Unmasking is an ongoing process of noticing when we’re performing, deciding what serves us, and making gradual adjustments, according to Essy Knopf therapist and author of “Unmasking: What We Lose by Pretending and How to Get It Back”. Essy shares his autism diagnosis at 25 and later recognition of ADHD, highlighting how masking and non-stereotypical presentations delayed identification. In this conversation Essy shares about:
- Internalized ableism
- Conditional self-worth
- Burnout, and
- The difficulty of forming authentic connections while performing for acceptance.
This episode offers a grounded discussion of identity, self-advocacy, and living more intentionally as a neurodivergent adult.
Book: Unmasking: What We Lose by Pretending and How to Get It Back
Website: https://essyknopf.com
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June 24-28, 2026 In Rewilding Together
