Your Loved One on the Autism Spectrum

Many phrases are used to describe a person who thinks in ways that we don’t. Autistic, on the autism spectrum, atypical, and to use a term that is outdated and no longer in the DSM-Aspergers Syndrome.

There are also many stereotypes of people on the spectrum. Just like there are many stereotypes of woman, people who have skin that does not look like our own, and from a culture we do not understand.

Therapy for people on the spectrum is the same, yet very different than therapy with people who are not on the spectrum. Therapists still have unconditional positive regard, actively listen, and feedback the feelings and behaviours of the client.

But a very precise understanding of the way a person on the spectrum sees life, rules, and societal norms is imperative. When I train young therapists, I encourage them to see a person on the spectrum as you do a person from a different culture. Let the client teach you about their culture. What is normal for them. What is it like to be them? And how they function, and how they struggle in this neurotypical culture they navigate each day.

We all struggle in this short journey of life. We all spend our lives trying to determine how to best manage ourselves and our tiny bit of time we have in this world.

If you love someone on the autism spectrum:

1. Accept them for who they are. Give space, freedom, and the safety of a place they can be themself.
2. Understand the culture within your person. Use that framework to relate, not to attempt to change or correct.
3. Begin to use words like neurotypical and atypical. Talk about how neurotypicals think and respond and why. Understand why your loved one responds differently. See the differences with no judgment.

Reach out to me if I can help. I’ll be here for you.

Dan

(972) 768-1124