Summary: Children, teenagers and adults on the autism spectrum can struggle to cope with the loss of a loved one, and the complicated and painful emotions of bereavement. Today Autism Empowerment welcomes Karla Helbert, a licensed professional counselor with over 16 years of experience in working with individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Karla recently wrote a book released in Fall 2012 entitled, "Finding Your Own Way to Grieve, A Creative Activity Workbook for Kids and Teens on the Autism Spectrum" published through Jessica Kingsley Publishers and available through jkp.com, bookstores and at Karla's website, www.karlahelbert.com. This timely and interactive book explains death in concrete terms that children with autism will understand. It explores feelings that they may encounter as a part of bereavement and offers creative and expressive activities that help with the healing process, including writing, arts and crafts, cooking, movement, relaxation and remembrance activities. Encouraging children with autism to express their loss through discussion, personal reflection and creativity, this book is ideal for children and teens to work through by themselves or with the support of a family member or professional. Karla operates a private psychotherapy practice with a focus on loss, grief and bereavement and specializes in therapy for people with Autism Spectrum Disorders. As a bereaved mother and a trained therapist, she has a deep personal as well as a clinical understanding of the difficult issues facing those grieving the deaths of loved ones. Her book has received exceptional reviews within the Autism / Asperger communities. Please listen in as we learn more about a tough and timely topic to tackle.
