Neurodiverse Love with Mona Kay

The first episode of the Neurodiverse Love Docuseries will be released on February 14, 2026. Through this four part series, you will meet four Neurodiverse couples who share some of their lived experiences, lessons learned and the strengths, challenges and differences they’ve had in their marriages. None of the couples knew they were in a mixed neurotype relationship when they married and each shares some of the experiences that have led to more connection, understanding and acceptance of each other’s differences.In addition, you will hear from three coaches/therapists who work with Neurodiverse couples. They share their perspective on why challenges may be occurring and also provide strategies and tools for increasing connection.To contribute to this very important project or to learn more about the docuseries click here.—————————————————————————-During this episode you will hear another presentation from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference. Dr. Amanda Platner shares the steps one can take if they suspect they or their significant other may be neurodivergent, including topics such as when and why someone might seek psychological testing, and how to begin to explore and understand neurodiversity. Dr. Platner also discuss the changes in the field regarding the awareness of neurodiverse relationships and how individuals, both neurodivergent and neurotypical, can take a neuroaffirming approach to undeerstanding one another. Bio:Dr. Amanda Platner is a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with neurodivergent individuals and their loved ones across the lifespan. Dr. Platner completed postdoctoral fellowships through Emory University and Harvard University and she currently works at the Emory Autism Center where she is the Director of Psychological Intervention Services and the Psychology Training Program. She directs the myLIFE social engagement program for autistic adults, conducts individual, group, and couples counseling, and does both diagnostic and neuropsychological testing for individuals across the lifespan. Dr. Platner's favorite part of her work is getting to learn with and from all of the clients she interacts with. You can contact Dr. Platner at the link below:https://med.emory.edu/departments/psychiatry/autism/index.html——————————————————————————If you would like to buy unlimited access to all 30+ video sessions from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference click here and use code Podcast50 to get $50 off. With your purchase you will also get these FREE BONUSES: unlimited access to the 27 video sessions from the 2023 Neurodiverse Love Conference, the Neurodiverse Love Conversation Cards and Workbook. If you have any questions or need additional information please email: neurodiverselove4u@gmail.com

Discover the intriguing dynamics in neurodiverse relationships as Greg Fuqua explores ADHD-autistic pairings and the magnetism of their complementary traits. Learn how stress amplifies neurodivergent characteristics, leading to unique emotional cycles like pursuer-avoidant dynamics. Greg emphasizes the importance of emotional reciprocity, effective communication, and boundary ownership. He also discusses the impact of unresolved family triggers in relationships and provides practical strategies for fostering understanding and connection.

Jodi Carlton, a neurodiverse relationship expert and educator with over two decades of experience, discusses a crucial shift in understanding neurodiversity. She challenges the concept of neurodivergence as a disorder, reframing it as an essential part of human identity. Jodi contrasts deficit-focused medical views with strengths-based perspectives, emphasizes the importance of context in revealing strengths, and highlights the contributions of neurodivergent individuals like Bill Gates. The conversation inspires acceptance and tools to leverage neurodiverse strengths in relationships.

Dr. Ashley Grubbs, a licensed professional counselor and sex therapist specializing in neurodiversity, shares valuable insights on navigating sensory issues in sexuality. She discusses how various hypersensitivities—like sight, sound, and touch—can derail intimacy, offering practical solutions such as eye masks and tactile strategies. Grubbs also highlights hyposensitivities, explaining the need for heightened stimuli and how to adapt intimacy to accommodate these differences. Her approach emphasizes open communication and consent to enhance connection for neurodiverse couples.

Lida Far, a relationship and sex therapist focused on neurodiverse-affirming care, shares crucial insights for navigating the dating scene as a neurodivergent individual. She discusses managing dating anxiety by setting realistic expectations and emphasizes the importance of effective communication. Role-playing is suggested as a way to boost confidence, while pacing contact helps maintain comfort levels. Lida also touches on the significance of safety in meetings and discussing boundaries, ensuring a more fulfilling dating experience.

In a delightful discussion, Paul Micallef, an autistic life coach and creator of 'Autism From The Inside,' shares insights on emotional communication in relationships. He delves into the challenges neurodiverse couples face due to differing emotional styles and offers strategies to bridge communication gaps. Paul emphasizes understanding emotional needs versus logistical asks and encourages clear, specific requests to foster intimacy. He also highlights the importance of celebrating small wins and changing one’s approach to enhance relational dynamics.

If you are interested in learning more about the resources Mona offers you can check out her website here. If you would like to buy lifetime access to all 31 video sessions from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference click here.————————————————————————-During this session from the 2025 Neurodiverse Love Conference, Clare Bates talks about how we can better support autistic people with their relationship and sexuality needs, based on what they have said matters most to them. Clare shares key findings from research and highlights the challenges autistic people face when it comes to relationships, as well as the type of support they want. She also talks about the training that she and colleagues have developed for social care staff to help them provide more meaningful, person-centred support. You can find more about this work in the Autistic Loving section of the Supported Loving Toolkit.Bio:Claire Bates, is a neurodivergent researcher and leader (and founder) of the UK’s Supported Loving Network, which focuses on improving how social care supports people with sexuality and relationships. Through the network, she’s created a space for sharing best practice, training, and resources to help staff provide more person-centered and rights-based support. Claire is also an active researcher in the field of sexuality and disability, looking at the barriers people with learning disabilities and autistic people face when it comes to building and maintaining relationships. Her work brings together real-world experience and research to push for better support and to make sure people’s voices and rights are at the center of everything.

Shawna Meek, an ICF-certified professional coach and betrayal trauma specialist, and Kevin Meek, a peer mentor focused on problematic sexual behavior, share invaluable insights for couples facing challenges in neurodiverse relationships. They discuss the common ruptures caused by betrayal and deceit, emphasizing emotional healing and the importance of accountability in recovery. Practical strategies for communication, setting boundaries, and navigating trauma are explored, offering hope and tools for rebuilding trust amid complex emotional landscapes.

Dr. Theresa Regan, a neuropsychologist with over 30 years of experience, shares vital insights on transforming neurodiverse households from a rigid policing model to one of collaboration. She emphasizes the importance of acknowledging neurological differences among family members. By fostering curiosity and understanding individual needs, households can shift towards a creative problem-solving approach. This not only alleviates conflicts and promotes needs fulfillment but also cultivates a supportive environment that positively impacts schools and workplaces.

In this insightful conversation, Giji Dennard, a speaker and author dedicated to healing parent-child relationships, delves into the challenges of being raised by neurodivergent parents. She discusses how chronic misunderstanding can harm children's self-worth and emotional health. Giji introduces her three-step healing program, covering the importance of recognizing impacts, releasing resentment, and receiving grace and renewed identity. With empathy and transparency, she offers hope for those navigating the complexities of neurodivergent parenting.