As a neurodiverse person, you may not have many spaces that allow you to explore and express yourself. Or, you may not feel like those around you actually understand your experiences.…
Everyone struggles with feelings of shame now and then. But, shame is especially prevalent in the lives of neurodiverse people and others with autism. Shame can be triggered by other people, cultural expectations, and sometimes even our inner critic. It’s a powerful emotion that can have a negative impact on our lives in many ways.…
As an autism therapist, I have been asked by clients and other professionals to describe my approach to autism therapy. Throughout my career, I have researched many different therapeutic approaches to determine what would be best for the neurodivergent clients I serve. I have found Internal Family Systems or IFS to be a powerfully effective way to help clients manage anxiety, and improve mood, self-esteem, and interpersonal communication, and treat trauma.…
As I think about ringing in the new year, I found happiness in the hope I feel for the new year. It no secret that 2020 was a wild year. It often felt like life was completely turned upside down. Suddenly my familiar routines and activities became impossible and I was left to figure out the new normal of social distancing.…
Do you ever get home from work or school and just feel completely wiped out? Dealing with daily social demands is draining. You have no energy to do anything and you’re already stressed about having to interact with others tomorrow. Perhaps, this feeling is negatively affecting your overall happiness, social life, or work.…
Today, we begin our series on autism and trauma. After talking with my neurodiverse clients and fellow therapists, who happen to be experts in trauma, I felt it was necessary to write about autism and trauma. Today, I will talk about trauma and masking.
There is a strong correlation between autism and trauma.…
As an autism therapist, I get asked how working with neurodiverse clients has changed my world view? To answer this question, I first would like to share with you the career I have had working with neurodiverse youth, teens, and adults.
My first experiences working with neurodiverse individuals began as a summer camp counselor after I graduated from high school.…
