Curious about how neurodiverse couples therapy can help you and your intimate partner? Neurodiversity is becoming more widely understood across the world. While most people associate it with autism, there are a variety of conditions that can make someone neurodivergent. It simply means that their brain works differently than what is considered neurotypical.
Neurodivergent people can often enjoy all of the same life experiences as everyone else. That includes healthy, loving relationships. However, it’s not always easy for neurodivergent partners to communicate effectively. Since communication is a key component of a healthy relationship, that can create some difficulties. Thankfully, couples counseling can help—especially when you lean into a counselor specializing in neurodivergent needs.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits of neurodiverse couples therapy for neurodivergent partners. Whether you or your partner is neurodiverse, you can find healthy ways to communicate and connect with just a bit of help and guidance.
You’ll See Where Your Partner is Coming From
People in relationships often have a hard enough time understanding their partner’s perspective on an issue or situation. However, that divide in understanding can become wider when you’re with a neurodivergent person. If you’re both neurodivergent, it can be even harder to feel like you’re on the same page because you think about things differently.
That doesn’t mean your relationship is “doomed.” It doesn’t even mean you’re opposites. Chances are, you have the same ideas and end goals in mind. You just have different ways of approaching them. Couples counseling can help you learn more about your partner’s neurodiversity and how they communicate and understand things. The more you understand how they process things (and vice versa), the easier it is to take positive communication steps and approach things in ways you’ll both understand.
You Can Shift Your Perspective
It’s not uncommon for neurodivergent partners to come into couples therapy assuming their differences will drive them apart. Therapy can change your perspective on those differences. Instead of fighting against them, you can accept them. When you accept each other’s differences, you might find how your partner thinks about things intriguing or endearing. You’ll be more tolerant of those differences, especially if you both choose to accept each other’s traits and characteristics moving forward. After all, your partner’s neurodivergence doesn’t define them. But it’s part of what makes them unique. As someone who loves them, it’s important to accept that.
You’ll Set Clear Goals and Intentions
When you think differently than your partner, you might have a hard time figuring out where your relationship is going. Again, there’s a good chance you both have the same goals in mind. You just have different approaches.
Therapy can help to remind you and your partner that you’re on the same team. You might not always see things the same way and have different ways of tackling issues. But, it’s important to constantly look ahead and remind yourself what you want for the future—together.
A couples therapist will make it easier for you to clearly set intentions for your relationship. They’ll help you work on goals as individuals and as a couple. When you’re able to keep those goals in mind, you’ll have a focal point within the relationship. They will serve as reminders that you want the same things and can help you take a step back to consider your partner’s approach.
From improved communication to better a better connection, neurodiverse couples therapy is a great way for neurodivergent partners to feel closer. The thought processes that make you and your partner unique can go from confusing to endearing if you’re willing to open up and change your perspective. If you’re interested in learning more or you’re ready to set up an appointment, feel free to contact me.
