Working with Autism by June K Spencer – Co-developer of Inner RePatterning
Having worked with Autism for many years within education, searching for ways to connect with young people struggling in a system that was trying to meet so many needs and yet left many feeling misunderstood and unable to adapt to a world that often felt alien and scary. I cannot begin to tell you the joy I am experiencing in my new role working with groups of young adults who are recognized as being on the Autistic Spectrum. I have been invited to help them find ways to celebrate their uniqueness and talents (of which they have many) and part of my work involves teaching and using Inner RePatterning as a way to help reduce anxiety and stress.
Over the weeks, what has become apparent is that Inner RePatterning is not just a therapy to reduce stress and anxiety but in the world of Autism it is a way in which they can communicate what is happening in their inner world. As such I have been able to make connections, build up rapport and gain a deeper insight into how we can work together to develop our understanding of how we each perceive our worlds, both inner and outer.
Inner RePatterning does not require that we analyze or understand the problem, therefore verbal dialogue is not always necessary and this in itself breaks down barriers to communication. I can work in ways that fit the needs of the individual. As human beings we all experience the effects of suffering, pain and trauma, often internalizing it and not knowing how to release it’s effects.
Many of the young adults I am working with have described their lives as being told to ‘fit in’ to one system or another, a task which they found more and more difficult often causing them to withdraw, experience anxiety and feel fearful. For many years I believed we need to see their world through their perspective in order to help them. Inner RePatterning has allowed me to do exactly that.
I am honoured to be able to witness the lives of these young people transform as our work continues. Inner RePatterning is a process that is gentle, profound and empowers others to develop a sense of self. It is a gift we can give which allows people to learn, grow and celebrate their uniqueness. I hope to share more insights into the world of Autism so that you may have the opportunity to celebrate their successes.
