Being Autistic is not something that we consider needs to be “fixed.” We see Autism rather as a natural way of experiencing and understanding the world – simply experienced differences from neurotypical people. Still, many Autistic adults face challenges related to stress, communication, sensory overload, burnout, and feeling misunderstood. At the Centre for Interpersonal Relationships (CFIR), clinicians offer neuroaffirming support that respects neurodiversity and focuses on working with Autistic differences to help people work with their differences to thrive as they are.
CFIR Clinicians provide high quality therapy and supportive services for Autistic adults and couples who want support navigating everyday life, relationships, work, self-identity, and other common concerns faced by Autistic peoples. You do not need a formal autism diagnosis to access care. Therapy is designed to honour each person’s unique brain, strengths, and needs, rather than trying to make the Autistic person fit into neurotypical expectations, but rather, if it is a desire for therapy, to better navigate shared contexts that are often organized by neurotypical people.
Clinicians at CFIR take a strengths-based approach in their work with Autistic adults. This means they work with clients to better understand how their nervous system, sensory experiences, and thinking patterns affect daily life. Together, the therapy work will build practical strategies for things like emotion regulation, executive functioning, managing sensory overwhelm, supporting relationships, reducing burnout. These tools are personalized and flexible, supporting real-life goals.
Therapy may also explore how being neurodivergent impacts relationships, communication, and self-confidence. Clients are supported in developing stronger self-awareness and self-compassion, while learning ways to advocate for their needs at school, work, or home.
CFIR also offers NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback, a non-invasive technology that helps the brain regulate itself. This can support emotional balance, sensory regulation, and resilience during stressful or overwhelming situations.
CFIR’s excellence in neuroaffirming care is organized around helping Autistic adults feel seen, respected, and empowered—just as they are. Our team is here to provide inclusive and accessible solutions to help you in building a secure, resilient self, and help strengthen your relationships.
Dr. Marc Bedard, C.Psych. is a clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist, a Partner, and Director, Training at the Centre for Interpersonal Relationships (CFIR). Dr. Bedard provides psychological services to individual adults of varying neurotypes, experiencing a wide range of psychological and relationship difficulties related to mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, eating disorders, and sleep disruptions. He also provides neuropsychological and psychological assessment services to individuals with acquired brain injury, and to diagnose and support neurodiverse peoples (e.g., Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder).
