YOUR Neurodiverse Relationship with Jodi Carlton

What keeps neurodiverse marriages from falling apart—and what helps them grow stronger over time? In Part 2 of this honest and hope-filled conversation, Stephanie & Dan Holmes return to share deeper insights on what makes neurodiverse relationships work—and what often makes them break down. From emotional triggers to unspoken resentments, rigid belief systems to religious conditioning, they dive into the patterns that can quietly erode a relationship—and how curiosity, boundaries, and a growth mindset can bring real repair.

Can a neurodiverse marriage actually work when communication constantly breaks down? If you've ever felt like you and your partner are speaking two different languages—especially in an autism or ADHD relationship—this episode is for you. Stephanie & Dan Holmes share how they redefined their roles at home, and used coaching to rebuild connection, reduce resentment, and finally feel like a team again.

In this powerful Part 2 episode of Your Neurodiverse Relationship Podcast (Season 5), neurodiverse relationship expert Jodi Carlton continues her candid conversation with married couple Luke and Lauren Smallcomb. Together, they open up about: - Navigating ADHD and demand avoidance in marriage - Overcoming anxious and avoidant attachment styles - What happens when one partner is an overfunctioner - Burnout, masking, and learning to communicate better - The difference between acceptance and accommodation - Red flags vs. recoverable challenges in neurodiverse relationships.

In this powerful episode of Your Neurodiverse Relationship Podcast Season 5, host Jodi Carlton sits down with trauma healing experts and married neurodiverse couple Luke and Lauren Smallcomb, who live in Thailand and run a worldwide trauma-healing practice called Flourish Therapy. Together, they open up about their own marriage, healing past trauma, working through attachment styles, and what it really takes to make a neurodiverser elationship not only work—but thrive. They also share their professional insights into neuroplasticity, rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD), attachment wounds, and how their personal growth journey empowered them to help other couples navigate similar challenges.  

Can Neurodiverse Relationships Work?

In part two of this inspiring episode, we continue our conversation with Michael & Elise Daniel and special guest Mona Kay, host of the Neurodiverse Love Podcast

Season 5 - Episode 1, Part 1: In this exciting premiere episode (part 1 of 2), I'm joined by Michael and Elise Daniel, a neurodiverse couple who've faced significant challenges in their marriage due to miscommunication. Michael, a late-diagnosed autistic database analyst with a special interest in AI

This is Part 2 of my two-part series on #codependency in #neurodiverserelationships. In this video, I dive into why codependency tends to develop in these relationships and how you can start breaking the cycle. If you haven't watched Part 1, where I discuss the 6 signs of codependency, be sure to check it out first: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlcRXJG3Uck    

Codependency is a common yet often misunderstood pattern in neurodiverse relationships. In this video, Jodi Carlton, a neurodiverse relationship expert, explores six key signs of codependency in neurodiverse couples, how these dynamics develop, and why recognizing them is the first step toward building a healthier, more balanced relationship.

Valentine's Day can bring excitement, pressure, or even confusion—especially in a neurodiverse relationship! Whether you're neurotypical, autistic, or have ADHD, understanding and communicating expectations for this day can make all the difference. In this episode, I'll walk you through: ✅ How neurodivergent and neurotypical partners may approach Valentine's Day differently ✅ Common misunderstandings and emotional triggers ✅ Practical strategies for clear, pressure-free communication ✅ How to create a celebration (or skip it!) in a way that works for both of you  

Are you tired of traditional New Year's resolutions that feel overwhelming or unrealistic? In this video, I'll guide you through creating neurodiversity-friendly resolutions tailored to your unique strengths, challenges, and goals. Whether you're neurodivergent yourself or supporting someone who is, these strategies will help you design resolutions that are achievable, empowering, and sustainable. We'll cover: ✔️ Breaking big goals into manageable steps ✔️ Using visual aids and reminders to stay on track ✔️ Prioritizing self-compassion over perfection ✔️ Embracing your strengths and working with your brain, not against it

The holidays can be challenging, especially in neurodiverse relationships. ☃️

Neurodiverse relationship expert Jodi Carlton discusses how #CassandraSyndrome affects autistic partners in #neurodiverserelationships. She emphasizes the importance of understanding both neurotypical and autistic experiences, highlighting that trauma can impact either partner. Learn about the double empathy problem, emotional isolation, and how these challenges can shape relationships.   00:00 Introduction: Cassandra Syndrome in Neurodiverse Relationships 01:03 Purpose of the Channel: Uniting, Not Dividing 02:28 Overview of Cassandra Syndrome 04:24 Addressing First Comment - "I'm a late diagnosed autistic woman married to a non-autistic man..." 04:44 Affirming the Autistic Experience of Trauma 05:36 Not All Partners (ND or NT) Experience Trauma 06:02 Addressing Second Comment - "Yeah. I definitely see this happening infinitely more for the autistic than the neurotypical..." 06:36 Us vs. Them 07:20 Let's Understand Each Other. Both Partners Can Experience Trauma 08:30 Addressing Last Comment - "In my experience, it not only depends on the cognitive empathy or the theory of mind and general emotional intelligence of the autistic partner but also the level..." 11:12 Final Thoughts: Cassandra Syndrome and Autistic Trauma 11:55 Share Your Experience in the Comments

In this solo podcast episode, #JodiCarlton delves into the intricacies of dating for both #autistic individuals and #neurotypicals dating someone on the spectrum. Drawing from my experiences with long-term couples, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing red flags early on in relationships. Key topics include the dangers of not being your authentic self, patterns of harmful behavior, boundary issues, and intimacy misalignments. She also addresses the concept of capacity and developmental stunting in autistic partners and how these can manifest in relationships. Additionally, she explores common justifications for staying in unhealthy relationships and the critical mistake of falling for someone's potential rather than their current reality. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the dating world, particularly in neurodiverse contexts, and provides valuable insights for setting up future generations for success in their relationships. 00:00 Introduction to Dating and Relationships 00:58 Recognizing Red Flags in Relationships 01:40 You've Become a Different Person 02:25 Understanding Codependency 04:03 Behavioral Patterns and Apologies 05:54 Communicating Boundaries Effectively 07:45 Intimacy and Alignment in Relationships 10:52 Emotional Availability and Capacity 12:49 Adolescent Development and Responsibility 18:27 Justifying Staying in a Relationship 28:00 Concluding Thoughts and Advice . . . .

#CassandraSyndrome is not an official diagnosis but is a descriptive term that refers to emotional pain and isolation experienced by a partner in an autistic-neurotypical relationship when their concerns, wishes, and experiences are overlooked or dismissed. Whether you're seeking clarity or looking for ways to strengthen your #neurodiverse relationship, this video provides valuable insights and support.   Check out our recent blog: https://jodicarlton.com/understanding-cassandra-syndrome-neurotypical-autistic-relationships/ 00:00 Introduction to Cassandra Syndrome 00:08 Understanding Cassandra Syndrome 00:37 Neurodivergent Relationships and Brain Differences 03:03 Communication Challenges in Neurodiverse Relationships 03:57 The Impact of Miscommunication 04:20 Cassandra Syndrome - Rooted in Greek Mythology 04:54 Emotional and Physical Effects on Neurotypical Partners 07:29 Why Autism Can Seem Like Narcissism 08:03 Impact Over Time 13:37 Healing from Cassandra Syndrome 13:44 Learn About Autism 14:43 Self-Care 16:13 Codependency in Your Relationship 18:06 Communication Skills Training 19:10 5 Ways to Heal from Cassandra Syndrome 20:52 Conclusion and Resources . . .  

Join Jodi Carlton, a #neurodiverse relationship expert, as she delves into the complexities of relationships where one or both partners experience life differently due to neurodiversity. Discover whether these relationships can work, the importance of understanding neurodiversity, and the key characteristics that help #neurodiverserelationships thrive. Jodi shares insights on common misunderstandings and the crucial role of communication, offering guidance for couples to navigate their unique dynamics. 00:00 Introduction to Neurodiverse Relationships 01:12 Understanding Neurodiversity in Relationships 01:37 Common Challenges in Neurodiverse Relationships 02:05 Examples of Misunderstandings 03:29 Can Neurodiverse Relationships Work? 04:36 Seeking Professional Help   Check out our recent blog on this topic: https://jodicarlton.com/can-neurodiverse-relationships-work/ Here are a few neurodiverse couples who share their lives to help others learn more about neurodiversity and how to make neurodiverse relationships work

Burnout is a common challenge faced by many, but it can manifest differently depending on whether you're living with #ADHD or #autism. In this video, we dive deep into the key differences between #autisticburnout and #ADHDburnout, exploring how they affect individuals, what recovery looks like, and the unique symptoms of each. Whether you're seeking to understand your own experiences or support a loved one, this video provides valuable insights to help you navigate these distinct forms of burnout

Jodi Carlton discusses #executivefunctioning disorder, its impact on relationships, and how to recognize signs of #executivedysfunction in a partner. While not an official clinical diagnosis, executive dysfunction can cause a variety of challenges

In this bonus episode, Jodi Carlton explains how social connections can improve mental health, reduce stress, and offer different perspectives that benefit both partners in a relationship. 00:00 Introduction to Neurodiverse Relationships 00:0 The Importance of Social Life for Neurodivergent Individuals 00:29 Benefits of Social Connections 02:54 Practical Tips for Neurotypical Partners 03:31 Balancing Time Together and Apart 04:22 Respecting Boundaries and Open Communication 05:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts For more resources like articles, podcasts, and online courses, visit me at https://jodicarlton.com Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights on neurodiversity!

Executive dysfunction creates many challenges in household management for neurodiverse couples. In this bonus episode, neurodiverse relationship expert, Jodi Carlton, provides some useful tips and strategies that she uses in her own neurodivergent household. To learn more about executive functioning in neurodiverse relationships, check out our latest blogs: https://jodicarlton.com/how-types-of-executive-functioning-impact-neurodiverse-relationships/ https://jodicarlton.com/executive-functioning-in-neurodiverse-relationships/ For more resources like articles, podcasts, and online courses, visit me at https://jodicarlton.com Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights on #neurodiversity!

Let's understand the 8 types of #executivefunctioning in #neurodiverse relationships. Jodi Carlton, a neurodiverse relationship expert, explains what executive functioning is and how it impacts #neurodiversecouples when one or both partners experience executive function challenges

In this bonus episode, Neurodiversity Nuggets, Jodi Carlton, an expert in neurodiverse relationships, discusses a personal story shared by a listener about weight loss surgery and the emotional impact of her husband's comments. Jodi provides insight into the literal thinking often found in neurodiverse relationships and emphasizes the importance of self-confidence and not placing the responsibility of our insecurities on others. 00:00 Welcome to Neurodiversity Nuggets with Jodi Carlton 00:39 Q & A: Neurodiverse Relationships 01:17 Understanding and Managing Insecurities in Relationships 02:16 The Importance of Self-Confidence and Ownership in Personal Security 03:43 Embracing Individual Responsibility for Emotional Well-being Visit me online to access my course, Crack the Communication Code, which was designed specifically for neurodiverse partners and couples. http://crackthecommunicationcode.com #neurodiverserelationships #neurodiversecommunication #autisticrelationshipproblems #autisticwife #autistichusband #neurodiverserelationshipcounseling #jodicarlton

Are you asking yourself, "How do I tell my wife she's autistic?" People regularly book consultation with me asking this question - I get it in the comments too. In this video I share what I tell my clients. Neurodiversity in relationships can be confusing, and if you think your wife or your partner is autistic (some still use the term Aspergers), then you need an informed strategy for how to bring this up to her! 00:00 In troduction to Neurodiverse Relationship Advice 00:04 Suspecting Autism in a Partner 00:51 Why Directly Suggesting Autism Can Be Problematic 03:47 Approaching Differences with Sensitivity and Understanding 05:00 Conclusion: Embracing Neurodiversity in Relationships

Does your marriage have the common traits of couples that end up in divorce? In this video, Jodi Carlton, neurodiverse relationship expert, emphasizes how an antagonistic dynamic within a relationship, where one partner must win and the other lose, is a red flag. She stresses the importance of addressing underlying issues and misunderstandings, particularly in autism spectrum relationships. Jodi also discusses the problem of trying to control your partner or the relationship.   00:00 A Harsh Reality 00:21 Understanding Antagonism in Relationships 01:03 The Cycle of Conflict and Control 01:58 Navigating Autism Spectrum Relationships 02:20 Tools for Communication and Rebuilding ___________________

Everyone, whether neurodiverse or neurotypical, uses some form of masking or filter as a part of their social interactions. In this bonus episode, I share a personal story about my autistic daughter's masking strategy, called 'inside face and outside face', which she uses to manage her social interactions.  00:00 Introduction to Masking in Neurodiverse Relationships 00:45 Understanding Masking: A Personal Story 02:30 Masking as a Filter: A Deeper Dive 03:48 Masking in Different Contexts: Professional vs Personal 04:37 Unmasking at Home: The Safe Zone 08:15 The Impact of Masking on Relationships 08:33 The Role of Scripts in Masking 11:10 The Importance of Authenticity in Relationships ___________________

Let's talk about the significance of openly discussing sexuality and intimacy with our partners, particularly in neurodiverse relationships. In this video, I address common hurdles such as misunderstandings, unfounded assumptions, and the way past traumas can cloud our interactions. I stress the importance of reflective listening, nurturing curiosity, and recognizing our partner's unique perspective to foster a stronger connection and enhance sexual satisfaction.    00:00 Introduction to Intimacy Conversations 00:34 Understanding Personal Perspectives on Sexuality 01:33 Cultural and Social Influences on Sexuality 02:29 Challenges of Modern Sexuality and Media Influence 04:02 Navigating Expectations and Roles in Intimacy 06:07 The Importance of Communication and Understanding in Relationships 09:34 Addressing Personal Trauma and Misunderstandings 11:24 Taking Responsibility and Making Positive Changes 12:44 Clarifying Definitions and Expectations in Sexual Relationships 13:45 Conclusion: Hope for Improvement and Change ___________________

This bonus clip highlights a personal story of someone struggling in their relationship with a boyfriend who has Asperger's. Despite receiving counseling, the relationship faces recurring issues such as explosive behavior and silent treatments from the autistic partner.  00:00 Introduction: Meet Jodi Carlton, Neuro Diverse Relationship Expert 00:08 A Viewer's Struggle: Reconnecting with an Asperger's Ex-Partner 00:31 The Cycle of Hope and Disappointment 01:09 Understanding Codependency in Relationships 02:15 The Challenge of Change and Communication 03:33 Educational Advice: Learning About Autism and Improving Communication 04:19 The Importance of Self-Reflection in Neurodiverse Relationships  

This is the final episode in a five-part series, Navigating Neurodiverse Relationships, where my co-host, Mona Kay, talks with me about steps for addressing relationship challenges to find a path forward. We share personal stories and insights into the challenges we faced in our own marriages.  In this episode, we specifically discuss how inappropriate hope is such a common problem for  partners and couples, and how other obstacles like low self-worth and chasing dead-ends lead to increasing distress and antagonism in neurodiverse relationships. The final step navigating your neurodiverse relationship involves evaluating all of your choices and options and implementing changes for yourself. No more staying stuck. Let us help you get out of the quicksand to determine a real path forward!   00:00 Season 4:: Navigating Neurodiverse Relationships 00:28 The Five Key Step 01:37 The Final Episode: Step Five - Figuring Out a Path Forward 04:03 Inappropriate Hope 12:17 Healing and Moving Forward 20:52 Finding Happiness and Peace 26:12 Concluding Thoughts and Resources for Neurodiverse Couples   ___________________

In the 5th episode or a 5-part series, Jodi Carlton and her co-host, Mona Kay from the Neurodiverse Love Podcast, delve into the personal experiences and critical insights into Navigating Neurodiverse Relationships. They provide a retrospective look at their marriages, both of which ended after two decades, and clarify that their mission is not to advocate for divorce but to assist individuals in understanding their relationships and exploring options for moving forward. This episode covers various unconventional solutions they considered in their attempts to save their marriages. The episode underscores the importance of identifying and evaluating options within neurodiverse relationships and the necessity of making informed decisions that are best for all parties involved. Jodi and Mona share their processes of coming to terms with the reality of their situations and the steps they took towards healthier futures for themselves and their families.   00:00 Exploring Neurodiverse Relationships 01:06 Power of Personal Journeys 02:16 The Support Group: Navigating Your Neurodiverse Relationship 02:49 The Impact of Hearing from Different Neurotypes 06:54 Exploring Options in Neurodiverse Relationships 09:25 Discovering Creative Solutions 14:01 The Challenges of Traditional Marriage Expectations 18:46 The Role of External Changes in Relationship Dynamics 23:30 Understanding Individual and Collective Needs in a Relationship 25:20 Navigating External Pressures and Internal Choices 28:01 The Impact of Neurodiversity on Relationships 31:13 The Journey to Self-Discovery and Healing 36:03 Healing, Regulation, and Moving Forward 41:16 Reflecting on Parenting, Mistakes, and Growth 45:52 Concluding Thoughts on Navigating Neurodiverse Relationships   ___________________

Relationship challenges are like icebergs; what you see on the surface is just a fraction of what lies beneath. If you don't look underneath the surface to uncover all of what is contributing to the problems, your chances aren't good for navigating your way to a fulfilling relationship. In this episode of “Navigating Your Neurodiverse Relationship,” Mona and I share our own mistakes that ultimately contributed to sinking our relationship. Our goal is to help you figure out the root issues that are well beneath the surface of your problems as a couple. Otherwise, you'll just keep putting that temporary fix on things. Your relationship and your quality of life will slowly deteriorate, and your ship will sink. 00:00 Episode 3 of “Navigating Your Neurodiverse Relationship” 02:17 Reflections and Realizations 03:21 Identifying Problems and Non-Negotiables in Your Relationship 05:47 The Power of Support Groups 07:56 Our Personal Stories of Growth and Healing 10:48 The Challenges of Communication and Understanding in Neurodiverse Couples 20:04 Learning from the Past: Identifying and Addressing Relationship Problems 26:20 Navigating Differences in Values in Relationships 31:31 Recognizing and Addressing Unhealthy Relationship Dynamics 33:21 Exploring Apology Languages and Relationship Dynamics 34:45 The Impact of Neurodiversity on Apologies and Understanding 36:13 Therapy Experiences and the Quest for Solutions 39:54 Unpacking the Emotional Baggage from Family Histories 44:25 Learning from Past Relationships and Moving Forward 53:15 Identifying Deal Breakers 01:04:59 Looking Ahead: Determining Choices and Options ___________________

Mona and I delve into the necessity of 'stopping the bleed' when your relationship is stuck and has become hopeless. We address the most damaging issues in relationships by sharing our own personal stories and insights from being in neurodiverse marriages for over two decades. Mona and I discuss the importance of recognizing and stopping toxic cycles, the benefits of both individual and couple's therapy, and the transformative impact of setting boundaries on personal health and relationship dynamics.    Featuring co-host Mona Kay from the Neurodiverse Love Podcast, this is Episode 2 (Season 4) of the YOUR Neurodiverse Relationship podcast. This 5-part series is about navigating relationship challenges to figure out a path forward.   00:00 Welcome to Episode 2: Navigating Neurodiverse Relationships 00:28 The Five Key Steps for Relationship Challenges 01:35 Episode Overview: Stopping the Bleed 03:59 The Support Group 04:49 Exploring Personal Stories and Insights 15:57 Exploring Boundaries and Codependency 26:00 The Impact of Communication Styles and Trust Issues 26:57 Understanding Neurodiversity in Relationships 27:41 The Importance of Individual Therapy 36:00 Setting Boundaries for Safety and Emotional Well-being 46:23 The Physical and Mental Health Consequences of Relationship Stress 48:24 Looking Ahead: Making Difficult Decisions ___________________

In this 5-episode podcast series, I (Jodi Carlton, a neurodiverse relationship expert), and Mona Kay of the Neurodiverse Love Podcast, share very personal experiences from our own marriages to neurodiverse partners. We share a five-step approach for assessing relationship challenges and navigating a path forward. The podcast covers toxic dynamics, the importance of understanding neurodiversity in relationships, and offers support and strategies for communication, connection, and making difficult relationship choices. By sharing our journeys and insights, Mona and I aim to help you feel seen, understood, and less alone in your own neurodiverse relationships, but also to give you a framework for navigating your own neurodiverse relationship.    00:00 Welcome to Season Four: Navigating YOUR Neurodiverse Relationship 01:46 Introducing the Support Group: A Safe Space for All Neurotypes 04:41 Decision Making in Neurodiverse Relationships 06:22 Understanding the Stages of Assessing Relationship Challenges 11:14 Triage: Assessing the Risk in Your Relationship 16:41 Reflecting on Personal Experiences with Neurodiversity and Relationships 26:36 The Importance of Assessing Needs and Risks in Relationships 29:39 Unpacking the Past: Stories of Miscommunication and Conflict 30:17 The Christmas Eve Incident: A Tale of Family Dynamics 32:27 Navigating Neurodivergence and Codependency 33:47 The Shift from Romance to Reality 35:30 Unveiling Incompatibilities 40:19 Recognizing Red Flags and Toxicity 52:08 The Journey to Self-Recognition and Healing ___________________

In season four of 'YOUR Neurodiverse Relationship' podcast, Jodi Carlton teams up with Mona Kay from the “Neurodiverse Love” podcast to dive deep into personal experiences and professional insights on managing neurodiverse relationships. They discuss five key steps for assessing relationship challenges, whether it involves working together with a partner for a better connection or realizing it's time to part ways. With over two decades of experience in neurodiverse marriages, they share their own stories of navigating love, making tough decisions, and finding strategies that might be non-traditional but effective. This season aims to make listeners feel seen, understood, and less alone in their experiences. The first episode airs on Wednesday, March 20th.   00:00 Welcome to Season Four: Exploring Neurodiverse Relationships 00:14 Introducing the Co-Host and Our Mission 00:31 Five Key Steps for Navigating Relationship Challenges 00:58 Personal Journeys: Learning from Our Own Relationships 01:15 The Importance of Sharing Vulnerable Experiences 01:35 Join Us for the Journey

Debunking the Myth that Everyone is Narcissistic   Jodi Carlton, a neurodiversity expert and relationship coach who also specializes in personality disorders, addresses a dangerous myth that everyone has narcissistic traits. She emphasizes the distinction between common human behaviors and the destructive characteristics of narcissistic personality disorder. Jodi highlights specific traits exclusive to narcissism, such as enjoying others' pain for personal gain and manipulating others by playing the victim. Her message clarifies how this myth minimizes the impact on individuals who are abused by narcissists, and aims to educate listeners on the true nature of narcissistic behavior versus normal human flaws and dysfunction.   00:00 Introduction 00:10 Debunking the Myth: Everyone is Narcissistic 00:42 Understanding Human Traits vs Narcissistic Traits 01:02 Identifying Narcissistic Traits 01:36 The Narcissist's Use of Victimhood 01:58 Power and Control in Narcissism 02:15 Conclusion: We're Not All a Little Bit Narcissistic

Autism, Narcissism, and Dangerous Myths In this episode, neurodiversity expert and relationship coach Jodi Carlton explains the distinctions and potential comorbidity between autism and narcissistic personality disorder. She emphasizes that while both conditions can exist in the same individual, they are fundamentally unrelated, with autism being neurodevelopmental and genetic, and narcissism being potentially linked to genetics and social learning. Jodi dispels dangerous myths suggesting that narcissistic traits are universal, pointing out the unique and harmful characteristics of narcissistic personality disorder that differentiate it from common human behaviors. She highlights the risks posed by individuals who exhibit both autism and extreme narcissism, including their potentially destructive actions and lack of regard for others' wellbeing.  00:00 Introduction 00:10 Understanding Autism and Narcissism: A Comparative Analysis 00:38 The Dangers of Autistic Narcissists 01:12 Human Traits vs Narcissistic Traits 01:35 The Myth of Universal Narcissism 01:46 The Impact of Narcissistic Abuse 02:27 Identifying Narcissistic Traits 03:23 The Power Dynamics of Narcissism 03:40 Conclusion

Neurodiverse relationship expert Jodi Carlton discusses the issue of lying within autism, particularly in relationships. She explains that most people will tell 'little white lies' to avoid confrontation in an antagonistic relationship, and highlights the need for communication and resolving conflicts that can lead to lying. Jodi distinguishes between 'manipulative lying' and lying to avoid conflict, noting that the latter is more common amongst individuals on the spectrum. She suggests addressing any existing parental dynamic in which one partner might feel like they need to lie to avoid trouble. 00:00 Neurodiverse Relationships and Lying 00:50 Understanding White Lies in Relationships 01:32 When Couples Have a Parental-Child Dynamic 01:46 An Example of Lying to Avoid Conflict 02:17 Differentiating Between Types of Lies 02:46 Recognizing and Addressing Lying in Relationships ___________________

Neurodiverse Relationship expert, Jodi Carlton, shares a tip about improving communication with your autistic partner. Autistic individuals think in images more than in words, so using images like photos instead of texting words can be much more effective in communicating requests to an autistic partner or family member.

Neurodiverse Relationship expert, Jodi Carlton, shares a tip about improving communication with your autistic partner. Autistic individuals think in images more than in words, so using images like photos instead of texting words can be much more effective in communicating requests to an autistic partner or family member.

Neurodiverse relationship expert, Jodi Carlton, shares advice on handling emotional responses in neurodiverse relationships. Jodi emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the validity of emotions from both partners, and discusses the problems that arise when fight or flight responses overwhelm the conversation and issues are not resolved. She suggests ways to manage interactions that are triggering in order to have safe conversations. Jodi highlights the key roles of reflective listening, avoiding judgment, and understanding that differing opinions and perspectives do not alter the value or feelings of each partner.   00:00 A YouTube Comment 00:52 Validity of Emotions in Relationships 01:12 The Problem of Unresolved Conflict 02:23 The Importance of Safe Conversations 03:20 The Solution: How To Handle Emotional Triggers

In the bonus episode, explore the crucial aspects of setting boundaries and recognizing deal-breakers in neurodiverse relationships. Discover the importance of conveying both physical and emotional limits to your partner and learn strategies for explaining your responses to specific actions without trying to control your partner. Hear about the importance of teaching children about setting boundaries and feeling safe within their boundaries.   00:00 Introduction 00:17 Understanding Boundaries in Relationships 01:12 The Difference Between Boundaries and Control 01:46 Setting Boundaries in Response to Negative Behavior 02:00 Teaching Boundaries to Children 02:46 Challenges of Setting Boundaries with Smart Kids 03:06 Conclusion: Modeling Boundary Setting

Recently, someone reached out to me on my YouTube channel and asked for more videos about autistic gay men. So, I want to shed some light on the topic.   It's important to understand that when it comes to neurodiversity and neurodiverse relationships, sexuality is not a determining factor. Regardless of whether someone is gay, heterosexual, or identifies with any other sexual orientation, their autistic traits remain the same. Autism is a part of who they are, and it doesn't change based on their sexual orientation.   In fact, the insights and advice I provide apply to all kinds of neurodiverse relationships. Whether it's a friendship, a coworker relationship, or a parent-child relationship, the principles of understanding and supporting neurodiversity remain relevant. The key is to apply what you learn here to your own relationships because at the core, autism is autism, irrespective of sexual orientation.

In this bonus episode, #neurodiverserelationship expert Jodi Carlton discusses a YouTube viewer's comment that details severe abuse in a past relationship with an 'undiagnosed autistic man'. Jodi empathizes with the viewer but stresses the importance of distinguishing between autism and narcissistic, abusive behavior. She explains that individuals with autism are not inherently abusive, whereas those with a #personalitydisorder can be. Jodi points out that the difficulty of autistic individuals to recognize their partners' distress does not make them abusive although it can feel like it to partners. She also highlights the importance of listening to gut instincts about personal safety if you are in a questionable relationship. To watch the video on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/vZjDrNXDaoA   00:01 Introduction and Viewer's Comment 00:12 The Commenter's Relationship Experience 01:44 Jodi Carlton's Response and Clarification 02:25 Understanding Autism vs Narcissism 03:39 The Traits of Autistic Individuals 04:31 The Pattern of Abusive Behaviors 05:03 Advice for Those in Similar Situations 05:53 Conclusion and Resources ___________________

BONUS Episode: Neurodiversity Nugget What happens in some relationships is in the beginning, there was this chemistry, there was this connection,  and it was great. There is often a lot happening there physically. Some of that greatness, though, was your own perception of greatness that was influenced by what you hoped for and wanted. When you are looking for confirmation that the relationship is good, you are more likely to perceive it as a good experience. You may actually miss how your partner is perceiving it, and have totally different memories and narratives about your sex life. _______________

This clip is from a Q & A where a neurotypical partner asked how to handle social outings with friends when you each have different preferences about socializing.  I share a tip for how to manage this so both of you are satisfied.  

Men and women often have very different #neurodivergent traits and the criteria for #autism was originally developed based on men. In this video, I discuss some of the unique differences in men and women. #autism #neurodivergent #autisticwomen #autisticmen #neurodiverserelationships ___________________

In this video, originally recorded for an audience of women in relationships with #autistic men on the spectrum, I discuss SOME of the main characteristics of being in a #NeurodiverseRelationship. Women on the spectrum may also have some of these characteristics, but this video is specifically for neurotypical partners in relationships with men. Take my autism assessment at jodicarlton.com #autismsigns #neurodivergent #signsofautism #asd #autismtest #jodicarlton #aspergers #aspergersinmen

Getting blindsided in any kind of relationship is horrible, whether it's a dating relationship, well into a marriage, a friendship, or A working relationship. It never feels good to feel blindsided. In actuality, we oftentimes get in our own way in being able to see who people really are. Sometimes it's hard to know how to make decisions about the people we meet - friendships, dating relationships - and we don't know how to keep ourselves safe. We don't know how to identify a healthy relationship.   I'm Jodi Carlton, and I'm an adult neurodiversity expert, but I also specialize in working with people to recognize when they're in abusive relationships. I'm going to give you three tips to help you keep yourself safe and avoid getting blindsided. For more resources or to work with me, visit me online at: jodicarlton.com   

When neurodiverse partners have different thresholds for household tasks and even relationship involvement, it is common for a "parent-child" dynamic to emerge. One partner takes on an authoritative role that issues directives, and the other becomes more child-like waiting on tasks to be assigned (and sometimes resisting to follow through).   This type of dynamic does NOT work in any relationship. In this BONUS clip, I discuss why, and how to address it in your relationship.   For more comprehensive guidance with your relationship difficulties, access my communication course: Crack The Communication Code at JodiCarlton.com

A #traumatic accident turned this #neurodiverse relationship completely around. Tune in to this final episode of Season 3 to hear how Kristen's marriage has changed thanks to hard work and a complete mindset shift. #autistic #neurodivergent #trauma #therapy #jodicarlton #podcast YOUR Neurodiverse Relationship Podcast; Season 3 - Episode 13 ___________________

Being in #toxicrelationship that never improve is like making a lifelong commitment to #dysfunction. In a #neurodiverserelationship, each partner can be a #toxicpartner. In part 2 of this episode of "YOUR Neurodiverse Relationship" podcast, Barbara Grant a neurodiverse relationship coach talks with me about the pitfalls that block success for couples. Today is part two of my discussion with Barbara Grant, who is also a #neurodiversity coach and a relationship therapist. If you missed part one, be sure and go back and listen to it. Our conversation has been really great from the perspective of therapists who also have had neurodiverse marriages and other relationships with people who are neurodiverse. We talk about being in those relationships, but also the challenges of therapy and coaching for couples and also for therapists. Find Barbara at: https://hopeforcouples.net If you are a therapist or coach who works with neurodiverse individuals and couples, email me at gethelp@jodicarlton.com to inquire about joining my Neurodiverse Professional Peer Support and Referral Network #divorce #neurodivergent #autistic #marriagecounseling #therapist  ___________________

In this episode of the "YOUR Neurodiverse Relationship" podcast, my guest, Barbara Grant, and I discuss insights about #counseling and #therapy for that will benefit both therapists and couples. Part 2 of this podcast episodes airs on Wed, Aug 16, 2023. Season 3, Episode 11 airs Wed, Aug 2nd here on YouTube and on your favorite podcast platform! https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLSyXJdjUav7pSwpq7nmSdEQZMwiI3eqHR Barbara Grant is a Certified Autism Specialist, ADHD and Neurodiverse Couples Coach, finishing her Masters in MFT (Marriage and Family Therapy.) She has been a therapeutic and spiritual coach since 2005, working with individuals, couples, and groups. Her current neurodiverse neurotypical couples coaching practice also focuses on individuals and families, as well as on offering neurotypical partners and family members support through online therapeutic groups. While she is neurotypical, but has 64+ years of experience with close family members who are neurodiverse. She utilizes her experience to provide clients with compassion, understanding and HOPE. As part of the neurodiverse professional community, she is excited about participating in the ongoing dialog about how to best support and strengthen neurodiverse people and their relationships. Visit Barbara online: https://bg-hc.com/ ___________________