< Back Adrienne Vincenti About Me: As a mother to a neurodiverse daughter and a partner to a neurodiverse husband, my personal journey with neurodiversity has deeply influenced my career path. I realized my true passion lies in supporting neurodiverse couples and individuals. This realization led me to return to school and become a therapist - a path that has allowed me to pursue what I love most. My professional experience includes working in educational settings where I specialized in advocating for and educating neurodiverse students. I also have a trauma-informed background as I've provided therapy services and facilitated support groups for domestic violence survivors. Additionally, I am certified as an Autism-Informed therapist. This is helpful as I am dedicated to working with and advocating for parents who have a child who is neurodiverse. My passion for this work grew from my experience with neurodiverse individuals as well as from extensive training and immersion into the world of neurodiversity. This journey has led me to specialize in working with neurodiverse couples as well. I am deeply passionate about being a therapist and appreciate how this field allows me to continue learning and growing every day. Neurodiverse Couples As a therapist who specializes in supporting neurodiverse couples, I provide concrete and compassionate guidance to help you in various areas. These areas may include communication difficulties, sensory sensitivities, challenges in social interactions, strengthening emotional coping mechanisms, and more. My central goal is to assist couples in understanding and navigating their differences while fostering empathy and inclusive communication. I use personalized strategies to enhance relationships and ensure both partners can flourish together in a supportive, understanding environment. I believe that incorporating empathy and inclusion is crucial when working with neurodivergent couples on their journey toward connection. Empathy serves as a powerful tool for establishing trust and mutual respect within the couple. Inclusion, on the other hand, involves recognizing and respecting the diverse needs and preferences of neurodivergent individuals within the relationship. This is important because each person's experience with neurodivergence is unique. Couples & Infertility Couples struggling with infertility often face profound emotional, psychological, and relational challenges. These challenges can be overwhelming and may impact the couple's sense of identity, self-worth, and their relationship with each other. As a therapist and someone who struggled with my own fertility for many years, I understand and provide a supportive space for couples to explore their feelings, fears, and hopes related to infertility. I help couples navigate the complex emotions that arise - such as grief, guilt, anger, and sadness. Additionally, I assist couples in developing coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety associated with infertility. I work with couples to improve communication and strengthen their relationship during this difficult time. I help them navigate difficult decisions, such as whether to pursue fertility treatments, adoption, or other options, and support them in finding a path forward that feels right for them. My, goal is to help couples facing infertility to feel heard, validated, and empowered to navigate their journey in a way that honors their emotions and strengthens their relationship. Couples Raising a Neurodiverse Child Having children can strain many relationships. And, when a child is neurodiverse, that strain can feel even greater. Raising a neurodiverse child presents significant challenges, requiring extraordinary dedication and hard work from both partners. Do you find yourself worrying about your child's social connections, future, and/or their ability to function independently? And let's not even start on IEPs. As a mother raising a neurodiverse child, I understand the stories and struggles you face. You don't have to handle this alone. Together, we can set goals and uncover and nurture your strengths to help you cope with the daily challenges. When you're ready, I'm here to provide you with a supportive space. Specialty Areas: Neurodiverse Couples Therapy Trauma informed therapy Infertility, adoption, postpartum depression Depression and Anxiety Couples raising a child who is neurodiverse Couples struggle with navigating their child's diagnosis/learning to advocate within the education system. Parent Support Groups Affirming support for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples Individuals transitioning into perimenopause and Menopause Clients: Couples Parents Adults Individuals Modalities: Emotionally Focuses Therapy (EFT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Person-Centered Therapy Gottman Method Culturally Sensitive Mindfulness Art therapy ​ License & Certifications ​Registered Associate Marriage Family Therapist, AMFT # 140277 Certification as an Autism Informed therapist. Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro, LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc . Specialty areas: Parenting Neurodiversity, Parenting, Neurodiverse Couples, Autism, LGBTQIA+, Emotion Focused Therapy Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) in mind, include the name(s) below: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Tamala Takahashi About Tamala: Hi there! I was late-diagnosed ADHD (inattentive) at age 49. Two of my three adult children were also diagnosed with ADHD in their late teens/early 20’s. My oldest child is undiagnosed, however they are likely autistic/ADHD as well. My husband of 27 years is late-diagnosed with AuDHD (at age 48). I am a survivor of childhood emotional neglect and abuse. This is common among the neurodiverse as even the most well-meaning parents may not have the appropriate tools to support their children. It’s also common for those parents to have been neurodiverse as well, with their own experience of neglect and abuse, handing down their generational trauma. Soon after having been diagnosed with ADHD, I became an empty nester. My first career as a non-profit and professional development consultant was cut short by COVID, so I decided to go back to school and become a therapist focusing on trauma recovery. I am sharing this with you because I believe it will help me understand and support you. I look forward to hearing from you. Navigating Neurodiverse Relationships Neurodiverse couples work is about building communication and coping skills that work best in this particular relationship while maintaining one’s autonomy and individual self. In neurodiverse relationships, clients may have difficulty understanding each other, may be unsure what is OK and not OK to do or say, may feel lonely or annoyed, and may feel like fights and conversations continue to go around and around without resolution. My goal with couples is to meet both individuals where they are at and to assist each individual identify their needs and wants, articulate them, and respond when their partner does the same. The couple decides where they want to go with the relationship and works best for them. And in this process, I hold space, grace, and validation for each individual’s experience in how they process the world as well as the emotional lessons they have learned from their past. You Are NOT Alone The neurodiverse experience can feel lonely. Whether you are neurodiverse or have a neurodiverse partner/family member, it can feel like you are expected to behave a certain way and say certain things, or that no matter how hard you try, you can’t do it right. Maybe you feel like there are things that just don’t make sense but nobody else can see it. That struggle can feel so lonely. My intention in therapy is to provide a space where you are no longer alone. Whether in couples or individual therapy, I am there to support you and hold space for your lived experiences. You Can Do This You have made it to this moment. Congratulations! But I’m guessing those coping skills you developed aren’t working as well anymore and you’re looking for something to help navigate life and relationships. The good news is that you can learn new skills that are more appropriate to your life now. You did it before, and you can do it again. I believe all of us have the capacity to heal and improve our inner lives. That said, it can sometimes be difficult to do this work alone, let alone know what to do at all. That’s where therapy can be a bridge to confidence and a calmer inner world . When humans work together interdependently, we can go further and do better than we can do alone. My position as a therapist is to support my clients in this journey to inner strength and groundedness . ​ My Therapeutic Philosophy While it seems like today we have more understanding of (neuro)diversity, more grace and compassion for each other, and more freedom to move about the cabin without masking, we also live in the modern world where we witness folks’ lives on full display to be judged on social media, where we are told we can do anything yet can receive harsh criticism for not being perfect, and where there is a lingering feeling of uncertainty of the future. This mixed messaging can be destabilizing. In addition, our sense of self and perceptions of others are derived from a combination of our personal experiences (including trauma and triumphs), what we learned from our caretakers, the lessons from other authority figures, society’s messages, and our neurobiology. This mixture is unique to each individual. How we process information therefore has an impact on how we perceive and interact with ourselves and others. I believe a therapist’s role is to provide stability while the client(s) works through uncertainty, reality checks the lessons they learned in life, tries something new, and finds a healthy path to what it looks like for them to be grounded. The specifics will look different for each client(s), but all sessions are built around the principles of acceptance, patience, and kindness. I work collaboratively with the client(s) to identify areas of focus and what works best for them from their perspective. In our 50-min. sessions, therapy goals are usually a combination of gaining clarity, self-awareness, self-compassion, and coping skills. When working with couples or families, communication skills are a significant part of the work as well . ​ Areas of focus Adult diagnosed/suspected ADHD/Autism/AuDHD ADHD/AuDHD with anxiety and depression Women/Non-binary with ADHD/AuDHD cPTSD and Trauma Adolescent diagnosed/suspected ADHD/Autism/AuDHD Parents of adolescent/adult neurodiverse children Childhood emotional neglect/emotional abuse Adult neurodiverse relationships with parents and other family members Empty nest/menopause transitions Multi-cultural relationships/families Intersection of neurodiversity and LGBTQ+ Young adult launching (college, early career, living away from parents, adult relationships) Self Esteem and Assertiveness Social media/video game addiction Religious/cult abuse recovery ​ Modalities Client-centered Therapy Trauma Informed Therapy (CTP certified) Solution Focused Therapy Strengths-Based Approach Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) Somatic Therapy for Trauma Tarot Therapy Positive Psychology Relationship Anarchy approach: anti-hierarchical practices (everyone in the relationship is equal) anti-normativity (every relationship’s success criteria is unique to them) interdependency (partners can share feelings and needs openly and safely) individual autonomy (each partner is a complete human on their own) ​License & Certifications ​Registered Associate Marriage Family Therapist, AMFT Registered Professional Clinical Counselor Certified Trauma Professional (CTP) Education Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, Antioch University of Los Angeles Employment Information Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc . Specialty areas: Parenting, Neurodiverse Couples, Autism, Parenting Neurodiversity, Sex, Teens, ADHD Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) in mind, include the name(s) below: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Jory Wilson Neurodiverse Couples One of the many tricks the human mind likes to play is convincing us that: "I am the only one.” More specifically, we often tell ourselves: "I am the only one who… thinks like this, acts like this, looks like this, struggles with this kind of thinking." For those experiencing the challenges of navigating a neurodiverse relationship, it can feel isolating. That was most certainly true for me in my neurodiverse marriage. There was tremendous power for my wife and I in naming our neurodiversity. This allowed us to feel seen and affirmed. Even though we struggled with our communication, our daily habits, our differences, and our life together, our understanding gave us a path forward. This allowed us to begin to see one another with compassion and grace. Hi, I am Jory Wilson, a dedicated couples counselor with a focus on supporting neurodiverse couples. `I help couples with the dynamics of relationships where one or both partners are neurodivergent. My practice is built on a deep appreciation for the complexities of neurodiversity, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and sensory processing differences, and how these aspects influence relationship interactions. My holistic approach not only addresses the challenges but also highlights the strengths that neurodiversity brings into relationships. My objective is to empower couples to gracefully manage their differences and to build robust, resilient partnerships that celebrate both individuality and unity. Sex Addiction and Neurodiversity In addition to my focus on neurodiverse relationships, I have developed a specialization in addressing the complexities of sex addiction within these unique partnerships. Understanding that sex addiction can present distinct challenges in the context of neurodiversity, I approach therapy with sensitivity to the nuances of how neurodivergent traits can intersect with addictive behaviors. My goal is to help individuals and couples navigate the intricacies of sex addiction by fostering healthy communication, establishing boundaries, and rebuilding trust. I employ a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, blending therapeutic techniques such as IFS (Internal Family Systems), EFT (Emotion-Focused Therapy) and mindfulness-based strategies to support recovery and healing. My work with neurodiverse couples and individuals facing sex addiction is rooted in the belief that every person and relationship has the capacity for growth and transformation. By creating a supportive and understanding environment, I aim to empower my clients to explore their behaviors, understand the underlying causes of addiction, and develop coping mechanisms that align with their values and relationship goals. Recognizing the importance of tailored interventions, I collaborate closely with each client to craft personalized treatment plans that address both neurodiversity and sex addiction, working towards a future where both individuals and their relationships can thrive. My Personal Story In a world that told me I needed to pick myself up by my bootstraps and tough it out I decided, after not being able to stuff emotions any longer, to go a different route. I left my career to focus on healing the deep wounds that I was not even able to name. That led to personal and couples therapy that forever changed my life for the better. I was so profoundly impacted by my experiences in therapy that I wondered if I could participate in the healing journey for others the way my therapist did for me. I decided to pursue a career in psychotherapy in efforts to extend the hand of compassion that was so lovingly extended to me. Make no mistake about it, the work of change is the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but it is also the most rewarding. I am living proof that couples therapy can have a profound impact on a relationship. My wife and I are living some of the most present and grateful years of our life as we raise a child together. We both entered our relationship with wounds that run incredibly deep, but the courageous work of change can heal in ways that I never imagined. If that is true in my life, then it is true for you as well. Specialties Sex Addiction Internet Addiction Affair Recovery Trauma OCD Modalities IFS (Internal Family Systems) EFT (Emotion-Focused Therapy) Person Centered Therapy Trauma Informed Therapy Clients Couples Individuals Teens Families Group Therapy License and Employment ​Registered Associate Marriage Family Therapist, AMFT # 145913 Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc. Specialty areas: Addiction, Sex, Christian, Affairs Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) in mind, include the name(s) below: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

ADHD COUPLES THERAPY < Back THE IMPACT OF ADHD ON MARRIAGE & RELATIONSHIPS DO YOU AND/OR YOUR PARTNER EXPERIENCE SYMPTOMS RELATED TO ADHD? If so, you can expect very predictable (and painful) patterns to emerge in your relationship. If the underlying issues are not addressed, it is likely that both of you will end up angry, dissatisfied, lonely, frustrated, and exhausted. These feelings typically arise from a pattern of mismatched or unrealistic expectations, lack of follow-through, nagging, constant conflict, and occasionally loud blow-out… Show More Schedule a Free Consult Now IS YOUR MARRIAGE IN AN ADHD TRAP? If you are curious to see if your relationship fits the typical ADHD neurodiverse pattern, consider how many of the following ADHD symptoms exist in your relationship: ​ Constant arguing, seemingly over inconsequential topics One partner in the “parent“ role and the other partner in the “child“ or "teenager" role Responsibilities feel uneven Difficulty in negotiating reasonable expectations Poor follow through on tasks Lack of consequences for unmet expectations Inability to discuss unmet… Show More Are you Autistic? Take this Test BOTH PARTNERS STRUGGLE As we work with ADHD-diverse couples, we find that both partners struggle but in very different ways. ADHD PARTNER'S STRUGGLE For the ADHD partner, daily life can feel overwhelming . These feelings start off hidden but quickly emerge under stress. Unfortunately, they emerge as yelling at the family member who is close by, usually a spouse or child. Alternatively, the feelings get buried deep inside. Then, coping mechanisms (such as playing video games, alcohol or drug use, work, and/or porn) take… Show More Sign up to receive weekly tips, tools and cutting edge info Send

NEURODIVERSE SEX THERAPY < Back IGNITING THE SPARK IN YOUR NEURODIVERSE RELATIONSHIP Sexual intimacy is an important part of a couple’s relationship. Yet, it can feel like an unsurmountable challenge for neurodiverse couples to overcome. To make matters worse, sex often becomes so emotionally loaded that the couple will make an unspoken agreement that the topic is off limits for discussion. So, it should not be surprising that one study showed that 50% of neurodiverse couples had no sexual activity at all. Fortunately, with… Show More Schedule a Free Consult Now COMMON STRUGGLES IN NEURODIVERSE RELATIONSHIPS DESIRE IMBALANCE A sexual challenge for all couples (both neurotypical and neurodiverse) can be a mismatched libido. However, the struggle is especially pronounced for neurodiverse couples. This problem occurs when one person has a higher sex drive than his or her partner. This libido difference can stay relatively steady throughout a relationship or can vary depending on the changes in each partner's body and what is happening in their lives . The libido imbalance can… Show More Are you Autistic? Take this Test THINGS TO CONSIDER DEFINE SEX We also work with couples to consider how narrow or broad their view of sex is. For example, the AS (Autism Spetrum) partner may focus exclusively on sexual intercourse while the NT (Neurotypical) partner has a more expansive view of sexual connection; whereby sex may include a touch on the shoulder after dinner, flirting during the day, a provocative text, foreplay, and spending time in the bed talking after sexual intercourse. Furthermore, neurodiversity may impact gender identification and sexual preferences… Show More Sign up to receive weekly tips, tools and cutting edge info Send

NEURODIVERSE COUPLES COUNSELING < Back UNDERSTANDING NEURODIVERSE COUPLES ​​NEURODIVERSITY MAGNET Initially, an autistic partner and a neurotypical partner feel a strong initial attraction to each other and couple up. ​ The neurotypical may be attracted to the autistic partner's stability, focus and intelligence. The autistic partner may appreciate the neurotypical helping him or her navigate social situations. The neurotypical may be the autistic partner's special interest , at least during the dating period. Typically, the neurotypical soaks up the attention. They may view themselves as complementary,… Show More Schedule a Free Consult Now THERAPY FOR NEURODIVERSE COUPLES ​ EMPATHY IS POSSIBLE Therapists who are not experienced with neurodiversity often tell clients married to autistic adults that their partner cannot feel empathy and cannot truly love. This is dangerous feedback because it is simply not true. Although partners with Autism may process feelings differently , the are fully capable of empathy and love. ​ Autistic adults are often shocked to find that their partner’s faith in their love and loyalty could be compromised by a forgotten… Show More Are you Autistic? Take this Test CHANGE IS POSSIBLE!! When a couple understand their differences and accept them, they will finally stop resisting change. This can feel like a tremendous relief. Even though both partners usually think the other one needs to change, you both will start to make changes that you never expected. This is where most neurotypical partners think, "Yes, I can change but my partner won't." Despite your worry that your autistic partner is rigid and focused on himself, most autistic clients that we work with will put… Show More Sign up to receive weekly tips, tools and cutting edge info Send

NEURODIVERSE COMMUNICATION < Back SPEAKING DIFFERENT LANGUAGES? Why do we feel like we are speaking different languages when we try to talk to each other? Do your partner's words sound like "blah blah blah...", where you are not really hearing each other? What hijacks our ability to communicate effectively? ​Do your conversations sound like: ​ Tammy: Look at me when I talk to you. ​ Tim: I am trying to but you're not making any sense. You said to walk the dog as soon as… Show More Schedule a Free Consult Now WHAT'S YOUR COMMUNICATION STYLE? ​ The neurodiverse and neurotypical communication styles can be broken down as follows: ​ Logical vs. Emotional Concrete vs Abstract Absolutist vs. Relative Avoidant vs. Insistent ​ Furthermore, we send and receive information through the following filters : ​​ our expectations and stereotypes, our wounds or defensiveness, our past experiences, and our mood at the moment. ​ It is clear that many powerful forces color the way we hear our partner and express ourselves. COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES Our therapists are equipped… Show More Are you Autistic? Take this Test DOUBLE EMPATHY PROBLEM ​ The Double Empathy Problem is a concept that has been gaining more attention in recent years, particularly in relation to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It refers to the idea that both neurotypical individuals and autistic individuals may struggle to understand each other’s perspectives, leading to communication breakdowns and misunderstandings. ORIGINS The Double Empathy Problem was first proposed by Damian Milton, a researcher and autistic activist, in his 2012 paper “On the Ontological Status of Autism: The ‘Double Empathy Problem’”. Milton argued… Show More Sign up to receive weekly tips, tools and cutting edge info Send

SUPPORT FOR ADHD WOMEN < Back The Overlooked Symptoms of ADHD in Women Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects people of all genders and ages, but the symptoms in adult women often go unrecognized or misdiagnosed. This is due to a lack of understanding of how ADHD manifests in women and the assumption that it only affects boys and men. The symptoms of ADHD in women can include forgetfulness, distractibility, disorganization, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation. Women with ADHD are often labeled as “scatter-brained” or “flaky,” but these symptoms can have a significant impact on their daily lives and relationships. Understanding ADHD Symptoms in Women and Celebrating their Strengths It is important to note that ADHD is not just a disorder of deficits and challenges, but also of strengths and positives. Many women with ADHD possess unique talents and abilities, such as creativity, resilience, and adaptability. They are often highly intuitive, compassionate, and empathetic. Women with ADHD are also known for their ability to hyper-focus on tasks that they find interesting or enjoyable, leading to great success in areas they are passionate about. Our therapists recognize and celebrate these strengths while working with clients to manage their symptoms and build on their talents. Through therapy,… Show More Schedule a Free Consult Now Therapeutic Approaches for ADHD Women We offer a range of therapeutic approaches for women with ADHD, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and coaching. CBT is particularly effective for ADHD, as it helps clients to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to ADHD symptoms. We also provide practical tools and resources to help clients manage their symptoms on a day-to-day basis. A Holistic Approach to ADHD Therapy ​ Our therapists take a holistic approach to therapy for women with ADHD. We recognize that ADHD can impact many aspects of a woman's life, from hormone fluctuations to work and relationships. We work with clients to identify their unique challenges and develop strategies for managing symptoms in all areas of their lives. We also explore the impact of ADHD on their relationships, and help them to build stronger, healthier connections with loved ones. Steps of Therapeutic… Show More Are you Autistic? Take this Test Formal ADHD Assessment In addition to our therapeutic services, we partner with the Adult Autism Assessment Center to provide formal assessments and reports for ADHD. These assessments can provide clients with a formal diagnosis, as well as recommendations for accommodations and support. Sign up to receive weekly tips, tools and cutting edge info Send

SUPPORT FOR AUTISTIC MEN < Back FROM SHAME TO ACCEPTANCE “Normal is an ideal. But it’s not reality.Reality is brutal, it’s beautiful, it’s every shade between black and white, and it’s magical. Yes, magical. Because every now and then, it turns nothing into something.” ― Tara Kelly, Harmonic Feedback FIRST PRIORITY Our first priority is to be able to see the beauty of our differences . This journey may require rethinking a life of experiencing negative messages from society. This rethinking process must operate in the background of all the more tactical work that is done as it is critical to be able to show up in a way that is less defensive and more whole. SECOND PRIORITY Once this primary work is underway, a secondary goal of many of our autistic clients is to increase the ability to meet the needs of the neurotypical partner AND, at the same time, stay true to himself . It is a delicate balance, one that our therapy team will support you in. Schedule a Free Consult Now EXAMPLE THERAPY ROADMAP When we work together, we will review the list below and together construct a session-by-session roadmap of our work together. ​ Strengths Identify your strengths and build a plan on how to leverage them in your relationship. Make peace with your Asperger traits. Sensory processing Understand your sensory processing system. In basic terms, your sensory processing system is how your brain detects, prioritizes, and remembers what is happening around you and inside of you. Explore strategies to manage your sensory sensitivities so you can express them to your partner and build a management plan together. Learn ways to recognize, decompress, and communicate with your partner when you reach sensory overload/overwhelm and enter " defense mode". Non-Literal Thinking Learning alternatives to literal thinking and deciphering non-verbal communication . Executive Function Addressing executive function issues which may exist. “Tuning out” is a typical coping strategy of an autism profile. When this happens, one's partner understandably does… Show More Are you Autistic? Take this Test TREATMENT RESOURCES Therapy4AutisticMen.com In addition to support from the Neurodiverse Couples Counseling Center, we now have a site, Therapy 4 Autistic Men , dedicated to the unique needs of autistic men. Here, we: provide autism-focused & neurodivergent-affirming therapy help you feel safe, supported, and heard with compassion work with you to reduce anxiety, depression, masking & autistic burnout help you cope with emotional distress of meltdowns & shutdowns work to lift self-esteem offer solutions for family conflict share strategies for work or school help with Autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (diagnosis available) support for LGBTQIA+, transgender, nonbinary, and BIPOC clients offer remote (video or audio) therapy Our team members are: ​ autistic and allistic (both perspectives can be helpful), men and women (yes, some of our male clients prefer a female therapist), athiest, agnostic, spiritual, people with deep faith, and single, divorced, in a committed relationship and married. Please feel free to indicate… Show More Sign up to receive weekly tips, tools and cutting edge info Send

SUPPORT FOR AUTISTIC WOMEN < Back WOMAN ON THE SPECTRUM? WE SEE YOU. If you are an adult woman who thinks you may be on the spectrum, we are so glad you are here. You have probably been overlooked and under-supported for years and maybe even decades. You may be struggling in your relationship but not know how to fix it. Sadly, feelings of being defective, lonely, confused and helpless may be all too common. Please don't despair. There is hope! On this web page, we will try to cover the basics of women on the spectrum but we invite you to connect with one of our neurodiversity specialists who would be honored to help you. Schedule a Free Consult Now OVERLOOKED IN CHILDHOOD As the field of neuroscience continues to develop, there is an ever-increasing consensus among researchers that autistic women are dramatically undercounted. Well-intentioned, parents, teachers, and counselors often miss the opportunity to identify women on the spectrum. There are two major reasons for this unfortunate situation: Reason 1: Girls Masking in Childhood Even though girls may share many core traits of autism with boys, they often react externally to it in dramatically different ways. One difference in how boys and girls react is the degree to which they mask their autistic traits. Masking is when a person puts on a “mask” to look the way others expect rather than show up in the world in a way that is natural and genuine. You can think of masking as camouflage. In other words, wearing something on the surface so you will not be noticed, yet fearing that you… Show More Are you Autistic? Take this Test DIFFERENCES & STRUGGLES Of course, young girls grow into women and the unequal treatment continues into adulthood along with the emotional struggles. ​ Here are a few examples of how adult men and women present differently in adulthood: ​ Adult autistic females are more comfortable than their male counterparts when interacting on a one-on-one basis. The women may often report that they have a few friends but would typically meet with them individually, not in a group. Men on the spectrum often report no friends. Adult autistic females are more likely to find a romantic partner , often putting a lot of effort (masking) in order to overcome loneliness. Men on the spectrum typically have more difficulty navigating the rules of romance, although this may be offset by lower expectations of romance from men. Adult autistic females are more likely to have the primary responsibility for parenting than autistic males. In spite of… Show More Sign up to receive weekly tips, tools and cutting edge info Send

NEURODIVERSE COUPLES RETREAT < Back If you are in a neurodiverse relationship and feel you need a lot of help, you're in the right place. ​ These are private couples therapy sessions, not small group retreats. Everything is customized with the two of YOU in mind. ​ Remote or on-location in Monterrey, CA. Learn More Show More Schedule a Free Consult Now Are you Autistic? Take this Test Sign up to receive weekly tips, tools and cutting edge info Thank you! Send Are you Autistic? Take this Test

< Back Anne Hoglund You've landed here looking for support, needing more care and attention for yourself and for your significant relationship. Perhaps you or your partner are also neurodivergent, and you're wanting neuro-informed support that understands the complexities of that experience and how that would impact a relationship. Connection is not a constant state in any relationship. We are always moving in and out of it. If disconnection lasts for too long, there is greater likelihood for misunderstandings and ways of relating that can further that separateness. Our work together helps you to reconnect more easily and helps you know, understand, and love each other better. By providing you warmth, compassion, and acceptance, I offer a space to feel seen and heard and can provide you direction on the roadmap back to one another. I take an integrative approach, accounting for the different aspects of who you both are, of your family, and the systems that you are embedded in. Know that there is help here for you and that, by working together, we can navigate the path back to greater, more effective communication, greater appreciation and understanding of yourself and your partner, and greater overall satisfaction in your relationship. I look forward to walking with you on this path towards reconnection. My Story I grew up in the Midwest and relocated to California in my early adulthood. I was always drawn to creative endeavors and pursuing my degree in fine art seemed like a natural choice. However, after working as a graphic designer for many years I felt that something was lacking. My heart wasn’t in it, as much as it was in the healing and spiritual pursuits I was doing outside of my work life. As a deep-feeling person, I knew that I wanted to contribute something, to have a positive impact. I enjoyed most helping others, especially in navigating their significant relationships and life's challenges. After experiencing the positive benefits of my own work in therap y, I returned to school to study counseling psychology. I loved the work and felt that I had finally found where I “fit.” Upon graduation from my program, I took a break from working as a therapist to start a family, and was thrust into the real "work" of a marriage, parenting, and managing a home as well as helping aging parents with significant health issues . During this time our oldest child also received an autism diagnosis . I know from experience how that can deeply impact a marriage and the needs of a family both at home and out in the world. I saw clearly that navigating support for resources was an extremely challenging and time-consuming process, and there was so little available to help parents process these changes and challenges. As well, little is offered to keep parents feeling hopeful for the future and appreciative of their unique child. I want to support individuals and couples, especially parents, around the topic of neurodivergence, as they find their way into new rhythms and greater joys in their relationships and families, as well as helping them build relationship skills and resilience to be more supported in life's harder times. Life Experience I have an autistic child who is exploring their gender and identity I have a sibling diagnosed with ADHD and neurodivergence exists on both sides of our extended families I have many autistic traits I have a background working in a creative field for over 20 years and in working in higher education and non-profit organizations Specialties and Certifications Neurodiverse Couples Specialist Neurodiverse Parenting Specialist Associate Marriage and Family Therapist ​Education Masters in Integral Counseling Psychology Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication License & Certifications ​Registered Associate Marriage Family Therapist, AMFT # 110323 Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc . Specialty areas: Parenting Neurodiversity, Parenting, Autism, Neurodiverse Couples, ADHD Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Lisa Marie Anzaldua Neurotypical Partner Support Lisa Marie Anzaldua primary focus is supporting Neurotypical/Allisitic Partners Support with her Cassandra and OTRS Support Groups. Read more here . Personal Experience Lisa is personally familiar with divergence in how each partner experiences the world and communicates, being married for 18 years to someone from a different culture and race than her own. She is a mom of two boys - 13 and 18. As the daughter of a diplomat, a multicultural experience was integral to Lisa's early life and has continued since, as reflected in her multiethnic/interracial marriage. While a neurodiverse relationship means that one or both partners are on the autism spectrum, deeply understanding how to bridge relationship barriers comes from her personal relationship experience. Furthermore, having the experience of personally overcoming Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Lisa is equipped with wisdom and education to guide healing and transformation. ​Neurodiverse Coaching Approach Lisa specializes in neurodiverse couple coaching. Her expertise is grounded in neurodivergent communication and attachment science, which is informed by the scientific study of human development and bonding, integrated with insights from emotional processing neuroscience. Through her compassionate and insightful guidance, Lisa supports neurodiverse couples on their journey from feelings of exhaustion and hopelessness toward achieving their desired outcomes around communication and connection. Her unique approach is characterized by a profound empathy and understanding that individuals can become entangled in self-deception, outdated coping mechanisms, beliefs, and habits that, while once protective, may no longer serve their current needs. Lisa's coaching helps couples navigate these challenges, fostering an environment of ease and understanding that paves the way for growth and reconnection. ​ Formal Training Lisa is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and a seasoned couples coaching professional. Her expertise results from being trained by Tony Robbins and Cloe Madanes as a certified life coach, her graduate-level education in Marriage and Family Therapy (Delta Kappa Pi), and her undergrad in Transpersonal Psychology. Cloe Madanes is one of the originators of the strategic therapy approach and founded the Family Therapy Institute of Washington, D.C., and the Family Therapy Center of Maryland. Her pioneering work laid the foundation of many of the most effective approaches and techniques used in couples therapy. Publications: Lisa is a published author: Inner Sanctum: Your Most Empowering Resource This book is a transformative journey from inner turmoil to authentic self-realization. This book isn't just about healing; it's a guide to realigning with your core truth through introspection and transcendence. Anzaldua delves deep into how our perceptions, shaped by unresolved experiences and conditioning, often lead to emotional suffering and repetitive life patterns. Through her powerful narrative, she illustrates that liberation lies not in changing who we are but in becoming more attuned to our true selves. "Inner Sanctum" offers a unique blend of psychological insights and spiritual wisdom, demonstrating how breaking free from our ingrained narratives can lead to profound emotional relief and a richer life experience. Anzaldua's approach is about appreciating ourselves, including our habits and fears, and understanding their origins as coping mechanisms that once served us but may no longer be beneficial. The book outlines practical methods and transformative practices, supported by scientific evidence and spiritual teachings, to help readers embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With its focus on unbecoming what we are not and revealing the layers of our authentic selves, "Inner Sanctum" is more than a self-help book; it's an invitation to a life of expanded awareness, where personal growth and spiritual expansion converge. It's a guide to appreciating the brilliance of our true nature, transcending limitations, and aligning with our deepest truths for a fulfilled and meaningful existence. Lisa has several articles on Medium.com . Her website is www.ThrivingBeyondCassandraSyndrome.com ​ Specialties in addition to Neurodiversity: Cassandra Support - Group and Individual Ongoing Traumatic Relationship Stress Trauma Bond Toxic Shame Narcissist / Empath Dynamic (Personal Healing) ASD / Allistic Couples Counseling and Coaching General Couples Coaching Family Conflict Life Transitions Transformational Coaching Integrative Spiritual Therapy Internal Family Systems Emotionally Focused Therapy (couples and individual). ​ License: Registered Associate, MFTA #132097 Supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , LMFT #53452 Employed by New Path Couples Therapy Inc. Specialty areas: Cassandra, Discernment, Internal Family Systems, LGBTQIA+, Buddist - Spiritual, Trans Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.

< Back Lauren Florio Helping Someone like Myself When I think about the kind of work I want to do as a therapist, I think about my younger self and how much easier my life would have been if I knew then what I know now about my neurodivergence. If you’re at a stage in your life where you’re trying to navigate your differences in an allistic world, you’ve come to the right place. As someone with AuDHD (Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) , I felt like there was something wrong with me for most of my life. Now I’ve learned to appreciate, cope with, and embrace my differences. And now I want to help you do the same. ​ My Story ​ I grew up in Northern California, under the poverty line. In a family struggling with finances, doctor visits were scarce, and psychiatry visits were nearly out of the question. ADHD AND ME Though I was able to get my ADHD diagnosis relatively young, not much changed for me and the crippling differences I felt from the rest of society. With ADHD medication not being a good fit for me, it seemed this diagnosis was a dead end at the time. I wish I had known more back then and would have kept exploring my neurodivergence as it would have likely led me to my autism diagnosis much sooner. FIGHTING BACK Instead, I spent the majority of my life trying to push through a world that felt like it was fighting back at me. Much of my life was spent disassociating or with severe panic attacks from under or over-stimulation. As an adult, I finally began seeking mental health help after a lifelong battle with depression. Though I saw some benefits from my depression and anxiety treatments, it felt like a band-aid on the real issue. I spent years in therapy with dozens of different therapists. MY AUTISM DIAGNOSIS It wasn’t until I was told to explore an autism diagnosis that things changed for me. During this time, I was also in school. I received my Bachelor's Degree at Chico State University before moving down to Southern California to complete my Master's of Arts in Counseling Psychology in San Diego. During this time, I was learning more about psychology and my passion continued to grow for the human mind, specifically neurodivergence. Finally, receiving my autism diagnosis was like a breath of fresh air. MASK COMES OFF Since coming to terms with my autism, I have learned to unmask, reconnect with my inner child, and develop unique coping skills beyond breathing and meditation, skills that actually work for me. Through this journey, I have become a better partner, friend, daughter, and sister. For the first time in my life, I am able to meet myself with kindness. My journey here was tumultuous, but I hope because of my journey, I can help you learn about your neurodivergence and guide you to becoming a better version of yourself along the way, too. ​ NEURO-INCLUSIVE NOURISHMENT ​ Binge, Restrict, & Purge Cycles In elementary school, I put myself on my first diet. Mimicking what I saw around me, I grew up in a house where there was constant dieting which affected me heavily. I was aware of my body, weight, and every aspect of my beauty as a result. My relationship with eating disorders changed in many ugly ways from middle school through my undergrad program. With hard work and lots of help, I was able to overcome my many battles surrounding binge, restrict, and purge cycles. I want to use my both personal and professional experience to help you heal your relationship with food and create a more positive body image. ARFID Data shows there is an overlap of neurodivergence and ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder). Many people believe that ARFID is a disorder that only affects children, but this is simply not true. As an Autistic woman with ARFID, I am very aware of how sensory issues can negatively affect your ability to eat regularly and get adequate nutrition. Overcoming sensory issues is hard, but you only get one body. Maintaining regular caloric intake with diverse nutrition is vital in keeping our body healthy. Let's work together to overcome this and keep our bodies healthy and happy. ​ To read more about Neuro-inclusive Nourishment, click here. Certifications & Education Board registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #139592 (supervised by Dr. Harry Motro, clinical director). Master’s of Arts in Counseling Psychology from National University in San Diego. Neurodiverse Specialist Co-Founder of She Rocks the Spectrum Neuro-inclusive Nourishment Specialist ​ DBT/CBT/EMDR The therapeutic modalities I am trained in and use are: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma processing. ​ Group Facilitator I run our She Rocks Friendship Group . Read more here. When I am not working with my clients here at She Rocks the Spectrum, I host small groups which are designed for those with social anxiety, neurodivergence, and members of the LGBTQ+. ​ COMMON GROUND I am a trained CommonGround Specialist. CommonGround is a program created by Pat Deegan, which was developed to help promote advocacy and independence for those with mental health issues.Clients Neurodiverse women Autistic, ADHD, Highly Sensitive Neurodiverse clients with eating struggles Modalities Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma processing CBT/DBT License Associate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, #139592 (supervised by Dr. Harry Motro , clinical director) Specialty areas: Trans, LGBTQIA+, ADHD, Autism, Sex-Kink-Poly, Eating & Autism, Parenting Neurodiversity, Children, Teens, Assessment, DBT, ND at Work, Neurodiverse Couples Reach Out Now First name Last name Email If you have a therapist(s) already in mind, include their names here: Send Thanks for reaching out! We will respond within 24 hours.