The Autism & ADHD Ally Handbook: Creating a Neurodivergent-Friendly World - Paperback

by Ryan Anderson (Author)

At least one fifth of the people we know are neurodivergent. They are the ones who think, feel, and sense the world differently. They may have a formal diagnosis such as ADHD, autism, or dyslexia. Or they may have a unique brain, whether from birth or experience, that means they process information differently from the majority of people around them. If you've ever felt frustrated, upset, put off, or misunderstood by a neurodivergent person in your life?and also want to be a better partner, parent, friend, or manager to them?this book is for you. Therapist Ryan Anderson points out that most neurodivergent people spend their lives accommodating the neurotypicals around them, masking and practicing skills to blend in and avoid causing discomfort or inconvenience, but they are still subject to much higher rates of unemployment, social rejection and bullying, mental health disorders, violence, and suicide. Anderson saw the need for a skills guide for neurotypicals who are ready to take on their share of the work to build stronger relationships and create a safer, more just world. Whether your challenge is communication with your partner, writing work emails, a kid who is changing schools, or a friend who's hard to make plans with, or you're a clinician who works with neurodivergent clients, you'll find wise, practicable guidance and perspectives here.

Author Biography

Ryan Anderson, Ph.D., LMFT, MedFT has a Bachelor's degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development, a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Ph.D. in Medical Family Therapy. He has over 20 years of clinical experience as a therapist. He has extensive experience working with neurodivergent people and has presented on neurodivergence-related topics at over 60 local, regional, and national conferences. He has published over a dozen articles in professional journals and has authored and co-authored five textbook chapters. He also co-founded and ran a specialized school that works with the biological, psychological, social, and academic needs of neurodivergent young adults as they transition into young adulthood.