Abstract

Proven counseling strategies that will help improve the relationships of married, long-term or co-habiting couples with Asperger's Syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder).

ASD relationship expert Eva A. Mendes provides advice straight from the couples' counselling room that can be applied in day-to-day living and help with the challenges that can arise in relationships where one or both partners are on the autism spectrum. This includes issues surrounding diagnosis, mental health, sexual compatibility, sensory needs, executive functioning, theory of mind, communication, and co-parenting. She offers unique practical ideas for positive change such as creating a relationship schedule, making expression of appreciation and gratitude a part of every day, and finding mutually satisfying activities and special interests to engage in with your partner. The strategies in this book will be useful to couples themselves and any couples' counselors or therapists working with them.

Wow! Marriage and Lasting Relationships with Asperger's Syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a thorough, finely written, insightful, real-world analysis of neurodiverse interpersonal relationships. Author Eva Mendes knows, really knows, what ASD is all about, how it can bewilder, irritate or even collapse a relationship. Partners trying to communicate through the curves of Asperger syndrome and autism will be able to use Mendes' guidance to great advantage. Couples lives will be touched and changed for the better, thanks to this book!
Liane Holliday Willey, author of Safety Skills for Asperger Women and Pretending to be Normal
Eva A. Mendes, M.A., LMHC, is an Asperger's Syndrome/Autism Spectrum Disorder specialist, psychotherapist, and couples counselor. She works with neurodiverse couples, and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She leads the Spouse, Couples, and Women's Support Groups at the Asperger/Autism Network (AANE). She also facilitates workshops, and trainings at various universities, mental health and medical centers. She received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Union Institute and University and her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from Vermont College. She lives in Arlington, Massachusetts.
This wise and practical book lays out easy-to-implement strategies covering all areas of living for the neurodiverse couple. Couples employing these ready to use solutions will find a beacon of hope helping to pave their way to better understanding and harmonious relationships.
from the foreword by Stephen M. Shore, EdD, Clinical Assistant Professor at Adelphi University, internationally known author, speaker, and individual on the autism spectrum
Eva Mendes has precisely addressed 'emotional-disconnect' in Asperger/HFA relationships, something that I learned through life...the hard way. I wish I had read this book ten years ago, it would have prevented a lot of pain, discomfort and confusion as I navigated my way through life. The language is comfortable and conversational, the anecdotes and real-life stories seem like they were written about me. This book should be read by everyone who is on the spectrum but more so by those who love someone with ASD. As our numbers grow and more of us find out about our social awkwardness being a consequence of the spectrum, sharing war stories like the ones in this book will help millions of people around the world. Thank you, Eva, for writing about us, talented professionals on the Autism spectrum who are tired of wearing the mask of conformity.
Qazi Fazli Azeem, South Asian self-advocate for the Autism spectrum
In Marriage and Lasting Relationships with Asperger's Syndrome Eva Mendes presents proven strategies to help neurodiverse couples in tricky relationships. What makes this book so helpful-what makes it stand apart-is her ability to elucidate the realities of both partners in a neurodiverse relationship, with helpful insights and genuine compassion for everyone involved.
David Finch, New York Times best-selling author of The Journal of Best Practices: A Memoir of Marriage, Asperger Syndrome, and One Man's Quest to Be a Better Husband