Peer Support Group
Welcome to Neurokindred’s Online Autistic-led peer support groups.
As Autistic adults, we have often navigated a world feeling isolated and disconnected, our unique experiences not fully understood by those around us. This has been especially true in our interactions with others, including health professionals, where there’s been a notable lack of attunement.
Yet, there’s a hopeful aspect to our shared journey:
the powerful connection that comes from mutual understanding within the Autistic community. This sense of unity fosters belonging, acceptance, and validation can be healing in itself.
Peer support groups are a testament to the strength found in shared experiences. Centering lived experience as the dominant narrative has empowering effects.
Research is finally tuning into what many disability, recovery and minority groups have been building for years-the power of shared experience and community. Crane et al. (2020) conducted a qualitative evaluation of an Autistic-led peer group program for late-identified Autistic adults.
Over 10 weekly sessions, participants engaged in group discussions on a range of topics, from the implications of late diagnosis, disclosure in different contexts, cross-cultural communication difficulties, emotion regulation, sensory experiences, executive function differences, cognitive flexibility, the intersection of Autism and mental health and self-advocacy.
Interviews with 16 Autistic adults revealed three powerful themes:
- An Autistic facilitator provided a positive role model for embracing a positive Autistic identity, fostered relational safety and facilitated more open dialogue.
- The joint sense of community and connection was powerfully affirming.
- The most significant outcome, that is conducive to well-being, was a shift in perspective towards a positive, strengths-focused Autistic identity.
Our online peer support groups aim to replicate this environment. Led by two Autistic co-facilitators, our groups provide a safe haven for exploring and embracing Autistic identity, offering post-identification support, and fostering a recovery-focused approach that celebrates the strengths of being Autistic. We understand that the journey to self-acceptance and community building is unique for each individual, and our groups are tailored to nurture this process.
Join us to experience this accessible service that goes beyond traditional support, one that is rooted in the power of shared experiences and community, designed to enhance well-being and foster a positive Autistic identity. Here, you’re not just joining a group; you’re becoming part of a community that understands, accepts, and celebrates the Autistic way of being.
References
1. Crane, L., Hearst, C., Ashworth, M. Davies, J. & Hill, E. L. (2020). Supporting newly identified or diagnosed autistic adults: An initial evaluation of an autistic-led program. Journal of Autism & Developmental Disorders, 51, 892-905. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-020-04486-4
