Where to go to get family support/counselling when child's behaviour is impacting on all of life?

[linspins]

Hi ladies,
I'm after a bit of information to support a friend. Her son (4 yrs old) has possible/suspected Asperger's, and some Sensory Processing difficulties. He has not seen a paediatrician yet though. His behaviour at home and out and about is so bad that his mother is at the edge emotionally now. She feels her choices of places to go out to play or visit are limited because of his weird or difficult behaviour, and I know she feels bewildered, embarrassed and alone. She does not have family support locally, and her son's behaviour has alienated her and her family from her in-laws who won't have the 4 yr old in their house now. At home he bites, kicks, screams, throws and uses words as bad as he knows. His behaviour in his Kindergarten class is reasonable. We spoke earlier and she was so close to tears all the time, I am worried for her mental/emotional health. I don't think she can take much more.

I am wondering where she can go to get support or counselling for her family - would a GP be able to help? Are there specific services to call upon? Any advice very gratefully received. Thank you.

Local children's centre
Challenging behavior foundation
Ambitious about autism - do fantastic courses, check out their website.
Go to GP and refuse to leave without a referral to the pead.

Personally, I'd get in a Behavioural Consultant (BCBA registered). But unfortunately you'll have to pay, though the good ones give you a decent amount of time on the phone before you commit.

Well worth your friend asking the GP about counselling services for parents of children with SN. They do exist, but not everywhere. I used a service like this a couple of times, it was a lifeline in the sort of situation you're describing.

Is there a carer's centre near you..they usually offer counselling.

THank you so much ladies, I will investigate those suggestions so I can pass on some the details once I've checked out what is near us. I hate seeing another family in so much pain and trauma.