PDA in the Therapy Room - by Raelene Dundon (Paperback)

About the Book

Guidance for professionals supporting children with pathological demand avoidance and their families. This book details the most effective methods of treatment such as trauma-informed and indirect approaches and offers advice to help clinicians overcome the most common obstacles they may face.

Book Synopsis

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.

Review Quotes

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, Education Consultant, complex autism

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

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.