Welcome to my Blog

Thank you for stopping by. This space is where I share research, reflections, and practical tools drawn from my experience as a marriage and family therapist.

Are you a couple looking for clarity? A professional curious about the science of relationships? Or simply someone interested in how love and resilience work? I’m glad you’ve found your way here. I can help with that.

Each post is written with one goal in mind: to help you better understand yourself, your partner, and the hidden dynamics that shape human connection.

Grab a coffee (or a notebook), explore what speaks to you, and take what’s useful back into your life and relationships. And if a post sparks a question, or makes you realize you could use more support, I’d love to hear from you.

Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
~Daniel

P.S.

Feel free to explore the categories below to find past blog posts on the topics that matter most to you. If you’re curious about attachment, navigating conflict, or strengthening intimacy, these archives are a great way to dive deeper into the research and insights that I’ve been sharing for years.

 

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Silent Thinkers: Embracing neurodiversity in a noisy world

In our increasingly fast-paced and loud world, growing awareness of neurodiversity has revealed the unique strengths and challenges faced by those who think differently.

Among these diverse cognitive profiles are the "silent thinkers," who process information internally without the typical verbal inner dialogue.

This article explores the concept of silent thinkers, highlighting their contributions and the importance of recognizing and embracing neurodiversity.

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Internal Monologue Test: Discover your inner voice

Ever wondered if you have an inner voice that guides your thoughts and decisions? The concept of the internal monologue is fascinating, and it's something that varies greatly from person to person.

Some folks have a constant stream of verbal thoughts, while others think in images, concepts, or even without any inner dialogue at all.

Take this fun and informative test to find out more about your own internal monologue!

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7 Traits that might indicate Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompasses a wide range of behaviors and traits that are unique to each individual.

Recognizing these traits can help foster better understanding and support.

Here are seven key traits that might suggest someone is on the autism spectrum, along with strategies to support and accommodate these characteristics.

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Genius and Aspergers

The relationship between genius and Asperger's Syndrome (AS) is a topic that has intrigued scientists, historians, and the general public alike.

High-functioning Asperger's, a condition on the autism spectrum, is often characterized by intense focus, exceptional memory, and deep passion for specific subjects—traits that can contribute to extraordinary achievements in various fields.

This post considers the nuanced connection between high-functioning Asperger's and genius, highlighting the contributions of folks who may have bridged these two realms.

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Twice Exceptional Schools vs. Schools for Gifted Students

When exploring educational options for advanced learners, parents and educators often encounter the terms "twice exceptional schools" and "schools for gifted students."

While both cater to high-potential students, they serve distinct populations and employ different educational strategies.

This post explores the differences between these two types of schools and provides a list of iconic institutions in the USA that excel in catering to gifted and twice-exceptional (2e) students.

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ADHD Couples Therapy: in-depth tasks and strategies

Couples therapy is inherently complex, but when one partner has ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), the challenges intensify.

It's vital for therapists to comprehend the unique difficulties and strengths ADHD introduces into a relationship.

This post describes essential tasks and strategies for fostering a robust and satisfying relationship when one partner has ADHD, drawing from the latest research in the field.

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Rapid prenatal brain growth linked to Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a wide range of symptoms and challenges that affect children differently.

While some children exhibit mild symptoms that improve over time, others face severe, lifelong difficulties, such as nonverbal communication.

Scientists have long been puzzled by this variability.

However, a groundbreaking study from the University of California-San Diego suggests that the biological roots of these different autism subtypes — mild and severe — begin in the womb.

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What is auADHD?

auDHD is an abbreviation combining "autism" and "ADHD" (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), referring to folks who have both of these neurodevelopmental conditions simultaneously.

While autism and ADHD are often seen as separate diagnoses, recent research indicates a significant overlap between the two in terms of symptoms and genetic factors.

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High Functioning Autism in Females

High-functioning autism (HFA), often referred to as Asperger's Syndrome, is characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors.

While autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is more commonly diagnosed in males, recent research has highlighted that high-functioning autism in females presents unique symptoms that often go unrecognized, leading to underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis.

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High-Functioning Autism and Defiance

High-functioning autism (HFA), also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Level 1, encompasses folks with average to above-average intelligence but who face significant challenges in social interactions, communication, and behavior.

Defiance in folks with HFA is a complex issue, influenced by a variety of factors.

Let’s ponder the intricacies of high-functioning autism and defiance, exploring research findings and practical strategies for managing these behaviors.

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High-Functioning Autism and Tics

High-functioning autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurological developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction, communication challenges, and repetitive behaviors.

A lesser-explored aspect within high-functioning autism is the occurrence of tics, which can significantly impact the quality of life and daily functioning.

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