How Do I Choose the Best Autism Support Group?

An autism support group can be a good resource for individuals who are on the autism spectrum as well as their family members. When looking for an autism support group, ask about the group's focus, structure and facilitation. It also is a good idea to ask about group logistics, such as where the group meets, its schedule of meetings and how much it costs to participate. Finally, ask about whether the group focuses mainly on support or education or whether the sessions offer a mixture of both.

Autism support groups typically are available to people who have autism as well as people who are close to them. When inquiring about an autism support group, ask whether the group is for people on the autism spectrum or their family members. Another thing to be aware of is that, because autism is a spectrum disorder, the symptoms and abilities of people who have this condition can vary significantly from person to person. Some groups might offer support primarily for family members of autistic people who cannot live independently, and others might help family members of autistic people at various levels of functionality.

Some support groups are primarily peer-led, and others might be facilitated by professionals. It is up to you to decide on the type of autism support group to which you want to belong. If a group is peer-led, ask whether the group ever hosts visits from professionals who can present educational programs on various issues and challenges in coping with autism.

Be sure to ask about costs and fees. Some groups have to rent space in hospitals, community buildings or schools for meetings, so they might need to charge dues. If this is the case, inquire about whether it is possible to attend a few meetings before making any kind of a financial commitment.

In addition to finances, ask about other logistical matters, including the location of meetings, the frequency with which the group meets and the structure of the meetings. Ideally, the meetings will be convenient for you to attend and will be located close to where you live or work. You might also find an autism support group that has frequent meetings, which might give you some flexibility in scheduling times to attend.

Finally, consider your preferences about how group meetings are conducted. Some meetings are topical, others include presentations by professionals and experts, and others are open in structure, allowing all members a chance to talk about matters that concern them. Select a group that most closely matches the format with which you feel the most comfortable.