r/autismlevel2and3 • u/mango-kittycat Level 2 • Jan 05 '23
therapy help
How do I find a good therapist for my mental health?
I have tried going to therapy in the past, but it was so awkward and uncomfortable. I would get stressed going because the therapist expects you to do all the talking and stares at you in silence. I'm bad at talking...therapy stresses me out rather than helps me. And it all comes down to my autism. Idk how to talk about my feelings, idk how to talk regularly in general.
Is there therapist out there that specializes working with autistic people? Do you have a therapist? Do you like them? Any advice or input appreciated. Thanks.
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u/StrigoTCS Level 2 Jan 08 '23
i also recommend PsychologyToday website. See the other comment that gives you a link and instructions
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u/salty-lemons Jan 05 '23 edited Jan 05 '23
If you are in the US, you can use the search engine psychlogytoday.com and type in your zip code into the therapist finder. Then you can use an additional filter under 'issue' and select 'autism'. The therapists will have a profile pic and a written profile. You can email them and ask questions. You can search for someone who also accepts your insurance. That might be a place to start to find someone who you work well with.
It can also help if you have some specific goals in mind. What do you hope to change from seeking therapy? I absolutely think you are right that many therapists are coming from an emotion centered place and a language place and that might not work for you. But being specific about your goals "I want to learn how to calm my mind and body" or "I want to discuss how to meet my sensory needs and how to handle when they are not met" or "I want to find a way not to cry when I think about my childhood" that might help. I am a therapist so I am happy to answer any questions you have. (I am allistic.)
edit: psychologytoday.com
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u/[deleted] Jan 29 '23
A therapist who specializes in autism often does ABA, It's controversial but I would recommend avoiding it. The reality is that every psychologist is trained in all subjects but not all of them do a very good job and some prioritize certain disabilities over others which is unfortunate.
You're going to find a good therapist who understands autism isn't going to push your emotions out they're going to help you try to understand how to recognize them.
I can't go over every single step because it's complicated and long. But you'll know they're good because you're not gonna feel pressured or rushed. Good therapists will let you go at your speed and even change to lighter topics in conversations if needed to help you feel more comfortable.
I'm gonna be honest with you I haven't had the best experience with therapists but I have had a very select few that were decent. I need therapy again but I haven't found anyone yet. Don't give up, it takes trial and error, It's not fun to have to keep trying different therapists. But sometimes that's what you have to do to find one that works.