Autism

Understanding Autism and How Therapy Can Help

Autism is a natural variation in human neurology that shapes how individuals perceive, interact with, and experience the world. While some challenges may arise in areas like social communication, sensory processing, or adapting to change, autism is not inherently a deficit or disorder. Instead, it reflects a diverse way of thinking, being, and relating to the world.

At the same time, for some autistic individuals, the challenges associated with autism can be significantly disabling—whether due to intrinsic difficulties, co-occurring conditions, or a world that isn’t built with their needs in mind. Recognizing autism as a natural neurological difference doesn’t mean dismissing the very real struggles that can come with it. Therapy can offer support in navigating these challenges while also fostering self-acceptance and advocating for necessary accommodations.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is the tool providers use to diagnose autism. While I share the critique that the DSM is often pathologizing, I’m including some information because it is widely used in clinical settings. The DSM describes autism as involving differences in social communication and interaction and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities, including sensory sensitivities. These traits must be present from early childhood and significantly impact daily functioning.

The DSM also divides autism into three levels based on support needs:

Level 1: Requires support (e.g., may benefit from guidance with social connections or transitions).
Level 2: Requires substantial support (e.g., significant assistance needed with daily routines or communication).
Level 3: Requires very substantial support (e.g., profound support required in most areas of life).

While these levels may help healthcare providers plan services, they do not capture the full spectrum of autistic experiences. An individual’s support needs can vary significantly depending on context, environment, and personal strengths, and they may change over time.

It’s essential to remember that these levels are not labels to define an autistic person’s value or potential. They are overly simplistic and fail to represent the nuanced and dynamic ways in which autism manifests. Outside clinical contexts, focusing on individual traits and experiences fosters greater understanding and respect.

Autism is better understood through the lived experiences of autistic people, who often describe traits like:

Unique communication styles and differences in social reciprocity.
Strong, passionate interests that bring joy and focus.
A distinct sensory perception, which may involve heightened sensitivity or unique sensory preferences.
Creative and nontraditional ways of thinking and problem-solving.

Every autistic person is different, and their strengths, challenges, and needs vary widely. Recognizing and embracing this diversity helps create a more inclusive and supportive environment.

Here are ways I can assist with autism at Open Heart and Mind:

Psychoeducation on Neurodiversity: I offer education about Autism for you and your support network, fostering a deeper understanding of neurodivergent communication styles and reducing the pressure to mask or camouflage.

Personal Agency Empowerment: I will support you in developing a strong sense of personal agency by identifying and pursuing self-determined goals that align with your specific challenges and aspirations.

Quality of Life Improvement: We will work together to identify and prioritize your physical (including sensory), emotional, and psychological wants and needs, focusing on your unique experiences rather than societal expectations.

Emotional Regulation Strategies: Together, we’ll explore techniques for managing emotions, such as mindfulness exercises, grounding techniques, and self-soothing strategies. We’ll also focus on identifying your emotions and finding healthy ways to express and manage them.

Coping Skills for Sensory Regulation: Together we will work on identifying sensory triggers and developing personalized coping strategies, such as sensory breaks, using fidget tools, or creating a sensory-friendly environment to help manage overstimulation.

Social Navigation Skills: I offer unbiased guidance and strategies to help you navigate social situations, empowering you to interpret social cues and engage with confidence in a way that feels authentic to you.

Authentic Communication: I will support you in developing effective communication strategies that honor your unique style, helping you express your needs, desires, and goals with clarity and confidence.

Consent and Boundary Awareness: We will explore the importance of consent and empower you to assert your right to say no, as well as to give or retract consent in various situations. Together, we will foster an understanding of your boundaries and respect for the boundaries of others.

Self-Advocacy Development: I will help you enhance your self-advocacy skills by setting specific, measurable goals that empower you to express your needs, preferences, and rights in various contexts.

At Open Heart and Mind, I embrace a neurodivergent-affirming approach to therapy, recognizing and celebrating the unique experiences and strengths of individuals with diverse neurological profiles. I am trained to understand the intricacies of neurodiversity, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment. I prioritize collaboration, tailoring my therapeutic techniques to align with each individual’s needs and preferences. By validating neurodivergent identities and fostering self-acceptance, I hope to empower clients to navigate their challenges while harnessing their inherent abilities, promoting growth and resilience in every session.