Navigating Autism As A Couple with Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC

Lunch and Learn with Dr. Berry

So, let's talk about the struggles of being neurodivergent and Black, and how advocacy can help make a world that’s truly accepting, loving, and just…

Have you ever wondered how couples navigate the unique journey of raising a child on the spectrum?

In previous episodes, we had Nick who talked about the experience from the Black fathers’ perspective, and Cheryl who talked about advocating when there are forces that make it harder to raise an autistic kid.

But what is it like as a couple? What are the dynamics in a relationship when raising an autistic child?

This is a conversation that’s not often had, especially as parents, we often forget that we also have a life and relationship outside just being moms and dads.

But in today’s episode, we’ll learn the importance of keeping the love burning as husband and wife, the importance of communication, understanding, and care, and the power of partnership in raising a thriving autistic child.

After all, as parents, we all just want what’s best for our children. Join us as we work towards the end goal and not let the fear of uncertainty stop us.

Why you need to check this episode:

• Learn the importance of being present in your relationship as husband and wife and making time to nurture your connection outside of your responsibilities as parents;
• Discover actionable tips you can try doing with your partner if you’re struggling and are at different points and speeds in your journey; and
• Recognize the importance of communication and self-care, especially if you’re raising a child on the spectrum.

“Something else that we also had to learn is that we had to keep our love burning outside of children as well, making sure that we are not just thinking of ourselves as mom and dad. For us to be able to communicate effectively with one another, for us to be able to be around each other and do all these things, we have to have our own relationship outside of parenting; not being in mom-and-dad role, but being in husband-and-wife role as well for our relationship.” – Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC

Notable Quotes:

“One of the lessons that you definitely taught me was that if I’m saying it in my head, you’re not a mind-reader and I have to verbalize it to you. I cannot have the expectation that you should know.” – Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC

“Communicate with your partner; where you’re at, your fears, your concerns. Oftentimes, people are either afraid or have shame in what they’re feeling, so they don’t voice those concerns, but your co-parent, your partner, should be someone that you trust and can share those emotions with.” – Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC

“Make sure you have a therapist that you can go to for couples, for family, [and] for individuals…You don’t have to have problems to be going to a therapist.” – Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC

Connect with Maria Davis-Pierre and the Autism in Black Inc.:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook

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