What is Autism

What is Autism

Autism is a neurological difference in the nervous system which begins in utero and makes Autistic individuals think, move, interact, sense and process atypically or differently to a standardised norm. Since Autism is a different way of processing, it is not a disease or disorder. It is a form of neurodiversity. Neurodiversity is a term that refers to the rich diversity of human minds and is an undeniable aspect of the biodiversity that is found in human beings.

Autistic brains are wired for seeing patterns and making connections that are not obvious.  The Autistic experience of empathy, touch, sound, sleep and emotions are often more overwhelming, more prominent, more intense because of their unique hyper-connected, busy brains.

Therapist talking with patient in office

TAKE THE FIRST STEP TODAY

BOOK YOUR FREE 15 MINUTE INTRODUCTION SESSION NOW

Get Started

Signs of Autism in Adults

The core features of Autism in adults are the same as in children, but they can manifest differently and may be more internalised or subtle due to learned coping mechanisms (or masking). These features fall into two main areas:

  • Social Communication and Social Interaction Differences

Adults with Autism may

  • Find it hard to understand what others are thinking or feeling
  • Struggle with social situations
  • Have difficulty making or maintaining friendships, or prefer to be alone.
  • Seem blunt, rude, or disinterested in others unintentionally.
  • Find it hard to express their own feelings
  • Take things very literally and struggle with idioms, sarcasm or abstract language
  • Not understand neurotypical social "rules" or expectations
  • Find eye contact uncomfortable
  • Have difficulty interpreting facial expressions, body language, and other nonverbal cues
  • May speak in a monotone voice or have a different rhythm or inflection
  • Have difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations (small talk)
  • Become overwhelmed in social situations due sensory overload
  • Behaviours, Interests (Passions) or Activities

Adults with Autism may

  • Have strong preferences for routines and get distressed by changes
  • Engage in stimming, such as rocking, fidgeting
  • Have intense passions that they may talk about frequently.
  • Notice small details or patterns that others might miss
  • Have sensory sensitivities, such as being highly sensitive to sounds, lights, textures, or scents
  • Have a need for order and organisation
Psychology mental plan

TAKE THE FIRST STEP TODAY

BOOK YOUR FREE 15 MINUTE INTRODUCTION SESSION NOW

Get Started

Strengths of Autism

Individuals with autism possess many strengths that may include: 

  • Self-motivated, independent learners
  • Honesty
  • Logical thinking ability
  • Thinking and learning in a visual way
  • Detail orientated
  • A strong appreciation for a particular field of study or topic
  • Being dependable with regards to schedules/routines
  • Tendency to be unconventional, open-minded
  • Adherence to rules
  • Ability/preference for spending time alone
  • Ability to think outside the box and generate solutions to problems
  • Advocate when made aware of injustice
  • Ability to express caring in non-traditional ways
Book appointment
Happy Lady after telehealth session

Support for Adults with Autism

Human functioning is never static. It changes whether you’ve had a good night’s sleep or not, whether you’re healthy or unwell. Our functioning depends entirely on the context in which we find themselves. At Bonacci Practice we acknowledge that the level of support Autistic individuals need varies across domains (home, work, daily living, relationships) and that individuals with autism are not alike, and likely to differ in their areas of strength and in their areas of challenge that may need support with.

At Bonacci Practice we can help you develop skills to understand and support your autistic traits.

Do You Have a Question? Get In Touch With Us

If you would like to book an appointment with one of our therapists, get in touch with us on 0494 316 395 or fill in the form to the right.

  • 0494 316 395
  • info@bonaccipractice.com.au
Book appointment

      Start your journey towards greater mental well-being

      PHONE

      0494 316 395

      EMAIL

      info@bonaccipractice.com.au

      Cart