True Life Center believes that a diagnosis can be a doorway to a more satisfying life. Through our integrative, evidence-based autism spectrum disorder program, we help guide patients just like you toward healing from past hurts and empowerment for the future. If you’ve recently been diagnosed with autism as an adult, know that the support and compassion you’re looking for can be found at True Life Center.

A late diagnosis of autism can mean finally putting the puzzle together

A late diagnosis often feels like uncovering a missing piece of a puzzle. Suddenly, the personality quirks you’ve had since you can remember, or your difficulty reading a social situation, make sense. You may have seen certain things as character flaws or even failures, but now you realize that your mind works differently.

Coming into this understanding later in life can be both freeing and disorienting. You may find yourself revisiting childhood memories, analyzing past relationships, and reevaluating your coping mechanisms. This shift in perspectives can be hard, but it’s also a profound opportunity to build new skills and live life in a way that honors who you are.

Relief and grief

The emotional landscape following a diagnosis can come with a wide array of feelings. Grief can be just as profound as relief. You may wish you had been diagnosed earlier. You may think if you’d had a diagnosis as a child, some of the hardships you faced wouldn’t have happened. And that might make you angry. It’s important that you allow yourself to feel whatever emotions you’re feeling. Validating yourself is the first step to healing and using your newfound understanding to reshape your life.

At True Life Center, we acknowledge the weight of a late diagnosis of autism as an adult and will hold space for the entire emotional journey. Many adults with autism experience autistic burnout—a state of mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion from masking for so many years and from unmet sensory needs. Our expert team can help you manage your symptoms and teach you new ways to honor who you are, cope with stress, and handle overstimulation.

Finding support after a late diagnosis of autism

One of the most empowering steps you can take post-diagnosis is to build a support network that celebrates your neurodiversity and supports you in your personal growth—whatever that looks like for you.

True Life Center offers mental health treatment rooted in neurobiological integration, a method that honors the connection between the brain, body, and spirit. Everyone who comes through our doors receives a customized care plan—whether that means individual therapy, group therapy, or somatic practices for grounding and peace of mind.

Our services include:

• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): This therapy type teaches values-based living
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT): Therapeutic modalities for emotional regulation and help reframing thoughts
• Biofeedback and mindfulness practices: To support the nervous system
• Yoga, massage, and holistic therapy: These practices help you connect with your body and learn to listen to what it may need
• Medication management: When appropriate, our team may recommend medication for co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression.

Having people in your corner who understand you and support you can make this new chapter feel less overwhelming. You may find yourself encouraged by a new direction and a solid plan for moving forward.

Rewriting the rules for your wellbeing

One of the most profound gifts of a late autism diagnosis is the opportunity to design a life that finally fits. Gone are the days of neurodiverse people needing to squeeze themselves into neurotypical molds. Think of this time as an opportunity to rewrite your own rules based on your own values.

You might begin by incorporating sensory input into your life or changing certain routines that don’t fit who you are. Or honor yourself by saying no to certain social invitations that you know will make you uncomfortable. With the help of therapeutic tools and self-reflection, patients at True Life Center discover new ways to live more authentically, all the time.

You are not behind. You are not broken. Now’s the time to become the best version of who you’ve always been.

True Life Center is here every step of the way

True Life Center understands the unique challenges of receiving a late autism diagnosis, and we are here to help you navigate the path. Our treatment programs in San Diego are built on the belief that every individual deserves customized, integrative care that helps them to live quality lives.

Whether you’re processing your diagnosis, learning about what it means, or managing co-occurring mental health conditions, we’re here to help you embrace what works and transform what doesn’t.

A new chapter begins with you

A late diagnosis of autism can feel like the end of one story, but it’s also the beginning of a new one. You can create a life based on self-compassion and make choices that honor who you are. You deserve to live a life you’re proud of. Let us help you find the support you need for a late diagnosis of autism.

If you’re ready to take the next step, the team at True Life Center is ready to meet you where you are. Call us at 858.202.1822 or visit us online.

The post Navigating Life After a Late Diagnosis of Autism appeared first on True Life Center.

It’s with this in mind that True Life Center’s neurodivergence program was created. We offer people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or adults living with autism spectrum (ASD) the care they need to live their very best lives. We believe in meaningful, empowering mental health care for everyone—not just neurotypical people. Here, your personal flourishing doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

Why neurodivergent individuals need specialized support

Neurodivergent minds process information, emotion, and energy in distinct ways. For those with ADHD or autism, that can mean heightened sensitivity, different communication styles, or difficulties with focus, organization, or emotional regulation. These traits may also be exacerbated by co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression.

Unfortunately, many mental health settings are still aimed at neurotypical people. This means neurodivergent individuals often have to figure out mental health challenges on their own, or try to bend and modify systems that don’t quite fit who they are. Everyone deserves compassionate, expert care. At True Life, we believe in excellent mental health care for all people.

How is a neurodivergent program different from others?

At the heart of True Life Center’s neurodivergent care is neurobiological integration. This innovative treatment combines both mental and physical wellness, so that you can care for yourself as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Effective transformations take place when our whole being is addressed.

Here, we take the time to learn about your cognitive patterns, emotional needs, physiological responses, and life goals to create a plan tailored for you. While some of our patients thrive with therapeutic approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT); others may need more somatic-based support like mindfulness, biofeedback, or acupuncture. We listen and take our cues from you.

What are the benefits of a neurodivergent program for ADHD?

One type of neurodivergence is ADHD. People living with ADHD often have challenges associated with organization, focus, and emotional regulation. Here are several benefits of a neurodivergent program tailored to ADHD:

1. Personalized and strengths-based

Not everyone with ADHD is the same. The condition can manifest in a variety of ways, including hyperactivity, inattentiveness, emotional reactivity, or all of the above. True Life Center personalizes care so that your unique mix of symptoms is addressed. Our team of expert therapists creates a plan around your cognitive patterns, executive function challenges, and daily responsibilities so that you can develop your strengths.

2. Executive function support through holistic interventions

It’s common for people with ADHD to struggle with focus, memory, or organization. Our integrative approach combines cognitive therapies like CBT and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) with holistic techniques such as biofeedback, mindfulness, and yoga. These help regulate your nervous system, increase body awareness, and improve impulse control and your resilience.

3. Empowerment through identity-affirming ADHD care

At True Life Center, ADHD isn’t something to be treated—it’s something to be understood. We affirm your value and your experiences, and instead of forcing you to fit society’s standards, we support who you already are. Our goal is to empower you and help you create values that serve as a guide for your life.

Our beautiful San Diego setting offers peaceful luxury and an environment where overstimulation is minimized. Here, you’ll have focused one-on-one sessions, not a crowded or chaotic clinical environment.

What are the benefits of a neurodivergent program for people with autism?

1. Individualized support that honors who you are

Autism comes with a diverse range of manifestations, and whether you identify as autistic or on the spectrum, True Life Center creates a care plan that honors your communication style, sensory and emotional needs. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions and will work with you to create the most meaningful and sustainable transformation.

2. Emotional regulation and relief through mind-body integration

Sensory overwhelm, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation are common for adults living with autism. Our neurodivergence program incorporates therapies like biofeedback, mindfulness, and body-based practices that help you feel more grounded, peaceful, and in control. By regulating the nervous system, these tools can help ease any pressure you may feel and increase your sense of security.

3. Dignity in care

At True Life Center, we don’t view autism as a deficit to be fixed—but as a meaningful part of your identity. Our providers are trained to support neurodivergent patients with respect, dignity, and language that honors instead of stigmatizes. Here, you can be who you are.

4. A peaceful setting designed for your comfort

Healing happens in spaces where you feel calm and in control. Our luxury outpatient center is designed to be soothing and non-disruptive. It’s the ideal setting for people with sensory sensitivities or for people who just want to quiet the noise of the world and focus on healing.

Neurodivergent mental health care programs are essential

So many neurodivergent adults go through life feeling like they’re “too much” or “not enough.” But you are just as you should be. We aren’t here to change you, but will always support you as you seek to be the best version of yourself. Our support is flexible, and you’re in the driver’s seat.

Whether you’re seeking emotional health benefits, executive functioning tools, or holistic practices, we’ll help you create a path forward that supports your goals, without imposing our own. Call True Life Center for more information about the importance of neurodivergent programs at 858.202.1822 or submit our online form for more information.

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If you’re searching for a program for yourself or a loved one, an ASD program is designed to provide the structure needed to meet the unique needs of those living with ASD.

What is an autism spectrum disorder program?

It’s important to understand what a quality program includes, as well as what types of autism exist on the spectrum. These two factors can help you or a loved one find a program that’s best suited for their goals.

A great ASD program will use evidence-based therapeutic modalities that support an individual’s needs. A great program will also be customized for your unique goals. Whether you face challenges in areas like communication, emotional regulation, daily living skills, or an overall sense of well-being, an effective ASD program will be led by a team that’s interested in knowing who you are and what your long-term desires are. They’ll then collaborate with you to design a plan you’re comfortable with and excited about.

At True Life, our adult program integrates psychological and holistic therapies so that we address who you are as a whole being—mind, body, and spirit. We want to help all of our clients become the version of themselves that they’re most proud of.

Therapeutic modalities included in an ASD Program

An ASD program should address both the neurological and emotional aspects of autism through a multi-faceted approach. Our program begins with a comprehensive assessment and precise diagnosis, so that we can be certain about our path forward.

After that, our expert team of licensed professionals works collaboratively to customize your therapy. Our offerings include:

• Behavior therapy: This is a type of therapy that supports an individual’s ability to regulate their emotions, control their impulses, and develop greater social-emotional understanding.
• Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are some of the modalities included in psychotherapy.
• Medication management: If needed, medication can be prescribed by our board-certified psychiatrists.
• Group therapy and family therapy: Connection with those who have similar experiences can be very healing. We can also help facilitate communication between you and your family members in therapist-led sessions, helping everyone to better understand one another.
• Mindfulness and meditative practices: Opportunities for mind-body healing are found through intentional breathwork and in learning to relax and discover a sense of calm in the present moment.
• Acupuncture, massage therapy, and yoga therapy: These practices provide you with more opportunities to regulate your nervous system and develop new coping skills.
• Nutritional education: Learning to eat foods that provide the vitamins and nutrients needed for both physical and mental health is more important than many people realize.
• Life skills training: Increased executive functioning can help you develop more confidence in being able to care for yourself independently.

Our program is offered to adults experiencing ASD who want to live a holistic, integrative, high-quality life that helps them find balance.

Types of ASD

ASD is referred to as a spectrum because it includes a range of symptoms, strengths, and support needs. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) classifies autism based on three levels:

Level 1 – Some support needs

These individuals have mild challenges in social situations, organization, or with flexibility in their behavior.

Level 2 – Moderate support needs

People at this level experience more significant difficulties with verbal and nonverbal communication, and likely display repetitive behaviors that can sometimes disrupt their daily lives.

Level 3 – High support needs

Individuals with high support needs often need a significant level of assistance with daily living skills and may face profound communication barriers.

True Life Center understands that effective ASD treatment cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach because no individual experiences ASD the same way. We take the time to get to know you and customize our service offerings based on your needs and long-term goals.

How ASD programs help adults thrive

ASD programs aren’t just about managing symptoms—they’re about empowering you to connect with the person you want to be and with the people you love. We help you to move through the world with greater ease and confidence. The benefits of True Life Center’s autism spectrum disorder programs are:

• Improved emotional regulation and reduced anxiety
• Better communication and interpersonal skills
• More independence in daily life
• Accuracy in self-awareness and better resilience

It’s our commitment to a well-rounded, holistic approach that fosters transformation from the inside out.

Is an ASD program right for you or your loved one?

If your loved one has difficulties socially, experiences heightened sensitivities, or emotional dysregulation, and they’ve recently been diagnosed with ASD, a structured program can be life-changing. You don’t need to have all the answers to take a step forward. Our initial consultation can help clarify which level of support is appropriate—and how to start.

Choose True Life Center today for our ASD program

True Life Center is a trusted provider of mental wellness in San Diego. Our autism spectrum disorder program is based on a framework of psychotherapy and holistic therapies to support the life you want to live.

If you’re ready to explore how an autism spectrum disorder program can support your growth, we can’t wait to connect with you. Call 858.202.1822 or contact us online.

The post What Is an Autism Spectrum Disorder Program? appeared first on True Life Center.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. The term “spectrum” reflects the wide range of symptoms of autism spectrum disorder and severity levels that individuals can experience.

ASD affects a significant number of children in the United States, making it one of the most common developmental disorders. Early recognition and intervention are essential for supporting those affected by ASD and getting effective autism spectrum disorder treatment.

Early Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder

ASD can be identified as early as infancy if the signs of autism are recognized. This early recognition is essential to the success of autism spectrum disorder treatment.

Signs of ASD In infants and toddlers include the following:

• Lack of eye contact – Infants may avoid making eye contact with parents and caregivers.
• Delayed speech development – A noticeable delay in babbling or speaking single words.
• Limited social interaction – Infants may not smile back when smiled at or may not respond to their name.

Parents, especially first-time parents, can often struggle to understand what behaviors are typical of infants and toddlers without the benefit of experiences to draw upon for reference. If you’re unsure of certain behaviors your child might be exhibiting, consulting a professional can help ease concerns or prompt you to action.

Signs of ASD in Young Children

As children age and have increased social opportunities, you may notice new signs of autism spectrum disorder that seem not to have been present during infancy. If you’re an adult who recalls these types of challenges—or struggles with them now—you may have symptoms consistent with ASD.

• Difficulty understanding social cues – Challenges in understanding facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice.
• Repetitive behaviors – Engaging in repetitive motions such as hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning objects.
• Sensory sensitivities – Overreaction or underreaction to sensory inputs like sounds, textures, or lights.

Recognizing signs at any point can be what’s needed to get an individual started in an autism spectrum disorder program. It’s never too late to learn effective tools to help enhance quality of life.

Signs In Adolescents and Adults

Signs of ASD can also be detected in the adolescent and adult years. Here are a few signs to be aware of when determining whether someone may be experiencing signs of autism.

• Challenges with communication – Difficulty maintaining conversations, understanding sarcasm, or using idioms and metaphors.
• Struggles with change – Anxiety or distress when routines are disrupted or when faced with unexpected changes.
• Intense focus on specific interests – Deep, narrow interests in specific topics or hobbies.

These kinds of struggles can lead to feelings of profound loneliness. Perhaps you or someone you love has noticed challenges like these emerge in their daily life. If work or social relationships have always been difficult to maintain, it may be time to seek professional help and enhance your ability to make meaningful connections with others.

Additional Common Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Some additional symptoms that may be characteristics of ASD:

• Difficulty in engaging in typical conversations – Individuals may find it hard to engage in reciprocal dialogues.
• Trouble understanding relationships – Challenges in forming and maintaining friendships and relationships.
• Extreme interest in particular activities – Unusual fixation on specific topics, often accompanied by extensive knowledge.

Relationships are complex, and conversational nuances, including things like sarcasm, figures of speech, or perceiving a conversational partner’s disinterest in a topic, can be difficult for someone experiencing symptoms of ASD to grasp. However, even the most advanced communication skills can be improved upon with the proper therapies.

When to Seek Help

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it is important to seek a professional evaluation. Early diagnosis can lead to more effective interventions. However, adults with ASD can also receive significant benefits from therapy.

Treatment Options for Autism Spectrum Disorder at True Life Center

At True Life Center, we emphasize personalized care. Our integrative approach combines medical and holistic treatments to address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. This approach ensures that each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. The autism spectrum disorder program we provide consists of these therapies:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) – Helps individuals manage their thoughts and behaviors.
• Speech and language therapy – Improves communication skills.
• Occupational therapy – Enhances daily living skills and sensory integration.

Call True Life Center Services Today for Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment

Recognizing the signs of autism spectrum disorder early and seeking professional help can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected. At True Life Center, we provide compassionate, high-quality care to help individuals with ASD achieve their fullest potential.

Our autism spectrum disorder program offers a comprehensive range of services designed to offer superior support to our patients. To find out more about our services and schedule a consultation, call 858.202.1822 today or reach out to us by submitting our online contact form.

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What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that impacts the nervous system. It affects an individual’s social interactions, communication skills, behaviors, and interests. ASD encompasses a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech, and nonverbal communication.

At True Life Center, we believe in viewing each individual as a whole, focusing on their overall health rather than just alleviating symptoms. This approach guides our understanding and treatment of autism spectrum disorder.

Types of Autism Spectrum Disorder

There are several types of autism spectrum disorder, each with unique characteristics:

Autistic Disorder

This is what most people think of when they hear the term “autism.” It refers to individuals with significant language delays, social and communication challenges, and unusual behaviors and interests.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

Also known as atypical autism, PDD-NOS includes individuals who meet some criteria for autistic disorder or Asperger Syndrome but not all. Their symptoms might be milder or fewer.

High-Functioning Autism (HFA)

High-functioning autism is a term that may be used to describe individuals on the autism spectrum who have average or above-average intelligence and good verbal skills, but still struggle with social interactions and other ASD symptoms.

Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment

ASD treatment aims at minimizing the impact of core features and associated deficits of ASD and to maximize functional independence and quality of life. At True Life Center, we offer a comprehensive and integrative approach to autism spectrum disorder treatment. Our team of full-time doctors, psychiatrists, and psychologists collaborate on your treatment to get you the very best results.

Types of ASD Treatment

True Life Center offers various types of ASD treatment, including:

• Behavioral management therapy – This helps to reinforce wanted behaviors and reduce unwanted behaviors.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – This helps improve coping skills, communication skills, and managing emotions.
• Early intervention – This provides therapies and services for very young children with ASD.
• Medication treatment – Some medications can help manage high energy levels, inability to focus, depression, or seizures linked to ASD.
• Occupational therapy –This helps individuals with ASD to learn life skills like dressing, eating, and relating to people.

Each individual with ASD is unique, and therefore their treatment plan should be tailored to their specific needs. At True Life Center, we work closely with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses their challenges and goals. We also offer support groups and resources for families of individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Call True Life Center Today to Discover Our ASD Treatment

If you or a loved one is grappling with autism spectrum disorder, reach out to True Life Center today. Our compassionate and experienced team is committed to providing exceptional care tailored to your unique needs.

We believe in transformative change that occurs in the process of healing, bringing individuals into their authentic selves. We’re proud to stand for exceptional comprehensive care – medical attention, an integrative mind-body approach, one-on-one sessions, and customized scheduling – all under one roof.

Discover the best possible care at True Life Center. Through our compassionate mental health treatment staff and state-of-the-art center, you will find a new space of recovery and fulfillment. Start your journey towards healing and wellness by contacting us online or calling 858.202.1822 today.

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