Autistically Scott

Note: I currently do not have capacity for mentoring but may be able to offer a consultation.

For more information on mentoring and how this differs from coaching or programmes focused on developing specific skills, check out this excellent blog by GROVE:

https://www.gr0ve.org/blog-what-is-mentoring-how-can-it-help-your-autistic-young-person/

I offer mentoring to Autistic children and adults. This is based on a collaboration between us rather than any predetermined goals. My main focus is to build safe connections with mentees and (if they want) explore what being Autistic means for them. Newly identified Autistic people (or those who are questioning if they are) may benefit from sessions to discuss this.

Many of the individuals I support have endured significant trauma from settings such as school and subsequently experienced Autistic burnout. This usually stems from years of masking their authentic ways of being. As a result, they can struggle to trust people outside of their family circle, becoming extremely isolated. Thus, having an Autistic mentor may be helpful as there is often strong rapport when interacting with people who share the same neurotype.

I have a case studies page here, some of which is based on my mentoring with individuals.

Co-regulation plays a pivotal role in my mentoring with young people. This can be through parallel play, where we both interact in the same activity or different ones. Examples of this could be drawing a picture or building something. Sometimes sessions can revolve around the person engaging in an activity that is based on their interests, thereby building trust.

Through increasing safety and trust for the person, it can lead to our sessions becoming a safe space where they are able to share their experiences and express any thoughts or worries. Having safe connections which allow one to unmask can be integral to the overall wellbeing of Autistic people.

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Other aspects of my mentoring:

• Helping Autistic people to understand their own experiences (e.g. communication, sensory needs, meltdowns or shutdowns)
• For people who are struggling with Autistic burnout, mentoring can go over strategies that may help them, such as ways to monitor their energy levels and reduce demands
• Helping people identify what adjustments or accommodations might need to be implemented (e.g. education, employment, at home or in the community)
• Building safe connections, validating the individual’s experiences and any difficulties that they are having
• Helping adults apply for Adult Disability Payment (ADP) through writing a support letter for them

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Note: I am not a mental health or healthcare professional and cannot offer therapy or advice on medication.

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