Relationship Counselling with Autistic Neurodiverse Couples: A Guide for Professionals

Enhance your practice and improve outcomes for autistic clients with this indispensable guide by world-leading autism experts Tony Attwood and Maxine Aston.

When working with couples where one or both partners are autistic, traditional therapeutic approaches can fall short. Differences in communication styles, expectations, and emotional processing can lead to misunderstandings-not only between partners but also between clients and their counsellor. Without a deep understanding of autism, therapists may unintentionally provide advice that is ineffective or even harmful.

This book bridges the gap between conventional relationship counselling and the specific needs of neurodiverse couples. Drawing on research and firsthand accounts from autistic individuals and their partners, it equips therapists with the essential knowledge and practical strategies needed to provide affirming, effective support.

From identifying autism in the counselling room to making meaningful adaptations in sessions, this resource will expand your therapeutic toolkit and empower you to foster healthier, more fulfilling relationships for neurodiverse couples.

Maxine Aston is an author, qualified counsellor and supervisor. Maxine presents Autism awareness workshops to counsellors and professionals who may encounter clients affected by Autism. She also runs workshops and support groups for partners and parents that live with an Autistic Person. Maxine has an MSc in Health Psychology and a regular speaker at National and International Autism conferences.

Professor Tony Attwood, PhD, is a clinical psychologist who has over 50 years of experience working with autistic individuals. He is currently an Adjunct Professor at Griffith University in Queensland. He co-founded Attwood & Garnett Events with Michelle Garnett in 2019.