Can Therapy Help with Autism

By Stephanie O'Brien

Therapy can be a game-changer for many people with autism. Whether you’re an autistic

person or a parent, it’s natural to wonder what kind of support is out there and whether it will

make a difference. The short answer is: yes, therapy can help. But the real magic happens

when the therapy is the right fit for the person.

In this blog, we’ll look at how therapy supports people with autism, the different types of therapy

available, and how to find the right therapist.

How does counselling help autism?

Counselling helps autistic people in many different ways. It provides a safe, non-judgemental

space to explore emotions, manage stress, and learn new skills.

Some benefits include:

● Reducing anxiety and depression – these are common for autistic people, and

counselling can teach coping tools that make a real difference.

● Improving communication – therapy can support clearer expression, whether that’s

through talking, writing, drawing, or other methods.

● Building routines and emotional regulation – a therapist can help you or your child

build daily routines that work and reduce meltdowns or shutdowns.

● Support with sensory overload – counselling can offer strategies for managing

overstimulation or high-stress situations.

Therapy is not about changing who someone is – it’s about making life easier and more

enjoyable by offering support that suits their needs.

Does autism get better with therapy?

Therapy doesn’t “cure” autism – and it shouldn’t try to. But therapy can help autistic people live

more comfortably, feel more confident, and handle challenges better.

Some types of therapy focus on life skills, others help with emotions, and some work on speech

or motor skills. The key is finding what fits best.

For example:

● Play therapy helps kids build relationships and social skills through play.

● Counselling supports emotional wellbeing and identity development.

With the right support, autistic people of all ages can thrive.

Types of Therapy that Help Autistic People

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps people manage negative thoughts and emotions. While not designed for autism,

many autistic people benefit from adapted CBT.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

This therapy is similar to CBT but focuses more on mindfulness and handling strong emotions.

Play Therapy

Great for children who communicate and learn through play. It helps with emotional growth,

social connections, and creativity.

Art Therapy

Uses creative tools like drawing or music to express feelings and reduce stress.

How to encourage an autistic person when they are struggling?

Encouragement looks different for everyone, but here are a few tips that can make a big

difference:

● Validate their feelings – let them know it's okay to feel overwhelmed or upset.

● Use calm, clear communication – short sentences, visual supports, or written notes

can help.

● Offer comfort without pressure – sometimes just sitting near them or offering a quiet

space is enough.

● Celebrate their strengths – focus on what they enjoy and are good at.

● Work with their sensory needs – noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools, or a

weighted blanket can help them feel more secure.

Encouragement is most effective when it respects the person's needs, communication style,

and unique experience of the world.

Can mild autism be normal life?

Yes, absolutely. They may still face challenges, especially with social situations or

sensory processing, but with understanding and support, they can thrive in work, relationships,

and daily life.

Counselling and therapy can make everyday tasks easier and support emotional wellbeing,

especially in stressful or changeable times.

FAQs About Counselling and Autism

Do therapists try to make autistic people act “normal”?

Good therapists never aim to “fix” or mask autism. Therapy should support identity, self-

expression, and wellbeing—not change who someone is.

Can you get online therapy for autism?

Yes. Many therapists now offer telehealth sessions, which can be easier for people with sensory

needs or busy schedules.

How do I find an autism-friendly therapist?

Look for someone with experience working with neurodiverse clients, or ask about their

approach in the first call. Trust your gut, if it doesn’t feel like a good fit, it’s okay to keep

looking.

FAQs About Kōwhai Therapeutic Services

What kind of therapy does Kōwhai Therapeutic Services offer?

We offer a range of services including individual counselling, neurodiverse-friendly therapy, and

student-supported low-cost sessions.

Do you work with autistic adults and children?

Yes, we support clients of all ages and neurotypes. We value individuality and work at your

pace.

Do you offer sliding scale fees?

Yes! We believe therapy should be accessible. We offer sliding scale options based on your

needs.

Can I talk to someone before booking?

Absolutely. We’re happy to have a quick chat to help you decide if we’re the right fit.

Final Thoughts

Therapy can offer real support, understanding, and tools that work not just for autistic

children, but for autistic teens and adults too. It’s not about changing who someone is. It’s about

helping them feel heard, supported, and empowered.

If you’re thinking about therapy, start by reaching out. You deserve to feel supported, just as you

are.