Therapy for Autistic Adults
You're different. You've always known it. You process information differently, you communicate differently, and you interact with the world differently. You feel like you don't fit in.
You have trouble with social cues, and you may have trouble making friends. You don’t believe you're good at expressing your emotions. You also may be sensitive to noise, light, touch, taste, or smell. This can make it difficult to function in everyday situations, as many spaces are not accessible for Autistic individuals.
You're tired of being misunderstood. People often make assumptions about you, and you feel they don't take the time to get to know you as a person. You have to explain yourself all the time, and you feel like you're constantly having to prove yourself to avoid judgment.
You may feel like you're the only person in the world who understands your experiences. Life is difficult when you don’t have anyone to talk to who gets what you're going through, or feel like you have trouble connecting with people on a deep level. This isolation can be very painful.
Some of this may resonate with you, and some of it may not. Autistic individuals are NOT all the same. Every Autistic person’s experience is different.
Let me be clear - I don’t see Autism as a “problem” to be fixed. I also understand that moving through the world we live in as an Autistic person can be challenging. You deserve support and understanding. Are you ready to get that support and understanding for yourself? I can help!
As research on Autism and neurodiversity continues to evolve, the best practices for working with Autistic adults in therapy change as well. This can make it difficult to know where to start, but I can help!
I'm a psychologist with training and clinical experience in Autism. I also have personal lived experience as a neurodivergent individual. This gives me an understanding of the challenges and opportunities of living with Autism, although I recognize that each individual’s experience is different. You are the expert on you!
I believe that the best way to work with Autistic adults in therapy is through a collaborative approach. That means working with you to understand your individual needs and goals. Then, we'll hand-select evidence-based interventions that are tailored to you.
I'm here to help you reach your goals. Together, we can create a treatment plan that works for you.
Here's what you can expect from working with me:
A collaborative approach: We'll work together to understand your needs and goals, and then we'll develop a treatment plan that's tailored to you.
Evidence-based interventions: I'll use evidence-based interventions that have been shown to be effective in helping Autistic individuals. I will work with you to choose affirming and fitting interventions - not ones that view Autism as a deficit.
Personalized support: I'll provide you with personalized support and guidance as you work towards your goals.
MY Experience
Many people think therapy is about their therapist telling them what to do. But that is actually not the most effective way to get results. Therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to identify your needs and develop strategies that will help you reach your goals.
Yes, therapy takes work. But it's worth it. I'm here to help you identify your needs and use my experience and training to build interventions that will help you achieve your goals.
Also important to note: I'm always learning!
I'm committed to staying up-to-date on the latest research on neurodiversity and Autism. I want to make sure that I'm providing my clients with the most accurate and affirming information and interventions possible.
I also want to make sure that our work together is respectful and validating. If you have any feedback or concerns, please let me know. I'm always open to learning and growing.
Here are some specific ways that I'm committed to being a life-long learner:
I read research articles and books on Autism and neurodiversity.
I engage in continuing education on Autism and neurodiversity.
I consult with other therapists who work with Autistic adults.
I listen to my clients and learn from their experiences.
I want my clients to feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with me. I want them to know that I'm here to support them, not judge them.
Together, we can create a space where you feel safe, respected, and affirmed.
Building a plan
Are you an Autistic adult Interested in therapy?
Interested in therapy but not sure what it would entail? Therapy can help Autistic adults :
To cope with challenges: Living as an Autistic adult in a world catered to allistic individuals can be challenging. While I believe that we should continue to strive for spaces inclusive to all, I understand that this is a process. I believe Autistic adults should not have to simply wait for a more inclusive society, and thus may need help with coping skills to aid in everyday challenges. Therapy can help Autistic adults develop coping mechanisms and strategies. This can include things like learning how to deal with sensory overload, how to manage social anxiety, and how to communicate effectively.
To improve social skills: Autistic adults may struggle with social skills, and therapy can help them develop and hone these skills. This can include things like learning how to make eye contact, how to start and maintain conversations, and how to read social cues.
To improve self-esteem: Autistic adults often encounter invalidating environments and situations. These experiences can sometimes lead to low self-esteem, as Autistic adults may feel like they are being othered. Therapy can help Autistic adults develop a more positive self-image in the face of oppressive and non-inclusive spaces.
To get support: Therapy can provide Autistic adults with a safe and supportive space to talk about their experiences and to get support from a qualified mental health professional. This can be especially helpful for adults who are struggling to cope or who are feeling isolated.
Still wondering?
Still wondering about specifics? Here are some more examples of what may be covered in therapy for Autistic adults:
Emotional regulation: How to manage your emotions in a healthy way.
Sensory processing needs: How to understand and cope with sensory sensitivities.
Self-advocating: How to get the support and accommodations you need.
Managing anxiety: How to reduce your anxiety in a variety of settings.
Navigating social settings: How to interact with others in a way that feels comfortable for you.
NOTE: I am not currently able to provide testing services for Autism.