Cultural Considerations In Therapy For Filipino-Canadian Autistic Adults

Understanding Autism in Filipino-Canadian Culture

Canada’s Diversity Canada is diverse, with people from all backgrounds living together. But living with a neurological and developmental condition in a new country can be challenging. Autism is common in Canada, affecting many, including Filipino-Canadians.

Exploring Autism This blog looks at autism in Filipino-Canadian culture. How do they embrace their culture and discover their identity? What are the perks and challenges?

What is Autism? Autism affects how people process, reason, express, and learn. Signs may include difference in speech, challenges in making and keeping friends, and sensitivity to noise, light, or touch. Autistic burnout and shutdown are also challenges. Therapists can help autistic individuals learn, grow, and manage difficulties.

What is Filipino Culture? Understanding Filipino culture means gaining insights into the traditions, values, practices, and social norms that define the lives of people from the Philippines and its diaspora. . Key aspects include:

Pakikisama: This means “getting along with others.” It’s about maintaining collegiality and avoiding conflicts.

Hiya: Hiya means “shame.” Filipinos value honour highly and avoid dishonour.

Family Centrism: Recognizing the importance of family, respect for elders, and close-knit family structures.. Decisions are made with family input, and family members help each other.

Filipinos and Mental Health Mental health is often stigmatized in Filipino culture. This stigma can prevent people from seeking therapy. Mental health conditions are often seen as weakness.

Understanding Autism It’s common for this population to experience Autistic burnout.. Although different from depression, they can co-occur. Autistic shutdown is a response to overwhelming stress and sensory overload, whereas the brain protects itself from further stress or sensory input. .

Autism and Culture Stigma around mental health can make autism go unnoticed and/or untreated. Families may feel shame, leading to isolation for the autistic individual. Misunderstandings about autism can worsen this stigma.

Roots of Culture - Fighting the Stigmas Autistic children may struggle with communication, routines, and sensory sensitivities. Filipino culture values kindness and family support, which can help. Here’s how culture can support autistic individuals:

Pakikisama and Social Skills: Pakikisama means getting along without forcing interactions. Therapists and advocates teach neurodiversity-affirming care to provide appropriate support to autistic individuals..

Hiya and Open Communication: Hiya can deter families from seeking help. Therapists can encourage open communication, support, and self-advocacy.

Family Centrism and Support Systems: Filipino families are highly connected. They can support Autistic children by participating in ongoing education, advocacy, and respecting and encouraging their autonomy.

Working Together for Support You’re not alone! If you’re seeking mental health support, we are here for you. At Larô Therapy, we support autistic individuals and their families in their mental health journeys. Let’s create an inclusive environment for all.