An Autistic Therapist

It took me until adulthood to finally face it. I am autistic. It is glaringly obvious to me now but because I have been so skilled at masking, it can be hard to tell that I am. Being a therapist is not the first profession that comes to mind when people think of neurodivergent people. Being neurodivergent has actually been very helpful to me in my role as a therapist. I am able to see patterns where others do not. I am able to feel deep empathy and be present with my clients non-judgementally. I am honest and genuine because I literally cannot be dishonest. I believe my unique perspective helps my clients view their lives and problems differently.

Benefits

Being autistic has many gifts that help me as a therapist such as:

• I notice patterns, notice small details, and help clients look deeper into why they do what they do.

• I am highly sensitive, empathetic, and pay close attention to my clients

• I am non-judgmental

• I am a therapist/social worker because I deeply care about doing good in the world and helping others. I have very strong values.

• I study psychology, healing modalities, and philosophy for fun in my free time. I am always learning.

• I have a bachelor's and a master's degree. I have completed many training courses such as EMDR, Yoga Therapy, and countless meditation day-long retreats.

• I am a very focused person. I am not huge on small talk or frivolous details, I get to the point.

• I am a trauma survivor as well as trained in trauma treatment (EMDR, TF-CBT, Mindfulness) so I empathize deeply with people with C-PTSD and PTSD.

Most of my clients tell me that I help them see their life differently and that I bring up questions that prompt them to think in ways they never have before. I believe this is due to the magic of my brain being just a little bit different.