How Do Therapists Approach Stimming with Autistic Clients?

PostedDecember 9, 2025

UpdatedDecember 9, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Therapy for stimming in autism focuses on understanding the purpose behind the behaviour rather than eliminating it. Therapists recognise that stimming is often a natural and necessary part of emotional regulation, sensory management, and self-expression. As such, the goal isn’t to stop stimming, but to support it in ways that are safe and appropriate.

Therapy for stimming in autism is highly individualised. It takes into account the person’s needs, environment, and any potential risks associated with their behaviours.

Therapeutic Approaches and Considerations

Here’s how professionals typically approach stimming in therapeutic settings:

Functional assessment

Therapists start by identifying the reason for the stimming, whether it’s due to anxiety, sensory overload, excitement, or boredom. This understanding guides the type of therapeutic interventions for autism that follow.

Behavioural strategies

In some cases, behavioural therapy for autism is used to reduce harmful or disruptive stims. Techniques focus on redirection, teaching safer alternatives, and reinforcing adaptive behaviours, always with respect for the individual’s autonomy.

Emotional support

CBT for stimming in autism (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) may be used with individuals who are aware of their behaviours and wish to manage them in specific settings, such as school or work. CBT helps build emotional awareness and coping strategies.

Therapists aim to balance the benefits of stimming with the client’s personal goals and safety. Ultimately, therapy for stimming in autism is about support, not suppression.

For personalised therapeutic planning, visit providers like Autism Detect.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Stimming (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking).

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.