Autism Matters - Thoughts from Kim
Autism Matters (by Kim Barthel)
Throughout my career as an occupational therapist, individuals on the spectrum have taught me and required from me a level of attunement in relationship that has expanded me as a human. Putting our mind in the mind of another who is differently wired, attempting to put our feet in the shoes of someone who has a different reality of the sensations around them, is an opportunity for a deeper awareness of the myriad of experiences that are possible, and for increased compassion. The state of presence and self-regulation that neurodiverse beings teach us plays a profound role in expanding the conscious evolution of the human spirit.
An acceptance and celebration of neurodiversity is a momentum that is growing across the globe, benefiting all of us. The vastness of translational scientific inquiry into the field of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) offers parents and professionals a deepening understanding that all behaviour is communication, and whether conscious or not is serving a purpose. When we understand how the brain is organized and develops, and that it is adapting as best it can throughout the lifespan, compassion for a range of behaviours increases. What is considered “socially acceptable” is changing and expanding the more ASD is understood – decreasing unnecessary stress for countless people on the spectrum and the people around them.
The wide spectrum of autism has challenged our manner of treating a diagnosis with a prescriptive “one-size fits all” approach; it’s now about holistically supporting each individual recognizing there are multiple complex needs. No one profession, approach or intervention can do this alone. Through the intention of alignment with each autistic person, to the best of our ability, our collective mindset of inclusion becomes increasingly anchored. This practice helps us think more compassionately about everyone, including ourselves. When we lean into this opportunity for inclusion, which at its core submits to the value of every human being no matter their differences, we bring hope for the quality of life on this planet.
The current series “Autism Matters” is a synopsis of my 37 years of trying to help support autistic people and their families - and also to help the world adapt to their realities. The scientific research is as up to date as was humanly possible for me, the slides are all new from our past workshops on the topic, the video editing is into a new realm of professionalism for us at Relationship Matters, and it was lovingly developed with more autistic people in the mix. We are proud of this training initiative, and invite you to participate with us if ASD is also of interest to you.
- Kim Barthel