Beyond Stereotypes: How Therapy Can Support Autistic Adults to Thrive

Many people hold a narrow understanding of autism, shaped largely by limited dialogue about and portrayals of what it means to be on the autism spectrum. Autism is a genetic alteration that begins in utero and uniquely affects the individual's neurological development and processes, not only in childhood, but throughout life. While there are shared characteristics and experiences between autistic individuals, no two people are the same. So, if you’ve met one autistic person, you are only privy to this one person’s unique selves and not other autistics.


One predomentent commonality I have seen in my time working with the autistic community is that their mind and body take in more information than non-autistic individuals due to heightened activity of cognitive and sensorimotor systems. So many amazing things result from this wonderful neurology such as increased creativity, focused attention to and knowledge of various topics, and innovative ideas. However, a fair amount of those on the autism spectrum also suffer from significant overwhelm and burnout due to having to manage their increased nervous system intake and responsiveness. 


Often my clients will come to me speaking of the chaos they experience from day-to-day interactions with the world and the effect this has on them. There can be a particular heaviness or wall-like sensation felt from needing to attend to a barrage of sensory input while simultaneously managing personal responsibilities and external pressures. On top of navigating their own emotional and physical states, autistic individuals are typically expected to conform to neurotypical norms, which can lead to the practice of masking.


Masking is the act of concealing natural behaviors or emotions in order to blend in socially. For autistic folks, this might include suppressing movements that help regulate their nervous system, such as stimming. They may also mask particular emotions or natural ways to communicate to meet social standards. At its core, masking is a survival strategy used to live in a world that often misunderstands autism, but it can result in spending an immense amount of energy and crashing later on. Over time, masking can even lead to long-term psychological and physical distress. 


Access to effective support can be limited, particularly if therapeutic interventions are aimed at guiding autistic individuals to appear more “typical” rather than helping them understand their support needs and thrive as their authentic selves.


As an autism specialist, I focus on providing my clients with tools rooted in understanding, validation, building self-awareness and self-advocacy, and nervous system support. My goal is to help them navigate the world in a way that honors their unique neurology, reduces overwhelm, and fosters well-being rather than asking them to hide who they are. My hope is to broaden the conversation around autism and start listening to autistic voices. The more we understand, the better we can show up, not just as professionals or allies, but as fellow humans.


Here are some wonderful resources on autism：

Starting with an article by Nick Walker who shares a holistic definition of autism

A book by Devon Price that explores “Masked Autism,” and what presentation of autism most often leads to adult diagnosis

Here is AASPIRE’s guide to connecting with the Autistic community

A great article by Sarah DeWeerdt that explains autistic burnout

Another illuminating article on autistic burnout by Dr. Neff, this one includes a helpful workbook


Written by Elisha Lloyd, a psychotherapist and expressive art therapist working for the MBG clinic.If you or a loved one is seeking support from an autism specialist who values neurodiversity, learn more about working with Elisha Lloyd here.


This article is brought to you by Mind & Body Garden Psychology —- Psychological services available in multiple languages (English, Mandarin, Cantonese): 650-434-2563 (Voicemail only); admin@mindbodygarden.com. We are out-of-network providers, HSA/FSA accepted. Send us a text message on the phone, or call us and leave a voicemail.


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Dr. Yishan Xuautism, autism treatment, ASD, therapy for ASD, psychotherapy, art therapy, expressive art therapy, art therapy for ASD, Autism specialist therapist, Autism support for adults, Autism masking and burnout, Therapy for autistic adults, Understanding autism spectrum, Neurodiversity affirming therapy, Managing autistic burnout, Autistic adult mental health, Autistic self-advocacy supportComment