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In the United States and Canada, most families and professionals have not even heard of PDA, Pathological Demand Avoidance. That leaves parents whose child fits the profile of PDA without understanding, support, or resources. That also leaves teachers and therapists unable to help these families. Parents who have discovered PDA feel isolated and unheard. We are trying to change that.
In other countries such as the United Kingdom and Australia, PDA is recognized. Individuals are getting formal diagnoses. There are trained professionals, conferences, books, educational services, and support groups. There are even schools designed for this population. There is awareness and understanding.
The PDA profile is considered to be under the autism spectrum. It is not in the DSM so it is not accepted by many professionals. We are not going to wait until PDA is included to get started. We know it is “a real thing.” We know that people need help now.
Our mission is bold. We want to spread awareness of PDA to parents, individuals, educators and therapists throughout the US and Canada. We want families to have a place to turn for support and guidance. We want professionals to be able to receive training, consultation and information in order to effectively teach or treat PDAers. And we want PDAers to know that they are understood. In short, to build a strong and vibrant community for this underserved population.
With your support and donations, we will continue to grow and offer more support services and programming for the PDA community. The sky is the limit. If you’d like to get involved in the PDA Movement in North America, don’t hesitate to reach out!
PDA North America is a non-profit organization with 501(c)(3) status. All donations are tax-deductible.
