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Autism Support for Caregivers

About the Group

A supportive space for parents of children with autism to connect, share experiences, and gain tools to navigate challenges and celebrate successes together.


Dates & Times: Tuesdays 7:00-8:00pm


Group Therapist:

Elizabeth Vargas, LMFT << click here to visit her bio page.


Interested in joining? Click here to fill out our group interest form.


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1. Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)


Objective: Educate caregivers about autism, its characteristics, and how it manifests in different individuals.


  • Key Topics: What is ASD? Common traits and behaviors, sensory processing challenges, social communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors.

  • Activities: Group discussion about personal experiences and common misconceptions. Provide informational handouts or visual aids.

  • Goal: Help caregivers feel informed and empowered by understanding the broader picture of ASD.


2. Effective Communication Strategies


Objective: Equip caregivers with tools to improve communication with their loved ones with autism.


  • Key Topics: Non-verbal communication, augmentative communication tools (PECS, communication boards), and using visual schedules.

  • Activities: Role-playing communication scenarios, practicing specific strategies, and brainstorming ways to improve communication at home.

  • Goal: Caregivers will learn practical ways to facilitate better communication with their child or family member.


3. Managing Challenging Behaviors


Objective: Provide strategies for understanding and managing challenging behaviors often seen in individuals with autism.


  • Key Topics: Triggers, sensory overload, meltdowns vs. tantrums, positive behavior reinforcement, and de-escalation techniques.

  • Activities: Case studies where caregivers share experiences and discuss possible interventions. Role-playing de-escalation techniques.

  • Goal: Teach caregivers how to recognize triggers and how to respond in a calm and constructive manner.


4. Self-Care for Caregivers


Objective: Encourage caregivers to prioritize their own mental and emotional well-being.


  • Key Topics: The importance of self-care, stress management, setting boundaries, and asking for help when needed.

  • Activities: Mindfulness exercises, deep breathing techniques, and creating a self-care plan. Group discussion on how to integrate self-care into daily routines.

  • Goal: Caregivers learn how to manage their own stress and maintain their well-being in order to better care for their loved ones.


5. Building a Support Network


Objective: Help caregivers connect with others and create a strong network of support.


  • Key Topics: The value of support groups, respite care, accessing local and online resources, and how to ask for help from others.

  • Activities: Group introductions to build connections, sharing local resources, and discussing how to build a team of professionals (therapists, doctors, educators).

  • Goal: Caregivers will feel less isolated and know where to turn for help.


6. Planning for the Future: Advocacy and Resources


Objective: Prepare caregivers for long-term planning, including educational, legal, and financial aspects of supporting an individual with autism.


  • Key Topics: Navigating the school system (IEPs and 504 plans), legal rights, financial planning, and long-term care.

  • Activities: Group brainstorming on advocacy tips, how to create and advocate for an effective IEP, and discussing local/state services available for future planning.

  • Goal: Caregivers feel more prepared for the future and equipped with advocacy tools.

Age:

Days/Times:

Duration:

Location:

18+ years old

Tuesdays 7:00-8:00pm

6 Weeks

Visalia

Therapist:

Elizabeth Vargas, LMFT

<p class="font_8"><strong>Elizabeth Vargas, LMFT</strong></p>

ZIMMERMAN THERAPY GROUP
Phone: (559) 212-4377  |  Fax: (559) 702-0129
Email: support@zimmermantherapygroup.com

CLOVIS LOCATION
644 Pollasky Ave. #203, Clovis, CA 93612

FRESNO LOCATION
1322 E. Shaw Ave. #260, Fresno, CA 93710

VISALIA LOCATION
1620 W. Mineral King Ave. Suite C&D, Visalia, CA 93291

Zimmerman Therapy Group is a professional organization specializing in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), EFT (Emotion-Focused Therapy), and traditional therapy methods for families, couples, adults, and children in California's Central Valley.

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