Autistic 16 Year Old
Question
I have an autistic son who is nearly 16, attends a normal type of school and is the eldest sibling. His self esteem is low, he is verbally aggressive and socially awkward. He also has sleeping problems and does not achieve academically. He is aware that he has difficulties. To an onlooker, he appears grumpy and bad mannered. Do you think hypnotherapy would be of any help to him?
Answer
I most certainly do feel hypnotherapy could be helpful to James, but recommend one who likes working with children and youth and has some years of experience--ideally, of course, someone who understands autism--although I wouldn't be limited to that. It depends upon your son and his own openness to working with a hypnotherapist. I haven't worked directly with autism itself, but I've had good success with several of your son's problems. Hypnotic methods work very effectively with self-esteem and confidence, learning problems, moods and sleep problems, as well as many other issues. It wouldn't surprise me that his problems are very related to his autism and his awareness level of this in relationship to others. If you haven't already done so, I would strongly advise that you check into the services of a naturopathic or homeopathic physician, or, at least a nutritionist, to make sure your child is also absorbing the kind of nutrients needed. It is amazing how often a child's (or adult's) concentration level and activity level is affected by what they eat.