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The Unmasking Workbook for Autistic Adults: Neurodiversity-Affirming Skills to Help You Live Authentically, Avoid Burnout, and Thrive
Let this workbook guide you toward your authentic, autistic self. You don’t have to hide anymore.
If you grew up before the neurodiversity movement, chances are you were taught at an early age that your autistic traits were “wrong” or “bad.” Whether it was stimming, difficulties with making small talk, avoiding eye contact, sensitivities to loud sounds or certain textures, or even talking passionately about the things you care about—somewhere along the way you learned to mask these aspects of yourself to better fit in, avoid bullying from other kids, and in some cases to even gain the love of your own parents. The problem is that, over time, masking can lead to higher levels of stress, burnout, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and depression. So how can you be your authentic self and still succeed and thrive in a neurotypical world?
Written by a therapist who is actually autistic, this neurodiversity-affirming workbook offers skills to help you cultivate self-acceptance, manage intense emotions, and be your own advocate when needed. You’ll take a good look at the situations or people that caused you to mask in the first place. You’ll also discover:
How to set and achieve your own authentic goals—with a clear view of who you are and what you care about
Why self-love and self-acceptance is so important for autistic folks
How to live your life on your own terms, while self-advocating for accommodations
How to let go of old, hurtful messages about autistic people that you’ve internalized
How autism can be both a strength and a disability
Strategies to cope with burnout or meltdowns
How to be assertive and set boundaries with others
You don’t have to mask, hide, or camouflage any longer. Let this workbook guide you on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. You are worthy of it. And you deserve it.
If you grew up before the neurodiversity movement, chances are you were taught at an early age that your autistic traits were “wrong” or “bad.” Whether it was stimming, difficulties with making small talk, avoiding eye contact, sensitivities to loud sounds or certain textures, or even talking passionately about the things you care about—somewhere along the way you learned to mask these aspects of yourself to better fit in, avoid bullying from other kids, and in some cases to even gain the love of your own parents. The problem is that, over time, masking can lead to higher levels of stress, burnout, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and depression. So how can you be your authentic self and still succeed and thrive in a neurotypical world?
Written by a therapist who is actually autistic, this neurodiversity-affirming workbook offers skills to help you cultivate self-acceptance, manage intense emotions, and be your own advocate when needed. You’ll take a good look at the situations or people that caused you to mask in the first place. You’ll also discover:
How to set and achieve your own authentic goals—with a clear view of who you are and what you care about
Why self-love and self-acceptance is so important for autistic folks
How to live your life on your own terms, while self-advocating for accommodations
How to let go of old, hurtful messages about autistic people that you’ve internalized
How autism can be both a strength and a disability
Strategies to cope with burnout or meltdowns
How to be assertive and set boundaries with others
You don’t have to mask, hide, or camouflage any longer. Let this workbook guide you on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. You are worthy of it. And you deserve it.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
40 people are currently reading
2046 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 27, 2024
I received a free copy from the publisher through Netgalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
After getting diagnosed as autistic last year I've been reading a lot about autism. This one caught my eye on Netgalley and I liked the idea of the focus being on unmasking. While this book wasn't quite for me, others might get more benefit from it.
As I already read, listened and watched a lot about autism this book didn't have much new information to me. The workbook element of this book didn't work for me, I would rather just read the information and start thinking about it myself naturally than have these specific questions. Some of the graphs and exercises also didn't quite show up correctly in my copy, but I assume that's because I got an arc and this shouldn't be an issue with the final version. Then there was the text "uncorrected proof" that was in the middle of paragraphs or even sentences quite frequently, it was in bold and a larger font and was quite jarring. Again not something you should encounter in the final version, but it was jarring and didn't help with my enjoyment of the book. Something about the writing style and tone of this book just didn't quite work for me, I can't quite figure out what or why.
I thought the way the book was organized in chapters each with a different focus worked well. The author asked a lot of questions that were aimed to make the reader think and figure things out for themselves. It's not an easy to follow plan or set of steps, but instead a book that is designed to make you think and decide for yourself what you want to do. It just wasn't as helpful to me personally, but that's probably as I've already consumed so much content about autism. I also felt it didn't address a few things I struggle with during unmasking like how to unmask with people you've known for a long time and that internal drive to keep behaving the same way you always have.
To summarize: I didn't get as much out of this book as I had hoped, it didn't have much new info or insights for me, but that's also because I've already consumed a lot of content about autism. The writing style didn't quite work for me and I had a few struggles with the formatting of the arc, which shouldn't be an issue with the final version. The workbook style with the questions asked didn't work for me. I liked the focus on unmasking and the way the book was organized. I liked how it was designed to make you think and decide for yourself what to do.
After getting diagnosed as autistic last year I've been reading a lot about autism. This one caught my eye on Netgalley and I liked the idea of the focus being on unmasking. While this book wasn't quite for me, others might get more benefit from it.
As I already read, listened and watched a lot about autism this book didn't have much new information to me. The workbook element of this book didn't work for me, I would rather just read the information and start thinking about it myself naturally than have these specific questions. Some of the graphs and exercises also didn't quite show up correctly in my copy, but I assume that's because I got an arc and this shouldn't be an issue with the final version. Then there was the text "uncorrected proof" that was in the middle of paragraphs or even sentences quite frequently, it was in bold and a larger font and was quite jarring. Again not something you should encounter in the final version, but it was jarring and didn't help with my enjoyment of the book. Something about the writing style and tone of this book just didn't quite work for me, I can't quite figure out what or why.
I thought the way the book was organized in chapters each with a different focus worked well. The author asked a lot of questions that were aimed to make the reader think and figure things out for themselves. It's not an easy to follow plan or set of steps, but instead a book that is designed to make you think and decide for yourself what you want to do. It just wasn't as helpful to me personally, but that's probably as I've already consumed so much content about autism. I also felt it didn't address a few things I struggle with during unmasking like how to unmask with people you've known for a long time and that internal drive to keep behaving the same way you always have.
To summarize: I didn't get as much out of this book as I had hoped, it didn't have much new info or insights for me, but that's also because I've already consumed a lot of content about autism. The writing style didn't quite work for me and I had a few struggles with the formatting of the arc, which shouldn't be an issue with the final version. The workbook style with the questions asked didn't work for me. I liked the focus on unmasking and the way the book was organized. I liked how it was designed to make you think and decide for yourself what to do.
March 13, 2025
I know this is a pretty different review from me but as someone who was diagnosed with autism as an adult this workbook was extremely helpful! masking has unfortunately been such a big part of my life and I've been working really hard to unlearn a lot of things, so I do highly recommend this for any of my fellow autistic girlies! ~
September 16, 2024
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.
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.
October 10, 2024
I love this workbook, and have purchased a print copy in order to more fully integrate its wisdom.
As a late-diagnosed neurodivergent person [Autistic (51) + ADHD(49)], and one that also lives in severe ongoing pain, I don't do super well with digital books. I don't request them often. But as soon as I saw this book on Netgalley, I really wanted to try it out - and I am super glad that I did.
Now, I know that the tone is super supportive and compassionate. And there are loads of great questions with places to fill in your own personal answers. I love that there are places to celebrate our unique gifts, and others to acknowledge where we struggle. The personal examples from real people really helps the reader no feel alone, especially in struggling. Certain chapters focus on getting specific research across (like the four different kinds of Autistic meltdowns), and teaching essential skills (communication, prioritizing your own boundaries, etc). Basically, this workbook is designed to help an Autistic adult function as well as possible within the established neurotypical culture, while prioritizing our own personal needs.
So, yes, I have already ordered a physical copy. I very much loo forward to filling in all the blanks with my own experiences, feelings and fears - in hopes that I will come through the experience with a bigger set of tools for living a good life, just as I am. I did work through several exercises in order to review this book, but there is something just so tangible about putting pen to paper (for me, at least).
I really hope that this workbook gets out to as many Autistic adults (especially late-diagnosed) as possible, and helps everyone feel more welcome and worthy in the world we live in, but often don't feel that we fit into.
Huge gratitude to Netgalley and the publisher, New Harbinger, for an e-ARC of this workbook, in exchange for my honest review.
As a late-diagnosed neurodivergent person [Autistic (51) + ADHD(49)], and one that also lives in severe ongoing pain, I don't do super well with digital books. I don't request them often. But as soon as I saw this book on Netgalley, I really wanted to try it out - and I am super glad that I did.
Now, I know that the tone is super supportive and compassionate. And there are loads of great questions with places to fill in your own personal answers. I love that there are places to celebrate our unique gifts, and others to acknowledge where we struggle. The personal examples from real people really helps the reader no feel alone, especially in struggling. Certain chapters focus on getting specific research across (like the four different kinds of Autistic meltdowns), and teaching essential skills (communication, prioritizing your own boundaries, etc). Basically, this workbook is designed to help an Autistic adult function as well as possible within the established neurotypical culture, while prioritizing our own personal needs.
So, yes, I have already ordered a physical copy. I very much loo forward to filling in all the blanks with my own experiences, feelings and fears - in hopes that I will come through the experience with a bigger set of tools for living a good life, just as I am. I did work through several exercises in order to review this book, but there is something just so tangible about putting pen to paper (for me, at least).
I really hope that this workbook gets out to as many Autistic adults (especially late-diagnosed) as possible, and helps everyone feel more welcome and worthy in the world we live in, but often don't feel that we fit into.
Huge gratitude to Netgalley and the publisher, New Harbinger, for an e-ARC of this workbook, in exchange for my honest review.
March 22, 2025
Despite having been diagnosed a while ago and having worked on unmasking for quite a while, I really enjoyed this workbook and the exercises within it. It covered a wide variety of topics that were helpful for unpacking my autistic self in a variety of ways.
I will say it was often very difficult to read the way the author described how accepting her circles were and how she was easily able to access support. She acknowledged that not everyone has these nets, but it would have been nice to get more other than “Hey if you don’t have a safe space to unmask uh….consider that.” This is especially pertinent when the author is a white woman who seems to have fewer support needs. What are marginalized people meant to do in hostile environments? How can one practice unmasking to keep themselves safe when their life is actively hostile to it?
Still, as I said, this was a nice reflection into my autistic self. I am very happy that I went through it and took the time to engage in the written exercises.
On publishing critique: The table on pages 96-97 is a poorly designed, incomprehensible mess. It is not set up well at all. Luckily for myself, I make resources all the time and was able to take the idea of the table and make it actually usable.
I will say it was often very difficult to read the way the author described how accepting her circles were and how she was easily able to access support. She acknowledged that not everyone has these nets, but it would have been nice to get more other than “Hey if you don’t have a safe space to unmask uh….consider that.” This is especially pertinent when the author is a white woman who seems to have fewer support needs. What are marginalized people meant to do in hostile environments? How can one practice unmasking to keep themselves safe when their life is actively hostile to it?
Still, as I said, this was a nice reflection into my autistic self. I am very happy that I went through it and took the time to engage in the written exercises.
On publishing critique: The table on pages 96-97 is a poorly designed, incomprehensible mess. It is not set up well at all. Luckily for myself, I make resources all the time and was able to take the idea of the table and make it actually usable.
September 30, 2024
I’m so happy this workbook exists! I was diagnosed with autism as a 28 year old last year and was completely lost on how best to help myself heal and eventually thrive. I read what I could, but I kept hearing how important it was to unmask, but I didn’t understand HOW to actually do it.
This workbook is the perfect resource for helping pick apart layers and layers of masking to both heal your inner child and reintroduce yourself to your authentic self.
It includes a lot of the helpful information I read elsewhere, but as more of an Autism 101 instead of a deep dive. And unlike other books I’ve read on autism, it includes reflection questions to help you apply the information you learned in a personal, productive way.
It felt good to have a resource like this written by an autistic author. There were no moments of condescension or infantilism because the author was coming from a place of true empathy and understanding.
Thank you to Net Galley and New Harbinger Publishing for the eARC of this workbook, and to Jessica Penot for the hard work, love, and care she put into it to benefit our community ❤️
This workbook is the perfect resource for helping pick apart layers and layers of masking to both heal your inner child and reintroduce yourself to your authentic self.
It includes a lot of the helpful information I read elsewhere, but as more of an Autism 101 instead of a deep dive. And unlike other books I’ve read on autism, it includes reflection questions to help you apply the information you learned in a personal, productive way.
It felt good to have a resource like this written by an autistic author. There were no moments of condescension or infantilism because the author was coming from a place of true empathy and understanding.
Thank you to Net Galley and New Harbinger Publishing for the eARC of this workbook, and to Jessica Penot for the hard work, love, and care she put into it to benefit our community ❤️
August 24, 2024
thank you to netgalley, new harbinger publishing and the author, jessica penot for the ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
i am a late diagnosed autistic person. this means that i haven’t had a lot of exposure to neurodivergency affirming therapy- a lot of my help comes in books like this one.
this one is one of the best neurodivergency affirming workbooks i have read and worked through. there is a lot to work on, “case studies” and examples to pull from. i think there is a lot to gain from this book for my fellow late diagnosed autistic folk.
i am a late diagnosed autistic person. this means that i haven’t had a lot of exposure to neurodivergency affirming therapy- a lot of my help comes in books like this one.
this one is one of the best neurodivergency affirming workbooks i have read and worked through. there is a lot to work on, “case studies” and examples to pull from. i think there is a lot to gain from this book for my fellow late diagnosed autistic folk.
July 3, 2025
This is a workbook to be read and worked through, not a book to be read cover to cover in a few days.
It has a good amount of worksheets and things to work through learning more about yourself, your feelings, your struggles, etc.
The examples given in the workbook are all from the author's personal life, so are less relatable for me.
It felt more difficult emotionally to read, as it was a therapist who portrayed that she had definitely been accepted when disclosing her autism and that had had a lot of support/money/resources to create the supports she needed.
It has a good amount of worksheets and things to work through learning more about yourself, your feelings, your struggles, etc.
The examples given in the workbook are all from the author's personal life, so are less relatable for me.
It felt more difficult emotionally to read, as it was a therapist who portrayed that she had definitely been accepted when disclosing her autism and that had had a lot of support/money/resources to create the supports she needed.
January 23, 2025
A great place to start for therapists, providers, and those who are neurodivergent. If the DSM has failed you, this is a great place to turn to for validation. The author uses her own stories and experiences to provide tips and tricks to help you unmask as feel more like yourself in this neurodivergent world.
However, the author’s excessive rambling about her personal life makes it seem more like a memoir than a true self-help book.
However, the author’s excessive rambling about her personal life makes it seem more like a memoir than a true self-help book.
February 10, 2025
As an adult woman diagnosed on the spectrum some years ago, this was first really useful tool I’ve found. Validating and also challenging to the comfort zone, giving practical steps to be more comfortable in our own skin walking in the neurotypical world.
June 4, 2025
This book is great for autistic adults or their loved ones. Very informative on how autism can present in adults, well researched and sited, and the prompts are practical. The dialogue is inclusive and affirming. I would recommend this book!
September 8, 2025
Good neurodivergent friendly workbook. But it is rather on the short side and did not give me new insights. I did like the emphasis on how masking can put autistic people in danger to abuse and how it is important to stay safe.
December 11, 2024
Recomendado para quienes quieran empezar a entender a un adulto con autismo.
February 26, 2025
Rented this from the library as an audiobook and I plan to buy the print version so I can refer back to it.
September 26, 2025
DNF @ 35%
Validating and decently okay, but I draw the line at glazing Elon Musk. What was she thinking...
Validating and decently okay, but I draw the line at glazing Elon Musk. What was she thinking...
January 5, 2025
This book is full of concrete and helpful exercises for becoming more aware of your emotions, identifying unhealthy relationships, and becoming more comfortable with your ND self. I highly recommend it. :)
October 2, 2024
The Unmasking Workbook for Autistic Adults: Neurodiversity Affirming Skills to Help You Live Authentically, Avoid Burnout, and Thrive is very informative and very engaging at the same time. If you are an adult with autism, particular ASD 1, I cannot recommend this book enough. To me it is THE book to have. I am grateful to the author for writing such an informative, thoughtful, affirming, and helpful book. If I could give more than five stars, I would!
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