Understanding Autism: Embracing Neurodiversity and Supporting Mental Health

Adam Barboff
Nov 7
3 min read

What Is Autism?

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and experiences the world. Autism isn’t a disorder to “fix” — it’s a unique way of thinking, feeling, and perceiving.

At our practice, we believe in celebrating neurodiversity and helping each individual discover their strengths. Every person with autism deserves compassion, understanding, and the opportunity to thrive.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, autism is characterized by challenges in social communication and interaction, along with restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities¹ Because it exists on a spectrum, every autistic person’s experience is unique.

Common Signs of Autism

Autism can appear differently from person to person, but some common traits include:

Differences in communication and social interaction (difficulty with eye contact or understanding social cues)
Repetitive behaviors or reliance on routines
Deep focus or intense interests in specific topics
Sensory sensitivities (sound, texture, light, or smell)
Strong preference for structure and predictability

These characteristics are not flaws — they are simply part of how the autistic brain works²

Myths and Misconceptions About Autism

Despite greater awareness today, many myths about autism still persist. Let’s set the record straight:

Myth: People with autism lack empathy.Truth: Many autistic people experience empathy deeply but may express it differently.
Myth: Autism only affects children.Truth: Autism is lifelong — adults can be autistic too, even if they were never diagnosed as children.
Myth: Individuals with autism can’t build relationships or succeed.Truth: With support, understanding, and inclusion, autistic individuals can lead meaningful, successful lives.

Autism and Mental Health

Many individuals with autism also experience co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD. Some may also use substances as a way to cope with sensory overload, social anxiety, or emotional distress.

That’s why autism counseling and trauma-informed therapy are so important. Addressing both mental health and daily life challenges together helps individuals build coping skills, emotional regulation, and confidence³

At our practice, we offer a safe, judgment-free space for individuals on the autism spectrum — as well as their families — to explore emotions, develop self-awareness, and learn practical strategies for growth.

Supporting Someone with Autism

Whether you’re a parent, partner, friend, or professional, you can make a difference by:

Listening to and respecting each individual’s needs and boundaries
Creating supportive environments that reduce sensory overwhelm
Encouraging strengths and interests rather than focusing only on challenges
Using clear, direct communication
Embracing neurodiversity — recognizing that different doesn’t mean less

Every act of understanding and inclusion helps someone with autism feel seen and valued.

Counseling Can Help

If you or a loved one is navigating life on the autism spectrum, counseling can provide valuable support. Therapy can help with emotional regulation, social skills, stress management, and self-acceptance.

At Innersight Counseling we provide autism-informed counseling that honors neurodiversity and empowers clients to grow in ways that feel authentic and achievable.

You Are Not Alone

Autism is one of many expressions of human diversity — and with the right understanding and support, individuals with autism can live fulfilling, meaningful lives.

If you’d like to learn more about autism counseling or mental health support for neurodiverse individuals, contact us today. Together, we can build understanding, promote acceptance, and support your journey toward growth.

Sources:

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., DSM-5). ↩

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Signs and Symptoms. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/signs.html

National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Autism Spectrum Disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd