PDA in the Therapy Room: A Clinician's Guide to Working with Children with Pathological Demand Avoidance

by Raelene Dundon

Overview

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) presents a unique challenge for professionals, whereby conventional therapy methods are often perceived as demands and met with opposition where they normally would have proven effective. This guide sets out the most effective strategies for clinicians to provide the best care for children with PDA, adapting conventional modes of therapy to suit their needs. Methods include indirect techniques such as play-based therapy or trauma-informed approaches enabling the child to process their experiences on their own terms.

With additional guidance for supporting the families of patients and addressing common obstacles, this book provides understanding and guidance for professionals making a difference to the lives of children with PDA.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781787753471
Publisher:	Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Publication date:	02/18/2021
Pages:	176
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 8.98(h) x 0.55(d)

About the Author

Raelene Dundon is the Director of Okey Dokey Childhood Psychology in Melbourne, Australia. Raelene has extensive experience working with children with developmental disabilities and their families, as well as typically developing children, providing educational, social, emotional and behavioural support.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements 9

Introduction 11

1 What Is Pathological Demand Avoidance? 13

2 How Might Therapy Assist Individuals with PDA? 29

3 Why Might Traditional Therapy Approaches Be Challenging for Children with PDA? 39

4 How Might Using a Trauma-Informed Approach Be Helpful for Working with Children with PDA? 49

5 What Do You Need to Consider When Commencing Therapy with a Child with PDA? 63

6 What Are the Most Important Things to Consider When Working with Children with PDA in Therapy? 75

7 How Can We Support the Families of Children with PDA? 95

8 Practical Therapy Activities for Common Presenting Difficulties 105

9 Troubleshooting: What to Do When 135

10 A Final Reflection 145

Appendix 147

Bibliography 159

Index 165

Editorial Reviews

An outstanding blend of practical advice and theoretical understanding. This book will be an excellent resource for anyone supporting children and young people with PDA in a therapeutic role.

Ruth Fidler

This wonderful, insightful, practical book beautifully explains PDA, why it exists and how best to offer support. It clearly separates demand avoidance from oppositional behaviour, explains why traditional therapies fail, and endorses current thinking on interoception, neurodiversity and universal design. At last supporting our PDAers through fostering safe therapeutic relationships is fully explained!

Dr. Wenn B. Lawson (PhD) CPsychol AFBPsS MAP