Special interests are one of the most unique and meaningful parts of autism. While often misunderstood by the broader public, they bring joy, stability, and identity to autistic individuals. For many late diagnosed autistic adults, recognizing their special interests as a strength rather than a flaw is a life changing moment. At The Atypical View,…

Understanding OCD and OCPD When people hear the term “OCD,” they often think of someone who is extremely neat or particular about routines. In reality, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is very different from Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD), although the two are often confused. Knowing the difference is important, especially for late diagnosed individuals who…

Conversations about autism, ADHD, and other forms of neurodiversity often focus on diagnostic challenges in women, but race and socioeconomic background also play a critical role. For many people of color and those with limited access to healthcare, the path to an accurate diagnosis is even more complicated. At The Atypical View, we see how…

At The Atypical View, we often work with late diagnosed-autistic clients who have found that traditional approaches, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), don’t always meet their needs. Research has shown that CBT can fall short in the neurodiverse community, especially when it relies too heavily on logic and thought-based strategies. We talk about CBT and…

For decades, the understanding of autism has been shaped by research and public awareness focused mainly on white, cisgender boys. This narrow view left countless women and girls undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or misunderstood. The result has been years of confusion, mental health struggles, and missed opportunities for support. Today, new research and growing awareness are revealing…

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has long been considered a gold standard in the field of mental health. Its structured, solution-focused approach is often praised for its effectiveness in treating anxiety, depression, and other common mental health challenges. But for neurodivergent individuals, especially autistic people, research shows CBT often falls short. The Problem with…