Abstract

People on the autism spectrum often present with symptoms indicating poor self-awareness or hyper-awareness, low self-esteem, depression and difficulty connecting with others. Treatment which relies on medical and behavioural views of autism risks ignoring emotional factors. This book demonstrates that counselling and emotional support is not only possible for people on the autism spectrum, but essential.

David Moat describes the impact of autism on emotional perception and regulation, and looks at how various therapeutic principles can helpfully be applied to address these issues. He identifies strategies for dealing with common emotional difficulties, including anxiety, anger and depression, as well as techniques for aiding relaxation. Specific approaches to use as part of holistic care are described, including play therapy, the use of imagery and story-making, hypnotherapy, intensive interaction, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and positive psychology.

This is essential reading for all those working therapeutically with people on the autism spectrum, including counsellors, therapists and psychologists, as well as parents.

I have been influenced by David's words and methods for many years. He clearly 'gets' autism. This book provides a plethora of ideas which put autism at the centre of the approach. I will certainly be using this very valuable book in my work.
Sarah Hendrickx, author and specialist consultant and trainer in autism and Asperger syndrome
This book is very informative providing valuable information on an integrative approach to the autism spectrum and is written in a sensitive manner. This book would be a valuable resource for practitioners who are working therapeutically with children on the autism spectrum and who wish to know more about a holistic approach. Parents may also find this book useful.
Play for Life
David Moat is an Integrative Psychotherapist with over twenty-six years' experience of working with individuals on the autism spectrum. He is a past joint-chair of The Confederation of Service Providers for People with Autism (CoSPPA) and has been a registered team leader in the Autism Accreditation Programme. He currently lives and practices psychotherapy in Cambridge, UK, where he is Initial Treatment Consultant at the Integrated Autism Clinic.
David has produced an excellent volume related to the psychotherapeutic support of individuals with autism. A wide-ranging text written in an extremely sensitive and informative manner, this is an excellent introduction to possible ways of working with autistic individuals.
Dr Luke Beardon, Senior Lecturer in Autism, The Autism Centre, Sheffield Hallam University