Reflections on the efficacy (or otherwise) of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and autistic thinking.
The following indicates why CBT for autistic people is problematic
If you would like to understand why CBT, like other behaviourist approaches, is so problematic for autistic and other neurodivergent people, then watch this webinar led by Ásdís.
Reflections on CBT and autistic thinking: Webinar for professionals
https://youtu.be/EPNcZ_MQ9Uc
Slides can be found here:
https://www.thirdspace.scot/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/NAIT-Webinar-Slides-Reflections-on-CBT-and-Autistic-Thinking-03.02.23.pdf
I shall remain in neutral here, other than pointing out that CBT is the cheap and change-free option for authorities that have got nothing to offer with respect to the societal changes autistic people need to take their places in society. The emphasis is very much on what people can do for themselves. As such, I found CBT to involve doing things I have been doing since ever. We need more than coping mechanisms and survival mechanisms, but that involves 'society' making changes too. I did smile when I was told that CBT was grounded in science and philosophy. I don't care for resignation and accommodation.
I would suggest that ALL approaches can be equally helpful and/or problematic depending on many things. I don't place much faith in CBT, having pretty much been doing it implicitly my entire life and finding it to go so far but no further.
You can place me at the problematic end of the spectrum, one who refuses to mask in order to make experts and professionals feel that their methods are working.
