Autism Coaching
Autism coaching incorporates an understanding of the complexity of life as an autistic person: the struggles, the potential gifts, and the unique expressions of autism from person-to-person.
Why autism coaching?
Autism coaching can be supportive in finding a sense of meaning and identity, whether you have a formal diagnosis or not. You may be self-diagnosed or wondering whether you might be autistic, and you might have other diagnoses as well as autism.
It can be overwhelming navigating life with autism, especially if you haven’t had the information or support you need to thrive. I won’t minimise this struggle, or make light of what you’re dealing with.
Having said that, the challenges of autism can become more manageable and easeful over time. When you understand yourself in a more compassionate way, and can advocate for your needs, you can start to fully embrace the unique way you experience life.
Autism coaching benefits
Neurodiversity coaching isn’t generally about quick wins, although you can certainly feel supported and notice changes in a short period of time. We’re often incorporating processes that can take a bit of time for your brain, body and life to catch up with! Here are some of the outcomes we might work towards:
- A better understanding of how you experience autism and what it means to you
- Building self-confidence and being kinder to yourself
- More in-depth understanding of your needs and how to express them
- Creating a lifestyle and way of working that is sustainable
- Developing stronger, more authentic relationships with self and others
Common topics in autism coaching
The coaching process is unique to your goals and what you would like to work on, and there’s nothing you’re meant to know in advance. You may be really clear on your goals, or it might be something we figure out together. There’s no set programme or topics, but here are some areas that often come up:
- Sensory processing: understand your unique sensory profile, and develop strategies to avoid or manage sensory overload.
- Masking and camouflaging - exploring the impact of camouflaging, and ways to build confidence in your authentic self.
- Executive functioning: understanding day-to-day experiences such as planning, time management and dealing with change; designing approaches to support and optimise.
- Emotional regulation and relationships: managing your emotions, and considering the boundaries and communication that would support healthy and happy social connection, whatever that means for you.
- Energy management: considering your experience of overwhelm and burnout, and ways to support you with meltdowns and shutdowns.
What is autism coaching?
Autism coaching is a space to talk openly about what you’re experiencing, to share what it’s like for you.
Sometimes you might have questions that I can answer based on my experience and knowledge, although often we’re exploring questions together so that you can make sense of your own perspective and experience.
Autism coaching can be practical, focusing on specific habits or behaviours you want to stop, start or change. We can work together to figure out and implement manageable strategies for success (on your terms).
Coaching can support you in building self-confidence, and a more positive sense of self. It can help you to recognise and adjust your coping mechanisms, as well as the emotions, beliefs and thought patterns they’re connected to.
A bit about Christina...
Following my accreditation as a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coaching Federation, I tailored my post-graduate certificate with the University of Chester to focus on neurodiversity.
To continue my professional development, I completed CPD studies in neurodiversity coaching, mental health coaching, and trauma-informed approaches. I’m committed to my ongoing development, receiving ongoing coaching and supervision.
I was diagnosed with autism, ADHD and DCD (dyspraxia) in my late thirties, so I have personal understanding and lived experience of neurodivergence.
What to expect in autism coaching...
- We'll do 60 minute sessions online, generally either weekly or fortnightly for 6-12 sessions. We can keep working together beyond those initial sessions too.
- You may be able to receive a grant through Access to Work that will pay for (or subsidise) your coaching with me. You don't have to have a formal diagnosis to apply. Note that it can take quite a few months for your application to be fully processed.
Considering working with me? Want to meet and see if it's a good fit?
Coaching sessions cost £120 – £200 / hour. Reduced price sessions are available for Access to Work clients, with some low-cost sessions also available for those in financial need.
We can have a 30-minute, no-pressure conversation to see if it's the right next step.
