ASC or ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person makes sense of the world, processes information and relates to other people. Autism is often described as a spectrum disorder because the condition affects people in many different ways and to varying degrees.
ASC syndrome is mostly a hidden condition. This means that you cannot tell that someone has the condition from their outward appearance. People with the condition have difficulties in three main areas: social communication, social interaction, and social imagination.
ASC is a life-long condition that affects the way the person views, understands and interacts with the social world. People with autism often find it difficult to understand others intentions and feelings, as well as their own. This may leave them feeling alienated from their environment, thinking that they don't fit in. They can often be misunderstood as being aloof or not interested in engaging with people.
Neurodivergent people often have as much desire to engage with others as much as neurotypical people. However, the difficulty understanding others gets in the way, and often resulting in high stress and symptoms of depression. Also, people with ASC often find overwhelming to deal with change and manage transition, leaving them feeling anxious. In addition to this, the presence of sensory sensitivities may amplify the anxiety.
ASC is an extremely variable condition, and very often people who share the same diagnosis have very different difficulties.
Cognitive and behaviour psychotherapies, when adapted to the specific individual needs, can be very effective in alleviating some of this distress and help the person manage their difficulties in a more adaptive and helpful way. Taking a strengths-focused approach, cognitive and behaviour psychotherapies, when adapted to the specific individual needs, can provide the right support and encouragement. A strengths-focused psychological therapy can empower people with ASC and enable them to lead full and independent lives.
Most importantly, therapy helps the person to view themselves in a compassionate and accepting way, thus, empowering the person to maximise their strengths and achieve their full potential.
Where I Work:
I am based in Fleet, Hampshire and I also see clients in Wokingham, Berkshire. I currently mainly offer therapy online, via Zoom, seeing clients across the UK.