Does any of this sound like you?

You find yourself avoiding even the simplest of tasks, feeling trapped by expectations, or overwhelmed by a constant need to control your surroundings. It's more than just procrastination or being “difficult”—it's a deep, anxiety-driven reaction to any demand, even those you set for yourself. Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a profile within the autism spectrum that is characterized by this extreme need to resist everyday demands due to intense anxiety.

You might think things such as:

• “I know what I should be doing, but I just can’t bring myself to do it.”

• “The more someone tells me to do something, even if it's myself, the more I feel like I can’t.”

• “I often feel paralyzed by everyday tasks, even when I want to do them.”

• “People think I’m being difficult or lazy, but they don’t understand how overwhelming this feels.”

If these experiences resonate with you, know that you’re not alone. Adults with PDA often face challenges beyond avoiding tasks—they experience deep anxiety, a persistent need for control, and an intense fear of failure or judgment. There are ways to navigate these challenges and build a life that feels more manageable and fulfilling.

Common Life Events That May Cause a Struggle:

• Facing Workplace Demands or Job Changes: Feeling pressure to meet expectations, adapt to new environments, or manage day-to-day responsibilities can lead to significant distress. You might frequently quit jobs or feel on the brink of burnout due to an inability to maintain the level of control that feels necessary.

• Navigating Relationship Conflicts: Interpersonal expectations from partners, family, or friends can feel like overwhelming demands, leading to withdrawal from relationships or avoiding difficult conversations altogether.

• Experiencing Unexpected Life Changes:  Even positive changes like moving to a new home or receiving a promotion can trigger significant anxiety. The need to adapt or meet new expectations may lead to increased avoidance behaviors or emotional outbursts.

How I Can Help You Manage These Challenges

Based on the common needs expressed by adults with PDA, here are three ways I can support you:

• Reduce Anxiety and Emotional Overwhelm: Together, we'll identify your triggers and develop tailored strategies to reduce anxiety and help you feel more in control. Techniques like mindfulness, relaxation practices, and creating demand-free environments can help manage the intense feelings that arise when facing demands

• Build Autonomy and Personalized Coping Strategies: Traditional approaches like strict routines or “just do it” strategies often backfire for those with PDA. Instead, we'll focus on creative ways to manage daily tasks, such as framing them as challenges or games, using flexible routines, and developing approaches that align with your strengths and preferences
  

• Enhance Communication and Relationship Skills: We’ll explore strategies for effective communication that respects your need for autonomy, helping you express your needs and set boundaries in ways that foster healthier relationships

Why Choose Me?

I’ve been there—I know what it's like to live with a brain wired differently. I’ve spent over 20 years working with neurodivergent individuals, helping them navigate their unique challenges and find strategies that work for them. I understand the complexities of PDA from both professional experience and personal empathy. My approach is tailored to your unique needs, ensuring you feel understood, supported, and empowered to take control of your life.

Ready to Find a Way Forward?

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or constantly misunderstood, let's talk. You don't have to face this alone, contact me today to schedule a consultation and start building a life where you feel empowered, supported, and understood. We can work together to create a plan that respects your unique needs and helps you find relief from the daily struggles of living with PDA.