Dr. Theresa Regan explains how friendships evolve with brain development and why autistic individuals may struggle when social demands change—especially in middle school and high school—exploring theory of mind, social vs. non-social emotions, and shifting friendship expectations.

The episode offers practical guidance on recognizing different friendship styles, reducing blame, and using curiosity and communication to build authentic connections.

Dr. Theresa Regan explores how play—humor, teasing, shared activities, and quiet companionship—shapes friendships, family life, dating, work, and parenting across adulthood.

The episode explains adult play styles, how autistic and non-autistic people may experience play differently, why teasing can hurt or connect, and offers practical questions to improve understanding and closeness.

Understanding Autism Book Series

Autism in the Adult website

In this episode Dr. Theresa Regan explores why connection sometimes feels confusing by distinguishing task-oriented moments (doing and finishing) from social-oriented moments (sharing and bonding). Through relatable examples—a painting day gone sideways and a family seeking emotional presence—she shows how different expectations create everyday misunderstandings.

The episode offers a simple takeaway: notice what kind of moment you and the other person want, make intentional choices, and balance needs to reduce confusion and strengthen relationships.

Understanding Autism Book Series

Autism in the Adult website

Neuropsychologist Dr. Theresa Regan explains theory of mind—our ability to recognize that others have different thoughts, feelings, and perspectives—how it develops, and how it varies across neurotypes, including autism.

Using examples from childhood, adolescence, and adult life, she shows how perspective-taking influences communication and relationships, and encourages curiosity to bridge misunderstandings and improve connection.

Understanding Autism Book Series

Autism in the Adult website

Dr. Theresa Regan returns from sabbatical to introduce her new book, "Understanding Communication and Relationships and Autism," and shares how her clinical and personal experiences shaped it.

She explains that many relational conflicts come from different nervous systems interpreting the same moment differently, offers real-life examples, and invites listeners to shift from blame to curiosity, revelation, and practical strategies for stronger relationships.

Understanding Autism Book Series

Autism in the Adult website

Join Dr. Regan in an episode about the power of small talk as a social welcome mat and a way of testing the waters before creating longer social connections.

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Autism in the Adult website

Resources for professionals

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Join Dr. Regan for this episode of the Lifespan of a Household Series. The episode focuses on the experience of the autistic adult during the seasons of retirement and the empty nest.

Calendar example:

Autism in the Adult website

Resources for professionals

Video Visits

Video Courses

Join Dr. Regan for this episode of the Lifespan of a Household Series. The episode focuses on the experience of the autistic parent in a household with teens and young adults. Dr. Regan discusses the child's quest for identity and separation and the parent's changing role. She reviews coping strategies for the parent during this time of transition and uncertainty.

Autism in the Adult website

Resources for professionals

Video Visits

Video Courses