Autism (ASD) Support and Understanding

Compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals and families

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that shapes how people experience, communicate, and connect with the world. At The Three Seas Psychology, we celebrate neurodiversity and provide respectful, evidence-based support that helps people better understand themselves and live more fulfilling lives.

Our psychologists work from a neuroaffirming framework that values individuality, strengths, and self-understanding. While our clinic primarily supports adults, the information on this page may also assist parents, carers, and families seeking to understand autism more broadly.

What Is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, sensory processing, and social understanding. It exists on a spectrum — meaning each person experiences autism differently.

Some individuals may find social interaction or sensory input overwhelming, while others excel in focused interests or creative problem-solving. Autism is not a disorder to be “fixed” but a difference to be understood and supported with empathy.

Common Traits and Experiences of Autism

Autism can influence many aspects of daily life, including:

• Differences in verbal or non-verbal communication

• Strong interests or attention to detail

• Sensory sensitivities (to sound, light, touch, or movement)

• Preference for structure, predictability, and routine

• Challenges with social cues or change in routine

• Exceptional memory, creativity, or analytical thinking

These traits can bring both strengths and challenges, which is why understanding and support are key to wellbeing.

Recognising Autism in Everyday Life

Autism can present differently across individuals and life stages. Some people are diagnosed early in childhood, while others discover their neurodivergence later in life.

Many adults recognise signs such as:

• Feeling misunderstood or socially exhausted

• Finding unstructured situations overwhelming

• Needing time alone to recharge after social interactions

• Difficulty multitasking or managing transitions

• Sensory overload in noisy or unpredictable environments

Whether diagnosed or self-identified, understanding your neurotype can be empowering — helping you make sense of past experiences and access the right support.

When to Seek Professional Support

If communication, sensory sensitivities, or social challenges are impacting your wellbeing, relationships, or work, connecting with a psychologist can help.
Support may include therapy, self-understanding, or exploring whether a formal diagnosis would be useful.

💡 Considering an assessment?
Learn more about our Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessments for Adults with Dr Narisa Vormwald.

How We Help

At The Three Seas Psychology, our team provides:

• Autism assessments for adults – to clarify diagnosis and guide support or workplace accommodations

• Therapy and counselling – to address anxiety, burnout, or adjustment challenges

• Psychoeducation and skill-building – to improve self-advocacy, communication, and daily coping

• Parent and carer guidance – to strengthen understanding and support within families

• Telehealth psychology – for accessible care anywhere in Australia

All support is individualised, collaborative, and guided by current evidence.

Our Approach

We work from a neuroaffirming and strength-based perspective. This means we aim to understand each person’s goals, environment, and sensory profile rather than focusing on “deficits.”
Our psychologists use evidence-based therapies such as:

• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) adapted for autism

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Schema Therapy for long-standing self-belief patterns

• Mindfulness and emotion-regulation strategies

We also help clients explore identity, manage masking or burnout, and build confidence in expressing needs authentically.