Autism, Anxiety, and ADHD Overlap: 5 Strategies to Address a Trio+ of Concerns

Approximately 50-70% of persons with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) also have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) according to the scientific literature meta-analyses.

Celebrating Contributions of Autistic People and Their Unique Sensory, Cognitive & Behavioral Strengths

World autism observances are going to focus on the contributions of autistic people. In honor of celebrating strengths, check out this list of the 30 most inspiring people on the autism spectrum.

Awareness vs Acceptance for Autism

World Autism Awareness Day is observed this year on Sunday, April 2nd, 2023, and the entire month of April is focused on autism acceptance.

The Rabbit Listened

This is a powerful story about a child feeling supported by the rabbit, who just listened to them. Use this tool to explore what children need when they are experiencing difficult emotions.

Soothing with the Senses Box

This is an intervention that can be used for children to find material around their homes that are helpful in soothing and calming during periods of distress.

Sitting Meditation

This segment guides you through a sitting meditation with breath as the primary object of awareness.

Calming Corner Meditation

Calming Corners can be an effective alternative to time-outs when kids are having a hard time. Work with the parent and child together to choose a spot in the house where the child can go whenever they need it: maybe a closet, a corner in a quiet room, or in a play tent. Involve the child in adding preferred activities and calming tools to the space, for example:

Calming Color Meditation

This is a guided meditation activity that can help clients identify feelings and physical sensations of feelings intheir bodies.

Feelings Iceberg

This intervention is useful for helping children more tangibly understand how they display or hide feelings from others in their life. This can be a helpful intervention to gather information and reflect what can be worked on in the therapy setting.

Self Compassion Break Version Two

Accepting our own vulnerability is made easier when give ourselves compassion. Use this self-compassion break with clients in session or encourage them to use it on their own when working with difficult or vulnerable emotions.