Hello there. I am a caregiver. I have a client who is preteen aged. He is autistic and nonverbal. He has received so me intervention but not very much if that’s an important detail. I’m a low support needs autistic woman so I know a bit about autism. From my knowledge I know ABA can be really traumatizing for autistic people. One of my other clients has a RBT and he’s not too fond of the work they do but he doesn’t seem to hate it but I’m sure it took him years to get to that point (I’ve only known him for a few months). It’s a tricky topic. I guess I’m trying to say I know it can also be helpful to a lot of autistic people.
Back to my client, he has very severe meltdowns quite often. All of the things that trigger his meltdowns are all very valid especially for his age. (ie. Not being able to watch tv all day, not being able to play in the kitchen, a slight change in his routine, running out of his safe snacks, being told no after making a request).

I just want to know what do you all feel is helpful when you have meltdowns? I personally try to communicate clearly, give him personal space to express himself, offer deep pressure touch, and even disengaging to prevent overload.

I know for my meltdowns I need alone time but if it escalates to unsafe stimming and depression I need the comfort of having someone around. It is hard to know what he wants/needs because he is nonverbal and the company I work for doesn’t offer the best resources for my clients unfortunately.

I’m trying my best and want to offer something for myself and coworkers to look to for help to best help him through meltdowns and to keep him and the staff safe. He’s small thankfully but can get violent during meltdowns.

Any tips or advice, and if you’re comfortable sharing what has helped you in the past would be really appreciated. If in any way this makes anyone uncomfortable say the word and I’m happy to delete it.