How can therapy help autistic people?
Whether you are diagnosed, self-identified, or unsure if you are autistic or not, it can be life-changing to talk to a therapist who understands.
I am self-identified autistic and ADHD (also known as AuDHD), which you may find means I understand you in ways that other therapists can’t.
My experience coming to terms with my own neurodivergence means I know how vital it is to develop a deep sense of who you are and what your strengths and struggles are.
Despite a lifetime of difficulty at school and in the workplace, it wasn’t until my 30s that someone pointed out to me that I was likely autistic. And it took me another two years of research and self-reflection to accept that this was true. (You can see some books I recommend for people on a similar journey here.)
Much of how society tells people we ‘should’ live simply doesn’t work for autistic people. You may not be built for a 9-5 office job, or to have a busy social calendar full of loud new places and events. That is not a sign that you are flawed or defective.
To live well as an autistic person, it helps to figure out your own values, interests, and ways of thriving. It can also be a huge help to find other people who understand and accept you as you are.
Struggles with executive functioning - tasks like admin, time-keeping and self-care - are also common for autistic people, and much of the advice about how to overcome them doesn’t work for us. Therapy can help you find creative, personal solutions, as well as self-acceptance for the things you simply cannot do.
It is an enormous privilege and a source of pride in my life that I get to help other autistic people live more fulfilling lives.
If you would like to work with me, please contact me here.