Autism & Psychotherapy

If a person seeking individual therapy or a partner in couples therapy is on the autism spectrum, it is important to find a therapist that really understands autism.

In our psychotherapy practice we are meeting an increasing number of clients on the autism spectrum. Some are formally diagnosed but most self diagnose. This is likely due to an increase in social awareness as well as accessible online assessments tools such as the AQ test

Commonly, their reasons for seeking therapy involve issues such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties rather than solely due to autism. In other words, people on the spectrum seek psychotherapy for similar reasons to those not on the spectrum.

However, despite similarities in presenting issues, psychotherapy cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach. Strategies and methodologies developed for neurotypical psychotherapy clients may not effectively serve the needs of neurodiverse clients.

Autistic people perceive things differently

Neurodiverse individuals perceive the world differently to those who are neurotypical. It is important that the style of psychotherapy is suited to these distinctions. If a psychotherapist is unaware of the different viewpoints and experiences of autistic clients it is likely that the therapy will cause frustration and disappointment.

Autistic people often have specific challenges such as sensory sensitivities and difficulties in social interactions. These challenges can lead to stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, and burnout. 

Many autistic individuals have grown up feeling different and misunderstood. This lifetime of friction takes a toll on mental health and leads to feelings of exclusion and isolation.

It is important to appreciate that autism itself is not the problem; it is the mismatch between autistic experiences and neurotypical expectations. The mismatch is what leads to anxiety, depression, isolation, and relationship issues. 

Autism is not the problem; the neurotypical environment is the problem. 

Autistic masking

For many autistic people, explaining their worldview to a neurotypical person can be a frustrating task, often coupled with the pressure to justify their experiences. For example, describing to a non-autistic person how sensory experiences differ or how societal expectations feel overwhelming can be challenging.

Consequently, most autistic individuals consciously or unconsciously resort to masking; concealing their struggles with the world in an effort to blend in and conform. Masking helps to fit in but may hinder being understood. Being understood is fundamental to psychotherapy and if the therapist fails to fully understand the experience described by the client, the therapy will be of limited help.

Autism is neither better nor worse; it is different

Autism is neither better nor worse than non-autism; autistic people simply perceive and interact with some aspects of the world differently. However, this does not mean all things are fair and equal. Living in a society that is dominated by neurotypical standards creates continuous challenges to those on the autism spectrum. Similar to left-handed individuals navigating a right-handed world, autistic individuals often struggle in an environment that expects them to conform to neurotypical norms.

The Importance of Finding an Understanding Therapist

It is important that people on the autism spectrum find a therapist who appreciates and understands the differences between neurotypical and neurodiverse individuals. Effective therapy involves addressing presenting problems like anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles within a framework that understands the different perspectives of autism.

Tailoring Therapy for Autistic Perspectives

A psychotherapist should always adapt their approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. Autistic clients, in particular, possess a distinct way of perceiving the world due to significant cognitive, sensory, and social differences. Therefore, finding a therapist who understands and appreciates these differences is essential for therapy to be helpful.

At Auckland City Therapy, we understand and value the diverse experiences of individuals on the autism spectrum and tailor our therapy to accommodate the specific needs of autistic clients.