Autism spectrum disorders and autism are a type of neurodevelopmental disorder which can lead to repetitive patterns of behaviour, difficulties with verbal or written communication, and issues interacting on a social level. It is important that individuals with the most complex needs receive the appropriate level of support to lead a full and rich life.
After consulting with the service user and family members, a care plan will be created to ensure that all their needs are appropriately met. This care plan is likely to include a selection of therapy techniques and intervention activities that are proven to be highly effective. If you are looking at care jobs in Southampton, here are just a few ways you could make a difference.
1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
There is evidence to suggest that CBT can contribute to a reduction in feelings of anxiety and its associated symptoms in some autistic people. CBT counsellors focus on helping service users to change the way they view themselves, past events, and what might happen in the future, with a view to helping them to cope better with everyday life.
2. Social Stories
Social stories can teach autistic adults about social behaviour using a short narrative which can be presented in written or video form. The story might include why and where a specific situation might occur, how other people might react or feel about the situation, and why people might react in those ways.
Social stories will feature a clearly identifiable topic, such as maintaining conversations, friendship, or listening, and finish with a conclusion which aims to reinforce the information contained within the main story. Social stories aim to teach autistic adults how to recognise the thoughts, intentions and emotions of other people through the use of body language, speech qualities, and facial expressions that are associated with particular emotions.
3. Peer-to-Peer Interaction Activities
Many autistic adults find social interaction challenging. Support workers can be trained to facilitate peer-to-peer activities which aim to build upon social interaction skills by focusing on everything from verbal greetings to eye contact.
4. Play Therapy
Humans are adept at learning through play, which is why specialised play therapies can be so effective. Play therapy is a technique which allows service users to explore their imagination and creativity in a safe and supported setting. Some play therapies can also be used to help foster important social communication skills and complement a variety of other techniques and intervention activities.
5. Communication Therapy
Speech impairment is a challenge that many autistic adults experience, which can further prevent effective and meaningful communication. Care homes can facilitate communication therapies with skilled professionals, who will work with the service user on a one-to-one basis to enhance their language and cognitive capabilities.
Thinking of applying for care jobs in Southampton?
If you are considering embarking on a career in care, there are a variety of highly rewarding roles that you may be suitable for. In addition to making a tangible difference to your local community, care jobs in Southampton will provide you with a variety of core skills that will help you to excel in your chosen field.
