targeted for all elementary kids . Each month will feature a different theme with suitable activities, crafts and/or games to match. Volunteers are on hand to assist families but caregiver supervision is required. Siblings are always welcome, as are a friend or two if needed. We meet the third Saturday afternoon of each month from 3 pm to 4 pm in the upper level of the Autism Center of Nebraska, 90th and Q. If you have any questions, call 1-800-580-9279.
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Everyones Story Is Different
The experience of Autism is not one thing. It is many things. Its dreams, talents, relationships, victories, hurdles, and everything in between. The connection between those experiences is you.
You break the mold. No matter who you are, the person you are is infiniteand you are the only you there is.
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Chinese Speaking Family Support Group
In association with: Spirit of LifeDescription: A family network supporting Cantonese and Mandarin speaking individuals with families who have a son or daughter with a developmental disability in the Chinese community in the GTA.Location: Zoom Meeting RSVP contact to be invitedMeetings: 4th Friday of each month
Social Group For Autistic Individuals Ages 15
This group is for youth/young adults with Autism ages 15-22. It is facilitated by ASC staff and volunteers who support social interactions and connection between group members while they participate in a community based activity or outing.
Monster-themed mini-golf center featuring a glow-in-the-dark indoor course and arcade games.
Costumes are optional and encouraged. No toy weapons. No cost to registered participants. Registration required. Register HERE.
If you have questions please email
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All Alberta Virtual Parents Of Special Needs Children Support Meetings
As part of Autism Alberta’s Family Resource Centres, our Family Resource Coordinators are hosting a new series of support group meetings. To see the calendar of upcoming meetings, . For more information about any of the upcoming meetings, you can contact our Family Resource Coordinators at or 587-282-1424.
Why Are Autism Support Groups For Parents Important
Parents of children with autism tend to face unique challenges that only other parents of autistic children are capable of understanding. This is why support groups for parents of autistic children are so important. They provide a space for parents to share their experiences, offer each other advice and support, and vent about the challenges they face.
For many parents, these groups are a lifeline. They provide much-needed social interaction and allow parents to connect with others who understand what they are going through. If you are a parent of an autistic child, seek out a support group in your area. You dont have to go through this journey alone. There are people who understand and are here to help.
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Grand Island Area Autism Support Group
The Grand Island Area Autism Support Group meets the second Sunday of the month at Third City Christian Church located at 4100 West 13th Street. Meetings are from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Contact Andrea Beck at 402-679-1115, 308-687-6270, or for more information. Childcare is available call Bridget at 308-381-8844 to arrange.
Autism Support Groups In Specific States
Each state boasts a variety of support groups for parents of children with autism, and you can find support groups in your state by using the resources above.Here are some options in the following states:New York
Bebos Angels Autism Support GroupMany sites gather autism support group listings for specific states. For example, the University of South Florida has a page dedicated to autism-related support groups in the state.Search for autism-specific support groups in your state, and youll find a variety of resources available. You can also use the support group search feature on Psychology Today to find local groups.
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Troubled Youth Support Groups For Parents
The teenage years can be challenging for adolescents trying to figure out who they are and where they fit in. They can also be some of the more difficult years for parents, especially if youre dealing with a troubled teen. If your child is struggling with mental or behavioral health issues, anger management challenges, an eating disorder or self-harming tendencies, getting help for them and yourself is essential.
There are support groups that provide help for parents with troubled teenagers. Online support groups for parents of troubled teens play a vital role in helping families cope with the challenges of parenting a child with behavioral or emotional problems. These groups create a space for parents to share their experiences and learn from one another. They can also offer resources and referrals to help you access available services and support.
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Special Needs Forum For Families
Forum for Families was started in the fall of 2013. It is their goal to educate, support, and celebrate with those who love and care for people with special needs. They meet the 2nd Sundays of the month, 3-5pm, at Countryside Community Church . This group is not faith-based, any diagnoses and age welcome. For more information contact Maria Gaebler at 402-594-5272 or .
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Open Support Groups For Parents/family Of Adults
Online “Open” Support Groups for Parents of Adults have new people joining from session to session and are FREE. Registration is required. The groups are facilitated by AANE staff, consultants, or volunteers who themselves are on the autism spectrum, have family members on the spectrum, or have worked extensively with the Asperger/autism community. Learn more about our facilitators here.Click on the event links below to learn more and register.
Support Group for Families with All Age Members – Meets the second Tuesday of the month. Facilitated by Dr. Kate Cody and Pat Schissel, LMSW.