Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder Level One in Adolescents & Young Adults 

By Kailyn Donovan, LCSW 

 Learn more about Kailyn and the rest of the team here

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals interact with others, communicate, and experience the world around them. When a young person is diagnosed with ASD Level One, it often means they experience some social and communication challenges but may not need substantial support for daily functioning. This can bring both clarity and new questions — for parents and the individual themselves. The symptoms may not always be obvious, but they can significantly impact a person’s quality of life — especially during the turbulent transitions of adolescence and young adulthood. 

Here at Dayrise Wellness, I work with adolescents and young adults on the spectrum who are navigating a wide range of issues — from identity and relationships to school and career stress. Therapy can play a key role in helping them build self-understanding, reduce anxiety, and live more comfortably in a world that may not always feel built for them. In this blog post, I go through different questions and topics that come up when talking about an ASD Level One diagnosis. 

What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder, Level One? 

ASD has been classified into 3 different levels as characterized by needs for support. ASD Level One is characterized by: 

• Difficulties with social communication (like picking up on tone, facial expressions, or group conversation dynamics) 

• Rigid thinking or resistance to change in routines 

• Sensory sensitivities (e.g., light, noise, textures) 

• Highly focused interests or passions 

• Emotional regulation struggles (like meltdowns or shutdowns, especially under stress) 

These individuals are often verbal, interested in interpersonal relationships, capable of independent living and tend to require minimal support to function day to day— which can make it easy to overlook how hard they’re working just to keep up. 

The Adolescent & Young Adult Experience 

Adolescence is a time when social dynamics become more nuanced and complex. Friendships, romantic interests, identity exploration, and independence come into focus. For a teen or young adult with ASD Level One, this can be incredibly overwhelming. 

They may: 

• Feel isolated or “different” without understanding why. 

• Experience frequent misunderstandings or social rejection. 

• Struggle with anxiety or depression due to sensory overload or social burnout. 

• Mask their autistic traits in order to fit in, which can lead to exhaustion and identity confusion. 

The transition into adulthood — college, jobs, relationships — brings new demands that may further stretch their coping skills. These young people often look like they’re “doing fine” on the surface, but underneath, they may be battling significant emotional distress. 

How Therapy Can Help 

Therapy provides a supportive space for adolescents and young adults to: 

• Understand their diagnosis and what it means for them personally. 

• Build self-awareness and self-advocacy skills, helping them express needs clearly and set boundaries. 

• Develop practical strategies for managing anxiety, sensory overload, and executive functioning struggles. 

• Improve social communication and confidence in relationships. 

• Unpack experiences of rejection, bullying, or misunderstanding, which are sadly common. 

We don’t focus on “fixing” — we focus on supporting. That means helping clients feel more understood, empowered, and connected — not working to be “normal.” A focus on “normalcy” when working with clients diagnosed with ASD can lead clients to feel invalidated in their emotions and experiences. 

For many, therapy becomes a space where they don’t have to mask — where they can be fully themselves and feel accepted. It can also be a key place to explore identity, including neurodivergent pride, gender identity, and sexuality — topics that often intersect for this population. 

For Parents & Caregivers 

If your child has been diagnosed with ASD: 

• Listen and validate. They may have spent years feeling “off” or misunderstood. Your openness can make a huge difference. 

• Avoid minimizing their challenges just because they’re perceived as a “high-functioning” (minimal functioning support needed). What’s hidden can still be hard. 

• Encourage therapy as a safe and empowering step toward self-understanding and growth. 

• Support their autonomy. Let them make choices in their own time, and honor their unique path. 

ASD Level One doesn’t define a person’s limitations — it simply describes a brain that works differently. With the right understanding and support, adolescents and young adults on the spectrum can thrive in ways that honor who they are. Therapy isn’t about changing them — it’s about helping them connect with the world in a way that feels authentic and manageable. 

If you or someone you love is navigating this journey, know that support is available — and you’re not alone.