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Autism

The world of autism has changed a lot since my nephew was diagnosed in the early 2000s. Counseling for individuals with autism has also changed. I'm sure you have heard the saying that if you know one person with autism you know one person with autism. There isn't a blanket definition any more than there is a blanket approach to helping. I have had experience helping both adults and children learn to validate their feelings, emotions, thoughts and experiences. My number one criterion for helping a client with autism is to listen without judgement (actually, I hope I do that will all my clients, but I feel it is especially important with people who have struggled to find someone they can talk to without feeling that they are being judged.) Another thing I am careful about is knowing my boundaries. People with autism are not broken - they don't need me to "fix" them. I am here to walk with you as you maneuver a world that doesn't fit quite right.

 

Here is some information about therapy for people with autism.

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Therapy can help people with autism in many ways, including: 

  • Mental health: Therapy can help with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. 

  • Self-expression: Therapy can help improve self-expression and mood. 

  • Relationships: Therapy can help improve relationships with others and help you find connections with other advocates of neurodiversity. 

  • Self-care: Therapy can help you establish a routine that includes self-care. 

  • Coping skills: Therapy can help you learn new coping skills and assertive communication skills. 

  • Processing diagnosis: Therapy can help you process your new diagnosis and navigate telling friends and family. 

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I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and/or Internal Family Systems (IFS) as I work with autistic clients. 

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