Florida Family Support Launches Support Groups For Families Of Those On The Autism Spectrum

DELRAY BEACH, Fla. - March 24, 2016 - PRLog -- Today, approximately one in 68 births results in a child with autism spectrum disorder, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Further, prevalence of autism in U.S. children has increased 119% from 2000 to 2010 making it the fastest-growing developmental disability. Florida Family Support (http://flfamilysupport.com), which provides personalized ABA or Applied Behavioral Analysis services for children with autism and/or on the autism spectrum, has launched a new service dedicated to supporting the families of those children. The often forgotten parents, siblings and other family members will now have the opportunity to attend and participate in support groups in Palm Beach County and Northern Broward County.

According to Natalia Perez, MS, BCBA, LPC, IMH, Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Mental Health Intern and founder of Florida Family Support, the family of those children with autism and/or on the spectrum plays the most critical role in the growth and development of the patient. However, unfortunately they are often unsure of what their role should be or how to support their child, brother, sister or grandchild, or even each other. Researchers estimate that the divorce rate for families with children who have autism is over 80% (Bolman, 2006).

"After nearly a decade of working with children with autism and on the autism spectrum, I quickly saw the important role that the families play," Perez said. "Unfortunately, the parents' and siblings' needs are often put on the back burner. During our support groups, we focus on providing family support and counseling to ensure they are prepared to handle the stressors and issues that are bound to present "

To meet the needs of this integral group, Perez has launched a unique service, which was first piloted during the fall of 2015 with eight families. Due to positive feedback, two new Family Support Groups will be fully rolled out this spring just in time for National Autism Awareness Month. To sign up, please visit https://www.flfamilysupport.com/boca-groups.php.

Family members will benefit from talking, mediation, education, rich curriculum, and friendship, while learning skills to cope in addition to confidence-building exercises. Two Family Support Group sessions are currently available for enrollment: Intro and Part 2. Each module runs for six weeks; specific dates and locations are posted on the FLFamilySupport.com website. Each session is taught and moderated by a skilled therapist or an independent expert and feature topics-of-discussion including: The Taboos of Autism, Acceptance & Grief, Therapy & Treatments, Future & Sexuality, and Family Conflict.

About Family Support Groups

Through the "Family Support Groups," a service offered by Florida Family Support, families are provided a safe place where they can share experiences, find support, learn new techniques and skills, and make friends with other parents and siblings who understand their unique situation. The group focuses on working with families regarding their own relationships, the need for a sense of belonging and need for support in a safe environment. Unlike traditional group therapy, Family Support Groups focus on the families specifically and provide resources and take-home skills for coping and successfully raising a child on the spectrum.

About Florida Family Support, LLC

Florida Family Support provides personalized ABA or Applied Behavioral Analysis services for children (18 months and up) with autism and/or on the autism spectrum, and their families in the Palm Beach and North Broward markets. Founder Natalia Perez, MS, BCBA, LPC, IMH, and her team of experienced and skilled therapists demonstrate their incredible passion and understanding with each and every family they work with.

Recognizing the importance of the child's support system and family as a key to the success of behavioral therapy, Florida Family Support uses a multidisciplinary approach by integrating one-on-one therapy with not only the child, but also the family. Training and "Family Support Groups" are provided for caregivers, siblings, and family members to assist them in handling the difficult times and pressures that may emerge. Most individual counseling sessions take place in the patient's home and/or personal community where the reality of life exists.

Florida Family Support is committed to creating a supportive community focused on training, sharing experiences, building confidence, and strengthening the family relationship.

To sign up, visit www.FLFamilySupport.com. Contact Florida Family Support at info@FLfamilysupport.com or 305-305-6367.