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Autism and Food Aversions: A Strength-Based Approach to Sensory Eating
Mealtimes can look very different for autistic people, and food aversions are one of the most common reasons why. Rather than treating selective eating as a problem to fix, a strength-based approach starts with curiosity and respect: understanding why food feels the way it does, honoring individual sensory needs, and gently building a positive, lasting relationship with eating. This guide explains the link between autism and food, the signs to watch for, and practical ways to

Mema Mansouri, LICSW
Jun 9, 20235 min read
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Autism and Sleep Issues: Causes, Challenges, and How to Improve Sleep
Sleep plays an essential role in emotional regulation, learning, and overall well-being. For many autistic individuals, falling asleep and staying asleep can be far more complex than it looks from the outside. Autism and sleep issues often go hand in hand, affecting mood, focus, and quality of life. Understanding why these challenges happen is the first step toward more supportive, effective strategies. How Common Are Sleep Issues in Autism? Sleep challenges are one of the mo

Mema Mansouri, LICSW
Jun 8, 20234 min read
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Autism and Sensory Issues: Understanding and Supporting Sensory Needs
Sensory challenges in autism refer to differences in how the brain receives and processes input from the environment. Many autistic individuals experience the world through heightened or reduced sensitivity to sounds, light, touch, smell, taste, and movement. These differences are not a personal failing or a behavioral problem; they are a neurological reality that shapes how everyday life feels. Understanding autism and sensory issues is an important step toward building envi

Mema Mansouri, LICSW
May 30, 20236 min read
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Autism in Women: Signs, Masking, and the Path to Diagnosis
Autism has historically been associated with boys and men, but research increasingly shows that nearly as many women may be autistic as men. The difference is that women are far less likely to be identified early. According to research published in peer-reviewed literature, nearly 80% of autistic females remain undiagnosed by age 18. Autism can look very different in women than the presentations most people are familiar with. Because of this, many women spend years, sometimes

Mema Mansouri, LICSW
May 30, 20237 min read
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Autism Masking: What It Is, Why It Happens, and Its Impact
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that shapes how individuals experience social interactions, communication, and sensory input. One aspect that often goes unrecognized is masking. Autism masking refers to the ways autistic individuals consciously or unconsciously hide, suppress, or adapt their behaviors to fit social expectations. Understanding autism masking is essential for creating environments where people feel safe to be themselves. What Is Autism Masking? Autism

Mema Mansouri, LICSW
May 30, 20235 min read
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