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
Neuropsychologist, Certified Autism Specialist, and Director of a Diagnostic Autism Clinic in Peoria, IL
Theresa Regan
I am an adult neuropsychologist with a specialization in brain-behavior relationships. I'm also the mother of an amazing autistic son. Before his diagnosis, I knew the shame that comes from hearing others say, "That would never happen in my house" or "Please have his crying better before returning to the infant program." I received an overwhelming amount of parenting advice, but nothing helped.
It wasn't until my son was 5-years-old that someone took a moment to say, "I hope you know you're a good mom." The truth is, I hadn't known that. I was so grateful to be seen and supported during the confusing journey. It was soon after that my son received a diagnosis of autism and our path became purposeful.
My working knowledge of brain-behavior relationships merged with my personal journey. I was amazed to interact with adults in my work setting and realize, "This individual is on the spectrum, but they've never received a correct diagnosis!"
I offer individuals the hope and validation of having a correct diagnosis and a direction to move forward. With accurate diagnosis, individuals can understand how they are "wired," have words to express their needs, and finally feel understood by others. With a correct diagnosis, spouses and children of autistic adults can leave behind the feelings of rejection that have accompanied their confusing family interactions.
I am here to explain complex concepts in plain language. I give you a head start by providing you with the vital information I wish I had known years ago.
As a neuropsychologist, I've served adults and aged adults for more than 25 years. I'm a Certified Autism Specialist and the Director of the OSF HealthCare Adult Diagnostic Autism Clinic in Peoria, IL. I am the author of Understanding Autism in Adults and Aging Adults and Understanding Autistic Behaviors: Improving Health, Independence, and Well-Being.
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