Autism
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder. Autism impacts how people experience the world, process information, communicate, and connect with others. Autistic individuals often have unique sensory experiences, think in highly focused or creative ways. While these differences can bring challenges in a society that is designed to accomodate neurotypical people, these differences are also a source of insight, creativity, and strength.
Many autistic people navigate the world while masking, or adapting their behavior to fit social expectations, which can be exhausting and can lead to burn out. Autism also impacts sensory sensitivities, emotional intensity, and executive functioning differences, influencing daily routines, learning, and relationships.
I affirm self-identification, whether or not you have a formal diagnosis. Some people view autism as a disability, an identity, or a brain difference — and all of these perspectives are valid. I am a neurodiversity affirming therapist, meaning that I view Autism as a neurological difference that is a naturally occurring variant in human neurology. Neuroaffirming therapy focuses on embracing your identity, managing challenges in ways that honor your needs, and building strategies for emotional regulation and executive functioning.
How Therapy Can Help
Neuroaffirming therapy focuses on:
Emotion Regulation: Developing tools to manage intense emotions, overwhelm, or stress in ways that work for you.
Masking & Identity Support: Exploring the role and impact of masking in your life and how it affects your energy, mental health, and self-expression. Supporting you in recognizing when and how you're masking, making values-aligned choices about when it’s needed or not, and finding ways to meet your needs and care for yourself to prevent burnout.
Sensory Needs: Identifying and accommodating sensory sensitivities in daily life to make environments more manageable and comfortable.
Executive Functioning Skills: Building strategies for planning, organization, routines, and time management that fit your way of thinking.
Self-Compassion & Autonomy: Helping you navigate daily life with confidence while honoring your neurodivergent strengths and needs.