Considerations for Neuroaffirming Relationship Therapy

In this course, Mady and Skyler, two AuDHD therapists, will explore clinical considerations for working with neurodivergent romantic relationships. Specifically, therapists will develop a neuroaffirming approach to relationship therapy when one or more partners are Autistic and/or an ADHDer.  Mady and Skylar run independent practices, but have shared over a dozen clients where one therapist works with one member of the relationship and the other will work with the couple or the other member of the relationship. Their close collaboration, unique in the private practice world, has allowed them to critically analyze their relationship therapy conceptualization and clinical practice, resulting in transformative growth for those they serve. 

This course will include:

  • The Four Guiding Principles of Neuroaffirming Relationship Therapy
  • Identifying and addressing ableism and other forms of oppression and trauma
  • Developing sustainable accommodation and support strategies
  • Assessing for sensory and executive functioning challenges 
  • Moving away from neuronormative expectations by embracing alignment and attunement based on shared relationship values
  • What's included?
  • 3 hour recorded webinar
  • slides and course materials
  • 3 NBCC CE hours*

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:
  • Apply the four guiding principles of neuroaffirming relationship therapy to assess and adapt clinical interventions that support relational functioning in neurodivergent couples.
  • Differentiate between “needs,” “wants,” and “preferences” to enhance couples’ collaboration around accommodations and mutual support.
  • Analyze three ways trauma can impact relationship dynamics—such as emotional regulation, attachment, and conflict—and apply this insight to guide treatment planning and repair strategies with neurodivergent couples.
  • Examine at least three common relationship struggles influenced by executive functioning differences and apply strategies to support couples navigating these challenges.
  • Practice evidence-based communication techniques, including active listening and validation, to strengthen emotional connection and problem-solvi\

*NBCC CE hours

NeuroPebble has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7834. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NeuroPebble is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs. Most licensing boards accept NBCC credits, though it is up to you to confirm if your license, board and state will accept NBCC continuing education units. 
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Meet the instructors

Skylar Ibarra, LCSW, PMH-C

Patrick Jones - Course author
Skylar Ibarra, LCSW, PMH-C, is a neurodivergent therapist with a private practice in Orange County, CA (unceded Tongva land). She specializes in working with both individuals and couples, focusing on the intersection of OCD, perinatal mental health, and complex developmental trauma, all within the Neuroaffirming Paradigm. A graduate of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy, where she earned her MSW and received the prestigious Bohnett Fellowship, Skylar is passionate about the transformative power of the Neuroaffirming Paradigm. She has refined her neuroaffirming couples therapy work over the last six years and is excited to bring her knowledge to the Neuropebble community. 

Skylar is an EMDR Consultant-in-Training and offers individual consultation in both EMDR and how to engage in neuroaffirming clinical work. Skylar also enjoys providing continuing education and presenting at conferences about Neuroaffirming and perinatal mental health care. More information can be found on her website: lenarratherapy.com/consultation 

Mady Snyder, LMFT

Patrick Jones - Course author
Mady Snyder, LMFT, is a neurodivergent therapist and educator dedicated to fostering inclusive and affirming mental health care. Mady is in private practice in the Pasadena area, where she provides therapy through a neuroaffirming lens, specializing in Autism, PDA, parenting, and mixed neurotype relationships. Mady’s academic background includes a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, with a concentration in Medical Family Therapy. Her research has focused on Autism and the family system, as well as contributing to research on clinical practice and the Neurodiversity Affirming paradigm. 

Beyond therapy and academia, Mady consults with clinicians, group practices, universities, and other organizations seeking to better understand and support neurodivergent individuals. She provides guidance on implementing neuroaffirming practices, creating accessible mental health care, and fostering environments where neurodivergent clients, employees, and students can thrive.Mady is passionate about advancing neuroaffirming clinical work through therapy, teaching, consultation, and research. For more information visit her website: https://www.madysnyder.com/

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