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Understanding Autism in Women and Girls

When it comes to women and girls, autism often remains underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. This gap can lead to a lack of understanding, missed support opportunities, and significant challenges for those navigating life without the resources they deserve.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Do I Have High-Functioning Autism? 7 Subtle Signs to Watch For

While “high-functioning autism” is not a clinical term, it is commonly used to describe individuals on the autism spectrum who can navigate daily life without significant external support. Recognizing the signs can be a crucial first step toward understanding yourself and seeking appropriate support.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Socially Awkward or Autistic?

“Am I just socially awkward, or could I be autistic?” This question is becoming increasingly common, especially as more people learn about autism and recognize that its traits can present differently across individuals. For those exploring high-functioning autism diagnosis or testing, understanding the nuances can provide clarity and even validation.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Autism and Giftedness: A Look at Twice-Exceptionality

The connection between autism and giftedness unveils a fascinating overlap of exceptional abilities and neurodivergent traits. This dual exceptionality, often referred to as "twice-exceptional" (2e), highlights the challenges and opportunities that come with identifying and supporting individuals who are both autistic and gifted.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Understanding the Social Model of Disability: A Paradigm Shift

A diagnosis can become a label, defining an individual and limiting their potential. But what if we reframed the conversation to embrace a broader spectrum of human experience? Enter the Social Model of Disability, a revolutionary perspective that challenges traditional views and empowers people with disabilities, including those who are neurodivergent.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Should You Disclose Your ADHD or Autism Diagnosis?

Living with ADHD or Autism can present unique challenges, and deciding whether to disclose your diagnosis can be a complex choice. This decision can significantly impact your personal and professional life, so carefully weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks. This guide explores the key considerations you should make when deciding to disclose your ADHD or Autism diagnosis.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

10 Signs of Autism in Adults

Research and literature often shed light on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) primarily in children and adolescents. However, recognizing signs of autism in adults is equally crucial. Autism is recognized as a spectrum disorder, meaning individuals may exhibit varying signs and symptoms to different extents.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Navigating School or Work Accommodations for Individuals with ASD: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you or someone you know on the autism spectrum and seeking accommodations in school or the workplace? Understanding your rights and available resources is crucial for ensuring a supportive environment where you can thrive. In this blog post, we'll explore the process of requesting accommodations and provide valuable insights into navigating this journey successfully.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

How to Know If Your Partner Has Autism

This blog post isn't about diagnosing your partner, but rather exploring some common signs of adult autism that might shed light on their experiences and help you navigate your relationship with greater empathy and support.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Do I Have High Functioning Autism?

Ever feel like the rules of conversation are written in a language you just can't decipher? Do jokes fly over your head like elusive birds, or does small talk feel like navigating a minefield? If so, you're not alone.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

What is it Like to Be a Woman with Autism?

Being a woman with autism is a paradox. We're often expected to be the social butterflies, the emotional guides, the masters of empathy. Yet, for many of us, these very expectations are like kryptonite to our already-strained bandwidth.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Therapy for People with High Functioning Autism

Therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) have been recognized as valuable tools in supporting individuals with Autism. In this blog post, we will explore what CBT and DBT are and the potential benefits for people with High Functioning Autism.

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Should I Read ‘Unmasking Autism’?

In Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity, Dr. Devon Price shares his personal experience with masking and blends history, social science research, prescriptions, and personal profiles to tell a story of neurodivergence that has thus far been dominated by those on the outside looking in. This book provides readers with a comprehensive overview of autism and what it means to identify as autistic today.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Do I Have High Functioning Autism?

Welcome to our blog post on high-functioning autism—a specific profile within the autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We delve into characteristics, support strategies, and valuable insights, offering essential knowledge to better support individuals with high-functioning autism. Whether you're a caregiver, educator, or seeking information for yourself or a loved one, this article has you covered.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy for People with Autism and ADHD

At the Thriving Wellness Center, we offer a comprehensive approach to support individuals with Autism. Our therapeutic interventions draw upon the principles of Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and other complementary modalities. In this blog post, we will explore what Neurodiversity Affirming Therapy is, its principles, and the potential benefits it offers for fostering acceptance, empowerment, and well-being.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Mastering the Art of Socializing: 8 Tips to Help You Shine

Socializing is a fundamental aspect of human interaction, but for many, it can feel daunting and challenging. In this post, we'll share practical tips to help you navigate social situations with confidence and authenticity, fostering meaningful connections along the way.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

Dating with Autism: Embracing Love's Spectrum

Dating can be a thrilling and nerve-wracking experience for anyone, but for individuals on the autism spectrum, it often presents unique challenges. With understanding, open-mindedness, and support, individuals with autism can forge meaningful and fulfilling romantic connections. Read on for valuable insights and strategies to navigate the world of dating with autism.

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Do I have Depression or Autistic Burnout?

Autistic burnout is distinct from occupational burnout and from depression but because the symptoms are similar some people may be diagnosed with depression when they have autism or vice versa.  Read on to learn the differences between depression and autistic burnout and how to reduce or prevent autistic burnout.

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Leila Ostad Leila Ostad

I’m an adult female, how do I know if I have Autism?

Autism is frequently misunderstood, and that's especially true in women. Many women with undiagnosed autism go their entire lives believing something is wrong with them because they do not communicate or behave like others around them. 

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