There’s a good chance I’m autistic. As a therapist, you might assume I’d have figured this important fact out a little earlier than the 38 years I’ve been living in this body, but apparently our blind spots can be quite big sometimes.
That said, I am currently not choosing to go for an official diagnosis, partly because I’m still in the process of transferring my life admin to Portugal and mostly because I don’t feel the need. I’ve worked with neuro-divergent people in growing numbers over the last few years and if it’s taught me anything (it’s taught me SO much!), it’s that everyone is different, and as long as you have good support around you and a good understanding and acceptance of yourself and your needs anything and everything is possible.
The official list of autistic traits, just like with any ND diagnosis, is not black and white. Many overlap with other ways of being and many present very differently depending on gender, environment and a host of other factors so diagnosis can be tricky to say the least.
Thankfully, being in consistent therapy for nearly a decade, plus creating a work schedule and environment that works for me, being confident enough to be open about feeling overwhelmed by groups, noise and last minute changes has meant I live a happy and fulfilled life. I love supporting others to do the same, in a way that works for them, whether that means getting an official diagnosis to get access to access to further support or just having more understanding and acceptance around our individuality, where strengths lie, and where we can gift ourselves more support.
People rarely come to therapy to deal with their neuro-divergence. ND is not a disorder which requires managing or fixing. It is part of the unique make up of each person. ND people often come to therapy for support with trauma (ND people are far more likely to experience trauma, PTSD, low self esteem, depression and anxiety as a result of trying to live in a world built for and by NT people) or any other concern they may have.
Working with someone conscious of neurological differences can be especially helpful as it reduces the risk of adding to existing trauma, whilst creating a more comfortable and, most importantly, SAFE space in order to actually do the therapeutic work. I work online with a flexible schedule and no agenda. You remain in your own space, wherever and however feels safest for you and I won’t demand you identify feelings or make eye contact or do anything else that makes you feel uncomfortable. I’m clear and explicit in my communication and welcome feedback about what you need or what would make the process of talking to me easier or more constructive.
If you’d had a difficult experience with a therapist in the past but would still like some support, feel free to reach out and book a complimentary 30min consultation with me. The whole process is managed online in a transparent way. www.emmabrooke.net/counselling
There’s a good chance I’m autistic
