ASD 18 year old son is very depressed - need therapist and support recommendations Post Reply

[helenswan1977]

Hi all, my eldest son (18 and doing A levels in local comp) has recently been diagnosed with ASD and over the last couple of years has become increasingly depressed, withdrawn and non communicative. He is a deeply empathic, intelligent and lovely boy and its just awful to see him struggling so much. I am very lucky to have BUPA cover but am really struggling to find a therapist - its so difficult to know where to start and I don't want him to be put off by talking to the wrong person (this has happened once already). Can anyone out there recommend any therapists / psychologists and has anyone else been through this experience? I'm feeling pretty out of my depth. 2 of my other sons are also likely ASD / ADHD (I have recently had an ADHD diagnosis too) as are my mother and 3 siblings - but we were all later diagnosed and have had so many struggles in life that I'm desperate to stop the same happening to my sons. 
Would be very grateful for any advice or help. Thank you

[P Harris]

I rate CF Psychology based in Harley street for help and support.

Also, we have had many students request a mentor to help them reengage with activities, school work, tutors and get motivated again. Please do look at Harrison Allen based in Earlsfield. We work with many students on spectrum who are often not in mainstream schools.

Best wishes going forward
Pippa

[Lulu Luckock]

If you would like to have a free 20-minute chat to see if I can help please do get in touch via my website- lululuckock.com

[Nadia1234]

Hi there,

Have you looked on the Counselling Directory or the BACP register to find a suitable therapist? I also wonder if the school has a counsellor or if they can point you in the direction of an appropriate support service?

Wishing you and your son the best of luck

[James rainey]

he should listen to the blindboy podcast.

he is an Irish entertainer who speaks a lot about his own experiences with crippling anxiety and has himself been diagnosed on the spectrum