Key Takeaways
A holistic approach to autism spectrum disorder (also known as autism) looks at the whole person, including things like sleep, nutrition, and environment.
Holistic care focuses on finding the root causes of challenges instead of just stopping behaviors. It works alongside traditional treatments.
A holistic provider can help you build a personalized plan that supports your well-being and daily skills without trying to “cure” autism.
If you’re thinking about trying a holistic approach to autism, you might wonder what that really means. Providers who use holistic approaches look at the whole person, not just the autism diagnosis. They pay attention to things like sleep, nutrition, and a person’s environment. The goal is to understand how all parts of your life work together and what you truly need to feel your best.
Conventional autism treatment can be helpful, but sometimes it misses important details. For example, a child might seem upset or act out when they’re really feeling overwhelmed by noise or lights. Holistic care looks for the root of the problem instead of focusing on stopping a behavior. If something feels off or incomplete in your care (or a loved one’s care), a holistic approach might give you a clearer picture.
How holistic healing supports autism treatment
It’s important to understand that autism isn’t something to be cured. Rather, it’s a different way of experiencing the world. A holistic approach to autism doesn’t try to change who someone is. Instead, it focuses on helping the whole person feel better, learn, and grow in a way that works for them.
Holistic care looks at the full picture: the body, mind, and environment. It may include things like healthy eating, calming activities like yoga, or therapies that help with movement. These tools can work alongside traditional autism care. Some research shows that holistic treatments can help autistic people feel calmer and improve their mood. This is especially true when the treatment is matched to their individual needs.
Holistic, alternative approaches to autism
Holistic and alternative ways to support autism focus on the whole person and can help in different ways. Some common holistic approaches include:
Focusing on nutrition and gut health
Nutrition plays a powerful role in how the brain and body function. Some studies suggest that certain foods or food sensitivities may affect mood and behavior in autistic people. A holistic provider might look for nutritional imbalances or signs of gut inflammation, which can impact digestion and even emotional regulation.
Nutrition counseling may help by:
Identifying and avoiding food sensitivities that might cause discomfort or behavior changes
Supporting gut health to improve digestion and mood
Balancing blood sugar to help reduce irritability
If needed, a holistic therapist may refer you to a specialist, like a functional medicine doctor or registered dietitian.
Calming the body and mind
Autistic people often experience sensory overload or high levels of stress. Movement-based therapies and mindfulness can help calm the nervous system and support self-regulation.
Helpful approaches may include:
Yoga, stretching, or guided movement to release tension
Deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation
Rhythmic activities, like walking or swinging, to soothe the body
A holistic therapist can tailor these techniques to fit your needs.
Using natural remedies
Some people explore natural remedies or supplements to help with mood, attention, or sleep. While these options are often seen as gentle, they can still cause side effects or interact with other medications.
A holistic therapist may refer you to a holistic psychiatrist or a psychiatrist who specializes in autism who can help guide safe, evidence-based choices. This specialist can monitor how supplements fit within your overall treatment plan to make sure you use them safely and effectively.
Helping with sensory needs
Sensory tools and strategies are a core part of many holistic plans for autistic people. These interventions aim to help people feel more comfortable and regulated in their bodies.
Examples of sensory supports include:
Weighted blankets or vests that provide calming pressure
Aromatherapy or essential oils for relaxation
Texture-based tools or fidget items to support focus
Holistic therapists trained in sensory integration can assess a person’s unique needs and recommend supports to improve daily functioning and reduce stress.
Navigating holistic autism therapies with support
Finding the right holistic care plan for autism can feel overwhelming, but a skilled provider can guide you through the process. They’ll take time to understand your unique needs and help choose approaches that fit your strengths and challenges. This way, your care plan will feel personal and easier to follow.
Holistic autism treatment isn’t about “curing” autism. It’s about helping you live your best life. The goal is to improve overall well-being by supporting communication, emotional health, and daily skills. It’s all about finding a balance and helping you feel more confident and connected to yourself and others.
Clinician's take
A holistic approach helps you see the full picture of your needs — not just one symptom or challenge. It allows you to consider your physical health, emotions, relationships, and daily routines. This is important for building a plan that supports your whole self, not just one part of you.
Find care with Rula
A holistic approach to autism looks at the whole person, not just the diagnosis. Providers use things like nutrition, movement, and sensory tools to help you feel better. If you want to try holistic care, there are mental health professionals ready to help and support you.
At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best.
Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we're here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.
