April 2
Print versions available April 2nd
Understanding Communication and Relationships in Autism
I am pleased to announce the release of the third volume in The Understanding Autism Series: Understanding Communication and Relationships in Autism.
Relationships are rarely difficult because people do not care. More often, they become strained because communication is misunderstood — tone is misread, intentions are misinterpreted, or expectations remain unspoken.
In this volume, I explore how communication actually works in everyday relationships and why it can feel especially complex for autistic adolescents and adults. Drawing from more than 30 years of clinical experience in neuropsychology and nearly 1,000 autism evaluations, this book translates research and diagnostic criteria into practical, real-life application.
Topics include:
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The distinction between task-focused and relationship-focused interaction
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Navigating compliments, gratitude, and reciprocity
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Understanding how shame and misinterpretation affect connection
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Practical strategies for conflict repair and relational resilience
This book is written for autistic adults, partners, parents, and professionals who want greater clarity — not scripts or masking, but understanding. When insight increases, relationships become less fragile and more grounded in mutual respect.
Understanding Communication and Relationships in Autism builds on the foundation of the first two volumes and continues the goal of the series: to increase understanding across the lifespan.
I am deeply grateful to the individuals and families whose experiences have shaped this work, and I hope this book offers meaningful support to those navigating communication and connection in their own lives.
ABOUT ME
Theresa Regan, PhD, CAS
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Neuropsychologist: Specialist in Brain-Behavior Relationships
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Clinical provider in hospital settings > 30 years
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Founder and Director of an Autism Diagnostic Clinic for ages 14 and over
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Experienced in autism assessment (nearly 1000 adolescent and adult evaluations) and psychotherapy
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Has served individuals from 11 states outside of IL who travel to receive an evaluation
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Author: Understanding Autism book series
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Podcast Host: Autism in the Adult
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Author of CE courses for professionals: Zur Institute Autism Certificate
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Mother of an autistic young adult
Autism expertise is essential for providing accurate diagnoses and effective support for individuals on the spectrum across their lifespan. At Autism in the Adult, Dr. Theresa Regan leverages her extensive experience as a neuropsychologist to guide individuals and families through the complexities of autism. Whether through her books, podcast, or one-on-one consultations, Dr. Regan's resources are designed to enhance understanding and improve daily living for neurodiverse individuals.
Testimonials
Your podcast has helped me in my personal life so much and I'm very grateful for all of your information and that you communicate in such a positive and considerate manner.
Read, Listen, Grow
Understanding Autistic Behaviors
Designed by Dr. Regan to help you recognize neurologic behaviors and respond in ways that promote positive change. Each chapter includes education followed by a workbook format allowing you to put your knowledge to use for the ASD individual in your life.
Whether you are an individual on the autism spectrum, a parent, caregiver, teacher, or clinician, this book will help you achieve positive behavior change at ANY age.
Understanding Autism in Adults and Aging Adults
A unique resource created to enhance the accurate diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in adults. The book includes compelling clinical narratives that vividly illustrate the concepts discussed. The guide provides strategy-driven interventions to tackle personal and household management challenges, medical care, communication, sensory processing, and emotional and behavioral centering.
