When it comes to relationships, understanding each other's inner worlds can be as tricky as finding a parking spot in downtown Manhattan.

This process is called mentalization—it’s the imaginative mental ability to understand and interpret one's own and others' thoughts, feelings, and intentions.

Now, throw in neurodiversity—a term that acknowledges and celebrates the variety of human brains and cognitive functioning—and you have a recipe for some truly fascinating dynamics. I’ll also touch on Bi-polar disorder as well.

Unlocking the secret to achieving a flow state can transform how you work, create, and live.

For my gentle neurodiverse readers, understanding and entering this heightened state of focus and creativity can be both a challenge and a game-changer.

While traditional advice on achieving flow often includes familiar, ho-hum strategies like setting clear goals or minimizing distractions, here are five lesser-known techniques that can help you tap into your flow state.

Let's dive in!

In the year 2094, the world had become a place where the line between human and machine was no longer a blur, but a chasm. The multi-exceptional learners—those rare souls blessed with both prodigious intellectual gifts and additional challenges—were at the forefront of this new age.

These multi-exceptional individuals had become the backbone of human advancement, surpassing even the most advanced artificial intelligences.

Imagine a child who is both a gifted genius and faces learning challenges.

Yes, these kids are like superheroes with a twist. The term "twice-exceptional" (2e) refers to children who are exceptionally gifted in one or more areas and have a learning disability or other developmental challenge.

Think of it as having a turbocharged brain with a few tricky wiring issues.

Twice-exceptional (2e) children are a remarkable and intriguing group, embodying a blend of high intellectual abilities and unique learning challenges.

These young folks possess extraordinary talents in areas such as mathematics, science, the arts, or creative thinking, yet they also navigate the complexities of learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or other developmental hurdles.

The term "twice-exceptional" highlights this duality, where exceptional gifts coexist with significant challenges. Imagine a superhero with a brilliant mind who occasionally stumbles over daily tasks—this paradoxical combination can make their educational and social experiences both fascinating and frustrating.

Parenting can feel like a game of whack-a-mole: just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, another challenge pops up.

One question that might have you pondering during those sleepless nights is, “Is my child neurodivergent?”

It runs in families… just sayin’.

As a family therapist interested in science and human behavior, I'm here to help you navigate this complex question.

Clarice Babson (not her real name), a dynamic 27-year-old art director, recently found herself entangled in a complex emotional web after a workplace affair with her co-worker, Davida.

Her husband, Barry, a neurodiverse veterinarian with an anxiety disorder, is grappling with the aftermath of this revelation.

As they navigate the intricacies of their relationship, they are also exploring the possibilities of an open marriage and the unique challenges neurodiversity poses.

This transcript of a repair dialogue sheds light on their journey towards healing, interspersed with my commentary on their discussion on bisexuality, open marriage, and neurodiversity.

Marcia Pignelli, (not her real name) a vibrant 54-year-old woman with a knack for gardening and a passion for classic literature, recently faced a revelation that has reshaped her understanding of herself.

A retired elementary school teacher, Marcia has always been known for her meticulous attention to detail and her unwavering dedication to her students.

Living with her partner, Lisa, in a cozy rural home, Marcia had long attributed her quirks and sensitivities to just being "a bit different."

However, when she received an autism diagnosis, her world turned upside down.

Join us as we eavesdrop into Marcia’s journey, exploring the challenges and triumphs of navigating a late-life autism diagnosis with humor, grace, and newfound insight.

Neurodiverse couples, where one or both partners are on the autism spectrum or have other neurodivergent traits like ADHD, being twice-exceptional, (or just being wicked smart), often face unique, sometimes hilarious challenges that can impact their relationships.

Let’s explore the top 9 issues and sprinkle in some storytelling along the way.

Working memory, the brain's temporary storage system, is like a mental sticky note for tasks at hand.

It helps us hold and manipulate information for a short period, enabling us to perform complex cognitive tasks like learning, reasoning, and understanding.

However, working memory is not one-size-fits-all.

Its capacity and efficiency can vary significantly between neurotypical and neurodiverse folks.

Let’s consider some of these differences, and discuss brain hacks and interventions.

Recent research highlights a concerning connection between autism, ADHD, and an increased risk of early death. Geez….

A comprehensive review of 27 separate studies indicates that folks with autism or ADHD face double the risk of dying prematurely compared to the general population.

Here is what you need to know…

As a marriage and family therapist who happens to do a lot of couples therapy, I'm often on the lookout for inexpensive and effective interventions for common issues like ADHD.

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by excessive activity, impulsive behavior, and inattention.

While managing these symptoms can seem daunting, recent research highlights simple yet powerful strategies that can make a difference.