Beyond just coping

Counselor-coach offers hope for the future to families affected by autism

By Jim Hart

The Sandy Post, Oct 13, 2009, Updated Oct 30, 2009

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Because the effects of autism on different families are similar, she has a personal way of knowing what other families are living with.

For 18 years, she has parented a child with autism who attends Gresham schools, and a 14-year-old child, also in Gresham schools, who is not affected by the disorder.

Through her experiences and knowledge, she knows family members and children with autism can live happily together.

When a child with autism reaches adulthood, he or she might have to live in a group home to receive the support and care needed. But whether they live at home or away, they’re still part of a family, and all members need support.

Knott-Schroeder’s book offers some of that support. It also reminds readers that – as with most diseases and disorders – early intervention and treatment is essential to optimum care and reduced effects.

The book, she said, is designed to provide hope and support for families and the entire community.

She also is available to offer individual or small-group counseling to families as well as serve as a networking resource for connections to other professionals in the metro area.

Knott-Schroeder earned a master’s in counseling and has worked at the autism clinic at Oregon Health & Science University. She also is in demand as a national speaker and coach trainer.

Knott-Schroeder is on the staff of River Ridge Counseling and Coaching Services in west Sandy, where she not only coaches families and individuals affected by autism but counsels individuals, groups and families as well as children in need of help with social interaction.

For more information, visit www.copetohope.com or contact Knott-Schroeder by e-mail at ruth@copetohope.com.

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