Summary
Phoebe, a clinical psychologist, specialises in working with neurodiverse couples, particularly those affected by ADHD. She emphasizes the importance of addressing ADHD and relationship difficulties together, as both partners play a role in the challenges. Phoebe highlights the impact of ADHD on attachment and bonding in relationships, and the need for psychoeducation and understanding. She also addresses common misconceptions about ADHD, such as overdiagnosis and the role of medication. Phoebe emphasises the importance of structure, routine, and communication in managing ADHD in relationships. In this conversation, Phoebe and Johanna discuss common misconceptions about ADHD and the importance of understanding the comorbidity of ADHD with other disorders. They emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment, as well as the importance of self-acceptance and self-compassion for individuals with ADHD. They also recommend resources such as books and websites for further support.

Takeaways

Addressing ADHD and relationship difficulties together is crucial, as both partners play a role in the challenges.
ADHD can impact attachment and bonding in relationships, leading to eroded connection and emotional dysregulation.
Psychoeducation and understanding are key in helping partners navigate the challenges of ADHD in relationships.
Common misconceptions about ADHD include overdiagnosis and the role of medication.
Structure, routine, and open communication are important in managing ADHD in relationships. ADHD can coexist with other disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
It is important to address the underlying issues that contribute to anxiety and depression, rather than just treating the symptoms.
Both individuals with ADHD and their partners have a responsibility to meet each other's needs and support one another.


Favourite Sound bites:

"ADHD is a both problem, it's not just the ADHD partner."
"Attachment and connection can become eroded due to ADHD symptoms."


"It's [the relationship issues] not going to change overnight and certainly not without supports."


Where to find Phoebe's info, courses and to grab her brand new Dating Journal: https://www.therelationshipspace.com.au/dating-journal or @therelationshipspace

Source of artice Phoebe refers to:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9915044/
What next?
Visit our website for more info and resources: ⁠www.holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au⁠,
Follow and leave a message on our Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/adhdherway⁠/
Or, send us an email via:
hello@holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au


Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:49 The Importance of Understanding Neurodivergence
04:32 The Role of Both Partners in Couples Therapy
06:46 The Education Phase and Attachment Theory
07:50 The Impact of ADHD Symptoms on Attachment and Connection
08:29 The Challenges of Couples Therapy with Neurodivergent Couples
09:52 Navigating Shame and Repair in Therapy
11:15 The Forgiving and Motivated Nature of Neurodivergent Couples
12:03 Misconceptions about ADHD including in Couples Therapy
18:02 The Importance of Compassion and Empathy in Therapy
20:47 Creating Structure and Routine in the Relationship
22:05 Misconceptions and Lack of Understanding about ADHD
28:21 The Long-Term Process of Working on ADHD in Couples
29:22 The Importance of Both Partners Working on Themselves
32:34 Recommended Books and Resources for Neurodivergent Couples
37:04 Creating Intimacy and Connection in Neurodivergent Couples
38:15 Adding Playfulness and Positive Interactions in the Relationship
45:50 The Challenges of Couples Therapy and Personal Growth

Keywords ADHD, neurodiverse couples, clinical psychology, relationship difficulties, attachment, psychoeducation, misconceptions, medication, structure, routine, communication, ADHD, misconceptions, comorbidity, diagnosis, treatment, self-acceptance, self-compassion, resources