I just don't know what to do anymore

[smartyjones]

kara -- as with everyone else, i am so heartbroken to hear of your dd's decline. it is tough but i have to believe you will get to the bottom of it. -- as we all will.

 

have you used the repeating technique from The Explosive Child? i originally used this for explosions but have also found it useful in trying to understand what's happening and reach solutions. maybe it could help lead you to some ways to help her find somewhere acceptable to sleep and function while you are waiting for test results for future direction.

 

basically, you start by just repeating what she has said. i.e. - if you suggest somewhere she could sleep -- blankets on the floor. she says, 'no, they're too dirty." you, "too dirty." at first, try to keep your voice flat and emotionless. when you do it more, you can use inflections to help -- surprise, humor etc., at first, it's best to stay flat. after a few repeats, see if you can throw in a "why" to lead to some insight to help find some solution. you can keep suggesting new things but keep repeating what she's said. you can add, "really?!", "you think?". you're not trying to convince her she's wrong or reassure her but you're also not agreeing with her, you're just stating what she's said. for my ds, it is really helpful that he lets his guard down and doesn't feel he has to keep his feet entrenched in the sand defending his point.

 

we've gotten to the point with ds that he can say "there's no reason", "there is a reason." most often, it's "no reason". that gives me a jumping point, "well, if there's no reason, how about if we try ___". then , i repeat and we try to work to something. it doesn't always work but often does.

 

good luck. hoping for a quick resolution for you.

[NancyD]

Dr. Horowitz treats children.