Some Things To Consider To Make Dating Easier-Dr. Kenneth Roberson

For more then 20 years, Dr. Kenneth Roberson has been providing therapy for both autistic individuals and neurodiverse couples and he also conducts ASD assessments.. During this episode he shares some of the topics he discusses with clients to provide support and guidance for autistic clients who want to have successful dating experiences. Some of the topics addressed include:

• The importance of focusing on and using your individuals strengths in the dating process (ie: kindness, thoughtfulness, honesty)
• Focus conversation on areas of mutual interest.
• Become aware of the triggers that may lead to a meltdown and avoid going to places that may lead to triggering reactions.
• Understand your sensory sensitivities and plan a date that will be sensory friendly. Make sure the place you are meeting works for both of you.
• Don't try to be something you 're not and exhaust or overwhelm yourself.
• Pace yourself. Socializing requires a lot of energy and you may have to recharge your social battery.
• Be patient with the dating process. It takes time to get to know someone and for them to get to know you.
• Ask thoughtful and relevant questions without making the conversation an interview.
• To show interest, respect and to make a connection, you may want to prepare some questions before the date.
• Trust your suspicions, if something or someone seems "off" you can leave the date or end it.
• Think about and get clear about what you want in a partner before you begin dating.
• You may want to ask friends to help you write an online dating profile, as they may help you recognize some of your strengths that might be important in the dating process.
• Determine if you want to share some of your autistic traits on your dating profile, or if you want to state that you are autistic and share what that means for you and what you are looking for in a partner.
• Meeting for something casual for a first meeting...like a cup of coffee or a walk, instead of a formal date.
• Fear of rejection during dating is normal. People will get rejected and ghosted. Each time it happens we have an opportunity to learn and grow and move forward to find someone who is a better fit for us.

You can contact Dr. Roberson by email at: dr.roberson@kennethrobersonphd.com or check out his website at: www.kennethrobersonphd

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