Neurodiverse Love with Mona Kay

If you would like to learn more about the resources Mona has available you can check out the links below:Buy the ⁠Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards or Workbook⁠⁠Newsletter⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠YouTube⁠____________________________________________________________During this session from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference, Daniel M. Jones talks about how autistic people dating other autistic people can lead to deeply fulfilling and empowering relationships rooted in shared understanding, unique communication, and mutual respect. He explores the benefits of autistic-autistic partnerships, highlighting the ways they foster authentic connections, provide spaces for mutual growth, and break down societal norms that often stigmatize neurodivergent relationships. By sharing research, personal anecdotes, and practical insights, this episode will shine a light on how these relationships can redefine what healthy and loving connections look like for autistic people.Daniel M. Jones is internationally recognized as the force behind The Aspie World, is a best-selling author and award-winning video influencer. His book, Autism for Adults, has resonated worldwide, offering invaluable insights and support to the autism community. With The Aspie World—the largest YouTube channel led by an autistic creator—Daniel has revolutionized the way we understand autism. His platform not only raises awareness, but fosters meaningful understanding and compassion by sharing autism through an authentic, first-hand perspective. Diagnosed with Autism, OCD, ADHD, and Dyslexia, Daniel channels his personal experiences into powerful advocacy. Leveraging his expertise in video and social media, he educates millions about autism and neurodiversity, breaking barriers and empowering others to embrace differences.A trailblazer in his field, Daniel made history by launching the first-ever neurodiverse panel at VidCon US, the world’s largest video convention. Focused on ADHD and Autism, this groundbreaking initiative amplified voices within the neurodivergent community, fostering a global conversation about inclusion and diversity.

To learn more about the services and resources Mona has available through Neurodiverse Love, check out the links below:Buy the ⁠Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards or Workbook⁠⁠Newsletter⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Website⁠ | ⁠YouTube⁠_________________________________________________________During this session from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference you will learn from Dr. Jill Corvelli the common stages of change in neurodiverse partnerships.While every individual and partnership is unique, there are common patterns that emerge in the stages a couple progresses through as they continue their work from disconnection to connection. Jill shares her observations from years of experience working with ND partners over thousands of sessions.  Dr. Corvelli is the founder of the Neurodiverse Partners Institute. She has a practice dedicated exclusively to supporting complex couples, many of which one or both partners are neurodistinct. She developed a unique approach for helping such couples called the ND Compass. It is a weaving together of best relational practices melded with a best practice ND lens. She has helped hundreds of couples on their developmental path of co existing, connecting, and even thriving with their different styles.  In addition to serving her clients, she works as a neurodiverse advocate training the helping professions as well as a clinical supervisor for Northwestern University.  To learn more about Jill's work and the services she offers click below:Complex Couples Education & Groups

During this episode, Jennie Williams talks about her own neurodivergence and disabilities and how important it is to support the intimacy needs of disabled and neurodivergent folks. She shares information about why she started the charity Enhance the UK and the campaign they run called Undressing Disability. Some of the other topics addressed include how to communicate about your intimacy needs as a disabled adult. The resources available through the Love Lounge that Jennie and her friend Zoe co-lead. Participants can get 3 free sessions to work through any issues they are facing in their intimate relationships. She also shares how internalized shame and/or ableism does not equal an authentic relationship and how important it is to address sensory sensitivities and other needs each partner may have that could make their intimate relationships more mutually beneficial.You can learn more about the work being done through Enhance the UK here.

If you would like to learn more about coaching services, support groups and other resources Mona has available for neurodiverse couples and individual partners you can check out her website.____________________________________________________________During this episode with Caron Starobin you will learn about the Relationship Bootcamp she is co-facilitating on October 10th and 11th in Ashton, Maryland. Participants will learn essential skills for improved communication, conflict resolution and building intimacy using the Relational Life Therapy Model that was developed by Terry Real.Caron shares how she will use Relational Life Therapy to help participants learn how to address the never ending cycle of harmony, disharmony and repair and how the skills couples and individuals learn will help them connect in more effective and healthy ways. Caron has extensive experience working with neurodiverse couples and this is her second time as a guest on the podcast. She was also a presenter at the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference.To register for the Relationship Bootcamp or learn more about the services available through Starobin Counseling you can click here.

If you would like to buy lifetime access to all 31 video sessions from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference you can get $50 off by using the code Podcast 50 here.___________________________________________________________During this podcast episode you will have an opportunity to hear Laurie Budlong-Morse's excellent presentation about adult children of autistic parents, from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference. Older autistic adults have been called "The Lost Generation", because most were not given the opportunities for self-understanding and support that they desperately needed. Their children, who are now adults themselves, have been lost as well, largely left invisible and unsupported by clinicians and autism advocacy efforts alike. This presentation will foster visibility and understanding of the unique experiences and needs of this population, with insights and suggestions for clinicians, adult children of autistic parents, and their partners. Laurie Budlong-Morse is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, an AANE Certified Neurodiverse Couples Therapist, and an AAMFT-Approved Supervisor Candidate; she is also the adult child of an autistic mother. She facilitates a monthly online support group for fellow ACAPs (adult children of autistic parents) in addition to providing an array of other services for those in neurodiverse relationships and their clinicians. You can learn more about her and her services at lauriebmorse.com.  Buy the Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards or WorkbookNewsletter | Instagram | Website | YouTubeInterested in joining a support group for neurodiverse couples or neurotypical/non-autistic partners? Send an email to neurodiverselove4u@gmail.com

If you would like to buy lifetime access to the 31 sessions from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference click here and use code Podcast50 to get $50 off the conference price.Also, to learn more about the other resources Mona has available you can check out her website.____________________________________________________________During this session from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference Michelle Garnett and Tony Attwood share ways in which couples can embrace neurodiversity in their relationship.  More specifically they will address: understanding neurodiversity, enhancing communication, celebrating strengths, and creating coping strategies together.With a remarkable career spanning five decades, Professor Tony Attwood is one of the world’s foremost specialists on Autism. He holds an Honor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Hull, a Master’s degree in clinical psychology from the University of Surrey, and a PhD from the University of London. Currently serving as an adjunct Professor at Griffith University in Queensland, Tony's impact has enriched the global understanding of autism.Alongside Dr. Michelle Garnett, Tony co-founded Attwood & Garnett Events in 2019, driven by the shared goal of enhancing autism awareness and understanding. Their shared vision seeks to reshape the narrative surrounding autism to create a world where autism is embraced, and the diverse strengths, talents, and perspectives of autistic individuals are celebrated. This transformative narrative fosters a more inclusive and accepting society, benefitting all its members.  Renowned for his extensive contributions to understanding Asperger’s Syndrome, now commonly referred to as autism, Tony has authored numerous publications on the subject. His seminal book, Asperger’s Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals debuted in 1998, resonated globally and has since found its voice in over 25 languages, making his insights accessible across cultures and continents.  With a dedicated commitment to practical application, he has run a private practice for 30 years, only recently closing his books due to a long waiting list. Beyond his clinical work, he dedicates significant time to travel, sharing insights and knowledge through workshops and seminars across national and international platforms.Dr. Michelle Garnett is a clinical psychologist with more than 30 years specializing in autism. In 2005, she founded Minds & Hearts, a clinic specializing in autism, where she served as Clinical & Managing Director for 14 years until 2019. Alongside Tony Attwood she co-founded Attwood & Garnett Events in 2019.In addition to her extensive private practice, Michelle has significantly contributed to autism research, authored influential books, and engaged in impactful speaking engagements. Her peer-reviewed research has informed our understanding of early autism identification, the female autism profile, and the link between mental health and positive outcomes in autistic individuals. She has co-authored six respected books on autism, including the influential Spectrum Women: Walking to the Beat of Autism (2018) with Barb Cook, a seminal work on the female autism experience. Her recent books, Having Fun with Feelings on the Autism Spectrum and Ten Steps to Reducing Your Child’s Anxiety on the Autism Spectrum offer invaluable guidance to parents of young autistic children.Michelle is a sought-after presence in academic circles, presenting as a keynote speaker at conferences and conducting workshops, seminars, and training sessions on autism across Australia, the UK, and Europe. Her influence extends to universities, autism organizations, government, and non-governmental bodies, solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in the autism field. Michelle is autistic and has ADHD, late diagnosed. To learn more about the workshops and other resources Michelle and Tony have available you can check out their website https://attwoodandgarnettevents.com/

During this solo episode, Mona Kay talks about how important emotional reciprocity can be in a neurodiverse relationship. Learning how to give and receive emotional reciprocity can begin to change your connection to your partner and your relationship. However, it's also important to remember that each partner may have different emotional needs. As you each learn new ways of emotionally connecting, be patient and give each other grace and time to learn a new way to show you care.The topics addressed include:The importance of listening to hear and understand (not just respond).Be curious...not judgmental.Ask you partner for what you need...listening, input, problem solving, or a hug.Attunement and connection.Remember you're on the same team.Your partner usually doesn't intend to hurt you. Sometimes their intent may be misunderstood and may have a negative impact. You may both cause each other unintentional hurt.Apologize and repair.If you would like to learn more about the resources Mona has available you can check out her website at: neurodiverselove.com

During this episode you will have an opportunity to hear Candice’s outstanding presentation from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference. Research over the past decade suggests that many Autistic adults seek sexual and romantic relationships similar to non-Autistic adults. However, there are still outdated stereotypes and beliefs that Autistic people are asexual and not interested in intimacy. In reality, Autistic adults have a wide spectrum of sexual experiences and behaviors, and are often less rigid when it comes to sexuality and gender fluidity than non-Autistic individuals. In this presentation Candice will discuss the emotional, energetic, physical, and sensory influences that often impact Autistic individuals’ ability to feel aroused, experience desire, and enjoy sex. She will offer tips and tools for identifying our emotional, energetic, physical and sensory needs in order to enjoy safe, consensual sensual and sexual pleasure. You can contact Candice Christiansen, M.Ed., LCMHC, CSAT-S, CMAT-S, Neuro-Inclusive IFS, Certified EMDR, Autism and Intimacy therapist at the link below:NamasteAdvice.comLink to Candice’s Workbooks: https://www.namasteadvice.com/products-downloads

During this episode you will have the opportunity to learn from world-renowned author Sarah Hendrickx about how autism and ADHD (AuDHD) impact adults.Increasing numbers of people are realizing that one neurodivergent condition doesn't explain all of their experiences and dual diagnosis rates of Autism + ADHD are growing fast. During this episode Sarah outlines why this is, similarities and differences between the two conditions and the joys and challenges that being an adult AuDHDer brings.Sarah Hendrickx is an AuDHD author, diagnostician and keynote speaker on autism and other neurodivergent conditions. She is currently writing a guide to AuDHD.Sarah Hendrickx — Hendrickx AssociatesThis is a session from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference. If you are interested in learning about purchasing lifetime access to the conference or any of the other resources Mona offers you can go to her website at neurodiverselove.com

Learning you are in a mixed neurotype relationship can lead to grieving the relationship you thought you would have, but may never experience. Going through this process to move towards healing includes many stages that are important to understand.During this solo episode Mona normalizes that grief is usually part of the process of discovering you are in a neurodiverse relationship. It is also what you may experience as you begin to understand why you have had so many misunderstandings, disconnection and unintentional hurt in your neurodiverse relationship. During this episode you will learn about the 7 different stages in the grieving process and how each may look for the non-autistic/neurotypical partner. In addition, at the end of the episode Mona shares what grief may look like for the Autistic partner and how grief may be experienced differently for each partner.If you are interested in learning more about the resources Mona has available you can check out her website at: neurodiverselove.comYou can buy the Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards or Workbook to help you and your partner better understand each other as you move towards acceptance of what is and is not possible and what may never change.If you would like to attend the neurodiverse couples monthly support group that Mona facilitates on the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 7:30-9pm EST you can register in her shop

During this podcast episode you will have an opportunity to listen to one of the 30+ amazing sessions from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference. You will hear from Dr. Grace Malonai as she explores the impact of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in neurodivergent relationships. She provides a comprehensive understanding of how PDA manifests in neurodivergent partnerships, and offers practical work-around strategies. Grace also includes a brief introduction to PDA, how PDA can complicate expectations and trust in relationships, and the impact of burnout. She also addresses communication and emotional regulation needs and coping strategies. Lastly, she provides practical insights and strategies to build reslience, a sense of support, and mutual understanding.Learn more about the presenters and sessions from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference or click here and use code Podcast50 to get $50 off the regular price of $97. You will get immediate access to the 30+ amazing conference sessions. In addition, when you buy access to the 2025 conference presentations you will also get several valuable BONUSES:The digital versions of the Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards ($11 value) and Workbook ($12.97 value) and lifetime access to the 27 sessions from the 2023 Neurodiverse Love Conference ($97 value).If you want to learn more about the resources Mona has available for non-autistic partners or neurodiverse couples click here.

During this season of the Neurodiverse Love podcast, Mona Kay will be doing more short, solo episodes to share some of the information she thinks has been most helpful in the support groups she facilitates for non-autistic/neurotypical partners and neurodiverse couples. Today's episode will focus on understanding how both partners may be feeling lonely in their relationship, and the importance of getting clarity about your core values, wants, needs, and non-negotiables.The core values assessment can be found here.If you would like to explore more topics that can help you and your partner increase undertanding of your wants and needs you may want to buy the digital versions of the Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards and/or Workbook. When both partners begin to understand themselves and each other things can begin to change. Unintentional hurt can be reduced, acceptance of what is neurologically hard-wired can increase, and more compassion, respect and curiosity can become the norm.To learn more about the support groups and short-term coaching Mona offers you can check out her website.

During this episode, with authors Bontle Senne and Sara-Louise Ackrill we talk about their new book "The ND Lovers Club-How Women Lust, Like and Love" and I hope all of you will buy this book today!Bontle is an AuDHD speaker, sex and ADHD coach and global transformation leader. Sara-Louise is a renowned neurodiversity specialist therapist and coach, professional speaker, and social entrepreneur. Together, they share so much valuable information that we all need to understand if we are ND women, or want to build a relationship with an ND woman. Some of the topics we address in this very candid conversation include:Why do you want to be in a relationship and how do you want to show-up?Unmasking before or during a relationship.Learning to relax and do things alongside someone.Parallel play or being “alone together”.The challenge of taking things personally when you don’t understand each others needs.What to do during unstructured time.Debunking damaging myths.We need more visibility on all the issues that people across  the spectrum experience.What does it mean to be clitmatized, dickmatized or to have “emotional support dick”.Using sex as a substitute to get something else.Sex may be used to avoid eye contact, conflict, the effort of getting to know someone, and small talk.Understand what you each define as sexual and explore whether sex is “responsive or spontaneous” for each of you.You don’t have to minimize your discomfort and assume that you’re not the problem.Yes, No, Maybe Checklist available through “Sex with Emily” podcast.Understand your sexual story and the messages you got as a kid and share this information with your partner so you can understand each other better.May want to write down or share your fantasies with your partner, even if you may never explore them.Understand more about what it means to be asexual, aromantic, demisexual, bisexual, and what sexiness means to you and your partner.Trauma may impact your sexual interests or preferences.Embrace your imagination about what is possible in your relationship.You can learn more about the book, Bontle and Sarah here or check them out on LinkedInTo learn more about the Neurodiverse Love Documentary or to see the trailer for the film click here. If you would like to learn more about the other resources Mona offers check out the links below: Buy the Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards or WorkbookNewsletter | Instagram | Website | YouTube

In 2017, when I discovered I was in a neurodiverse marriage I bought every book on neurodiverse relationships by Maxine Aston and several of Tony Attwood's books. Each of the books I read made me feel less alone and helped me understand that after 29 years of marriage my journey to understanding was just beginning. In 2020, when I started the Neurodiverse Love podcast I reached out to Maxine to let her know how much her books helped me and I invited her to meet with me to talk about joining me as a guest on the podcast. Maxine graciously responded and we set up what would be the first of many Zoom calls over the years that gave us an opportunity to share our lived experiences and the ups and downs of working with neurodiverse couples.In addition, Tony Attwood and Michelle Garnett have been guests on the Neurodiverse Love podcast and they have done presentations at both the 2023 and 2025 Neurodiverse Love conference.I am now honored to have had an opportunity to talk with Maxine and Tony about their new book "Relationship Counselling With Autistic Neurodiverse Couples-A Guide for Professionals". During this episde, they each share a little about their work together and the ways in which they have helped us learn more about how much support and guidance neurodiverse couples need as they navigate their unique journeys. They also share how critical it is for helping professionals to have in-depth knowledge of how neurodivergence may impact couples and each partner. In addition, we discuss the following:Why this book is so important for ND couples and helping professionals.Information about the respondents and their priority needs.Training or personal knowledge was very important.Cost of counseling was high.Both partners may experience depression because of challenges in the relationship.The importance of making your office more ND friendly Need to make it mandatory to get training on ND relationships Addressed different genders and cultural differences.Feels like you’re talking different languages (culturally and neurologically).Both partners will feel validated in reading the book.Being believed and validated was important.Many felt hopeless after counseling and ended their relationship.How to understand if you are working with an Autistic partner and may not know it.Emotional, financial and time cost invested in counseling. The value of mediation for ND couplesI highly recommend this book for both helping professionals and ND couples and I hope that all of you who buy the book will learn that you are not alone in the struggles you have had with therapists and coaches who have never been educated about neurodivergent adults.  As a society, we need to do a better job of providing in-depth education on the strengths, challenges and differences that ND couples and families experience!You can learn more about the resources available from Professor Tony Attwood  here and from Maxine Aston hereYou can also learn more about 9the resources Mona has available at the links below:Host of the Neurodiverse Love PodcastBuy the Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards or WorkbookNewsletter | Instagram | Website | YouTube

If you are interested in learning more about the resources and services Mona offers, including support groups and individual and ND couples coaching you can click here.__________________________________________________________During this episode with David Helfand, PsyD we explore brain mapping and neurofeedback, as well as other ways to understand how our brains work and can change. We also talk about how we can learn more about why we react or respond differently to triggers and experiences in our lives. In addition, we discuss the following:◦Brain mapping is the diagnostic test.◦Neurofeedback is physical therapy for your brain. ◦Using both can help you look at your brain activity and then learn how to change what may not serve you anymore.◦Our brains are wired to focus on negativity to protect us.◦Fight or flight is designed to deal with a real or perceived threat. Understand how to reset and create a plan for follow-up. ◦Having curiosity and empathy after a misstep.◦Tend and befriend-protect what’s important and use your community for help.◦Sometimes people will lie to get out of conflict.◦Addictions are well worn pathways in your brain.◦Asking questions can put your partner on the defensive.  Ask yourself why you’re asking the question and rephrase what you are saying.◦Understand how your different auditory processing speeds are impacting your relationship.◦Remember...oil changes are a lot less expensive than an engine replacement!!◦Learn how to create more happy hormones in yourself and your partner.◦Based on research from Dr. William J. Doherty, 40% of couples who divorce regret it.◦How unmasking can impact you individually and your relationship.◦Executive functioning differences.  Work on having more empathy for your partner’s challenges in this area.◦Pillars of a happy relationship and what skills need to be learned. Then deciding if you can, or want to, learn new skills.◦Your brain looks for sameness, so your nervous system will rebel against changes in your relationship.◦Incongruency around political views in your relationship and connecting through kindness and curiosity. Work on the understanding behind your partner’s political belief.◦Intimacy-"into me see".◦Narcissism and borderline personality disorder and the impact trauma can have on the personality.◦The importance of exploring challenges and differences in your relationships through curiousity, empathy, patience, and compassion.◦How the retreat experience is different than traditional therapy. Information about David's couples retreats are available here. You can also get information about the other services David offers here.

During this episode with Jamie Johnston you will learn more about how the Mattr app is making dating more enjoyable for neurodivergent folks and those with mental health challenges. In addition, Jamie talks about why he is so passionate about his work and how understanding his dyslexia and AuDHD is helping him assist others on their on-line dating journey. Other topics discussed include:We are taught that anything that can be "perceived" shouldn’t be shared on dating apps or while dating.During the pandemic vulnerability and transparency became more acceptable on social media, but not on dating apps. Vulnerability first is the focus of the Mattr app. It is an online dating platform where you can feel safe to share whatever you want.Dating in a digital space can be very challenging for neurodivergent people.  Mattr is very user-friendly for people who have mental health challenges and/or are neurodivergent. The app is based on research and psychology/psychiatry.Dealing with rejection sensitivity dysphoria and dopamine hits through swiping or ghosting. The app uses colors that are comfortable for Autistic individuals and they have a "time out toggle". No swiping is involved and each person is given 6 matches.Some of the biggest challenges in dating and maintaining a relationship include: emotional regulation; rejection densitivity dysphoria; hyperfocus on a person or your special interest.ND folks may experience Inherent shame. Things to look for that may help you understand that someone is neurodivergent: reactions to the space you are in and sensory issues; hyperfocusing on a topic/infodumping; executive functioning challenges- like planning a date; different communication styles; emotional intensity (differences in emotional reciprocity; differences in physical intimacy preferences.“Be for someone, not for everyone”Why the Mattr app was created and different resources available through the app.  Partnerships with lots of businesses in London,  also have offsite events.You can learn more about the app here. They are hosting a special live event in London on June 25th. You can also follow Jamie on IG @Dating withJamie_To learn more about the resources Mona has available for neurodiverse couples and individuals in neurodiverse love relationships click here.

During this episode with therapist and coach Eva A. Mendes she shares some of the important information neurodiverse couples shared with her for her newest book titled: “Armchair Conversations on Love  and Autism: Secrets of Happy Neurodiverse Couples”.Some of the important things  that top performing neurodiverse couples do:Accept the diagnosis and talk openly about each partner’s neurotypes.  Work together to understand the root cause of their challenges as a couple.Have a beginners mindset as an individual and a couple.Trust each other and be able to be influenced by their partner.Some of the other topics discussed include:The challenge with taking things personally and not understanding your partner’s love.Understanding different ways of communication with your partner and others.The importance of building on your strengths.Understanding what you each may need to do differently to connect.Staying humble and curious with your partner.Going “beyond the midline”for both partners.The importance of working with a professional who has experience working with ND couples.Both partners working on the relationship to the best of their ability.Addressing different issues that come up over the lifespan. Focusing on “solvable” not “perpetual” problems.Working on empathy for each other.Understanding your partner in the greater context of their life.Acknowledging that you can’t get everything from one person.  It takes a village!Sometimes couples don’t have enough bandwidth for each other anymore.We are all here to grow and have an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and our partners.Contact Eva by clicking here.Buy the Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards or WorkbookSubscribe to the Neurodiverse Love Newsletter Follow Mona on Instagram Check out the Neurodiverse Love Website Listen to the Neurodivergent Connections YouTube channel Mona co-hosts

During this episode with neurodivergent counselor Jarral Boyd we address the connection between trauma and neurodivergence and ways to think about romantic love as well as the following: ​Navigating neurodivergence and trauma ​Understanding your emotional vocabulary. ​Addressing challenges through somatics and getting to know your body and acknowledge what is going on.​Creating a routine can be helpful to better understand your body and emotions and help you get more in tune.​Understand how to experience joy in your body.​Translating what’s happening in your body when you have alexithymia.​Information shared through AANE certification includes using a 1-5 scale to share with your partner how you’re feeling emotionally.​Memory issues during or after a meltdown.​Apologizing when you don’t feel you have done anything wrong. ​Trauma can make being wrong scary and unsafe.​Cassandra Syndrome ​Benefits of decentralizing romantic love for neurodivergent folx ​Removing relationship hierarchy and being open to different types of romantic relationships. This can help reduce expectations of one or both partners. ​The value of expanding the idea of love.​Asking youself "Is it the person I want or the situation?"You can contact Jarral Boyd at: jarralboyd.comIf you are interested in the free support groups Mona offers for the non-autistic/neurotypical partners you can email her at neurodiverselove4u@gmail.com to get the Zoom links.Mona Kay, MSW, Ph.D. Host of the Neurodiverse Love PodcastBuy the Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards or WorkbookNewsletter | Instagram | Website | YouTubeClick here if you and your partner are interested in joining the support group Mona facilitates for neurodiverse couples on the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 7:30-9pm EST.

Joanne Davies is AuDHD and is a clinical hypnotherapist who works with individuals and couples.  During this episode she shares so much valuable information about how hypnosis can help neurodivergent individuals and neurodiverse couples with sensory challenges, emotional differences and intimacy issues.  The topics she addresses during this episode include:How hypnotherapy can help bridge the gap between neurotypes.The parts of hypnosis: Induction, deepening and healing.The process of hypnotherapy and how neurodivergent individuals and their partners can benefit. How it can be used to help with sensory processing.The value of pendulating between something that feels good and something that doesn’t.Can help to create safety and address triggers.“Cloaking” helps you create a virtual shield to help protect you from sensory overload.How to “anchor” in a certain feeling you had during hypnosis. How hypnosis can help with emotional identification and regulation.May be able to help with reducing meltdowns or shutdowns.Helps with “reparenting”.Understanding how to meet each others needs through hypnotherapy.Using tantric processes and body mapping to help with intimacy challenges.The process to use to create your own self-hypnosis process. You can contact Joanne at Jqhypnosis.com

To learn more about the resources and information that Mona Kay has available you can check out her website at: neurodiverselove.com__________________________________________________________During this episode with Sadie and her mom Lynn they share how unknown neurodivergence impacted Sadie's childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood, In addition, they address the topics below:Terrible two's.Sensory overload and meltdowns. Restrictive eating and sensitivities.Not understanding why you are so different as a child.Masking in school and being different at home.Expectations in school were more structured and easier to understand.Overwhelm during high school and changes in social rules.Being diagnosed with an auto-immune disease in high school.Stimming at home and walking in circles helps with nervous system regulation,Having a spiky profile. When younger, being able to socialize better with adults. Being a perfectionist and the struggle with some things that others do automatically. Challenges with learning to drive and driving…being “perceived” by other drivers.Masking and then having no spoons after school.Giftedness.  Different ways that children may process and develop language.