Diagnosing autism in females presents unique challenges that have garnered increasing attention in recent years. Traditionally, autism has been studied and understood primarily through a male-centric lens, leading to diagnostic criteria that often do not fully capture the female experience. This discrepancy can result in many women and girls remaining undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, thereby not receiving the support they need.
Accurate autism assessment is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that individuals receive appropriate support and interventions tailored to their specific needs. Secondly, it fosters a better understanding of autism as a spectrum that manifests differently across genders. Lastly, it empowers females with autism to gain insights into their experiences and challenges, thereby enhancing their quality of life and mental health.
Females with autism often exhibit different traits and behaviours compared to their male counterparts. For instance, they may have better social imitation skills, a stronger ability to mask symptoms, and interests that align more closely with those of their neurotypical peers.
To find out more about female specific autistic traits, take a look at our article Female Autism Checklist. These factors contribute to the underdiagnosis and late diagnosis of autism in females, as their symptoms can be subtler and more easily overlooked by standard diagnostic tools.
Is There a Specific Test for Diagnosing Autism in Females in the UK?
The Current State of Female Autism Testing
As of now, there is no specific test exclusively designed for diagnosing autism in females in the UK. The standard diagnostic tools and criteria used are generally based on research and observations predominantly conducted on males. These tools include the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R), among others [1][2]. While these assessments are thorough and scientifically validated, they may not fully capture the nuanced ways in which autism presents in females [3].
The lack of a female-specific autism test stems from historical biases in autism research, which has traditionally focused more on males due to the higher prevalence of diagnosed cases among boys [4]. This has led to a diagnostic framework that does not always account for the subtler or different manifestations of autism in females. For example, girls and women with autism may display less overt repetitive behaviours or may be more adept at social mimicry, which can mask their autistic traits during standard assessments [5].
However, awareness of these differences is growing, and there is an increasing push within the medical and psychological communities to develop more inclusive diagnostic practices. Clinicians are becoming more attuned to the gender differences in autism presentation and are adapting their assessment approaches accordingly [4]. This includes taking a more detailed developmental history, observing social interactions in various settings, and considering reports from multiple sources, such as parents, teachers, and the individuals themselves.
While a distinct, female-specific diagnostic test is not yet available, the move towards more personalised and nuanced assessments is a positive step. This approach aims to ensure that all individuals, regardless of gender, receive accurate diagnoses and appropriate support [6].
At Oxford CBT, we are committed to staying at the forefront of these developments. We strive to implement the most up-to-date and effective diagnostic practices to ensure that women and girls with autism are recognised and supported in a manner that acknowledges their unique experiences and needs.
Why a Specific Test Might Be Necessary
Understanding the Need for Female-Specific Autism Testing
Autism manifests differently in females compared to males, leading to unique challenges in diagnosis. Traditional diagnostic criteria have been developed largely based on studies of males, which means they may not accurately capture the presentation of autism in females. This discrepancy can result in many women and girls remaining undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, ultimately affecting their access to appropriate support and interventions.
Differences in Symptom Presentation
Females with autism often exhibit different traits and behaviours compared to their male counterparts. For example, they may have better social imitation skills, enabling them to mimic neurotypical behaviours more effectively [4]. This ability to mask symptoms can make it harder for standard diagnostic tools to identify autism in females. Additionally, females might show less overt repetitive behaviours and have interests that align more closely with those of their peers, further complicating diagnosis [5].
Social and Communication Challenges
Another significant difference lies in social and communication challenges. While males with autism might display more visible difficulties in social interactions, females often develop coping mechanisms that can hide their struggles. They may work harder to fit in socially, often at the expense of their mental health, leading to increased anxiety and depression [4]. These subtler manifestations are frequently overlooked by traditional diagnostic criteria.
Benefits of a Tailored Approach
A tailored approach to diagnosing autism in females is beneficial for several reasons. First, it ensures that the unique presentation of autism in females is recognised, leading to more accurate diagnoses. This recognition is crucial for accessing the right support services and interventions that can significantly improve quality of life. Second, a gender-sensitive diagnostic approach can help in understanding the full spectrum of autism, promoting more inclusive research and better-informed practices [3].
Moving Towards Inclusive Diagnostics
The growing awareness of these gender differences in autism presentation is prompting changes in diagnostic practices. Clinicians are now more likely to consider these differences during assessments, taking a detailed developmental history and considering reports from various sources such as parents, teachers, and the individuals themselves. This shift towards more inclusive diagnostics is a positive step towards ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender, receive the support they need [6].
At Oxford CBT, we are dedicated to implementing these advancements in our diagnostic practices. Our commitment is to provide compassionate and comprehensive support that acknowledges and addresses the unique experiences of women and girls with autism.
Alternative Approaches to Diagnosis
What Do They Do Instead?
If a specific test for diagnosing autism in females does not exist, clinicians rely on adapting current methods and assessments to better capture the female presentation of autism. These adaptations are crucial for ensuring that the unique ways autism manifests in females are not overlooked.
Utilising Standard Diagnostic Tools with Adjustments
The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) remain the cornerstone of autism diagnosis [1][2]. However, clinicians are increasingly aware of the need to interpret these tools with a gender-sensitive lens. This means paying close attention to subtler signs of autism that might be more prevalent in females, such as the ability to camouflage symptoms and more nuanced social difficulties [6].
Detailed Developmental History
Gathering a comprehensive developmental history is an essential component of the diagnostic process. Clinicians often rely on detailed accounts from parents, teachers, and the individuals themselves to understand early childhood behaviours and developmental milestones. This approach helps in identifying patterns that might indicate autism, even if they are not immediately obvious through standard diagnostic criteria [4].
What to Expect During the Assessment
During the assessment, clinicians typically conduct structured interviews and use questionnaires to gather information about the individual’s developmental history. Parents and caregivers are asked to recall early childhood behaviours, such as when the child first spoke, how they interacted with peers, and any peculiar habits or repetitive behaviours that were noticed. Teachers may provide insights into the child’s social interactions and academic performance, highlighting any difficulties or exceptional skills observed in the school environment.
Examples of Assessment Tools and Techniques
Interview with Parents/Caregivers: Clinicians may use tools like the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) to systematically gather information about the individual’s early developmental history. Questions might include:
– At what age did your child start speaking?
– How does your child interact with peers and family members?
– Have you noticed any repetitive behaviours or intense interests?
Questionnaires and Surveys: Standardised questionnaires such as the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) or the Childhood Autism Spectrum Test (CAST) are often used to screen for autism traits. These tools help to quantify the behaviours and symptoms that might suggest autism.
Developmental Milestones Checklists: Clinicians may refer to developmental milestones checklists to compare the individual’s early developmental progress against typical age-related benchmarks. This can help identify areas where the individual may have experienced delays or exhibited unusual behaviours.
Observational Assessments: Direct observation of the individual in different settings, such as at home or in school, can provide valuable information. Clinicians may look for:
– Eye contact and nonverbal communication skills
– Social play and interaction with peers
– Responses to sensory stimuli
Reports from Multiple Sources: Gathering information from various sources ensures a well-rounded view of the individual’s behaviours across different contexts. This might include reports from:
– Teachers on classroom behaviour and social integration
– Peers or siblings on social interactions and play
– The individual themselves, particularly if they are able to articulate their experiences and challenges.
Using the Information to Form a Diagnosis
The information collected through these assessments is analysed to identify consistent patterns that align with autism spectrum disorder. Clinicians look for key indicators such as delays in social communication, restricted and repetitive behaviours, and sensory sensitivities. By piecing together this comprehensive developmental history, clinicians can make a more informed and accurate diagnosis.
Observing Social Interactions in Various Settings
Another key strategy is observing social interactions in various settings. This can include structured clinical observations as well as insights from everyday environments such as school, work, and home. Such observations can reveal difficulties in social communication and interactions that are characteristic of autism but may be masked by coping mechanisms in females [5].
Examples of Assessment Tools and Techniques
Structured clinical observations involve setting up specific social scenarios to observe how the individual responds and interacts. For example, clinicians might engage the individual in role-playing activities to assess their ability to understand and perform social roles and expectations. Interactive play sessions can be particularly insightful for younger children, as clinicians can note their ability to share, take turns, and engage in cooperative play.
At School: In the school environment, observations provide insights into how the individual navigates social interactions with peers and teachers. Key aspects include classroom behaviour, such as how the individual participates in group activities, follows classroom rules, and responds to teacher instructions.
Break time interactions are also crucial, as they reveal how the individual interacts with peers during less structured times like recess, lunch breaks, or free play periods.
At Home: Home observations, whether through home visits or reports from family members, offer a glimpse into how the individual interacts with family and manages daily routines.
Clinicians might focus on family dynamics, observing the individual’s interactions with parents, siblings, and other family members, including communication patterns and emotional responses.
Daily routines, such as meal times, homework, and bedtime routines, can highlight organisational and sensory challenges that may be present.
At Work: For adults, workplace observations provide valuable information on social and professional interactions. This can include observing how the individual communicates and collaborates with colleagues during team meetings or group projects.
In customer service scenarios, interactions with clients or customers can be observed to assess social communication skills and adaptability.
Other Insights: Insights from peers and siblings are also valuable in understanding social dynamics and any underlying difficulties. Reports might focus on how the individual interacts with their peers or siblings, highlighting both strengths and areas where they might struggle.
These observations and reports together create a comprehensive picture of the individual’s social abilities and challenges.
Considering Co-occurring Conditions
Females with autism are more likely to have co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) [7]. These conditions can complicate the diagnostic process, as their symptoms might overshadow or intersect with those of autism. Therefore, a thorough assessment often includes evaluating for these co-occurring conditions to provide a clearer picture of the individual’s overall mental health.
Incorporating Self-Report Measures
Self-report measures, like the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q), have been developed to help identify behaviours that individuals with autism might use to hide their symptoms [6]. These tools are particularly useful for diagnosing autism in females, who often engage in more social camouflaging than males.
Emphasising a Multidisciplinary Approach
A multidisciplinary approach that involves psychologists, psychiatrists, speech and language therapists, and occupational therapists can provide a more holistic view of the individual’s behaviours and challenges. This collaborative effort ensures that all aspects of the individual’s functioning are considered, leading to a more accurate and comprehensive diagnosis.
At Oxford CBT, we embrace these alternative approaches to ensure that our diagnostic practices are inclusive and effective. By recognising and addressing the unique ways autism can present in females, we strive to provide the best possible support for all individuals on the autism spectrum.
Modifications in Assessment
Is the Test Altered in Any Way for Females?
Focusing on Social and Communication Skills
Standard autism tests are increasingly being adapted to better identify symptoms in females. Given the differences in how autism manifests between genders, these modifications are essential for ensuring accurate diagnoses and appropriate support.
One key adaptation involves focusing on the social and communication skills that may present differently in females. For instance, while males might show more overt social withdrawal, females often engage in social mimicry, which can mask their difficulties [4]. Clinicians are trained to look beyond superficial social competence to detect underlying issues, such as discomfort in social situations or a reliance on rehearsed social scripts [5].
Adjusting Assessment Tools
In addition to observing these subtler social cues, assessment tools are also being modified to include questions that are more relevant to the female experience. For example, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) might be adjusted to incorporate activities and prompts that elicit responses revealing the individual’s natural social behaviours, rather than those that have been learned or mimicked. Similarly, the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) can be tailored to probe more deeply into areas where females may exhibit differences, such as their interests and routines [2].
Recognising Internalising Symptoms
Another significant modification involves the inclusion of questions about internalising symptoms, which are more common in females with autism. These symptoms include anxiety, depression, and high levels of stress, which may be more prevalent due to the effort required to mask autistic traits [7]. Recognising these internal experiences is crucial for a comprehensive assessment, as they can significantly impact the individual’s overall wellbeing and functioning.
Multi-Informant Approach
The assessment process also increasingly values input from multiple sources to paint a complete picture of the individual’s behaviours across different contexts. Reports from parents, teachers, and peers are crucial, as they can provide insights into behaviours that the individual might not be able to articulate themselves. This multi-informant approach helps to ensure that all aspects of the individual’s social interactions and daily functioning are considered [6].
Incorporating the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q)
Furthermore, the development and validation of new tools like the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q) specifically address the tendency of females to mask their symptoms. This tool helps clinicians identify behaviours that individuals use to compensate for or hide their autistic traits, which is particularly relevant for females who might otherwise go undiagnosed [6].
Overall, these modifications in assessment practices aim to provide a more accurate and inclusive understanding of autism in females. At Oxford CBT, we are committed to implementing these advancements to ensure that our diagnostic processes are thorough and sensitive to the unique presentations of autism in women and girls.
Recognising Different Symptoms in Females
Do Assessment Teams Look for Additional or Different Symptoms?
When assessing autism in females, clinicians recognise that certain symptoms may manifest differently compared to males, and they adjust their diagnostic approach accordingly. This tailored focus is crucial because the traditional male-centric diagnostic criteria can overlook key traits present in females.
Social Camouflaging and Masking
One of the primary traits that clinicians look for in females is social camouflaging or masking. Females with autism often develop sophisticated strategies to hide their social difficulties, mimicking the behaviours of their neurotypical peers to blend in more effectively [6]. This can involve rehearsing social interactions, adopting scripted responses, or closely observing and imitating the social behaviours of others.
Clinicians are trained to look for signs of this camouflaging, such as inconsistencies in social behaviour across different contexts or reports of exhaustion from maintaining these efforts [6].
Internalising Symptoms
Clinicians also pay close attention to internalising symptoms, which are more prevalent in females with autism. These symptoms include high levels of anxiety, depression, and emotional distress, which may arise from the continuous effort to fit in socially and the frustration of not understanding social norms intuitively [7].
These internal struggles are often significant but can be overlooked if the focus is solely on external behaviours.
Subtle Social and Communication Difficulties
In females, social and communication difficulties might be less overt but still impactful. For example, females with autism might engage in more one-sided conversations, have difficulty understanding social nuances, or struggle with non-verbal communication cues such as facial expressions and body language [4].
Clinicians look for these subtler signs, understanding that females might have developed compensatory mechanisms that mask their social challenges.
Restricted Interests and Repetitive Behaviours
Restricted interests and repetitive behaviours can also present differently in females. While males might display intense interests in areas like trains or electronics, females might have deep fascinations with more socially accepted topics, such as literature, animals, or celebrities [5].
These interests can be just as intense but are often perceived as more typical, leading to underdiagnosis. Clinicians assess the intensity and focus of these interests, rather than their content, to identify potential autistic traits.
Sensory Sensitivities
Sensory sensitivities are another area of focus. Females with autism may have heightened sensitivities to sounds, lights, textures, or other sensory inputs, which can affect their daily lives significantly.
Clinicians inquire about these sensitivities and their impact on the individual’s routines and comfort levels [8].
Executive Functioning and Organisational Skills
Females with autism may also exhibit difficulties with executive functioning and organisational skills, such as planning, time management, and flexibility in thinking.
These challenges can affect their academic or professional performance and daily living activities. Clinicians evaluate these areas to gain a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s functioning [8].
Testing ‘High Functioning’ Autism in Women
The term “high functioning autism” is somewhat controversial within the autism community. While it is often used to describe individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who do not have an intellectual disability and can manage daily life activities relatively independently, it can be misleading. It implies a level of functionality that may not accurately represent the challenges faced by those with autism. Moreover, it can downplay the significant difficulties that many individuals encounter, regardless of their intellectual abilities.
Autism as a Spectrum Condition
Autism is a spectrum condition, meaning that it encompasses a wide range of abilities and challenges. Within this spectrum, a proportion of individuals will have learning difficulties, while many others do not. This diversity can lead to confusion and misinformation in society about who may or may not be autistic. Some people assume that autism always involves severe impairments, but in reality, individuals with autism can have varied experiences and capabilities.This can lead to delays in women seeking assessment for autism.
Intellectual Capabilities and Stereotypes
Autism does not equate to a learning difficulty. Many women with autism have intellectual capabilities that are within or above the normal range. This counters the stereotype that autism necessarily involves intellectual disability. These women often excel in areas that align with their interests and strengths, showcasing their abilities and talents in various domains.
Women with autism can and do function in society, hold down careers, and maintain relationships. However, these achievements can come with considerable effort and may mask underlying struggles. For instance, while they might be successful in their professional lives, they often face significant challenges with workplace organisation, handling workload, and navigating social dynamics. These challenges can lead to high levels of stress and anxiety, particularly if their efforts to cope go unrecognised and unsupported by a diagnosis.
Social Relationships and Masking
Relationships, both personal and professional, can also be a source of difficulty. Women with autism might struggle with understanding social cues, maintaining eye contact, and managing the subtle nuances of social interactions. While they can and do form meaningful relationships, these interactions can be exhausting and require much more conscious effort compared to neurotypical individuals.
One common trait among women with autism is the ability to “mask” their autistic traits. Masking involves suppressing autistic behaviours and mimicking neurotypical social behaviours to fit in. While this can help them navigate social situations more smoothly, it often comes at the cost of increased mental and emotional fatigue. Over time, the effort to maintain this façade can lead to burnout, low self-esteem, and a feeling of not being true to oneself.
Executive Functioning Challenges
Executive functioning skills, such as planning, time management, and organisation, are often areas of difficulty for women with autism. These challenges can affect their ability to manage daily tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain a structured routine. Despite their intellectual capabilities, these organisational challenges can create significant barriers to achieving their full potential.
While women with autism may appear to manage well on the surface, it is important to recognise the hidden struggles they face. Acknowledging these challenges allows for a more supportive and understanding environment, which is crucial for their overall wellbeing. At Oxford CBT, we strive to provide the assessments, support and resources needed to help women with autism navigate their unique challenges and lead fulfilling lives.
Can Women Be Autistic and Not Know It?
Many women and girls live with undiagnosed autism, which can profoundly impact their lives. Because their symptoms are less overt or are masked by coping mechanisms, they may not realise that they are autistic. This lack of diagnosis can lead to feelings of confusion, frustration, and isolation, as they struggle to understand why certain aspects of life are more challenging for them than for others.
How to Tell if a Female Should Consider Testing for Autism
To better understand what autism in females might look like, consider the following common signs across different areas:
Social Interactions
Social interactions can be particularly challenging for women with mild autism. These challenges often manifest in subtle ways that can easily be overlooked or misunderstood.
Unlike more overt signs of autism, the social difficulties experienced by women on the spectrum may be masked by their efforts to fit in, making it harder for others to recognise their struggles.
Understanding these nuances is crucial for providing appropriate support and fostering genuine connections. Below are some common signs and examples of how these social interaction difficulties might present in daily life.
Difficulty Making and Maintaining Friendships: A woman might find it challenging to join in group conversations at a social gathering, often feeling left out or unsure of when to speak.
Preference for Solitary Activities: She may prefer spending her lunch breaks reading a book alone rather than joining colleagues in the cafeteria.
Struggles with Understanding Social Cues: During a meeting, she might not realise that her detailed, lengthy responses are causing others to lose interest, as she misses nonverbal cues like restlessness or lack of eye contact.
Mimicking Social Behaviours: In an attempt to fit in, she might observe and copy the social interactions of her peers, even if it feels unnatural to her.
Communication
Communication difficulties are a key aspect of autism that can significantly impact daily interactions and relationships for women with mild autism. These challenges often differ from the stereotypical expectations, making them less noticeable but equally important.
Women with autism may have developed strategies to cope with their communication difficulties, which can sometimes mask the extent of their struggles.
Recognising these subtle signs is essential for understanding their experiences and providing effective support. Below are common signs and situational examples of how communication difficulties might present in their lives.
Challenges in Starting or Sustaining Conversations: At a party, she might struggle with small talk, finding it difficult to keep the conversation flowing or knowing when to ask questions.
Literal Interpretation of Language: She might take a colleague’s joke about “running out of steam” at face value, leading to confusion about the actual meaning.
Reliance on Rehearsed Phrases: In social settings, she may use pre-prepared responses and questions, which can make her conversations seem scripted.
Difficulty Expressing Emotions Verbally: When upset, she might find it hard to articulate her feelings, instead expressing them through writing or art.
Behavioural Patterns
Behavioural patterns in women with mild autism often include a range of subtle but significant traits that can impact their daily lives. These behaviours might not fit the more obvious stereotypes associated with autism, making them harder to identify.
However, they are crucial indicators that can help in understanding the unique challenges faced by these individuals. Recognising these patterns is essential for providing the right support and interventions. Below are common signs and situational examples of how these behavioural patterns might manifest in women with mild autism.
Intense Focus on Specific Interests: She might spend hours researching a particular topic, such as historical events or animal behaviour, to the exclusion of other activities.
Need for Routines and Predictability: Any unexpected change, like a sudden meeting reschedule, might cause significant stress and disrupt her entire day.
Subtle Repetitive Behaviours: She might repeatedly tap her fingers or play with a piece of jewellery, especially when anxious.
Sensory Sensitivities: Bright office lights or the texture of certain fabrics can be overwhelming, causing discomfort and distraction.
Emotional and Mental Health
Emotional and mental health challenges are often a significant aspect of life for women with mild autism. These challenges can arise from the ongoing effort to manage social interactions, communication difficulties, and behavioural patterns, leading to heightened stress and anxiety.
The internal struggles faced by these women are frequently overlooked, contributing to feelings of isolation and misunderstanding. Understanding these emotional and mental health issues is vital for offering compassionate and effective support. Below are common signs and situational examples of how these challenges might manifest in women with mild autism.
High Levels of Anxiety or Stress: Social gatherings or work presentations can cause intense anxiety, leading to physical symptoms like headaches or stomach issues.
Feeling Overwhelmed by Sensory Inputs: Crowded places like shopping centres might be overwhelming, leading her to avoid them whenever possible.
Frequent Experiences of Burnout: The constant effort of masking her autism traits can lead to exhaustion and a need for extended periods of rest.
Episodes of Depression: The sense of isolation and misunderstanding from others can contribute to feelings of depression and low self-worth.
Impact of Undiagnosed Autism
Living with undiagnosed autism can lead to significant emotional and psychological distress. Women and girls may internalise their difficulties, blaming themselves for not fitting in or meeting societal expectations. This can result in low self-esteem, chronic anxiety, and depression. Without a diagnosis, they are less likely to access the support and accommodations that could help them thrive.
At Oxford CBT, we recognise the importance of identifying and supporting women with autism, regardless of where they fall on the spectrum. By understanding the subtle signs and providing a compassionate, comprehensive approach to diagnosis and support, we aim to improve the quality of life for all individuals with autism.
Resources and Support
Where to Find Help
For women seeking support and resources related to autism, several organisations and groups focus specifically on female experiences. These resources can provide valuable information, community support, and professional guidance:
Autism Women and Non-Binary Network: This organisation is dedicated to supporting women with autism through advocacy, education, and community-building. They offer various resources, including articles, webinars, and support groups tailored to women on the spectrum.
Autistic Girls Network: Focused on raising awareness and understanding of autism in girls and women, this network provides resources, support groups, and educational materials to help girls and their families navigate autism.
National Autistic Society: While not exclusively for women, the National Autistic Society offers specific resources and support services for women and girls with autism. They provide information on diagnosis, living with autism, and accessing support services.
Online Communities and Forums: Platforms like Reddit, Facebook, Mumsnet and dedicated autism forums have communities where women with autism can connect, share experiences, and offer support to one another. These communities can be a valuable source of peer support and practical advice.
Professional Support: Seeking professional help from therapists, counsellors, and support groups that specialise in autism can be beneficial. At Oxford CBT, we offer tailored diagnostic and support services designed to address the unique needs of women with autism, helping them navigate their challenges and build on their strengths.
Conclusion
Understanding autism in females is crucial for providing the right support and fostering a more inclusive society. Recognising the unique ways in which autism manifests in women can help mitigate the challenges they face and improve their quality of life. Women with autism often navigate social interactions, communication, behavioural patterns, and emotional health in ways that differ from the typical male presentation, and they require tailored support to thrive.
At Oxford CBT, we are committed to empowering women with autism through comprehensive and compassionate care. Our specialised services focus on addressing the specific needs of women on the spectrum, helping them to understand their experiences, develop coping strategies, and enhance their overall wellbeing. By providing a supportive environment and personalised assessments and support interventions, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of women with autism.
Together, we can foster a deeper understanding of female autism and build a community that supports and celebrates the strengths and unique qualities of all individuals on the spectrum.
References
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Author – Tom Murfitt
With over a decade’s experience in providing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Tom has worked in both the NHS and private sector to help adults and children to overcome a range of difficulties and improve their mental wellbeing. In addition to being an experienced CBT therapist, Tom is also an accredited Mindfulness teacher, providing courses locally, in businesses and schools. You can read more about us here.
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