Support & Coaching

For all the family

Support & Coaching for all the family

Whatever the age of your child, if you have just received a diagnosis of autism it can be incredibly overwhelming and difficult to know where to turn to next. You can arrange a meeting to discuss your child's individual needs. We can also offer support by phone and by video calls and e-mail. Support is on-going and we work with families to ensure that parenting an autistic child and associated conditions can become a little easier. We can also offer support with schooling, Education Health Care Plans and work closely with schools to ensure that all your child's needs are met at both home and school.

One to One Consults

Child counselling

Our dedicated team of children's counsellors is headed up by Angela Kelly, a highly experienced Counsellor and Psychotherapist who is autistic herself. Our team offer children a safe place to explore their feelings and experiences whilst being offered support through an expert understanding of autism and neuro-diversity. Sessions can be offered at our offices in Bookham, online via Zoom or in schools.

PDA Support

How can we help

  • One to one consultations with parents and carers to discuss effective and compassionate support and PDA strategies

  • Liaise and work with schools and colleges to ensure appropriate support in education

  • Support Groups for parents and carers

  • Parent and carer training on PDA 

If you suspect that your child has PDA you may find it helpful to complete the Extreme Demand Avoidance Questionnaire on the PDA Society Website​ - Take the questionnaire

What people are saying

“We were absolutely delighted with Laura’s presentation on Understanding PDA. All of the attendees found the session so useful. Laura is a gifted presenter and trainer and her passion for this subject is obvious. The session was engaging, with Laura sharing so much of her knowledge and personal experience, balanced with strategies on how we can help our children with Pathological Demand Avoidance.”

— Kate Laine-Toner | Founding Director, Bristol Autism Support

What is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)?

PDA is a complex autism spectrum condition characterised by high anxiety and a need to be in control.  As a result of high anxiety individuals with PDA can find everyday demands and requests intolerable.  Often children and young people with PDA can display behaviours that are challenging to others.​The strategies to manage PDA are different to the strategies that can be effective for individuals with other forms of autism.  Many parents feel frustrated and helpless as children with PDA can behave very differently at home and school, and therefore are often told that their child’s behaviour is a result of their parenting. ​Many Local Authorities do not recognise PDA as it is not in the DSMV - Surrey is one of these authorities, however, at PAST we can advise you on how to work with LA's to ensure your child gets the support they require.