Table of Contents
Foreword Stephen M. Shore 11
Acknowledgments 14
Preface 15
Terminology, Case Studies, and Strategies 17
Introduction; Marriage and Lasting Relationships with Asperger's Syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder) 21
1 Pursuing a Diagnosis-or Not 27
2 Accepting the Diagnosis 48
3 Learning About and Understanding ASD 57
4 Managing Anxiety, Depression, Anger, OCD, and ADHD 65
5 Self-Exploration, Awareness, and Advocacy 83
6 Expanding Theory of Mind and Emotional Intelligence 92
7 Copingwith Sensory Overload and Avoiding Meltdowns 116
8 Meeting Each Other's Sexual Needs 125
9 Bridging Parallel Play 135
10 Creating a Relationship Schedule™ 146
11 Improving Communication 157
12 Co-Parenting Strategies 169
13 Prioritizing Self-Care for the NS partner 179
14 Organizing, Planning, and Outsourcing 187
15 Suspending Judgments and Managing Expectations 197
16 Staying Motivated 207
17 Neurodiverse Couples Counseling 215
18 Every Neurodiverse Marriage is Unique 230
Appendix I The Appreciation and Gratitude Exercise™ 237
Appendix II The Walking in Your Partners Shoes Practice™ 239
Appendix III The Sensation-Emotion Awareness Practice™ 240
Appendix IV The Emotions List 242
Appendix V The Sensation-Emotion Awareness Chart™ 243
Appendix VI The Relationship Schedule™ 246
Appendix VII The Listen, Validate, and Compliment Strategy™ 252
Appendix VIII The Marital Satisfaction Scale 253
References 254
Index 258