Unmasking the Mask: Breaking Free from Stigma to Embrace Authentic Autistic Identity

• By: Sheila Simchon, LSP, LCSW, QS Caring Therapists of Broward and Palm Beach Alyssa Kerigan, PsyD Caring Therapists of Palm Beach
• July 9th, 2025
• accommodations, burnout, inclusive environments, masking, mental health, neurodivergent, self-acceptance, stigma, Summer 2025 Issue, therapy, unmasking strategies
• 3344    0

This article explores masking in autism, defined as the practice of suppressing autistic traits to conform to societal expectations. Specifically, it examines how stigma reinforces masking, oftentimes leading to emotional exhaustion and complex mental health struggles. To challenge stigma, this...