What Can Autistic Teens and Adults Get Out of Therapy?
- Lauren Eberle, LSW
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition that affects how people think, communicate, and behave. It is often marked by challenges in social interactions, understanding social cues, and engaging in repetitive behaviors. People with ASD experience the world differently than those without it. They might struggle with things like making friends or adjusting to social situations because they don’t always pick up on the subtle, unspoken rules that others do.
Many autistic people find comfort in routines and repetition, like repeating certain movements or sounds. Sensory experiences, like bright lights or loud noises, can also be overwhelming for them in ways that others might not understand. Additionally, many people with ASD develop special interests or “hyperfixations” in specific topics, which can bring them a lot of joy and comfort.
ASD affects people from all walks of life, regardless of culture, race, gender, or social class. The term "spectrum" refers to the variety of ways ASD can show up and the level of support a person may need. Some people may experience all the common traits of ASD, while others might only show a few. In some cases, people with autism may also have speech or intellectual challenges, but these are not necessary for an ASD diagnosis.
Autism is neither "good" nor "bad"—it’s simply a different way of experiencing the world. However, the world is often built around neurotypical (non-autistic) people, which can make life more difficult for those with ASD. Neurotypical social norms and expectations are often confusing for autistic individuals, as they may miss out on unspoken social cues or be misunderstood for their repetitive behaviors (called “stimming”). As a result, many autistic people also struggle with anxiety or depression. According to the DSM-5TR, about 70% of people with ASD have at least one additional mental health condition, and 40% have more than one.
Therapy for Autistic Teens and Adults
When it comes to therapy for autistic teenagers and adults, the goal is to help you feel supported and to address your goals. A good therapist should listen to you as the expert in your own life. While it is helpful for your therapist to have an understanding of autism, they shouldn’t assume they automatically know your personal experiences just because you have ASD. Autism is just one part of who you are, and your therapist should respect all aspects of your identity.
Therapy can help with many things, like managing emotions, processing tough experiences, improving problem-solving skills, and changing negative thought patterns. Everyone's journey is different, so therapy is tailored to your unique needs. It’s not about changing who you are, but about learning how to live your best life in a complicated world. You are already wonderful, and you are not alone in this process.
Final Thoughts
Whether or not you have a formal diagnosis of ASD, therapy can be an effective way to explore your emotions and navigate your world. If the traits of autism resonate with you and you’d like a formal assessment, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider.
At Bodhi, our clinicians are trained to provide support to people from all walks of life, including those with autism. As a therapist with experience working with autistic teens, I understand the unique challenges that come with autism and would love to help you on your journey. If you’re interested, feel free to schedule a consultation.
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