Dearest Autistic Client of Mine

As a therapist, I don't always get to directly tell clients what I am thinking. When an autistic client comes to me for art therapy, this is what is on my mind.

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Dearest Autistic Client of Mine,

I’m excited I get to be your therapist.

If you’re reading this, it means you recently found out you’re autistic. I don’t know if you were diagnosed or discovered it on your own, but I’m glad whatever happened to lead you to this awareness did.

"Vulnerable Territory" Mixed Media Collage by Jackie Schuld

Finding out you’re autistic makes everything makes sense, but it’s also like entering a new world. A world where one doesn’t fully know the rules (if there are even any), what unknown forms of science govern, or how to take it all in.

When I found out I’m autistic, I felt relieved, grateful, and also deeply confused. I was unsure and contained doubt (could I really be autistic?). I also needed clarity and answers. What was caused by autism and what was simply trauma or my environmental upbringing? What could be changed and what would I have to accept?

I don’t know what your questions are, but I cannot wait to hear them.

I do not have all of the answers sitting on the tip of my tongue, but I do have skills, strategies, and intuition to help you uncover them.

I want to be a breath of fresh air and present to all that you are. I’m excited to walk this journey with you.

Warmly,

Jackie

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Thank you for reading. You can learn more about how I work with autistic individuals here.