Neurodiverse Relationships

Comprised of the accounts of twelve heterosexual couples in which the man is on the Autism Spectrum, this book invites both partners to discuss their own perspectives of different key issues, including anxiety, empathy, employment and socialising. Autism expert Tony Attwood contributes a commentary and a question and answer section for each of the twelve accounts. The first book of its kind to provide perspectives from both sides of a relationship on a variety of different topics, Neurodiverse Relationships is the perfect companion for couples in neurodiverse relationships who are trying to understand one another better.

This inclusive and comprehensive manual equips marriage and family therapists with the skills to identify, support, and provide Brain-Informed Care to neurodiverse couples. Written from Murgado-Willard's unique perspective as a neurodivergent couple therapist, this book addresses a knowledge gap in the couple counseling field and helps therapists develop and maintain an ethical standard of care for neurodiverse couples. The text also introduces a new style of couple therapy for use in private practice settings: Brain-Informed Neurodiverse Couple Therapy (BINCT). Chapters begin by providing some historical context of neurodiversity before offering invaluable training on best practices, assessment, treatment planning, and using non-ableist, practical interventions for this population. Case studies that present a variety of sexual identities are featured throughout as well as a glossary of key terms and checklists that therapists can use immediately in their practice. This book aims to implement a paradigm shift in the field and is essential reading for therapy students. It is invaluable reading for practicing therapists that did not receive training on working with neurodiverse clients.

Proven counseling strategies that will help improve the relationships of married, long-term or co-habiting couples with Asperger's Syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder). ASD relationship expert Eva A. Mendes provides advice straight from the couples' counselling room that can be applied in day-to-day living and help with the challenges that can arise in relationships where one or both partners are on the autism spectrum. This includes issues surrounding diagnosis, mental health, sexual compatibility, sensory needs, executive functioning, theory of mind, communication, and co-parenting. She offers unique practical ideas for positive change such as creating a relationship schedule, making expression of appreciation and gratitude a part of every day, and finding mutually satisfying activities and special interests to engage in with your partner. The strategies in this book will be useful to couples themselves and any couples' counselors or therapists working with them.

- Includes contributions from a wide range of international authors. - The first book to address the dynamic issues related to sexuality from a social work perspective. - Provides a holistic overview of the topic by including both diverse and inclusive perspectives.

Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Sample Book Insights: #1 When a neurodiverse marriage fails, it can be several years before either partner realizes that ASD is at play. The NS partner may begin looking for additional explanations for her husband’s behavior, and may begin to wonder why her partner doesn’t love her. #2 Adults with ASD are often successful at work, and may go their entire lives without feeling the need to seek a diagnosis. Many psychiatrists provide medication during a 20-minute appointment, but not counseling. #3 The prevalence of ASD is on the rise. It is mainly genetic, but environmental causes cannot be completely ruled out. Neurodiversity is the idea that neurological differences like autism and ADHD are the result of normal, natural variation in the human genome. #4 The autism spectrum is a neurological difference, rather than a mental disorder. It is not a disease that needs to be cured. It is characterized by a set of traits, or a behavioral profile with certain core features.

Filled with first-hand accounts and the best kept secrets to help your relationship bloom, this book is a deep dive into loving autistic relationships and the unique strengths that drive them. Based on clinical experience and emerging research, ASC counselling expert Eva Mendes explores the complex and fulfilling relationships between neurodiverse couples. This book takes you on a journey into the relationships of 20 neurodiverse couples from all walks of life, offering insight into how they meet the challenges of daily life and the unique strengths being neurodiverse can bring to a being a partner or co-parent. The couples share down-to-earth and candid recollections of the ups and downs of their relationships, weighing in on topics from emotional connection and sex to managing co-parenting and finances. Exploring multiple intersections from race, gender and sexuality across autistic relationships, and ironing out the common myths surrounding them, Eva offers a specialist, clinical perspective on each dynamic and provides examples of best practice to have a healthy and happy relationship.

Ever since he came out as autistic, people have been contacting Joe to share their stories and ask questions. The most common question by far: how do I find a romantic partner?Dr. Faith G. Harper, author of Unfuck Your Brain and Unfuck Your Intimacy joins autistic publisher and author Joe Biel to offer hard-won guidance on a wide range of topics about friendships, dating, and romance and answer a ton of questions. What do you want out of a relationship? What is the difference between flirting and harassment? How do you have a fun date and get to know someone when eye contact and prolonged conversation aren't your strengths? How do you change a casual acquaintance into friendship or dating? How do you express your needs and make sure you're hearing your partner when they express theirs? How do you maintain a healthy, happy long term relationship? Autistic readers will find valuable answers and perspectives in this book, whether you're just getting ready to jump into dating, seeking to forge closer friendships, or looking to improve your existing partnership or marriage.

Am I autistic, or is autism something I suffer from? Should I come out, to my friends, to my family, to the people I work with? Should I drop the mask? How can I explain my experience to a neurotypical world? The Subtle Spectrum offers an exploration into the postdiagnostic landscape of autism and the transformative journey of one woman, from her awareness of difference, through acceptance, to an embracing of autistic identity and beyond as she questions the cultural identity of autism. Joanna’s narrative is enriched with insights from a range of diverse contributors, creating a reflective opportunity for people to gain a better understanding of the experience of being autistic. With a focus on relationships built across a neurodiverse divide, the book considers topics as broad as mental health, work opportunities and abuse, weaving theory and research with lived experience to give true insight into the life of an autistic person, both pre- and post- diagnosis. Written with a raw and engaging honesty, this is a crucial read for anybody who identifies as autistic as an adult or teenager, or anyone looking to support somebody exploring diagnosis. It will also provide an invaluable insight for social workers, educators and relationships counsellors working with autistic people.