Neurodivergence/Autism/ASD

Understanding and Supporting Neurodivergent Minds

In recent years, particularly with the rise of social media, more people are coming to understand themselves through the lens of autism. When patients tell me, "I think I'm autistic," they often speak from a place of deep self-reflection and recognition. This self-awareness frequently proves accurate – after all, who knows your experiences better than you?

The autistic nervous system experiences the world with unique intensity. Many of my patients describe being overwhelmed by sensory experiences that others might barely notice – certain sounds, textures, or touch can feel amplified and overwhelming. Daily tasks can accumulate into an invisible weight, and what others call a "meltdown" is actually, as the National Autistic Society explains:

"Autistic burnout is a state of physical and mental fatigue, heightened stress, and diminished capacity to manage life skills, sensory input, and/or social interactions, which comes from years of being severely overtaxed by the strain of trying to live up to demands that are out of sync with our needs."

Living with autism often means navigating a constant undercurrent of anxiety, one that many don't fully recognize until treatment brings relief. Common challenges include focus and task completion difficulties, food sensitivities (both in texture and allergies), and the need for restorative alone time after overwhelming situations.

My approach to supporting autistic individuals centers on embracing neurodivergence rather than trying to mask it. There's no one-size-fits-all treatment for autism – instead, we focus on managing specific challenges while celebrating unique strengths. This means:

• Using medications thoughtfully and cautiously ("low and slow"), always respecting when patients report sensitivity
• Encouraging self-advocacy and embracing neurodivergent perspectives
• Supporting the development of coping strategies for overwhelming situations
• Recognizing and nurturing the unique capabilities that come with neurodivergent thinking

The goal isn't to make autistic individuals think like everyone else – it's to help them thrive as themselves. Whether managing sensory challenges, developing focusing strategies, or building confidence in social situations, treatment focuses on enhancing quality of life while honoring neurodivergent experiences. With time and support, many clients discover new insights about themselves and develop more effective ways to navigate their world while embracing their unique perspectives and abilities.