Autism Affirming Care

Does this sound like you?

You are exhausted from constantly having to educate “professionals” about your neurodivergence and what it means to be autistic. You are exploring your autistic identity and want to find a therapist that can affirm your neurotype instead of trying to “treat” or “fix” it.

You are in the right place. Read on to see how I can be of support.

Why Autism Affirming Care Matters to Me

I always start out by telling people that I myself am not autistic. I try to make this clear because I know that second-hand learning can never replace lived-experience. Somehow, be it by word-of-mouth, chance, or something else, you have found yourself on this page of my website. On this page, I will share about myself and my approach to autism affirming care so you can evaluate if I can be a good fit for you.

My Approach to Autism Affirming Care

As a non-autistic person, I strive to constantly recognize my privilege and seek out new learning. I intentionally seek out autistic voices and lived experience educators to learn how I can better tailor therapy for my autistic clients.

A lot of my initial learning and continued understanding of the Neurodiversity Paradigm is pulled from Dr. Nick Walker's work. I subscribe to the social model of disability and do not view autism as a “disorder” to be treated.

I continuously educate myself and recognize the ways in which society has and continues to disenfranchise and disables autistic and other neurodivergent individuals. In my research and clinical career, I have had the honor of hearing directly from autistic people about their experiences in the various systems of care in our society. Their stories have invigorated me to be an advocate.

I currently attend a monthly Neurodiversity Affirming Consultation Group so I can continue to update my practices and knowledge on how I support my autistic clients.

  • Social Model of Disability

  • Autistic Person

  • Low/High Support Needs

  • Cultural View of Autism & Neurodivergence

  • Medical Model of Disability

  • Person with Autism

  • Low/High Functioning

  • “Treating” or “Fixing” Autistic & Neurodivergent Traits

Fostering a Neurodivergent Affirming Space

Digital Scheduling Options

Want to schedule/re-schedule an appointment or get in touch with me? I welcome emails, text messages, or phone calls so you can select your preferred method of contact.

Appointment Reminders

My electronic health record system sends you automated appointment reminders 48 hours before your scheduled appointment. You can opt-in to receive reminders through email, text, or phone call.

Therapy Flexibility

I offer therapy virtual and in-person. As part of my office policy, I allow any in-person session to be changed to a virtual session, up until the scheduled appointment time.

I also offer shorter (30 or 45 minute) or longer (75 or 90 minute) sessions based on your needs & preferences.

Other ways I strive to create an affirming space in my practice:

  • Having a selection of fidgets, snacks, and coffee/tea available in my office

  • Sensory-friendly lighting options

  • Being mindful & intentional of the language I use (aligned with the Neurodiversity Paradigm)

  • Tailoring & supplementing therapeutic strategies with neurodivergent-friendly options in mind, such as…

  • Providing care aligned with Neurodivergent Affirming Practice Guidelines

  • Centering your lived experience, preferences, and perspectives first

Ready to Get Started?

Complete an interest form to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation!

I respond to all inquiries, regardless if I have an opening or not, within 1-3 business days. If I haven't responded to you within 3 business days, please feel free to reach out to me again as I may have missed your message!