This weekly group is an actively facilitated intentional space to discuss Autism with other autistic adults. This neuroaffirming space is designed to give members the experience of belonging, understanding, and respect that we often miss out on in neurotypical/neuronormative settings. It will also be a chance to build new connections with ourselves and with others.
Self-identified or formally diagnosed folks are all welcome. Likewise, you’re welcome whether your Autism was identified late, early, or just on time. This is a queer- and trans-affirming, anti-racist, anti-ableist space.
The Deets
- weekly meetings on Tuesdays, 7-8:30pm
- lasts 10 weeks, with option to renew later this summer
- in SE Portland, Oregon
- for adults 18+
- 6-10 members
- $15-$30 per session
What will we talk about?
So many possibilities! Here are some ideas:
- dealing with neuronormative bullshit
- building a neuroaffirming empowerment discourse
- accommodation strategies
- resource sharing
- grief
- joy
- self-discovery
- navigating life, work, school, relationships, etc. as an Autistic person
- special interests
- feelings
- sensory sensitivities and sensory fuels
- etc.
A Non-Clinical Community Group
This group is professionally facilitated, but it is not a clinical group. It eschews the pathology paradigm, but it’s not eligible for insurance coverage. The leader is also a member of the group.
About the Facilitator
I’m Sasha Strong (they/them). Since I self-identified as autistic a few years ago, I have longed for more intentional community to discuss autism. So I’m creating the group I want to see in the world, and inviting folks to come make good company together.
For fun, I like to write songs, sing, play piano, and make art. I also like walking, hiking, and talking about feelings.
How to Join/For More Info
If you’re interested in joining, please fill in the interest form. I will schedule individual meetings with potential new members to make sure it’s a good fit. If you want more info first, feel free to drop me a line.
Fee
The fee for this group is $15-$30 per weekly session. I ask folks to pay for all sessions in the series, even if they aren’t able to attend them all. This holds your place in the group. (You can pay week-by-week.)
FAQ
In anticipation of the kinds of questions autistic people are likely to ask… hypothetically… 😉
Can you offer this group online/at another day or time?. If this day and time or format don’t work for you, you may fill in the interest form and let me know at the end of the form. .
What are the social rules for this group? In our first meeting, we will develop a list of group norms based on a list that I have developed over the years. The norms are open to ongoing revision based on consensus in the group. The overarching rules are 1) talk about thoughts and feelings, 2) share the talking time, and 3) don’t be mean.
What should I expect? We try to connect with others interpersonally in a way that is within people’s window of tolerance. You needn’t talk if you don’t want to. Please come prepared to co-create a respectful, friendly, neuroaffirming space.
What is the built environment like? My office is on the third floor of a building not too far from Laurelhurst Park. There is a bus line nearby and there is usually ample parking in the neighborhood. There are some bike hitchin’ posts out front. The building has an elevator and my office is wheelchair accessible. (If you want to know more about accessibility, let’s talk about it. 😉)