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Autism in the Adult

Theresa M Regan, Ph.D.

Education Health & Wellness

Latest episode

78 episodes

When Friends Change: How Brain Development Shapes Friendship (EP 77)
30/04/2026 | 22 mins.
Dr. Theresa Regan explains how friendships evolve with brain development and why autistic individuals may struggle when social demands change—especially in middle school and high school—exploring theory of mind, social vs. non-social emotions, and shifting friendship expectations.

The episode offers practical guidance on recognizing different friendship styles, reducing blame, and using curiosity and communication to build authentic connections.
The Language of Play: How Fun Shapes Adult Relationships (EP76)
23/04/2026 | 32 mins.
Dr. Theresa Regan explores how play—humor, teasing, shared activities, and quiet companionship—shapes friendships, family life, dating, work, and parenting across adulthood.

The episode explains adult play styles, how autistic and non-autistic people may experience play differently, why teasing can hurt or connect, and offers practical questions to improve understanding and closeness.

Understanding Autism Book Series

Autism in the Adult website
Tasks and Togetherness: When Connection Feels Confusing (EP 75)
16/04/2026 | 29 mins.
In this episode Dr. Theresa Regan explores why connection sometimes feels confusing by distinguishing task-oriented moments (doing and finishing) from social-oriented moments (sharing and bonding). Through relatable examples—a painting day gone sideways and a family seeking emotional presence—she shows how different expectations create everyday misunderstandings.

The episode offers a simple takeaway: notice what kind of moment you and the other person want, make intentional choices, and balance needs to reduce confusion and strengthen relationships.

Understanding Autism Book Series

Autism in the Adult website
The Hidden Skill of Connection: Theory of Mind Explained (EP 74)
09/04/2026 | 27 mins.
Neuropsychologist Dr. Theresa Regan explains theory of mind—our ability to recognize that others have different thoughts, feelings, and perspectives—how it develops, and how it varies across neurotypes, including autism.

Using examples from childhood, adolescence, and adult life, she shows how perspective-taking influences communication and relationships, and encourages curiosity to bridge misunderstandings and improve connection.

Understanding Autism Book Series

Autism in the Adult website
When Nervous Systems Differ: Unlocking Connection in Autism (EF 73)
02/04/2026 | 18 mins.
Dr. Theresa Regan returns from sabbatical to introduce her new book, "Understanding Communication and Relationships and Autism," and shares how her clinical and personal experiences shaped it.

She explains that many relational conflicts come from different nervous systems interpreting the same moment differently, offers real-life examples, and invites listeners to shift from blame to curiosity, revelation, and practical strategies for stronger relationships.

Understanding Autism Book Series

Autism in the Adult website

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About Autism in the Adult

Theresa Regan, Ph.D., is a rare combination of adult neuropsychologist (specialist in brain-behavior relationships), parent of an amazing child on the autism spectrum, and certified autism specialist with the IBCCES. She is deeply grateful to bring validation, hope, and purpose to individuals and their families living on the autism spectrum. With this mission at its core, she founded and directs the OSF HealthCare Adult Diagnostic Autism Clinic in central Illinois. Her books include Understanding Autism in Adults and Aging Adults and Understanding Autistic Behaviors. For more information and to join her new online autism community for free visit www.adultandgeriatricautism.com. Join her for podcast topics related to autism in the adult. The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of her employer. All listeners are encouraged to research multiple opinions about the topics discussed before making their own decisions.

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Education Health & Wellness Kids & Family Mental Health Parenting Self-Improvement