I came into the world with my own unique way of processing information and navigating whatever I came into contact with. So did you. This is what we all must do if we seek an uninhibited, free expression of ourselves: recover and follow what has been in us since the beginning.

An environmental scan is a tool and practice that can help us anticipate what might be challenging about a particular environment so that we can feel prepared and well-resourced. In this post, I’ll explain the whats and hows of an environmental scan and provide a recent example of using the environmental scan in my own life.

Where do you hide the thoughts and emotions you don’t want to face? I’m talking about those thoughts and feelings that make you flinch, cringe, or shake your head when they come to mind. I’ve heard all sorts of metaphors from clients: Pandora's box, a black hole, the junk drawer. Maybe you’ve locked those emotions in a chest and thrown it to the bottom of the ocean.

Irritability and moodiness convey nothing about who we are as people, and everything about the state of our nervous system. Irritability can be a sign that the sympathetic nervous system is activated, which occurs during times of heightened stress. The autistic nervous system is quite sensitive, and there is a lot that can cause sympathetic activation.

Sensory nourishment can be a pathway to joy, restfulness, and authentic self-expression. Knowing what feels good can unlock moments of Autistic joy. Providing ourselves with soothing stimuli while reducing distressing stimuli can help us to rest and prevent burnout. Reconnecting with our bodies through the senses can feel like meeting ourselves for the first time.

The month of April has long been designated “Autism Awareness Month”. The Autistic community, however, predominantly prefers that April be named “Autism Acceptance Month”. What’s the difference?