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.
Testimonials
Regarding letter written for school: "This is so beautiful -- I have tears in my eyes. Thanks for teaching me every time we communicate." [mother of college student]
"Dr. Regan, My meeting with you during [my husband's] hospitalization three years ago was the most valuable medical appointment I've ever experienced." [spouse of a gentleman in his 60's with a first-time diagnosis].
Thank you for writing this [book] for all of us with autism in our families. It has meant so much to me personally and I pass it on to [others]... It's a very important book for an extraordinary and courageous group of people." [family member and clinician]
"Dear Dr. Regan,
We cannot thank you enough for all you have done. We know our journey is long from over, but you have at least given us closure on what is going on. We have been trying for five years to accomplish what you and your team were able to do in one visit. Forever in your debt." parents of adolescent patient
"I just wanted to say, I just received a psychological [evaluation report] you completed recently, and it is wonderful. I wish I could have you do all our psychologicals!" [service access specialist]