Communication is Key to Healthy Sexual Intimacy

Dr. Holmes speaks with Leslie Sickels about autism and sexuality and common challenges in ND Couples.Leslie A. Sickels, LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker based in Manhattan. Her areas of expertise include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), NeuroDiverse relationships, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Much of her work focuses on gender and sexuality as they relate to the unique concerns of individuals with ASD. Leslie utilizes a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach and integrates trauma-informed practices into her work. She provides psychotherapy, which often includes building social skills, improving executive functioning, and strengthening relationships. Along with individual therapy, Leslie provides counseling to neurodiverse couples, in which one or both partners are on the autism spectrum. She supports couples in enhancing communication and working through challenges in their partnership. Leslie’s work focuses on neurodiversity as an asset in relationships. Her work is goal-oriented and concrete so that couples can identify and understand neurodiversity in their partnership and develop tools to strengthen their relationship. Leslie also provides supportive services, including consultation and coaching for partners of individuals with ASD. More information can be found at LeslieSickelsLCSW.com or Leslie can be reached directly at [email protected] mentioned in the show today is spoon theory. Here are some links about spoon theory.https://theswaddle.com/what-the-spoon-theory-means-for-people-living-with-chronic-illnesses-disabilities/https://reachoutasc.com/spoon-theory-and-autism/https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XNBkFCZYRpFm5te38kCUbHVPuazf-Q1e/view?usp=drive_web