Understanding and Affirming Autistic Clients: A Primer for Mental Health Professionals

This book is an accessible primer focused on the provision of neuro-affirming clinical care for autistic clients, written from the perspective of autistic clinicians. In eight chapters, this book provides actionable steps without the assumption of expert autism knowledge. It first builds foundational knowledge for understanding what autism is and how to talk about it using current language practices. This book then explains how to recognize and assess for autism, alongside overviewing co-occurring mental health concerns among this population. This book also includes strategies for effective communication and interventions with autistic individuals, supporting autistic individuals day-to-day, and maintaining ethical clinical practices. Broadening beyond individual clients, this book additionally outlines strategies for supporting families and caregivers of autistic individuals, with an emphasis on the importance of understanding the impact that autism may have on family dynamics. This book is the answer for clinicians asking themselves how they can better serve their autistic clients.

Table of Contents:
Preface Acknowledgments Chapter 1: Understanding Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder Language Basics Models of Understanding The Spectrum of Autism Common Myths and Misconceptions Chapter 2: Recognizing and Assessing Autism Late Identification of Autism Self-Identification Screening and Assessment Tools The Role of Early Intervention Cultural and Social Considerations Chapter 3: Communication with Autistic Clients by Maggie Savage Communicating with Speaking Autistic Clients Communicating with Non-Speaking Autistics Building Rapport and Trust with Autistic Clients Chapter 4: Mental Health Concerns in Autistic Individuals Co-occurrence of Autism with Other Mental Health Concerns Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Intellectual Developmental Disorders Depression Generalized Anxiety Social Anxiety Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders Trauma- and Stress-Related Disorders Disordered Eating Addiction Borderline Personality Disorder Conclusion Chapter 5: Treatment Approaches and Interventions Social Communication and Awareness Support Exploring Camouflaging of Autistic Traits Mindfulness and Relaxation Emotions and Alexithymia Safety Planning with Autistic Clients Trauma Informed Care with Autistic Clients Peer Support and Group Therapy Collaborative and Interdisciplinary Care Applied Behavioral Analysis Chapter 6: Supporting Autistic Clients in Daily Life Educational Support Employment Support Navigating the Healthcare and Support Service Systems Chapter 7: Working with Families and Caregivers Understanding the Family Perspective Providing Education and Resources Facilitating Family Support Groups Encouraging Self-Care and Coping Strategies Chapter 8: Ethical Considerations and Best Practices Informed Consent and Confidentiality Respect for Individual Differences and Preferences Cultural Humility and Sensitivity Continuing Education and Professional Development The Importance of Ongoing Research and Collaboration Glossary Appendix A: Book Recommendations Appendix B: Online Periodical Suggested Reading Appendix C: Online Communities for Autistic Clients Appendix D: Self-Diagnosis and Skill Resources for Clients Appendix E: Free Training and Professional Development in Autism References Index About the Authors

About the Author :
Chris Dabbs, PhD, is Assistant Professor of Psychology at Valparaiso University and is a licensed psychologist and licensed mental health counselor, who is open about his own identity as an autistic clinician. In his research, Dr. Dabbs primarily focuses on ways in which social bias and stigma impact mental wellness, employment, and life satisfaction in religious minorities and people broadly described as neurodivergent. His research has been published in academic journals, collected volumes, and he has provided clinical training and presentations to national and local audiences. You can stay up-to-date with his current endeavors at chrisdabbs.com or find him on social media @dabbspsych. Audrey Scaer, PhD, is autistic and a staff psychologist at Eastern Michigan University’s counseling center, with a particular focus on working with college students exploring autistic identity, LGBTQ+ identity, or processing experiences of identity-based trauma. Dr. Scaer attended graduate school in Oklahoma. Outside of clinical work, Dr. Scaer collaborates with Chris on research focused on autistic wellbeing. Contribution by Maggie Savage