Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw

What is the Autism Iceberg?

The Autism Iceberg is a metaphorical concept that is frequently used to illustrate the complexity and depth of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

This analogy suggests that what is observable about a person with autism, represented by the tip of the iceberg, is just a tiny fraction of the characteristics and challenges they experience, with the bulk of their experiences lying beneath the surface, hidden from immediate view.

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Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw

Autism ruined my marriage

Despite the challenges we faced, there is hope for our marriage now. Through therapy with you and open communication, we slowly learned to bridge the gap between us.

I've come to realize that accepting Mark's autism doesn't mean trying to change him… but rather embracing him for who he is.

And, just as you predicted, we've also found solace in the autism community, connecting with others who share similar experiences.

It's comforting to know that we're not alone in our struggles and that others understand what we're going through.

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Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw

What is Monotropic Autism?

Understanding the unique dynamics of monotropic autism can profoundly impact your relationship.

As a couples therapist, I've encountered many couples navigating the complexities of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Let's discuss the concept of monotropic autism and its implications for relationships…

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Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw

Autism and Narcissism

Sorting out the difference between autism and narcissism can be very complicated.

However, I’ve found that good clinical skills often entail tracking the client’s use and understanding of Cognitive Empathy.

Cognitive Empathy consists of recognizing and naming emotions in oneself and others.

An autistic human genuinely struggles to detect Cognitive Empathy, while a narcissist selectively deploys Cognitive Empathy... Therein lies the distinction.

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Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw

Twice-exceptional students

Twice-exceptional adults refer to individuals who possess both outstanding intellectual abilities, often in the form of giftedness, and one or more disabilities or challenges, such as ADHD, dyslexia, or autism spectrum disorder.

Research on this population has gained momentum recently, shedding light on their unique strengths, challenges, and needs.

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Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw Neurodiverse Couples Daniel Dashnaw

Am I a neurodivergent female?

Neurodiversity can be a characteristic of humans of all genders, but females have often been underrepresented and overlooked in both research and clinical practice.

Historically, diagnostic criteria and assessment tools have been based on male presentations of neurodivergent traits, leading to the underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis of females.

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