Autism Counseling

I am sure it can get tiresome to continuously walk around in a world that feels like it wasn't made for you. People never seem to say what they mean. It can be unbearably noisy. And, to top it all off, you are constantly left wondering, "Did I say the right thing?" "Is there something I am missing from this conversation." or "Why is this person upset with me right now?"

If you have Autism Spectrum Disorder, I know that there are things about life that can be difficult, confusing, and downright frustrating. It is important for you, and those like you, to have a safe and understanding place to receive counseling services.

Mental Distress is Very Common Among Those with Autism.

For a lot of people on the spectrum, it can seem that the day begins and ends with autism. However, comorbidity with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other mental illnesses are very common. Most commonly people with ASD experience depression and anxiety just like their Neurotypical counterparts. Bipolar disorder is also quite common among those on the spectrum. The problem is, however, that when you google autism, you are likely to only find centers and clinicians who specialize in diagnostics and behavior management. This doesn't help you. Counseling for Autism isn't about changing your Autism. It is about giving you the environment and expertise needed to help you deal with things like depression, anxiety, and other forms of mental distress.

Counseling for Autism May Be What You Need.

Counseling is about conversations and connection first of all. We understand that this might not always come easy to you. However, beyond that, the research suggests that positive change is possible by learning about what is causing your mental distress and how it works in your brain. From there, many methods of counseling rely on the development of certain skills that can help you reduce the symptoms of your mental distress.

Think of it as a plan of action that you and your counselor will formulate together. When the symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, etc begin, you will have a list of skills to start using right then and there to help you through.

You Need a Counselor who Understands Autism.

Identifying things like stress, depression, and anxiety in clients with Autism can be very difficult. Traits of ASD can often overlap with traits of various forms of mental distress. This is why it is so important for you to find a counselor who understands how ASD and other mental illnesses work together.

At Mind Works Counseling Services, our counselors are familiar with ASD and enjoy working with our clients who are on the Autism Spectrum. Some of us have worked exclusively with clients in the spectrum for a time. Some of us have children who are on the spectrum. All of us, however, have experience in working with clients with Autism in the counseling setting.

First and foremost, we are committed to providing you with the counseling you need in an environment and within a counseling relationship you are comfortable with. We want you to succeed!

This Sounds Good, but I have Questions.

"How can you be sure that you can help me?"

In counseling there are no guarantees. All we can do is promise to do our best to get to know you and offer you counseling services that are as tailored to you as possible. We invite you to call us and talk to one of our counselors. We are happy to offer a free consultation to help you make your decision.

"Do you work with clients who are nonverbal?"

Unfortunately, no. As counselors we rely on the ability to converse with our clients in order to understand their views and struggles. That being said, we understand that there are differences in how engaged different people remain during conversation, how fast or slow they speak, and how frequently (if at all) eye-contact is made. This is why we resolve to do all we can to make this experience work for you and help you succeed.

"What sorts of things can you help me with?"

As you know, Autism is neurodevelopmental and therefore we cant change that. We can help you with managing symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety. We can also work with you on life skills, communication, relationships, anger management, and many other issues. Again, this is about you and what you need. If there is something that we are unable to help you with, then we will try our best to put you in contact with someone who can.

ASD should not mean that you can't get help for the same everyday struggles as anyone else. You are more than any diagnosis and we would love to help if we can.

If you have more questions, please call us at (806) 553-6068 or click here to send us an email. If you'd like to know more about setting up an appointment, click here.