Third wave (EMDR, ACBT, ACT) versus solution focussed therapy for autistic DD14

[Randomeemoh]

Hi
DD14 has recently been diagnosed with autism level 1, anxiety and depression. She is currently off school (since May) due to autistic burnout. She’s also suffered from dissociation for 2 years.

we have FINALLY been offered therapy, with 2 options:

1. Clinical psychologist (who did her assessment) recommends third wave therapies, specifically neuro affirming and adapted for people with autism. She has experience with supporting people in DDs situation. We would pay. She can only do it fortnightly.

2. Solution focussed therapy via local CAMHS referral. Free (but I imagine limited eg 6-8 sessions). Creative approach. Also experienced in supporting people with autism and DDs symptoms.

DD doesn’t mind either, she just wants the most specialised approach. She doesn’t mind 121, although she does find it hard to identify her feelings and express herself.

i would really like to hear others’ experiences of either/both.

thank you

Take the free stuff and come back for the other stuff when that runs out if you need it.

If it doesn't work, stress to your daughter that its the approach that didn't work/wasn't a good fit and not that she did anything wrong. Just so it doesn't dent her confidence for subsequent sessions.

Thanks - if you don’t mind sharing what’s your experience of either/bother? I am not bothered really if we need to pay, more that it’s the right therapy. They seem like very different approaches. Especially for the dissociation which SFT doesn’t really address?