Have you recently learned that you’re autistic or suspect that you might be? This discovery can feel like finding the missing puzzle piece that brings clarity to so many aspects of your life. Whether through a formal diagnosis or self-identification, both paths are valid. This course by Julie Bjelland is designed to support you with empathy and practical tools as you navigate this transformative realization of embracing adult autism with curiosity and self-discovery.
While not all who consider themselves highly sensitive (HSP) are neurodivergent, many HSPs do find that they are on the autism spectrum and are neurodivergent. Julie has designed this course for those who have received a formal
Table of Contents
What Neurodivergence Can Mean for You
Discovering your neurodivergence can bring a sense of clarity, but it may also leave you grappling with important questions:
- How do I process this realization emotionally, and what impact will it have on my life?
- How can I share this with family, friends, or my employer in a way that fosters understanding?
- How do I advocate for my needs confidently, without fear of judgment or dismissal?
- What does it truly mean to embrace authenticity and thrive as an autistic individual?
Why Choose This Course?
This course is more than just information—it’s a compassionate guide to help you process, understand, and embrace your neurodivergence with confidence and self-compassion. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to begin, or struggling to make sense of this new chapter, this course is here to support you.
What You’ll Gain:
- Practical Scripts: Discover empowering ways to share your journey, request accommodations, and establish boundaries that feel authentic and effective.
- Emotional Validation: Navigate complex emotions like grief, anger, or relief, and transform self-doubt into self-compassion.
- Tools for Balance: Build routines and strategies to manage burnout, regulate sensory overload, and design a life that nurtures your well-being.
- A Sense of Belonging: (Optional) Connect with a supportive community of neurodivergent individuals who truly understand your experience.
Have you recently discovered you’re autistic, or do you think you might be?
This realization can feel like uncovering the missing puzzle piece that explains so much about your life. Whether formally diagnosed or self-discovered, both journeys are equally valid, and this course is here to support you with compassion and practical tools to navigate this life-changing discovery.
With Julie Bjelland’s new course, Discovering You’re Autistic as an Adult: Guiding You Through the Journey, you’ll embark upon a compassionate roadmap to help you process the emotions and experience of discovering autism as an adult.
How This Course Addresses Your Challenges:
- Challenge 1: “What about the emotional weight of this discovery?”
- Challenge 2: “How do I explain this to others?”
- Challenge 3: “How do I stop masking and live authentically?”
- Challenge 4: “How do I balance my needs without feeling guilty?”
Course Overview: Modules at a Glance
Module 1: First Reactions and Emotional Processing
Navigate the emotional journey of discovery with validation, journaling prompts, and grounding exercises.
Module 2: Redefining Autism and Self-Understanding
Reframe autism as a difference, embrace neurodiversity, and find supportive spaces.
Module 3: Building Self-Compassion and Unlearning Self-Criticism
Replace self-criticism with kindness, embrace your authentic self, and explore sensory-friendly self-care.
Module 4: Reframing Your Past
Understand past challenges, grieve missed opportunities, and celebrate your resilience.
Module 5: Navigating Relationships and Communication
Learn tools for unmasking, fostering connection, and advocating for your needs in relationships.
Module 6: Understanding and Preventing Burnout and Meltdowns
Align self-care with your needs, recover from burnout and meltdowns, and advocate for accommodations.
Module 7: Improving Health and Wellness
Address common health challenges, advocate with providers, and balance self-care and wellness.
Module 8: Embracing Your Full Identity and Navigating Intersectionality
Celebrate neurodivergence, build community, and navigate systemic barriers with confidence.
PLUS 6 BONUS MATERIALS
Take control of this year and step into freedom and support with this incredible course!
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Receiving an Adult Autism Diagnosis
1. Why wasn’t I diagnosed earlier?
Many adults are diagnosed later in life because autism can present differently in each individual. Factors like masking (hiding or compensating for traits), gender differences in how autism is expressed, or lack of awareness by professionals may have contributed to a delayed diagnosis. Often, adults seek answers after noticing patterns in themselves or their children, or through personal research.
2. How can I explain my diagnosis to family and friends?
Sharing your diagnosis can feel daunting, but it helps to focus on clarity and empathy. Start by explaining how the diagnosis has helped you better understand yourself, and emphasize that it’s not about labeling but about gaining tools and insights to live authentically. Tailor your message to your audience, using practical examples of how autism impacts your daily life.
3. What does being diagnosed as an adult change in my life?
An adult autism diagnosis doesn’t change who you are—it provides a framework to understand yourself more fully. It can lead to greater self-awareness, validation of past struggles, and access to tools, accommodations, and communities that support your well-being. While it may take time to process, many people find it empowering to embrace their neurodivergence and learn to thrive authentically.
Looking for an HSP-Trained coach to help you align your life with your priorities?
Through my Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) certification with the Nickerson Institute, as well as being an HSP, I offer HSP coaching to develop specific goals around your HSP needs. We HSPs frequently deal with anxiety and overstimulated nervous systems that prevent us from achieving peace and attaining our life goals. HSP coaching with me includes a detailed review of your sensitivities and a mutually-desired plan for growth and management of this superpower to shift negativity and begin seeing yourself as the hero of your own story. [Coaching packages start at $150 per month.]
Be sensitive, be free
*This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links*