Mythbusting Neurodiverse Relationships

Welcome to the Mythbusting Neurodiverse Relationships Podcast, with hosts Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks, busting myths that we’ve realised aren’t true and that were preventing us from recovering and having the relationships and connection with partners and children that we desperately wanted. lovingdifference.net natalieroberts.com heatherparks.co.uk

37. Feeling Stuck? How to Free Yourself in Your Neurodiverse Relationship

www.lovingdifference.netIn this episode, we joined Jodi Carlton and a panel of experts on her YOUR Neurodiverse Relationship podcast. In this Part 2 of the discussion, the panel share insights and strategies for change when only one partner works on it. If you’re trying to decide whether to stay, leave, or redefine what being together looks like, this conversation offers real-life strategies, hope, and clarity. What You’ll Learn:👉 The difference between coaching and traditional therapy—and when each is most effective 👉 Why regulating your nervous system is key to better communication 👉 Practical tools for rewiring the brain and shifting harmful patterns 👉 How to navigate decision-making, boundaries, and even separation with clarity and self-trust 👉 What to look for in a coach or therapist to determine who actually understands neurodiversity - versus someone who “knows someone that was neurodivergent” 👉 How healing is possible even if only one partner is doing the work*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Loving Difference is for Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for women in crisis and decision points in their long-term Neurodiverse Relationship.Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

09-04
33:27

36. Making Neurodiverse Relationships Work

www.lovingdifference.netCan Neurodiverse Relationships Work? 💙 In this episode, we joined Jodi Carlton and a panel of experts on her YOUR Neurodiverse Relationship podcast. In this Part 1 of the discussion, the panel share real insights and proven strategies to help neurodiverse couples thrive.What You’ll Learn:👉 Success stories from neurodiverse couples👉 How nervous system regulation impacts relationships👉 The role of language, expectations & teamwork👉 Key strategies for overcoming challengesMeet the Experts in This Episode:🔹 Laura Schreiner – Licensed counselor (IL) specializing in neurodivergent individuals & couples. https://www.laurasnc.com/🔹 Jana Smith – Resilience & nervous system coach, expert in chronic illness & Cassandra Syndrome recovery. https://www.janamsmith.com/🔹 Natalie Roberts – Award-winning neurodiverse relationship coach, co-founder of Loving Difference & co-host of Myth Busting Neurodiverse Relationships. https://natalieroberts.com/🔹 Heather Parks – Somatic coach specializing in neurodiverse families, co-host of Loving Difference & Myth Busting Neurodiverse Relationships. https://heatherparks.co.uk/🔹 Mona Kay, MSW, Ph.D. – Host of Neurodiverse Love Podcast, creator of Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards & Workbook, and organizer of the Neurodiverse Love Conference. https://www.neurodiverselove.com/🔹 Heidi Hackney – ICF-certified coach, mentor, & co-founder of Autistic Voiceover Artists (AVA), supporting autistic adults in the voiceover industry. https://thecan-docoach.com/🔹 Dr. Stephanie C. Holmes – Autism researcher, ordained minister, author of Uniquely Us, and host of Neurodiverse Christian Couples Podcast. https://www.holmesasr.com/🔹 Robin Tate, M.A., M.S., BCC, ACC, CAS – Neurodiverse couples coach, certified autism specialist, and founder of Robin Tate LLC. https://www.robintatellc.com/🔹 Barbara Grant, MMFT, CAS, NDCC – Neurodiverse couples coach, co-host of Neurodiverse Couples Coaches Corner, and co-author of Uniquely Us. https://bg-hc.com/🔹 Debbie King – Counselor specializing in neurodiverse relationships, trauma, & toxic family dynamics, offering global support via Zoom. https://www.facebook.com/WellingboroughCounsellor/🔹 David Glick – Founder of Triad Psych in Marietta, GA, a clinic specializing in neurodiversity, learning disabilities, and ADHD. Former special education teacher with a Master's in Special Ed and Social Work, he has worked in the mental health field for over 20 years. https://triadpsych.org/*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

08-21
41:50

35. Invisible Control in Your Neurodiverse Relationship

www.lovingdifference.net♟️Are you playing an invisible game of chess in your neurodiverse relationship?Are you open to the possibility that you may be unintentionally controlling yourself, situations, issues, outcomes, other people?As I took a different path to resolve the hamster wheel of issues in my neurodiverse relationship/family I realised I was. Initially I was shocked and ashamed. I didn't think I was that kind of person. I didn't want to be that kind of person. I saw how others controlled or appeared to control me or how they did it with others but I'd never looked at myself!It was a big thing to admit and an even bigger thing to decide to do something about. I thought it would mean giving up on what I'd longed for or needed or what I thought others should be doing or who I thought I had to be or should be to fit in and feel secure and be liked and all that kind of thing.. I know we all have our own versions of these!Turns out there are different, better and much healthier ways for ALL of this. When we say to members that we don't use compromise or ultimatums they don't believe us!... that's because we've learned, been taught and believe and live in a culture where they are required or the only way to sort the big stuff out. Turns out that's not true 🤯 ... another myth busted!If you notice you are, we're celebrating with you. No shame, only compassion. You can do something about it! These are all such helpful clues to bring into some coaching support.. that you can put together with learning some new ways to handle the same situations, the same people differently WITHOUT letting go of your hopes and dreams, for you, them and situations you're in.Enjoy the episode!*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

02-27
17:42

34. Are You Playing Trigger Dominoes in Your Neurodiverse Relationship?

www.lovingdifference.netIf you're here, you're likely experiencing Trigger Dominoes in your neurodiverse relationship, a catalogue of triggers on a daily basis for many years, resulting in unhappiness, disconnection and exhaustion. In today's episode, Natalie is flying solo and sharing some more on this relationship game we're often playing and how we can change the rules and the outcomes of the game!*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

02-13
15:50

33. Guests on Neurodiverse Christian Marriage Podcast

www.lovingdifference.net In this episode we're in conversation with Dr Stephanie Holmes from Neurodiverse Christian Marriages, answering questions from her listeners. Natalie and I share our perspectives and, of course, try to bust some myths that we think are stereotypical, unhelpful and untrue! We cover why it's highly problematic to tell another person that they may be neurodivergent and we also ask a question about what else other than neurodiversity may be contributing to relationship issues.  We hope that you enjoy listening. We'd love you to takeaway the message that there is so much more hope and possibility ahead than the 'everything is fixed and nothing can change' stereotypical messages that we found at the beginning of our journey and which left us feeling hopeless and stuck.  ⭐️ You can change your experience without having to get someone else somewhere. There is a way forward when your partner is unable or not interested in discovering more or going to couples counselling.  ⭐️ You can reverse the impact of unknown neurodiversity and recover from the persistent stress and BE YOU again.   ⭐️ The truth that we've found is that there is hope and a way forward. The Loving Difference Relationship System supports you to create more choices and more possibility in your neurodiverse relationship.  If you'd prefer to listen to a short summary of this conversation, you can find it on YouTube at this link https://youtu.be/HQqD11rhrsE With thanks to Stephanie Holmes for hosting this conversation and for giving us permission to publish this recording on our podcast. And, if you'd like to find out more about Neurodiverse Christian Marriages here's the website https://www.christianneurodiversemarriage.com/ ***** Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family?  Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/ Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity.  #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

01-16
01:05:42

32. Celebrating 10 Years of Choosing!

www.lovingdifference.net Celebrating 10 years of friendship, recovery, career change and the creation of the Loving Difference programme, Heather shares how difficult it was back then to prioritise herself enough to seek support. The myth we're busting in this episode is that you have to figure it out alone. The new truth we want members to hear is that there is hope and a way forward. There is a way to recover, heal and find healthier ways of relating in your neurodiverse relationship.  ***** Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family?  Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/ Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity.  #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

12-19
12:15

31. How is my nervous system impacting my neurodiverse relationship?

www.lovingdifference.net Today’s episode is Heather’s presentation at the online Neurodiverse Love conference in February 2023. Heather’s busting the myth that things will only get better if your partner changes or if you change even more than you have already. We want you to know the new truth, that it takes two to create a pattern and only one to change it.. You can change your experience of the relationship by focusing on yourself. Listen or watch along to find out more and pop back to the previous episode to hear my presentation if you’ve not heard or watched it yet. We used slides in the presentation so some things may be a little tricky to make sense of. If you’re listening to the podcast, you can watch instead via our Loving Difference youtube channel or even better come and join us at our online home in Loving Difference. ***** Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family?  Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/ Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity.  #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

12-05
23:09

30. Is surviving or just liking my neurodiverse relationship the best I can hope for?

www.lovingdifference.net A different episode of the podcast for you today.. In this episode and the next one, we’re sharing our presentations from the Neurodiverse Love conference that happened online in February 2023. We loved the opportunity to share our experience with others there and now we’re bringing them to a wider audience via the podcast too. In Natalie's presentation today she's busting the myth that surviving or just liking your neurodiverse relationship is the best you can hope for. We want you to know the new truth that the impact of unknown neurodiversity in your relationship is reversible and you can thrive… and flourish. We used slides in the presentation so some things may be a little tricky to make sense of. If you’re listening to the podcast, you can watch instead via our Loving Difference youtube channel or even better come and join us at our online home in Loving Difference. ***** Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family?  Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/ Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity.  #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

11-21
21:47

29. Will festive seasons in my neurodiverse relationship always be a disaster?

www.lovingdifference.net 🌟 We're here with Festive Hope and a Way Forward! Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, Diwali, New Year's, Parties, Family Gatherings... We used to dread the festive season. With festive myths busted and new ways to navigate challenges WITHOUT compromising what matters most to us, we now sparkle our way through the season! A special edition episode ... we're here to bust the myth that your festive seasons will forever be rubbish and doomed to be a disaster! We're not into surviving the season, we know you've done that for long enough! We're here to inspire and share our first ways that began to turn the festive wheels of change so that, year by year, we could begin to thrive in it. Sharing challenges and new ways about festive seasons past and present, how our perspectives have changed with greater understanding, clarity and an open mind to the possibilities of how festivities can be reimagined WITHOUT compromising what matters most to you. Interested to find out more and take some step by steps to a more sparkly festive season? The Loving Difference Programme includes coach support and resources for reimagining your festive season! ***** Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family?  Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/ Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity.  #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

11-08
25:57

28. Can my neurodiverse relationship only get better if we're both on board with sorting it out?

www.lovingdifference.netIt's been a while!!!.... it felt really good to get back to recording our conversations!If you're feeling lost, stuck and hopeless in your neurodiverse relationship and your partner can't or doesn't want to work on the issues that you think need sorting out, we're here with hope and a way forward! Here's some of the things we hear from people...'If my partner doesn't want to see a professional together, I don't see how anything can change!' | 'My partner's too scared to see someone - is there any other options?' | 'My partner doesn't accept we're in a neurodiverse relationship and won't see anyone to sort things out. I'm losing hope that things can ever get better if I can't get them to couples counselling. What do I do?' | 'I've said I'll leave if they won't come with me but I think that's made things worse. Can you help?'So if you're ready to sort things out and your partner isn't what CAN you do?! The good news is.... LOTS!!In this episode, we're busting the myth that things can only get better if both partners are on board with sorting the relationship out and both are willing to attend professional relationship support together.So many people we speak to have either forced, dragged, coerced, or used ultimatums to persuade their partner along to couples counselling or some other form of professional support for couples and been bitterly disappointed with how it went or the results they achieved. It's often done more harm than good, for individuals and the relationship or outcomes have been temporary.We know there are good outcomes for people too .. it's just probably not those who are listening to this podcast! If you're here, you've more likely been finding the information that concludes or seems to imply that there's no way your relationship can ever improve unless both partners are actively involved in sorting out the issues that one or both of them are experiencing - that all feels like a dead end of it's only you right now that's ready to sort things out.We're here with a different perspective because ten years ago we faced the same dead end and it left us feeling more stuck and powerless to change our situation, for us, for our children, for the relationship. It was devastating. We found a new way through... so let's dive into our next conversation.*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

10-18
32:33

27. Celebrating 9 Years Friends & Answering Your Questions

www.lovingdifference.netRecently we got together to celebrate being friends for nine years and a special AUA (Ask Us Anything!) answering questions from Loving Difference members.In 2014, we both felt like we were suffocating and trapped in lives we couldn't change. It was as if life had drained the life out of us. We hoped that discovering neurodiversity would sort out the daily nightmare that our lives had become. Meeting each other, we started to breathe again. We found ways to bring ourselves back to life, woke up from the nightmare and step by step by step began to experience the love, connection, peace and harmony we'd been craving. We love that we get to create some of that magic and share those ways with you!In our celebration conversation, we touched on a range of topics including - life before meeting in November 2014, - friendship origins, - how we shrink geography, - what inspired Loving Difference, - acceptance, - knowing we'd be ok and - the limits of labels.You won't be surprised to hear that we didn't get through all your amazing questions so there will be a sequel!!Enjoy! ✨ps. If you’ve run out of hope and ways, sign up for Loving Difference via www.lovingdifference.net

12-04
01:09:25

26. I can't be happy at all whilst everything is so terrible in my Neurodiverse relationship.

www.lovingdifference.netIn this episode we're busting the myth that 'I can't be happy at all whilst everything is so terrible in my Neurodiverse relationship'. Many of our members arrive in Loving Difference hoping to resolve the challenges in their neurodiverse relationships, so that they can be happy again. We don't want our members to wait until they've resolved all their challenges in their relationship to be happy! We want that for them ASAP! In fact, we'd go further than that. We take the view that being happy (and we're mindful that there are so many nuances to that word!) is key to having a better experience in our neurodiverse relationships! We have so many stories and expectations about how a happy relationship = a happy me. But really it's the other way round. We believe A happy ME is a prerequisite to happy relationship! We're much more likely to be able to experience happiness in a relationship if we're able to create it for ourselves first. And we want to help our members discover ways to do that for themselves, even though we know it's a hard concept when they've arrived exhausted after years of persistent stress. And in any case, most have lost touch with who they are and what makes them happy.The truth we've realised is that happiness really does come from within and we have agency to create it without changing anyone else. And we are PASSIONATE about helping our members recover from persistent stress, exhaustion and unhealthy relationship dynamics and rediscover who they are and how they can resource themselves to experience more happiness. We hope you enjoy our conversation and are inspired and encouraged to start along your own journey to BE YOU, to recover from there stress of it all and to discover ways to have a better experience in your neurodiverse relationship ASAP!*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

11-02
39:58

25. It’s too dangerous to hope in my neurodiverse relationship.

www.lovingdifference.netIn this episode, we’re busting the myth it's too dangerous to hope in my neurodiverse relationship. A member recently shared the following:-'It's so encouraging to read also from people with similar first-hand experience, about the fears and doubts and then about the hope. Hope is something I had tried to let go of in recent years, because i experienced so many setbacks and one-way streets that it felt almost counter-productive to try and keep it alive.'In this podcast we recall how hope evaporated as our energy depleted as we tried various different strategies which didn't work and how our belief that things could get better was replaced by disappointment, resignation and, ultimately, despair. We lost hope that anything could get better in our Neurodiverse Relationships. So we totally get it when members arrive in exhaustion and despair and find it difficult to even dare to hope that things could get better. In fact, we often say to our members that we'll carry the hope for now. And we've got enough for all of you!We talk about the parallels between losing hope in our neurodiverse relationships and losing hope in our ability to make a difference in aspects like climate change. When all we hear is the problems, the enormity of it, the hopelessness of it, it feels impossible to make a difference, so why even bother? This can be what it feels like in our relationships too. So, how can we shift back into hope. And how can hope, when combined with agency and energy, create the motivation to keep going in our quest to have a better experience in our neurodiverse relationships? Join us in a conversation which is so close to our hearts and to our mission to bring hope to all those who are struggling in their neurodiverse relationships. *****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

10-19
29:35

24. Can my experience change in my neurodiverse relationship if my partner doesn't change?

www.lovingdifference.netIn this episode, we’re busting the myth that others need to change so that our experience is different. We used to think our experience was dependent on what others did or didn't do... and we've realised that's not true. Our waiting on others to change or hoping they'll change or expecting or believing they should change or trying to get them to change cost us our health and happiness, for years!... and we weren't prepared to do it that way anymore.. and we found a way that isn't dependent on that!Most of our listeners and Loving Difference members are working on changing their experience in their neurodiverse relationship/family without the support or involvement of their partner. This was us too and it meant we needed a different approach than all those we found at the time. That different approach not only transformed our own experience dramatically, it consequently changed the vibe and dynamics in the relationships with our partner and children.We've realised healthy relating that's prioritising loving connection doesn't force or expect others to change. What we can do instead is get into healthier relationship with ourself and then make healthier decisions and in relation to others based on what they are choosing to do or not do. We have healthier ways now to handle how different needs, preferences, capacities, values, tolerances can all be catered for in a relationship/family, also for accountability, 'unacceptable behaviour' and things that we believe or perceive others can't or won't do.In time, our partners and children changed how they related to us and that began a chain reaction that has created significantly more thriving individually and collectively in our relationships and families.*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

10-05
25:13

23. Will the support we need be there once my child has a diagnosis?

www.lovingdifference.netCaution: please look after yourself for today's episode. There is discussion of suicide and the very desperate situations our young people experience and that we as parents can experience in our efforts to support them. If you need to, skip this one. We welcome your comments and questions about what we're sharing today. Get in touch via www.lovingdifference.net or email hello@lovingdifference.net.In this episode, we're responding to a recent BBC News article about the alarming numbers of young autistic people dying in the absence of the specialist support they need. You can read the article we're referencing at this link - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-66731265. We're specifically talking about our experience in the UK in this episode though we know that the issue of insufficient or inadequate support is not isolated to the UK. We support members globally in Loving Difference and hear about this from all countries. Efforts to change this are very very slow in coming and in the meantime, children's situations and life chances are being significantly affected.In our conversation we’re busting the myth that diagnosis for our children leads to ‘all the support you need'. The reality for us and for so many families and their children is that the promises of support that have them battling and exhausting themselves for a diagnosis aren't there or are insufficient to support the needs of children and young people... and the very real experience that in the waiting time to diagnosis, the issues that began the process have become worse.We're sharing our own experiences as best we can whilst at the same time respecting the privacy of our children who experienced a lot of difficulties in childhood and as teenagers, particularly in the education system. We're also sharing some of the things that helped us to cope, recover and begin to thrive again as a family in spite of the absence and inadequacies of statutory care and support. We know we are some of the lucky ones. Our children are still here. They are still recovering in lots of ways and some of them are still really struggling and we're still in the struggle with them. The gift is that we have better ways now, ways that ensure we're well and that means we're in the best possible position to support them so much better than when we were exhausted, overwhelmed and in our own mental health crises.*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

09-22
51:44

22. Am I experiencing Cassandra Syndrome in my neurodiverse relationship?

www.lovingdifference.netCaution: please look after yourself for today's episode. We realise this is a big topic we're bringing attention to today. We hope you're open to hearing some new thoughts that challenge narratives which, from our own experience, are based on outdated assumptions and stereotypes. Most important is knowing that we're here to validate ALL experiences and find new ways to see, understand and relate to them. These syndromes, typically applied to those identifying as neurotypical or non-autistic, were our doorways too so we're sharing our experiences and expanding them with the new insights and experiences we've encountered. We welcome your challenges, comments and questions about what we're sharing today.In this episode, we're busting the myth that Cassandra Syndrome (or Affection Deprivation Disorder or Ongoing Relationship Trauma Syndrome) only impacts NT women because of their autistic husband. We'll be sharing the descriptions of these collections of symptoms, We're sharing how we've noticed the not believing or invalidation of experience that characterises the syndrome's name is not an experience limited to one group of people or one neuro-identity. Understanding how invalidation of experience comes about, and that it is more universal than is traditionally discussed, can help us to find common ground AND new ways to validate ALL experiences, revitalise connections and rebuild relationship safety and trust. Listen along to our conversation to discover the truth that busted this myth for us!*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

09-07
32:12

21. Why do we take everything so personally in our neurodiverse relationships?

www.lovingdifference.netIn this episode we're busting the myth that everything that's said is personal and we're all getting it wrong! It was prompted by a conversation we were having just before we started recording about how differently we receive and perceive information from others these days. it all started with Natalie's husband buying a new lasagne dish of all things!! For years so much of what was being said in our relationship and family situations was being taken personally with hundreds of accusations or perceptions of making all kinds of mistakes... there's a happier, healthier way. Listen to discover the truth that busted this myth for us!*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

08-14
21:19

20. Was I conned when I was dating in my neurodiverse relationship?

www.lovingdifference.netIn this episode we're busting the myth that we were conned when we were dating and our partner isn't really who we fell in love with. This was a really pervasive myth that we discovered in the early days of neurodiversity arriving into our awareness and we know that many still see it that way. We realised it really affected the way we thought about our partner and definitely increased the levels of resentment, disappointment and disconnection we experienced. As we learned more about ourselves and about relationships, in ways we'd not been aware of before, we had some new thinking and perspectives to bring to this idea and it made a big difference to how we thought about and related to our partners.*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

07-18
23:02

19. Can I blame all the misunderstandings in my Neurodiverse Relationship on neurodiversity?

www.lovingdifference.netA lighter episode today, riffing on the trials and tribulations of countless misunderstandings that we've encountered in our neurodiverse relationships, with partners and children, and the truth of who and what we realised was showing up that we hadn't realised before! Why dinner could have became a meaning making disaster for Natalie last week. Why misunderstandings turn into a game of Meaning Ping Pong. What you can start to do about it all because we know it's exhausting and resentment, frustration and rage inducing without different ways to see it or deal with it.Stay on after the episode for an afterthought and some remembering from when we were blaming all the misunderstandings in our neurodiverse relationships on neurodiversity!!*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

03-27
47:56

18. Part 2 - Do I Need to Leave My Neurodiverse Relationship to Recover and Thrive?

www.lovingdifference.netLet’s quickly recap Part 1! We shared that we’ve discovered lots of reasons why our needs weren't being met:Neurodiversity narrativesCultural narratives and unconscious expectationsExperience of how how needs have been met in the pastPlus lots of other contributing factors. The point is that there were lots of things and it wasn't as simple as ‘you can’t or you’re not meeting my needs and you should be’! Please do go back and listen to part 1!In this episode we're diving deeper to explore What even are needs?! Who is responsible for meeting needs?We discovered a myth inside the myth on this one and beyond that a new truth to live into that took step by steps and created a whole new experience for us!*****Want to learn more or join us on the road to being YOU and thriving in your own neurodiverse relationship or family? Join Loving Difference at https://www.lovingdifference.net/Loving Difference - HOPE and a Way Forward for Neurodiverse Relationships ✨Loving Difference is hosted by Natalie Roberts and Heather Parks. The Loving Difference Relationship System they coach, specifically designed for neurodiverse relationships, prioritises recovery first and new foundations for better communication and connection. Subscribing members in the programme hosted there are solving the biggest issues experienced in neurodiverse relationships: exhaustion, being YOU, communication, connection, intimacy, resentment and reactivity. #neurodiverse #neurodiversity #asd #autismspectrumdisorder #autismawareness #aspergers #autism #dontletanyonedullyoursparkle #aspergersrelationship #mentalhealth #happyrelationship #neurodiverserelationship #cultivateyourhappiness #beyouagain #beyou #liveslow #livewithintent #autismspectrum #neurodiverselove #lovingdifference #adhd #love #neurodiversecouple #coach #neurodiverserelationshipcoach #neurodiversefamilycoach

02-28
27:11

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