Posts in Autism
Feeling Flawed: A Common Experience for the Sensitive and Neurodivergent by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

Explore how societal pressures make highly sensitive and neurodivergent individuals feel flawed, and learn how embracing their unique differences can lead to a fulfilling life.

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20 Common Traits of Sensitive Autistic Women: Dispel Old Stereotypes by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

Discover 20 common traits of autistic women, challenging outdated stereotypes and highlighting their unique strengths and challenges. Explore autism resources, education, support groups, and consultations to foster greater empathy and understanding.

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The Pain of Being Misunderstood and Not Accepted: Understanding and Overcoming by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

Explore the emotional impact of being misunderstood and not accepted for highly sensitive and neurodiverse individuals, and learn strategies for self-compassion, setting healthy boundaries, and finding supportive communities.

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The Impact of Stress Response Overactivation in Highly Sensitive and Autistic Individuals by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

Julie Bjelland, LMFT, explores the profound effects of chronic amygdala activation on highly sensitive or neurodivergent individuals. This article delves into how overactivation influences mental and physical health and introduces a transformative solution through targeted brain training.

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Supporting Sensitive and Autistic Patients in Dental Settings by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

This article shares personal insights on enhancing dental care for sensitive and autistic patients through empathetic practices, detailed communication, sensory support, and the integration of calming devices. It urges dental professionals to adopt these approaches for a more inclusive and comforting patient experience.

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Understanding Autism: Insights from Those Who Live It and a Personal Journey of Discovery, by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

Poll results reveal the diverse experiences of being autistic, uncovering our unique challenges, strengths, and profound journey toward self-discovery and acceptance.

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Understanding and Managing Panic Attacks: Insight and Support for Highly Sensitive and Autistic Individuals by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

Understanding the science behind panic attacks can demystify the experience and provide insights into effective management strategies.

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Embracing Neurodiversity: A Path to Improved Mental Health by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

The devastating impact on sensitive and autistic individuals forced to conceal their true selves to fit in. Challenging societal norms and embracing neurodiversity can significantly improve mental health, offering a new perspective on personal differences as natural variations rather than deficits.

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Benefits of Fidget Tools: Enhancing Focus, Reducing Anxiety, and Regulating Sensory and Emotional Responses by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

Fidget tools, designed for tactile manipulation, offer extensive benefits, including enhanced focus, anxiety relief, sensory regulation, and improved social interactions, proving to be invaluable aids for individuals with anxiety, autism, ADHD, and sensory sensitivities.

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Understanding Autism: A Documentary

A documentary that delves into the lives of filmmaker Scott Steindorff and his family, broadening to include the wider autistic community's experiences and challenges while advocating for greater understanding and support, particularly addressing the underrepresented issue of autism in women and the critical mental health concerns within the autistic community.

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Silencing the Noise: The Best Earplugs for Reducing Sensory Overload by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

For those sensitive to sensory input, sound reduction is a vital tool for managing daily stress and avoiding sensory overload. By minimizing background noise, individuals can experience enhanced focus, reduced anxiety, and improved overall well-being. This simple strategy empowers sensitive people to navigate a noisy world more comfortably, preserving their energy and promoting mental health.

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Navigating the Challenges of Autism Diagnosis as an Adult Woman by Julie Bjelland, LMFT

Highlighting the challenges faced by adult women seeking an autism diagnosis and underscoring the transformative power of diagnosis in fostering self-awareness and self-compassion, ultimately contributing to a more supportive and inclusive environment.

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