Autism-Affirming Therapy for Individuals and Families
What autism actually is
Autism is a different way of experiencing the world than what society expects. The autism spectrum is not linear ranging from high to low functioning, but instead it is like a color spectrum with each autistic person being represented as a constellation of traits across that field of color. Each autistic person is unique and has their own experience of the world. Also, the autistic experience is dynamic with the presentation of traits ranging based on factors such as environment, schedule, sensory input, and others.
Commonly identified traits of autism are differences in communication and relationships, preferences for routine and predictability, and sensory differences. All of these traits can be disabling in a society that is centered around social norms that are not inclusive of these differences. All of these traits can be sources of nervous system dysregulation the autistic individual is unable to have their needs met. Adding to the possibility of dysregulation is that these traits often increase the likelihood of being understood by others.
Does this mean we should try to help autistic people hide their autism? No! Our task in supporting an autistic person is to support nervous system regulation.
What affirming therapy looks like
Affirming therapy does not mean trying to make an autistic person seem less autistic. It means helping them understand their nervous system, reduce the internal and external pressure they're carrying, and build a life that genuinely fits who they are.
My work with autistic clients centers on nervous system regulation, understanding what dysregulates you or your child, and building the conditions for greater calm, connection, and functioning. This looks different for every person I work with. For some, it involves working directly with the autistic individual. For others, especially families with young children, much of the work happens with parents: helping you understand what's happening beneath the surface of your child's behavior, and shifting your approach in ways that actually create change.
I also support autistic adults who are recognizing themselves, often for the first time, in the language of neurodivergence. If you've spent decades feeling like something was wrong with you, and you're now starting to understand that you were simply wired differently, that process of reframing and healing is something I take seriously.
Who I work with
I work with autistic children, adolescents, and adults, as well as the parents and families supporting them. Common reasons people reach out include:
• A new or recent autism diagnosis and not knowing where to start
• A child whose behavior isn't responding to typical approaches
• Burnout: in the autistic person, in the parents, or both
• Anxiety, depression, or school refusal alongside autism
• Sensory overwhelm and difficulty with daily routines
• An adult who suspects they are autistic and wants support navigating that
If PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is part of what you're navigating, I have a dedicated page for that because families supporting a PDA loved one often need a very specific kind of understanding that goes beyond general autism support.
How we work together
I offer individual therapy, parent support sessions, and family therapy, in person in Buford and via telehealth across the state of Georgia. I draw on EMDR, IFS (Internal Family Systems), play therapy, expressive arts, and psychoeducation — always tailoring the approach to what actually fits the person in front of me.
I offer a free 15–30 minute consultation so we can talk through what you're dealing with and figure out together whether I'm the right fit. There's no pressure and no commitment — just a conversation.