During its development, DBT was shaped to avoid making people feel criticized or invalidated, which can cause great suffering in people with BPD and autism. DBT uses a validating environment to encourage self-driven change to improve quality of life. It teaches skills to help regulate emotions, navigate social situations, and effectively self-advocate.
Learning to navigate social situations reduces the vulnerability autistic individuals can face in social settings. The breakdown of boundary setting shows the person how to recognize red-flag behaviors and protect themselves, and the skills can help navigate conflicts and prevent alienating people.
The treatment plan focuses on individual goals. For example, it might focus on environmental accommodations, such as a quiet area or “safe space” to retreat to when overwhelmed, to reduce or prevent meltdowns. Acceptance and emotion regulation practices help develop tools for when emotions overwhelm. This focus on balance, awareness, non-judgment and targeted change can provide a structured, approachable way for autistic individuals to unmask.
Amy became a Licensed Behavior Analyst in 2013, providing in-home behavior supports through the Michelle P. Waiver for individuals whose primary diagnoses included autism, ADHD, Fetal Alcohol and Down Syndrome. She also served children in the foster care system with autism, Reactive Attachment Disorder and/or developmental trauma.
Her private practice serves adolescents, teens and adults including those with Autism Level 1 and ADHD. She teaches skills emphasizing specific sensory needs and “unmasking,” and, as part of the neurodivergent community herself, understands the importance of affirming care.
Therapist or prescriber referral required if self-harm of suicidal ideation is present. $450 per 6-week module, billed at $75 per week.
Research on DBT and autism is listed in the DBT references.
