Will I find a therapist who understands me

[michael_1992]

I have diagnosed panic disorder - but have non-panic anxiety symptoms and some symptoms of depression. A problem is that I have Asperger syndrome as well. This makes it so I can't express my emotions very well- its very frustrating. I also have trouble "opening up" out of anxiety of what people may think of me- im also nervous about coming off as weird to the therapist cause of asperger syndrome. I tried therapy in the past but couldnt open up and the therapist just couldnt understand me.
I tried therapy before and just couldnt open up with the therapist well. The therapist did not understand aspergers well- she said she only "heard of it". Im just not very expressive- doesnt mean i dont have feelings. I have diagnosed panic disorder and symptoms of depression and general anxiety that are recognized by psychologists-because this was detected when I was diagnosed with aspergers last year. So im not one of those people who think they have a problem when they really dont. I cant see the psychologist who diagnosed me - because she only administers psychological tests and diagnosis- not therapy.


EDIT: specifically what i am looking for is a therapist that will help me with anxiety, panic attacks and help me think more positive. I do not struggle with self harm- even though this site is devoted to self harm.

[Cacoethes]

hiya,

Some therapists will be more knowledgeable about aspergers than others. I'm not sure how you would go about finding a therapist that is more aware of aspergers but is it possible to have an assessment with another therapist before seeing them and if it doesn't go well, then you could ask if they know of any other professionals with more of an understanding.

I hope that made sense!

[startingagain]

You could contact the national autistic society for advice.

[PassedExpectations]

you certainly won't find one if you don't look for one and try different therapists out

[not_a_happy_bunny]

as someone on the autistic spectrum I can say that it can be more difficult in therapy because of problems with communication and expressing how you feel and knowing what causes that feeling (at least that are my problems)
I have a therapist who only works with people on the spectrum and knows a lot about it, that would be preferable but maybe not possible where you live. I think it can be good to explain on your first session what you have and ask if he/she can work with that, if you have trouble telling write it down and give it to the person (that's what I do). you can together workout a way that works for you and makes you feel comfortable enough to really work with them. unfortunately there's only one way to find out if it can work and that is trying it for a wile and if you can't work with one try another. I know its very difficult but in the end worth it.