Autism 

My approach to autism is different. I see that autism is a superpower of endorphins, dopamine and serotonin that decreases with age. Engaging in those restricted interests and repetitive behaviors yields the happiness hormones that neurotypical adults can’t seem to find in abundance. The activities that young psychopaths bully the autistics for are the activities that garner the happiness honey that money can’t buy. 

 

Instead of limiting the repetitive behaviors and restricted interests through ABA, I work to help autistics unmask. I continue to use educational tools from when I was an autism teacher: TEACCH, sensory diets, direct relationship intervention, a modified floor time therapy for teens and adults. In assessments, I use the SPA/A (Sensory Profile Adolescent/ Adult), UCC-SR (Underlying Characteristics Checklist -Adult & Adolescent- Self Report), dominance profile, Individual Strengths and Skills Inventory, Global Inventory, and Ziggurat as needed. 

 

Unmasking autistics is about re-teaching them to engage in their special interests, using their chosen names and pronouns, respecting their agency, and teaching a sensory diet. But, oftentimes unmasking is about being trauma informed as most autistics were bullied or abused into masking. Healing from trauma often takes the front seat for autistic therapy. I use Flash, a form of EMDR that focuses on special interests, to aid autistics thru their trauma. Processing trauma helps autistics find the the life that they want to live that brings them the most joy. Oftentimes that joy means finding a career path that allows them to engage in their special interests.