At Layers Counseling Specialists, we provide a neurodiversity-affirming approach to Autism therapy. Our specialized services help children, teens, and adults with Autism embrace their strengths, understand their unique way of processing the world, and develop the skills they need to thrive in their own authentic way.

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition characterized by differences in social communication, sensory processing, and behavior patterns. These differences are not deficits that need to be “fixed”—they are part of the natural diversity of human experience. At Layers Counseling Specialists, we work from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective, meaning we celebrate the individuality and strengths of each person we support.

Understanding Levels of Autism and Support Needs

Autism is classified into three levels based on the amount of support an individual might need:

• Level 1 (Requiring Support): Individuals might need some support with social interactions and organizational skills but can generally navigate daily life independently.

• Level 2 (Requiring Substantial Support): Individuals may need more consistent help with communication and sensory challenges.

• Level 3 (Requiring Very Substantial Support): Individuals may need significant assistance in most areas of life, including communication and behavior regulation.

Therapy at Layers Counseling Specialists is adapted to meet these varying support needs, focusing on providing a safe, affirming environment where each individual can grow at their own pace.

How Therapy Differs for Each Support Need

• For Level 1: Therapy focuses on enhancing social communication skills, managing sensory sensitivities, and building executive functioning skills like planning and organization. We help individuals embrace their unique traits without needing to "mask" or hide them.

• For Level 2: We provide more structured support for emotional regulation, communication, and managing sensory overload. The environment is adapted to the individual's needs, ensuring therapy is comfortable and effective.

• For Level 3: Therapy might involve more intensive support for communication, sensory regulation, and daily living skills. We work closely with families to create a comprehensive support system, helping the individual live a fulfilling life on their own terms.

Trauma and Autism: Understanding the Impact

Individuals with Autism are at higher risk for trauma due to experiences like bullying, social exclusion, or feeling different while growing up. Many clients have faced situations where they felt left out, misunderstood, or as if something was wrong with them due to their neurodivergent traits. These experiences can create deep emotional scars and impact self-esteem, leading to anxiety, depression, or trauma-related symptoms in adulthood.

At Layers Counseling Specialists, we provide trauma-informed care, helping individuals process these experiences in a safe, supportive environment.

Co-Occurring Conditions

Individuals with Autism often experience co-occurring conditions that require additional support. Common co-occurring conditions include:

• Anxiety Disorders: Many individuals with Autism experience heightened anxiety, often related to sensory sensitivities, changes in routine, or social interactions.

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): ADHD frequently co-occurs with Autism, impacting attention, impulse control, and executive functioning.

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Repetitive behaviors associated with Autism can sometimes overlap with OCD symptoms, requiring careful assessment and tailored treatment.

• Depression: Social isolation, bullying, or misunderstandings can lead to depression in individuals with Autism, particularly during adolescence or adulthood.

At Layers Counseling Specialists, we treat these co-occurring conditions alongside Autism, ensuring that each client receives comprehensive, tailored care that addresses all aspects of their well-being.

Our Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach

At Layers Counseling Specialists, we recognize that neurodivergent individuals, including those with Autism, experience the world differently—and those differences are valuable. Our neurodiversity-affirming therapy includes:

• Strength-Based Focus: Instead of focusing on “correcting” behaviors, we help clients build on their strengths and unique abilities.

• Respecting Individuality: We respect each individual’s communication style and sensory needs, promoting autonomy and self-advocacy.

• Supporting Authentic Expression: We encourage natural behaviors, such as stimming, and teach clients how to navigate the world without having to hide who they are (avoiding "masking").

• Environment Adaptation: We work with families and communities to create environments that support neurodivergent individuals, rather than trying to fit them into neurotypical molds.

Who Can Benefit from Our Autism Therapy?

Our Autism therapy services are designed for:

• Children: We help kids manage sensory sensitivities, build emotional awareness, and navigate social interactions in school and at home.

• Teens: Our therapy supports adolescents as they face the challenges of growing up, including social relationships, school transitions, and increased independence.

• Adults: We assist adults in managing work, relationships, and life responsibilities, embracing their strengths while navigating a neurotypical world.

Why Choose Layers Counseling Specialists for Autism Therapy?

• Neurodiversity-Affirming Care: We embrace differences, providing therapy that values each individual's unique traits without trying to “normalize” them.

• Customized, Compassionate Support: Every therapy plan is tailored to the individual, addressing both strengths and challenges.

• Skills for Lifelong Growth: We provide tools and strategies that foster independence, self-advocacy, and emotional resilience, helping individuals thrive long-term.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

Whether you're seeking support for your child, teen, or yourself, we are here to help. At Layers Counseling Specialists, we offer a compassionate, affirming environment where growth is celebrated. Contact us today to schedule a free 15-minute consultation and take the first step toward empowerment and understanding.