We've all heard the classic joke about overthinking: "Why make a simple decision when you can turn it into an existential crisis?"

While it’s a funny quirk for many, overthinking is a frequent reality for twice-exceptional (2E) partners.

These are people who are both intellectually gifted and have neurodevelopmental challenges like ADHD, autism, or sensory processing disorders.

In relationships, this can lead to seemingly simple moments morphing into a mental maze, with science offering fascinating insights into why.

Let’s explore how twice-exceptionality impacts relationships, grounded in solid research—and yes, we’ll throw in some humor along the way.

In the age of the “sapiosexual,” where brains have become the new biceps, there’s more to this meme-worthy attraction to intelligence than meets the eye.

Sure, it’s fun to joke about intellectual banter being foreplay, but for some, the pull towards intelligence isn’t just about showing off trivia night skills or flexing one’s knowledge of philosophy.

For others, particularly those within the neurodiverse community, intelligence can manifest in deeply unique and meaningful ways.

So let’s take this conversation a step further.

We’ll explore why intelligence turns us on, discuss how neurodiversity—the spectrum of cognitive differences such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia—adds complexity to this attraction, and break down the science behind why being “brainy” is sexy.

Intimacy in long-term relationships is a lot like cooking: at the beginning, it’s all about the sizzle and the spice, but as time goes on, it becomes about the slow, steady simmer.

For both neurotypical and neurodiverse couples, the way intimacy evolves over time is distinct but equally rich.

Let’s consider how intimacy progresses differently, yet beautifully, in these two types of relationships, supported by social science and insights from autism thought leaders.

Living with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can feel like a continuous struggle—focusing on tasks, staying organized, and managing time can be difficult, but it’s the mental restlessness that many find most challenging.

While we often think of ADHD as a condition that affects focus and behavior, recent research shows that its emotional impact can be just as profound.

A new study published in Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy reveals that excessive mind wandering, rumination, and reduced mindfulness may mediate the relationship between ADHD and symptoms of anxiety and depression.

ADHD and Hypersexuality: Navigating the Challenges with Compassion

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often associated with symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

However, a lesser-known aspect of ADHD is its potential link to hypersexuality, a condition characterized by excessive or uncontrollable sexual behavior.

Understanding this connection is crucial for individuals and couples navigating the challenges that ADHD can bring to relationships and personal well-being.

Mary Sheedy Kurcinka’s Raising Your Spirited Child remains a seminal guide for parents grappling with the challenges and rewards of raising children who are more intense, sensitive, perceptive, persistent, and energetic.

The third edition of this influential book not only revisits these characteristics with updated research but also delves into how these traits intersect with neurodiversity and the concept of the Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) as a diagnostic framework.

By integrating these elements, Kurcinka offers a comprehensive approach to understanding and nurturing spirited children.

Picture this: You pull into a crowded parking lot, and against all odds, you spot it—a prime parking spot, right up front, just waiting for you. You glide in with precision, step out of your car, and for a brief moment, you feel like the CEO of parking.

Congratulations, my friend, you’ve just made an “Everyday Boss Move.”

But what exactly are these everyday boss moves, and why do they make us feel so darn powerful?

Let’s dive into the psychology behind these small yet mighty victories, explore how mindfulness plays a role, and see how celebrating these moments can turn a regular day into a winning streak.

Imagine this: You’re in the middle of a Netflix binge, and suddenly, the dreaded uncertainty hits—have you misplaced the remote?

For most, this would spark a frantic search, but not for you.

With the calm precision of a seasoned detective, you reach under the couch cushion and voilà—there it is.

You’ve just exercised one of your "petty superpowers," and while it may seem trivial, the truth is, these small abilities are more significant than you might think.

In this post, we’re diving into the quirky world of petty superpowers, exploring how they’re linked to the power of attention and mindfulness.

Yes, even the ability to peel off a sticker without leaving residue can teach us something profound about mental awareness and discipline. So, let’s unpack the science behind these seemingly insignificant skills and why they matter more than you might imagine.

We all have them—those tiny quirks that make us fixate on the most minute details, transforming them into what psychologists might call "micro-obsessions."

Whether it's the way a friend slightly mispronounces a word or the compulsive need to rearrange your desk until everything is "just right," these micro-obsessions can seem trivial on the surface.

But what if I told you that these tiny fixations might be emblematic of something much larger? And, what if they could even be a clever way to gauge the attention span of those around us?

Let’s dive into the fascinating psychology behind micro-obsessions, why they form, and what Van Halen’s famous brown M&Ms demand has to do with all of this.

In today’s rapidly evolving work environment, the concepts of diversity and inclusion are more critical than ever.

As organizations strive to create spaces where all employees can thrive, Ludmila N. Praslova’s book, The Canary Code: A Guide to Neurodiversity, Dignity, and Intersectional Belonging at Work, emerges as an interesting voice.

This book not only challenges us to rethink inclusion but also offers practical strategies to transform our workplaces into spaces of true belonging.

As a couples therapist specializing in neurodiverse families , I know how important it is to recognize and understand the signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) early on.

Whether you're a concerned parent, a supportive partner, or someone looking to expand your understanding, this guide provides an approachable overview of the signs of autism across different stages of life.

Early intervention is key to helping those on the spectrum reach their full potential.

As a marriage and family therapist dedicated to enhancing the well-being of American families, I find the recent findings from the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences both enlightening and directly relevant to our work in couples and family therapy.

The study uncovers significant sex-related differences in the brain's subcortical gray matter—areas like the hippocampus, thalamus, and amygdala, which are pivotal for memory, emotion regulation, and sensory processing. Let's jump in!