Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist
Autism Spectrum Disorder:
Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that typically appears during early childhood and can impact a person's social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation.
Individuals with ASD often have problems with rigidity and the need for repetition, which may limit the spontaneity and playfulness of sexual contact.
Sensitivity to physical contact and inability to tolerate internal sensations created by physical intimacy may also create significant anxiety for a person on the spectrum.
A person with autism may not be able to read their partner’s thoughts, feelings, expressions, which may lead to a miscommunication, emotional or physical painful experience, the person may then feel shame, guilt, or rejection.
I, as a psychosexual therapist would give a person with Autism a safe space which is none-judgemental to be able to communicate and share their concerns around their sexuality and sex. I would help/educate a person with Autism to use effective communication when talking to their partner about relationships, sexuality, and sex. I will also teach the person with Autism how to communicate their likes and dislikes whilst having sex. Also, to let them know that they should be treated with respect by their partner.