Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world around them. It is called a spectrum because it presents in diverse ways – some people may require significant support in daily life, while others may not. Each individual’s experience is unique, and support should be tailored to their specific needs.
Autism is not something that needs to be “fixed” – it is simply a different way of thinking, processing, and engaging with the world. Many individuals with Autism have strong problem-solving skills, deep focus on areas of interest, and unique perspectives that bring valuable contributions to society. However, challenges in social communication, sensory processing, or adapting to change can make daily life more difficult.
At The Victorian Psychology Clinic we recognise that providing therapy for Autistic people requires a tailored approach that is flexible to the individual seeking support. In line with our values, we aim to work collaboratively with our clients, referrers and other professionals involved in our clients care including general practitioners, other allied health professionals and psychiatrists.
Signs and Symptoms of Autism:
Autism can look different across individuals, genders and age groups. While some traits appear in early childhood, others may only become noticeable in school, adolescence, or adulthood, especially for those who have developed strong coping strategies and or have learnt to mask their traits and present as more neurotypical.
Common Signs of Autism:
- Differences in social communication: May prefer direct or literal language, struggle with small talk, or find reading social cues difficult.
- Strong focus on specific interests: Often deeply knowledgeable about particular topics.
- Sensory sensitivities: May be highly sensitive to sounds, textures, lights, or other sensory input, or seek certain sensations for comfort.
- Preference for routine and predictability: Change can feel overwhelming or distressing.
- Difficulty with unspoken social rules: Things like sarcasm, eye contact expectations, or turn-taking in conversation may not feel intuitive.
- Masking or camouflaging in social situations: Some individuals, particularly women and girls, may develop strategies to “blend in” socially, which can be exhausting and lead to burnout.
Individuals with Autism may also experience co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, or sensory processing differences, which can add to their challenges.
How Autism is Supported:
While autism itself is not something to “treat,” support focuses on helping individuals navigate challenges, build skills, and advocate for their needs.
Common Approaches include:
- Psychological support for emotional regulation (especially for anxiety, overwhelm, or social fatigue).
- Social communication strategies to support connection and interaction in ways that feel natural.
- Sensory accommodations and self-regulation techniques to manage overstimulation.
- Routine and executive functioning support for managing daily life, planning, and transitions.
- Strength-based approaches to build confidence and embrace neurodivergent traits as valuable, rather than something to be “fixed.”
- Encouraging school accommodations be made to support learning and social engagement in a comfortable way.
- Parent coaching to understand their child’s needs and reduce meltdowns.
- For adults, particularly those diagnosed later in life, therapy often focuses on: Unpacking past experiences through an autism-informed lens, reducing masking and burnout by creating environments that suit their needs, building self-advocacy skills to navigate relationships, work, and daily life.
How we can support you
At VPC, we provide neurodiversity-affirming support for individuals with autism across all life stages. Our psychologists work with children, adolescents, and adults to help navigate challenges related to anxiety, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and daily functioning.
- We recognise that no two individuals are the same
- Our approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and tailored to each person’s unique needs
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, your child, or a loved one, we are here to help.
We have a number of clinicians who work with eating disorders. To learn more, please refer to our Psychologists page for clinician details.
If you are currently experiencing eating difficulties or body image concerns and would like to begin your journey to recovery, get in touch with us. We are here to help.