Support & Coaching For All The Family

Whatever the age of your child, if you have just received a diagnosis of autism, PDA or ADHD it can be incredibly overwhelming and difficult to know where to turn to next. We can offer advice or guidance around supporting your child at home and at school. Perhaps you are at the start of your journey of discovering your child’s needs and are looking for guidance to navigate your journey. A diagnosis is not required to access the support we offer.

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.

Support & Coaching for all the family

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 is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)?

PDA is a complex autism spectrum condition characterised by high anxiety and a need for autonomy.  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.