How a Family Learned to Cope with Defiance, Anxiety and Autism

Billy was 13 years old, and had been suspended from school several times for physical altercations with peers. He was defiant at home and at school, and exhibited a great deal of social anxiety, as well as anxiety at being separated from his parents. On top of everything was the fact that Billy's younger brother, Jason, was diagnosed with autism.

For all these reasons, Billy was referred to Family-Based Mental Health Services. Our two-person team of therapists met with Billy on a weekly basis to help him improve his coping and anger management skills, as well as cope with Jason's diagnosis. They met weekly with Billy's parents to help them establish more positive parenting skills, and to work together as a team. They also assisted the family in looking at how Jason's autism had impacted everyone, and linked them with support groups to meet other families who have children with autism. Finally, the team met with the entire family to strengthen their relationships and build better communication skills.

By the end of the treatment, Billy was able to transition to outpatient services. His parents reported better communication in the family. Best of all, their co-parenting skills were easing Billy's defiance.