[DaisyDay]

Dh & I met with a behavior therapist for our 8y/o FASD kiddo at the recommendation of his neurologist. (I guess my standing in the neurologist's exam room, crying, saying "I just want to like my child!" had something to do with it. )

The first visit was just with us and she was very kind and very supportive of our situation (even after we admitted all the things we've done wrong before we got the FAS diagnosis!)

The next visit is with C by himself. Should we insist on being in the room during the interview, or at least where we can see/hear him but he can't see us? How far should I push for this? Ds has been known to take an element of truth and distort it into a huge fabrication. I don't want to be caught off guard if he tries this. He can be very convincing and manipulative, especially with females.

Also, I'd like to hear everyone's comments about their experiences with behavior therapy. Does it work or is it a waste of time/money?

[alys1]

Being in the room could possibly color the interview, so she may want to do just with him. However, does the place have a 1-way mirror with microphone, through which you could observe? Or do they have access to such a space? If not, perhaps you could ask them to videotape the session, so you could review it and comment afterwards.

Probably best to be completely honest, as soon as possible, before the interview, about the child's behaviors, the lying, etc, history of manipulating females. Doubt this will be the first time they've heard of such a thing. I'd say that I would like to observe and take notes, or review a video so I could tip them if/when he was lying.

[DaisyDay]

Yes, I think you're right, alys1. I agree that if we were sitting right there during ds's interview it would probably inhibit his freedom to speak his mind. I'm not afraid of that and I have nothing to hide. I just want to be in the loop. As his parents, I think we have the right to be included on whatever discussions take place. I feel strongly enough about this that if the therapist won't accommodate us, we'll move on to a therapist who will. I just wanted ask some opinions to make sure I wasn't overstepping any boundaries.

[minibus]

A good therapist will work with you. He/She will see through the lying and manipulation without even being told. A decent therapist will listen and work with you when told about the lying and manipulation. A bad therapist will be manipulated.

[TheFoxx]

Our son sees a behavioral therapist as well. He goes in alone for 20-30 minutes and then we join him.

[DaisyDay]

Foxx, have you been pleased with the results of your son's Behavior Therapy?