Same Frequency library

The ideas—and communities—behind better connection.

Explore relationship science, accessible reading, and independent ND organizations where people can find community, support, and shared experience.

Peer-reviewed research

Research

Relationship Satisfaction Among Autistic Populations

Khaw & Vernon · Autism in Adulthood · 2025

A mixed-methods study of 106 autistic adults examining communication, acceptance, accommodation, understanding, and partner neurotype. Overall satisfaction did not depend on having a particular partner neurotype.

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Research

Adult ADHD and Romantic Relationships

Wymbs et al. · Journal of Marital & Family Therapy · 2021

A review of what research does—and does not yet—show about ADHD, relationship distress, protective factors, and possible support.

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Research

From Chaos to Clarity: Self-Understanding in ADHD Relationships

O’Brien et al. · Journal of Marital & Family Therapy · 2026

A qualitative study of 355 adults with ADHD highlighting emotional regulation, stability, practical strain, and the value of self-understanding.

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Research

The Double Empathy Problem

Damian Milton · Disability & Society · 2012

A foundational argument that communication difficulty can be mutual and relational—not a one-sided failure by an autistic person.

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Research

Physical Intimacy and Romantic Relationships

Sala et al. · Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders · 2024

A qualitative comparison of autistic and non-autistic adults’ experiences of physical intimacy, comfort, satisfaction, and barriers.

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Research

Dating and Relationship Interventions: A Systematic Review

Exell, Hilari & Behn · Disability and Rehabilitation · 2022

A useful reality check: the intervention evidence is small and methodologically varied, reinforcing the need for careful pilot testing rather than overclaiming.

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Ideas for reflection

Accessible articles can give people useful language for conversations, but they are not substitutes for research or individualized professional support.

Popular reading

Communication and Relationship Satisfaction Within Couples

Johnson et al. · 2022

Examines how shifts in positive and negative communication within a couple relate to relationship satisfaction over time.

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Popular reading

Mate Selection

The School of Life · updated 2024

An accessible argument for supplementing romantic instinct with self-knowledge, psychological understanding, and realistic expectations.

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Popular reading

A Dictionary of Love

The School of Life · 2026

Explores how couples can use the same words—texting, mess, time with friends—while attaching very different emotional meanings to them.

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Popular reading

Why We’re Compelled to Love Difficult People

The School of Life · updated 2026

A readable discussion of familiar relationship patterns, attraction, and responding more constructively to each other’s difficult sides.

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Dating, parenting & co-parenting

Dating as a parent brings questions about time, boundaries, and family changes. These resources can help you think through those conversations without sharing your children’s private information.

Parenting resource

Dating when you have children

Oklahoma State University Extension

Practical guidance on balancing dating with parenting, protecting time with children, and preparing thoughtfully for introductions to a new partner.

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Parenting resource

Supporting kids through divorce

Child Mind Institute

Ways to listen to children’s feelings, keep routines predictable, and reduce their exposure to adult conflict during family changes.

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Parenting resource

Parent education handbook

New York State Unified Court System · PDF

A parent education guide for separating or divorcing families, focused on children’s experiences and practical ways to reduce stress. Published in 2016; use current official guidance for legal questions.

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Conversation starters for adults

  • What time can we realistically set aside for dating while protecting family routines?
  • What boundaries would help us feel comfortable before a partner meets the children?
  • How can we keep adult disagreements between adults and make room for children’s feelings?
  • How do we want to communicate when plans change or either person needs more time?

These are optional discussion prompts, not a parenting assessment or compatibility score. Avoid posting children’s names, schools, photos, custody schedules, or court documents in a dating profile. Where safety concerns or court orders apply, seek individualized professional guidance.

Community & support

Looking for people who may understand your experience? These independent groups offer local or online community, activities, education, and peer support.

Independent group

Nassau / Suffolk Autism Society

Long Island · Local activities and support

Recreational and social activities for autistic children and adults, plus support for families across Long Island.

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Independent group

CHADD Chapter Locator

ADHD · Local and virtual chapters

Find ADHD education, peer support, and chapter events—including options for adults and relationship partners.

Visit the organization

Independent group

Autistic Adults NYC

NYC tristate · Autistic-run community

An autistic-run organization offering social events, workshops, a community space, and resources across the tristate area.

Visit the organization

Independent group

AANE Social Groups & Activities

Online and regional · Autistic adults

Social groups and activities designed to help autistic adults connect around shared interests in welcoming settings.

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These listings are starting points, not endorsements or affiliations. Eligibility, cost, format, and schedules may change, so review each organization’s current information before joining.