Clinicians' experiences and perceptions of family therapy in the context of autism

Abstract

There is a paradoxical paradigm operating in neurodiverse families with autistic children, indicating increased stress alongside enrichment of family life. An emerging body of research has shown that the use of family therapy can improve family functioning and relationships in neurodiverse families. The current study uses constructivist grounded theory to explore clinicians' experiences and perceptions of utilising family therapy in the context of autism. Study findings suggest that clinicians integrate therapeutic techniques from diverse family therapy approaches to improve family relations by bridging different ways of learning and communicating as well as facilitating multiple perspectives. Integrating therapeutic techniques across diverse approaches further encompasses working with the systems around the individual with autism. To adapt family therapy in the context of autism, it is suggested that clinicians examine their own perspectives and beliefs about autism and keep a curious stance during the process.