What Therapists See Beneath the Mask
On the surface, masking can look like confidence and competence. But as a therapist, Blaze often sees what’s really underneath: exhaustion, overwhelm, and the toll of surviving in a world that wasn’t built for neurodivergent nervous systems.
In this episode, Blaze unpacks why masking is so draining — from the constant executive load of self-monitoring to the emotional suppression that leads to collapse later. You’ll hear how masking is not strength but survival, and why survival strategies eventually leave us depleted.
The takeaway? Masking isn’t weakness, but it is exhausting. Gentle unmasking can help restore your energy and your truth.
This episode is a companion to the blog, “The Hidden Cost of ADHD Masking: Why You Feel Bone-Tired.” Read it now at LoveOnTheAutismSpectrum.com.
Blaze’s book, Unmasked Self-Acceptance, launches November 18th — with 365 daily reflections to support you in resting, unmasking, and softening into your full self.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | LoveOnTheAutismSpectrum.com
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**This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment.
Barbara (Blaze) Lazarony, LMFT, is licensed in California. Listening does not create a therapeutic relationship or imply individualized advice.
Any tools or techniques shared are for general education only and do not guarantee results. Participation in educational offerings does not establish a client-therapist relationship.
All client examples are fictional and used solely for illustrative purposes.
If you’re in crisis or experiencing a mental health emergency, call 988 or contact local emergency services.**