Dating: Embracing Your Partner While They also Care for a Loved One with Autism

Dating someone who is caring for a sibling or child with autism can be challenging. With April being Autism Awareness Month, I spoke to Gil Tippy, psychologist with Shrub Oak International, about how to handle a relationship with a partner who is caring for someone with autism. He says you must get used to sudden schedule changes.

“You may think you’re going to the movies at a certain time but if the child, or the young person or young adult has some trouble making a transition or suddenly has a need, that plan may change so you really have to be able to be flexible,” Tippy says.

These relationships may progress slower, that’s why Tippy says it’s important to be understanding.

“You have to have some patience. Patience is really important here,” says Tippy. “And I think if I’m not mistaken, having a sense of humor will go a long long way. There are situations that you’ll find yourself in that seem to be awkward or challenging and to have a sense of humor about those things really makes a difference.”

Despite needing some extra patience and understanding, they’re still worthwhile relationships to have.

Listen to the full interview below:

With FOX on Love, I’m Ashley Papa.

Follow Ashley Papa on Twitter: @AshleyMPapa

Follow Gil Tippy on Twitter:?@ShrubOakInt