Uniquely Normal: Tapping The Reservoir of Normalcy To Treat Autism

by Robert J. Bernstein, Robin Cantor-Cooke

2018 IPPY Gold Medal Award Winner in the Mental/Psychology category . 2017 Best Books Award Winner in the Mental/Psychology category and 2018 Next Generation Indie Book Awards in the Parenting/Family category, "Uniquely Tapping The Reservoir of Normalcy To Treat Autism". Author Robert J. Bernstein has found a different approach based on cognition thinking in helping people of all ages with ASD. Author's goal is for people with ASD to be able to live in the world and connect with the people in it as themselves, to express their unique humanity and engage more fully in the human interactions that give life meaning and make it worth the effort of getting out of bed every day. Author believes that whatever he does therapeutically must be on the ASD individual’s terms; he or she must lead. Author's therapy examples are categorized by age groups 2-5 years of age, 6-10 years of age, 11-14 years of age and 19 years of age and up.

336 pages, Paperback

Published November 15, 2017

Reviews

[Kim · Rating 2 out of 5]

No index, only table of contents for organization. Mostly case studies.

[Elite Group · Rating 4 out of 5]

A refreshing approach to the treatment of autism

This book starts from the premise that children on the autism spectrum are not 'different' in themselves, but that they see and interpret the world differently. With a brother, Ben, with autism Bernstein is in a unique position to come up with new insights into understanding that. far from social isolation being a bad thing, to the person with autism, it is a preferred position. However, this makes it difficult for the remainder of the family to enjoy normal family life.

With around 700,000 people in Britain alone having a diagnosis of being somewhere on the autism spectrum, this group of people cannot be ignored; it is incumbent on Society to make more effort to both understand and to support those diagnosed and their families to enjoy rich and meaningful lives.

Through sympathetic case studies of all ages, Bernstein shows that by concentrating on the uniqueness of each person's normality, significant steps may be made towards limiting antisocial behaviours and channelling the person's focus towards the positive. He also takes the brave step of identifying which behaviours of caregivers and siblings, mitigate against an individual with autism meeting his full potential.

The book is clearly written and is a comfortable read for non-experts and so should assist parents, caregivers, siblings, friends and teachers to channel those positive behaviours which are 'normal' to each individual.

Pashtpaws


Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of the better books I’ve read on the topic of autism. The author, Bernstein, has lived experience having grown up with an older brother on the spectrum and later having a child who was also diagnosed. The book consists namely of case studies showing how help has been provided to people with a wide range of needs across the spectrum and a variety of ages and unique support requirements. It’s refreshing to see something that isn’t just focused on really young children and the whole concept of this book is that people in the spectrum are not different themselves, they just have a different way to interpret the world around them. As a mother with a son on the spectrum this really spoke to me and gave me hope for my child’s future. The case studies are well written and sympathetic and the book is comforting to read rather than being disheartening and upsetting for parents. I’ve gone 4 stars simply because it was mainly case studies which weren’t always relatable and I probably won’t ever re-read it again.

[Barbara Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute gem, showcasing that the children on autistic spectrum arent different but they interpret the world differently.
with several sympathetic case studies from all age group, rob provides practical methods and powerful therapy that doesn't cost much to implement but produces great positive results, and an empowering outlook for the life of the autistic individuals, their family, and help greatly enhancing their engagement with the world.

[Annie Grattan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Case studies helping Autistic people across the spectrum and with a variety of support needs. It shows a therapeutic approach very different from ABA. One that works with the inherent motivation of the client to gain new skills and new thought processes. The studies are of nonverbal children starting to speak, anti-social teens learning social skills and making friends, and adults with rigid thought processes expanding their thinking and finding more happiness in their relationships.

[Abhishek · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book by Rob Bernstein. Rob in his 3 decades of career has help improve life of several autistic individuals and their families . He presents several successful case studies and practical advice with this book. It is certainly a must read for any one who wants to help individual with autism. Rob showcases by example that individuals with autism are uniquely abled and not disabled .

[Clare · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very accessible book with lots of insights into why autistic individuals behave the way they do (coz they see and interpret the world in a unique way, not without their own logic that's unfortunately unknown to the neurotypical) and practical advice for parents and caregivers of autistic individuals. It's also written in a way that allows an enjoyable, easy read.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a mom and teacher of people with autism, this book gives me great hope. Bernstein is like an autism whisperer! It's not a quick read for me. I want to digest every story.

[NellieTests · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very accessible book, ideal to read cover to cover or dip in and out of. The case studies cover a variety of issues and Bernstein explains clearly what was observed and, more importantly, why he chose to intervene in the way he did for each young person.

Rather than being prescriptive, this book allows you to think and to question, bringing a far greater understanding. Too often diagnoses and treatments or interventions are presented without recognition that we are dealing with individuals, each of whom have their own "normal" and their own place "on the spectrum" - this book recognises this allowing you to draw on the experiences of others to find your own "uniquely normal" place.

Thoroughly recommended for parents and those who work with young people on and off the spectrum.

With thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher.

[Alina · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book about understanding autism, easy to read and packed with information and advises. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this great book!!