Autism is viewed as an embodied condition impacting perception and predictive processing.
Stimming is a beneficial self-regulation tool for autistics and should be encouraged in therapy sessions.
Deep dives
Understanding Autism Through Predictive Processing Framework
Autism is viewed through the lens of the predictive processing framework, explaining that sensory data is crucial. The brain predicts meanings based on past experiences, generating consciousness. Prediction errors occur when sensory information does not match expectations, leading to learning and brain responses. The autistic brain, unlike non-autistic, overweights sensory input, resulting in rigidity and intolerance of uncertainty.
Diagnostic Criteria for Autism and Autism as an Embodied Condition
Autism diagnostic criteria reflect consequences rather than defining autism itself. The DSM criteria focus on social communication, behavior patterns, and sensory reactions. Autism is perceived as a difference in perception, impacting predictability and routine needs. Autism is seen as an embodied condition, explaining the brain's difficulty updating predictive models and creating rigidity.
Credibility and Identity-First Language in Autism
Challenges around credibility impact autistics who face skepticism about their condition's authenticity. The preference for identity-first language (e.g., 'autistic' over 'person with autism') acknowledges personal autonomy. Misconceptions like 'everyone is a little bit autistic' dismiss unique autistic experiences and lead to feelings of not being 'autistic enough'.
Stimming and Regulation Techniques in Autism Therapy
Stimming, a common practice in autism, aids in regulating the nervous system and managing predictability challenges. Autistics are encouraged to stim openly in therapy for self-regulation. Stimming supports grounding and self-awareness, crucial for therapy success. Using stimming and regulating techniques in sessions helps create a conducive therapy environment for autistic clients.
Our guest today is Sarah Bergenfield, a Somatic Psychologist, and a Level 3-trained and Certified IFS practitioner, specializing in autism. Sarah holds a master’s degree in embodiment studies and wrote her thesis on autism as an embodied condition that impacts the brain, body, and mind. Sarah is a student in the Applied Neuroscience program at Kings College in London and begins her Ph.D. in Psychology in September at the California Institute of Integral Studies. She is a wife, mom to three children, and dog mom to Magnus, her assistance dog. Sarah is the co-author of the book, Embodying Autism – Navigating your Autistic Brain, Body, and Mind, written with Martha Sweezey and published next year by New Harbinger. She is an international speaker and educator on the topic of understanding autism as an embodied condition. We will be speaking with Sarah about the nature of autism (Episode Part 1) and (Episode Part 2) how IFS concepts and techniques can be understood through the lens of autism, how IFS therapy can be helpful for autistic clients, and some special considerations to keep in mind when working with autistic clients with IFS. Hope you enjoy the episode and find it useful.
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