Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that influences how a person experiences the
world — socially, emotionally, and sensorily. While we often associate autism with childhood
diagnoses, many adults live with autism spectrum traits without ever having received a
formal diagnosis.
In fact, a large number of clients who come to therapy for anxiety, burnout, or relationship
issues eventually discover that autism explains many of their lifelong struggles.
Common Signs of Autism in Adults:
● Feeling overwhelmed in social situations
● Needing strict routines or getting distressed by change
● Difficulty understanding social cues or emotional tone
● Deep focus on specific interests or topics
● Feeling “out of sync” in group settings
● Sensory sensitivities (noise, lights, textures)
● Emotional overwhelm or shutdown
Why It’s Often Missed:
Many adults learn to “mask” their symptoms — especially if they’ve grown up in
environments where emotional expression was discouraged or misunderstood. This is
particularly true for people raised as girls, or those who’ve developed coping mechanisms to
fit in.
But masking comes at a cost — leading to exhaustion, identity confusion, and self-doubt.
What Therapy Can Offer:
Charles works with adults who identify with autism traits to:
● Understand and accept their neurodivergence
● Manage sensory overload and emotional dysregulation
● Improve communication in relationships
● Build routines that support mental well-being
Autism doesn’t need to be “fixed.” But understanding it can be the key to building a life that
feels more aligned and less overwhelming.