Autism
I provide virtual therapy for individuals, couples, and relationships of all structures, including monogamous and non-monogamous clients (18+). Browse available services, and book a free 15-minute consultation.
Autism is a beautiful & valid variation of human existence
Autism is part of neurodiversity, the natural variation of how human brains think, feel, process, and relate to the world. I offer therapy services tailored specifically to Autistic individuals and other neurodivergent adults, grounded in the social model of disability. This perspective frames disability as a result of society’s failure to be accessible to all people, rather than something being “wrong” or in need of “fixing” in an individual.
Because our society burdens the disabled person, being Autistic can have associated distress. As Dr. Devon Price puts it, “Autism isn’t a disorder that needs to be treated, but most Autistic people have mental health struggles related to living in an unaccepting neurotypical world.” This can manifest as feeling pressured to script conversations, forcing eye contact, enduring sensory discomfort, suppressing stims/fidgetiness, or experiencing neurodivergent burnout over time.
I welcome self-identified Autistic and neurodivergent clients
You don’t have to have a formal Autism diagnosis to work with me. There are many reasons why someone might choose (or not!) to pursue a diagnosis. Your neurodivergence is valid either way, and therapy can help you explore and honor your neurodivergent traits without pressure to fit into any molds.
You do you!
In my practice, I aim to create an affirming space where you can unmask and discover your true self. I believe that neurodivergent adults bring unique perspectives, creativity, and problem-solving skills that we can recognize and support together. Therapy with me is a place where you can fully engage with your needs and preferences. For instance, you may feel most comfortable crocheting, coloring, using fidget toys, or not making eye contact during sessions. Special interests are always welcome and encouraged as part of our discussions.
For some people, unmasking can feel like uncharted territory. If you’re unsure of what supports you need or who you are without masking, we can work together to explore these aspects through a neurodivergent-affirming approach. This might include identifying sensory, emotional, or social supports that resonate with you, learning to set boundaries, or developing self-advocacy skills. Together, we’ll work toward uncovering your authentic self in a way that feels empowering and safe.
Let’s talk about…
Deciding whether or not to pursue a formal diagnosis
Strategies to mitigate executive functioning challenges
Unmasking without losing your safety
Unpacking internalized ableism or navigating an ableist world
Understanding and supporting your unique communication style
Building and maintaining relationships
Navigating burnout and honoring rest
Forming routines that actually work for you
Managing sensory overstimulation in daily life
What disability justice means to you
Requesting academic or workplace accommodations
Strengthening self-advocacy skills
Reclaiming stimming and other self-regulation tools
Moving through grief tied to missed diagnosis or misunderstood childhood experiences
Balancing the desire for independence with needing support
Frequently Asked Questions
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Neurodivergent-affirming therapy, including Autism therapy for adults, means creating a space where you don’t have to mask or try to meet neurotypical expectations. I take time to learn your unique communication style and offer multiple ways to engage in session. For example, some clients like to have something to do with their hands, like crocheting or coloring, some prefer typing or using communication cards if verbal communication isn’t available, and others may need space if they experience verbal shutdowns.
We also talk about access needs in therapy. This is anything that would make therapy easier for you to fully participate in. That might include sensory considerations, flexible pacing, or anything else that helps you feel supported. Neurodivergent therapy is about working with your brain, not against it.
Sessions focus on communication, sensory needs, executive functioning, and well-being. I provide fully online therapy for Autistic or neurodivergent adults in Colorado and Illinois, including Denver, Boulder, Chicago, or wherever else you might be.
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Yes. I work with late-diagnosed and self-diagnosed Autistic adults, as well as those who are still exploring whether they may be on the Autism spectrum. You don’t need a formal diagnosis to access therapy with me. There are many valid reasons someone may pursue or not pursue an official Autism diagnosis, and your experience is taken seriously either way.
Being diagnosed with Autism later in life doesn’t mean your challenges are any less real or impactful. Many late-diagnosed Autistic adults have spent years masking and navigating the world without support, and therapy can be a space to fully understand those experiences and receive affirming care.
In our work together, we focus on understanding your unique neurodivergent experience, developing strategies for daily life, and self-acceptance.
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Therapy is adapted by moving away from one-size-fits-all approaches and focusing on what works best for you as an individual. Rather than trying to change or “fix” Autistic traits, we focus on understanding how your brain works and supporting you in ways that actually fit your life.
This might include rethinking goals around productivity, communication, or relationships so they feel more aligned and sustainable for you. We also take things into account like burnout, masking, sensory overwhelm, and systemic barriers, rather than treating them like individual shortcomings.
In session, this can look like adjusting pacing, being more explicit or structured in communication, or approaching challenges in a way that works with your natural patterns instead of against them. The process is collaborative and individualized, building from what actually works for you.
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Yes. In therapy we explore what masking looks like for you and how it shows up in your daily life. We look at the things that keep you masking or feeling burned out, and work on building a life that feels more affirming and sustainable.
Sometimes there’s grief in this process. For example, you might grieve for your past self who spent so much time and energy masking or overriding your needs. Along the way, there’s also opportunity for empowerment. Therapy gives you a safe space to experiment, practice self-expression and unmasking, and find ways to be seen and understood for who you really are. Many neurodivergent adults find that it’s worth any shit that comes up along the way.
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