The Unmasking Workbook for Autistic Adults

This review may slightly deviate from my typical style, as this is more of a therapy book. Fun little fact: I’m a provisional psychologist who is neurodivergent (ADHD), and I work with neurodivergent individuals. 
The Unmasking Workbook for Autistic Adults immediately reminded me of A Radical Guide for Women with ADHD, a book I love.

Both books offer reflective prompts and exercises to guide readers through self-discovery and personal growth. They help individuals better understand how their neurodivergence impacts their lives and empower them to embrace their strengths, which aligns with neuroaffirming practices. However, I think The Unmasking Workbook takes it a step further in terms of accessibility. The chapter headings are much more logical and structured, making it easier to navigate—something that’s essential in a neuroaffirming book for autistic individuals! I think that this may make it easier for clinicians to utilise.

As a clinician, I’ve found it incredibly challenging to locate neuroaffirming resources created by psychologists. So often, I find myself adapting mainstream therapeutic recommendations into a more neuroaffirming framework. It was refreshing to see that The Unmasking Workbook incorporates some of the practices I’ve already been using in my sessions.

This workbook strikes a solid balance between a strength-based approach while acknowledging the very real and intense struggle that autistic individuals face as they navigate a world that often isn’t designed for them to thrive in. This nuanced perspective is much appreciated, especially in therapeutic contexts.
I particularly loved the section on interest-based areas for "finding your tribe." It’s such a valuable approach, recognising how shared passions can foster connection and support. That said, I would have appreciated a few more burnout and practical tools, but perhaps that’s just me being a bit desperate for all the support in that realm!

I believe this workbook could be used effectively in therapy, but it also holds up well as a self-guided tool. Whether you're working through it in a clinical setting or individually, it offers valuable insights and practical tools for unmasking and self-understanding.

Thank you to NetGalley, New Harbinger Publishing, and the author, Jessica Penot, for providing this ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.

This is such a great resource that will be helpful for so many, those that are autistic as well as their loved ones - I can't wait to be able to purchase this for my own library.

I loved working through this book, it was really eye-opening for things I never truly understood before. It's a perfect building block and starting book!