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In the latest developments in understanding autism, a groundbreaking perspective is emerging: autistic self-identification.

Book cover of Unmasking Autism, championing self-identification.

This innovative approach, championed by Devon Price, author of Unmasking Autism, proposes that individuals possess the autonomy to define their own identities without relying on psychiatric diagnoses.

At Asheville Family Counseling, we’ve noticed that an increasing number of our adult clients are identifying as neurodivergent and seeking referrals for testing.

However, in line with the principles of autonomy and empowerment, we’re encouraging individuals to consider an alternative approach. Rather than navigating the often long waits and considerable expenses associated with formal testing, we advocate for self-identification.

Autistic Self-Identification

Autistics hold the collective wisdom, organizing ability, insight, and political power to define who they are. No authority figure should have to sign off on their identities.

Further, because psychiatrists fail to diagnose such a large percentage of the Autistic population, many Autism researchers now fully accept self-identified Autistic adults within their subject pool.

Within the peer-reviewed journal Autism in Adulthood, self-identified Autistics often make up the bulk of the participant sample, and they have repeatedly been found to be indistinguishable from their formally diagnosed peers.

Ultimately, a growing body of research now also considers the presence of Autism-spectrum traits as qualifying for inclusion in many Autism studies.

This itself reveals that a formal diagnosis is hardly necessary, and that a psychiatric paradigm of accepting self-identification is inevitable.

Accessing Accommodations Without Gatekeeping

When considering the necessity of formal diagnosis for accessing accommodations, it’s crucial to understand the role of psychiatric professionals.

Contrary to popular belief, they’re not benevolent figures granting access to necessary supports. Instead, they often serve as gatekeepers, restricting access based on subjective criteria.

We need a new way forward. For example, at organizations like Humanity United, employees can identify themselves as neurodivergent and request any unique accommodation they need without supplying formal documentation.

This inclusive approach ensures that individuals can access any accommodation they need — things like the ability to skip workplace social events, a dimmer switch for their office lights, the ability to communicate with their boss over email rather than in person, or a more fidget-friendly chair.

Empowering Autistic Individuals

At Asheville Family Counseling, we fully support self-identification and eliminating gatekeeping, empowering Autistic individuals to access the understanding, accommodations, and support services they need. This paradigm shift not only promotes autonomy but also fosters a more inclusive and supportive society.

Credit: Ideas and insights in this blog were gleaned from Devon Price, author of ‘Unmasking Autism,’ as published in the recent article on Medium. Read the full article here.

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Have you ever found yourself faced with unexpected outcomes, especially when it comes to the people you love not meeting your expectations?

A young boy runs through the summer grass, oozing authenticity.

This sentiment rings particularly true in parenting. From the earliest stages of parenthood to fostering connections with loved ones, one belief has remained steadfast in my heart: the greatest gift we can give others is the freedom to be completely, authentically themselves.

Personal Journey: Struggles and Revelations

My journey as a parent has been a testament to this belief. Despite my conviction in celebrating human autonomy and self-expression, I’ve struggled with fully supporting my son as he reveals his extraordinary autonomous self.

Contrastingly, a dear friend of mine has always advocated for autonomy and self-expression. Her daughters, now in their mid-twenties, are shining examples of self-assuredness and authenticity, thanks to her encouragement of their autonomy.

The Power of Releasing Expectations

Reflecting on this, I realize how often we fail to give those around us—whether our children or others—the freedom to be themselves. Allowing individuals the freedom to be themselves fosters genuine self-esteem, authentic connection, and harmony in relationships. Regardless of whether you have children, consider the power of releasing expectations in your interactions with others.

Setting Boundaries with Love

However, it’s crucial to recognize when setting boundaries is necessary. Allowing people to be who they are doesn’t mean tolerating mistreatment. If someone creates an environment where we don’t feel completely loved and supported for being authentically ourselves, we have the power to let them go with love and compassion.

Creating Healthy Relationships

Honoring others’ autonomy and our own boundaries creates space for healthier, more fulfilling relationships built on mutual respect, understanding, and genuine support. As we navigate relationships, let’s remember the importance of embracing authenticity while setting boundaries with love and compassion. Let’s strive to create spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are, while also honoring our own needs.

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If you’d like to find out more, click the button below and schedule a free, 15-minute call.
We’ll discuss how we may be able to help.


In a world often fraught with challenges and uncertainties, finding moments of joy can feel like a radical act. While acknowledging and processing our collective grief is essential, recognizing joy as a vital part of our human experience is equally important.

Radical joy isn’t just a fleeting emotion; it’s a profound force that sustains us through difficult times and inspires positive change.

The sun shining down on a tree-lined path of yellow flowers, evoking the feeling of radical joy.

Embracing Joy: A Transformative Power

Audre Lorde, a prominent writer and activist, once eloquently stated, “If we feel deeply, as we encourage ourselves and others to feel deeply, we will, within that feeling, once we recognize we can feel deeply, we can love deeply, we can feel joy, then we will demand that all parts of our lives produce that kind of joy. And when they do not, we will ask, ‘Why don’t they?’ And it is the asking that will lead us inevitably toward change.”

She emphasized that by embracing joy, we demand that all parts of our lives produce that kind of joy. This recognition underscores the importance of joy as an integral aspect of our well-being and resilience.

Connecting with Joy: A Practice

To connect with joy meaningfully, engage in a practice that nurtures and fully embraces what brings you joy. Find a comfortable position, take deep breaths, and ground yourself in the present moment. Visualize something that brings you joy, allowing yourself to immerse in the experience fully. Notice the sensations it evokes in your body and affirm to yourself the presence of joy in your mind, body, and spirit.

Embracing Joy as a Revolutionary Act

Embracing joy as a radical act not only cultivates the feeling within ourselves but also inspires positive change in our lives and communities. By prioritizing joy, we demand a life filled with meaning, purpose, and fulfillment. As we navigate life’s complexities, seeking out moments of joy, no matter how small, empowers us to transform ourselves and our world for the better.

Conclusion: Embarking on a Journey of Radical Joy

Let us embark on this journey of embracing joy as a revolutionary act, knowing its transformative power. By embracing joy, we strengthen our resilience, deepen our connections, and contribute to a world filled with hope and positivity. Together, let’s prioritize joy as we navigate life’s ups and downs, knowing that it has the power to guide us toward greater strength, connection, and well-being.

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If you’d like to find out more, click the button below and schedule a free, 15-minute call.
We’ll discuss how we may be able to help.


Have you ever heard of the concept of the “canary in the coal mine”? In the past, coal miners used canaries as early warning systems for dangerous gases like carbon monoxide and methane.

Similarly, I have a client whom I’ll refer to as “Robin,” because they identify as a “highly sensitive person,” and their sensitivity to emotional shifts reminds me of this metaphorical canary.

A stormy sky with lightening, reflecting a highly sensitive person's heightened response to emotional disturbances around them.

Robin’s Sensitivity and Collective Grief

Robin possesses a heightened sensitivity to the emotional atmosphere around them. Just like the canary reacting to gases, Robin reacts strongly to subtle shifts and disturbances in their environment. Their sensitivity resonates with a phenomenon known as “collective grief,” where individuals absorb and feel the emotional turbulence of their community and the world at large.

Acknowledging and Processing Emotions

In our sessions, Robin often walks in visibly shaken, affected by events in our local community or on the world stage. This highlights the importance of acknowledging and processing our emotions, especially during challenging times. Whether we’re more like the coal miners or the canaries, we’re all affected by the emotional landscape around us.

Taking Time to Reflect

During difficult weeks, it’s crucial to take the time to realize and experience our emotions fully. Instead of pushing them aside or suppressing them, we should allow them to come to the surface. By pausing and giving our thoughts and feelings space, we can better understand and metabolize our experiences.

Understanding Ourselves and Others

Understanding our own minds is the first step towards fostering empathy and understanding towards others. By comprehending why we think and feel the way we do, we can better meet others where they are. This process creates a space for dialogue and collective change in how we respond and relate to our community and the world.

Embracing Self-Understanding

In essence, our willingness to understand our own minds sets the foundation for creating a more empathetic and harmonious world. Just as Robin’s sensitivity serves as a reminder to acknowledge and process our emotions, we can all learn from the metaphorical canaries in our lives. It’s through self-reflection and understanding that we pave the way for meaningful connections and positive change in our communities and beyond.

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If you’d like to find out more, click the button below and schedule a free, 15-minute call.
We’ll discuss how we may be able to help.