My practice is deeply rooted in neurodiversity-affirmative principles, recognizing that being Autistic is a valuable and integral aspect of human diversity. I celebrate the many ways people engage with the world and promote a positive self-identity for all Autistic adults. To embrace neurodiversity means to view the Autistic experience as a distinct neurotype rather than a disorder. I intentionally avoid language that pathologizes or medicalizes Autistic experiences, such as "disorder" or "high/low functioning." Instead, I use affirming language that respects and validates an individual's identity as an Autistic person, emphasizing their inherent worth. For example, I use "Autistic person" rather than "person with Autism," and I prefer "identification" over "diagnosis." This approach reflects my progressive, neuroaffirmative stance and my commitment to honoring and valuing the unique experiences of neurodivergent individuals.
If you’re an adult who was never diagnosed as a child, you may not realize that some of the experiences you’ve dealt with your whole life could possibly be related to unidentified Autism. Many Autistic people often experience the world differently from the majority, particularly in terms of:
sensory perception
a preference for honesty and clarity in communication
a preference for predictability and control
repetitive or self-stimulating behaviors
hyper-awareness of your environment
intense commitment to certain special interests
self-expressive body language
strong ability to hyper-focus
Autistic people can also experience emotions very intensely, and some find it difficulty to name these emotions (termed ‘alexithymia’). Women especially have been vastly under-diagnosed due to their ability to “mask” and learn to appear neurotypical in order to be more accepted by society. This masking over time is exhausting and has been shown to lead to high levels of anxiety and depression. Many Autistic adults describe difficult and confusing childhoods and young adulthoods, followed by a profound sense of relief and joy after receiving a late autism identification. This identification often brings numerous benefits, including a sense of belonging, connection, self-acceptance, and a supportive community that truly understands you. Being accurately identified as Autistic marks the beginning of a journey toward self-discovery, where you can start to understand your unique ways of navigating the world. It helps you explore your neurology, sensory perceptions, and cognitive processes, providing clarity on why you may have struggled in the past—often feeling like a square peg forced into a round hole. Autism identification can also bring a profound sense of grief as well as anger; for lost opportunities, grief for lost friendships, and a sense of loss and sadness that if someone had noticed this earlier, you might not have faced so many struggles and challenges.
I can play a crucial role in helping you navigate this new understanding of yourself. One of the first steps is providing a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore what being an Autistic person means to you. I can help you process any emotions that arise, such as relief, confusion, or grief, and begin to reframe your past experiences in light of this new information. By understanding that your struggles with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, or communication have a name and a context, you can start to build self-compassion and a more positive self-image.
I can also assist you in developing practical strategies to manage the challenges that come with autism. This might include working on social skills, learning to advocate for your needs, or developing routines that reduce sensory overwhelm. For those who may have struggled with anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues due to years of feeling "different," I can help integrate Autism into your identity in a way that fosters self-acceptance and personal growth. We will look at what’s working, what’s not working, and find strategies and supports to help you design a sustainable life that allows for your greatest freedom, pleasure, nourishment, and well-being. I can provide resources, connect you with supportive communities, and offer guidance on navigating relationships, work, and other aspects of life with this new understanding of your neurodivergence. We will collaborate and access your inner wisdom by connecting with what you need, what you want, and what you’re ready to let go of. Get ready to thrive!
