Support Groups

The Fathers Group is an informal get-together of fathers who are interested in meeting others to discuss the experiences of being a dad with a child with autism. The group meets for dinner at a restaurant in the Chapel Hill area and the format is informal. There is no specific topic, but the group often discusses a wide range of issues from schooling to behavior problems. There is no set schedule for meetings, but, on average, the group meets every 6 weeks or so. Notice about the meetings is sent by an email announcement. Interested fathers should contact Catherine Jones via email.

The Parents of Adults with autism group is a support and informational group for parents whose child is 18 years or over, although parents of younger children occasionally attend. The group is also open to adult siblings or other adult relatives who have an important role in the life of an adult with autism, including their care. Like the Mothers’ Group, this group has a specific topic for each meeting (e.g., planning for the future, developing independence skills). The group meets monthly, on the second Tuesday, September through June from 6:30-8:00 PM. Contact Catherine Jones via email for more information about the schedule and location.

Led by Lee Marcus, Ph.D., this group centers on challenging behaviors as defined by parents and problem-solving strategies. Dr. Marcus, a distinguished professional in the field of autism will lead a discussion centered on applying structured teaching to preempt and reduce challenging behaviors at home and in the community. Parents are encouraged to share workable solutions addressing a variety of challenging behaviors they encounter on a daily basis. The meetings are once a month, alternating months of Thursday morning meetings 10:00 am – 11:30 am and Tuesday evening meetings 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. Due to the popularity of this working discussion group, we ask that you please register in advance by contacting Ruth Thomson at 919-966-4699. We regret that we are not able to provide childcare for these meetings; however, there is no charge for your attendance. Please Note: Attendees must be the parent of a current TEACCH client.

These groups are intended for individuals with autism who are 21 years or older, have had previous individual counseling, and are able to be a part of a group. No previous experience in a group is required. The purpose of the groups is to provide information and emotional support to the members on both general and specific issues related to their coping with the challenges of autism. The format of the groups is both structured and informal and has included addressing specific topics (e.g. getting along with coworkers), discussing real-life issues, and having part of the one-hour session focus on an individual member’s immediate concerns. Participation in these groups offers adults support and the opportunity to establish positive relationships with other adults who share similar experiences. Both groups meet approximately twice a month. In order to protect the confidentiality and facilitate the sharing of personal experiences, group enrollment is limited. Enrollment in the groups is through referral by a TEACCH staff member. One of the groups meets at the Chapel Hill TEACCH Center and the other group meets at the Raleigh TEACCH Center. If you have an interest or wish to learn more about the groups please contact your TEACCH therapist or Catherine Jones at 919-966-3100.