Autistic Women: A Support Group Empowering the Adult-Diagnosed or Self-Diagnosed Created by Julie Bjelland, LMFT
I am thrilled to share that we have started a new, empowering support group, a haven created by and for Autistic women who have navigated the unique journey of receiving a diagnosis later in life (or suspect they are Autistic).
We'll talk more about what the trait looks like in women, share aha moments, and enjoy spending time in a space with others discovering this new identity, too! We might have lots of emotions about this new awareness.
Feel a sense of relief with this new understanding
Feel sad that you didn't know about this sooner
Feel a new sense of freedom to be more authentically yourself
Maybe you are wondering who you are with this new lens
Every feeling you have is valid.
We recognize the vast spectrum of talents and challenges shaping our stories.
This safe space we've cultivated is a sanctuary where authenticity is welcomed and celebrated. We understand the challenges accompanying a late-in-life diagnosis and the process of self-discovery that often precedes it. Within our group, you'll find understanding hearts, listening ears, and a shared commitment to supporting one another through the highs and lows.
Our discussions are a tapestry of shared experiences, wisdom, and humor. We explore a variety of topics.
As we learn to understand and embrace our neurodiversity, we pave the way for a more inclusive and understanding world where neurodivergent women step into their fullest potential and are recognized for their strengths, talents, and contributions.
Common in Autistic HSPs (Especially Women)
Since childhood, you've often felt a sense of being out of place or not fitting in completely.
You favor meaningful interactions and deep connections in your relationships with a chosen few friends or family members. Yet, establishing the depth of connection you desire can sometimes be a challenge.
Your deep need for solitude is crucial; insufficient alone time can lead to stress and overstimulation responses, resulting in irritation, anger, crying, and challenges with concentration. These reactions may further develop into anxiety, depression, illness, burnout, or complete withdrawal.
Engaging in superficial (small talk) conversations is tiring and uninteresting. You prefer deep discussions on subjects of interest.
Socially, you've learned to mask or camouflage to match behaviors deemed socially acceptable.
You have heightened sensitivity across several senses, including sight, sound, motion, taste, touch, or textiles.
Eye contact can feel overwhelmingly intense for you, giving you a feeling of excessive vulnerability or intrusion.
You deeply cherish your alone time, immersing yourself in nature or your favorite interests. Given the opportunity, you could happily spend the entire day engaging in your special interests.
Written methods are often preferred for important communications, allowing for thoughtful processing and selection of words.
Social or work gatherings, particularly with unfamiliar people, can be exceptionally draining for you, often leading you to prefer avoiding them altogether.
Sudden alterations in plans can provoke intense stress and discomfort for you.
You tend to experience emotions intensely, and managing these strong feelings becomes particularly challenging when you're fatigued, unwell, or overtaxed.
Here's a link to resources, including education about similarities and differences in high sensitivity and autism, an autism Quiz, research, and info about this support group: AutisticHSP.com
We Warmly Welcome You to Join
This support group is free for members of my Sensitive Empowerment Community!
Are You Interested in Getting an Autism Assessment?
I’m Julie Bjelland, LMFT
A proud Autistic, HSP, Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in highly sensitive people and adult-diagnosed Autism in females. I founded Sensitive Empowerment to raise awareness about the extraordinary value inherent in Sensitivity and Autism. Recognizing the vital importance of education and support, I’m dedicated to creating tools and resources to reduce susceptibility to mental and physical health challenges.
As a sensitive or neurodivergent individual, navigating family dynamics where others resist growth can feel isolating. However, by focusing on self-awareness, setting compassionate boundaries, and protecting your energy, you can continue thriving without getting "stuck in their stuckness." Learn practical strategies to maintain meaningful relationships while staying true to your own path.