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Contemplative Therapy for Clients on the Autism Spectrum

Contemplative Therapy for Clients on the Autism Spectrum

Rachael Lee Harris | Tony Attwood

(2017)

Abstract

Drawing on the ancient tradition of contemplation, Reflective Integration Therapy™ shows how mantra meditation and reflective therapy can be used with clients with high functioning autism.

The Reflective Integration Therapy™ programme uses the cognitive differences in those with autism, such as their innate capacity for silence, withdrawal, intense focus and repetition as sources of therapeutic healing. This manual introduces this fresh, unique therapeutic approach, creating an essential resource for all practitioners working in the field of autism. All the material for twelve weekly sessions of therapy is included within the book.


Rachael Lee Harris is a psychotherapist in private practice specialising in high-functioning autism and Asperger's based in Brisbane, Australia.
Rachael's refreshing new therapy describes a journey of self-acceptance from within, often a unique experience for autistic individuals who are constantly dealing with non-acceptance in a neuro-typical world. Whilst highlighting and utilising the positives of autism (of which there are many!) Harris channels these strengths in 12 outlined sessions to aid clients in a journey of change from a very internal perspective. Not fixing, but healing.
Rachel Nelmes, Counsellor MBACP BA (Hons)
I highly recommend this book to all health practitioners working with clients with ASC. The method is powerful and revolutionary. With great skill, insight and love Rachael has given us a map for how to assist our clients to understand and accept themselves at the deepest levels, seeking not to change or to cure but to heal. If you are on the spectrum, ask your psychologist or counsellor to use this book.
Dr Michelle Garnett MPsych(Clin) PhD(Psych) MAPS MCCP Clinical Psychologist/Director of Minds & Hearts: A Unique Clinic For Autism Spectrum Conditions
Rachael Harris has developed an innovative therapy model based in meditation and contemplation. Focussed on the strengths in autism and the therapeutic relationship, the book presents a new model of supporting autistic clients to achieve social, emotional and spiritual growth. I strongly recommend this book to therapists and clinicians working with autistic people.
eanette Purkis, autistic advocate, speaker and co-author of The Guide to Good Mental Health on the Autism Spectrum

Table of Contents

Section Title Page Action Price
Contemplative Therapy for Clients on the Autism Spectrum 1
Acknowledgements 9
About Reflective Integration Therapy™ (RIT™) 11
Foreword by Tony Attwood 13
Introduction 15
Chapter 1. A Brief Philosophy 32
Chapter 2. The Centrality of the Therapeutic Relationship 35
Chapter 3. Programme Outline 40
Chapter 4. RIT Session 1: The Practice of Mantra Meditation 46
Chapter 5. RIT Session 2: Beginning the Journey 55
Chapter 6. RIT Session 3: The Mystery of Self 61
Chapter 7. RIT Session 4: The Healing of Memories 67
Chapter 8. RIT Session 5: Autism and the Ego 76
Chapter 9. RIT Session 6: Building Emotional Resilience 84
Chapter 10. RIT Session 7: Autistic Awareness 91
Chapter 11. RIT Session 8: Self-Esteem 98
Chapter 12. RIT Session 9: Removing the Mask 104
Chapter 13. RIT Session 10: The True Self 109
Chapter 14. RIT Session 11: Self and Service 114
Chapter 15. RIT Session 12: Debriefing and Continuing Care 120
Chapter 16. Case Studies 125
References 173
Further Reading and Resources 175
Glossary 177
Index 180
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