Neurodiversity and Attachment (2 CE Hours)

Description

This two-hour course explores how attachment theory intersects with neurodiversity in the context of sexuality, relationships, and clinical practice. Traditional attachment models often assume neurotypical development, leaving clinicians underprepared to address the unique relational needs of autistic, ADHD, and otherwise neurodivergent adults. Participants will examine how sensory processing, executive functioning, and social communication differences can shape attachment patterns and relational expectations. The course will review current literature on attachment and neurodiversity, highlighting both the limitations of existing models and emerging strengths-based frameworks. Dr. Misty will discuss how shame, stigma, and ableism intersect with attachment wounds, and how clinicians can create affirming, accessible interventions for couples and individuals. Special attention will be given to how neurodivergence influences intimacy, sexual expression, and consent practices. 

By the end of the course, participants will have practical strategies for integrating attachment-informed, neurodiversity-affirming interventions into their clinical work. This includes tools for supporting clients in building secure relational bonds, addressing sensory and communication mismatches, and reframing attachment needs in ways that promote agency, resilience, and pleasure. This course is designed for sex therapists, mental health professionals, and educators seeking to expand their competence in working with neurodivergent clients through an attachment lens.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

1. Identify how neurodivergent traits (e.g., sensory sensitivities, executive functioning differences, communication styles) influence attachment patterns in relationships.
2. Analyze limitations of traditional attachment frameworks when applied to neurodivergent clients.
3. Apply at least three attachment-informed, neurodiversity-affirming strategies in sex therapy and relational counseling.
4. Evaluate ways that stigma and ableism impact the formation and expression of attachment and intimacy for neurodivergent adults.

Activity Schedule

0:00–0:10 (10 min) — Introduction: framing neurodiversity + attachment in sex therapy.

0:10–0:35 (25 min) — Foundations of attachment theory + limitations for neurodivergent populations.

0:35–1:00 (25 min) — Neurodivergent traits impacting attachment (sensory processing executive functioning, social communication).

1:00–1:25 (25 min) — Intersection of shame, stigma, and ableism with attachment wounds.

1:25–1:55 (30 min) — Clinical applications: attachment-informed interventions, case examples, strategies for intimacy and sexual expression.

1:55–2:00 (5 min) — Conclusion + key takeaways.

Speaker Bio

Dr. Misty Gibson is an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, clinical supervisor, and educator specializing in the intersections of sexuality, neurodivergence, and trauma. She is the founder of FlowArt Therapy, a sex-positive group practice serving queer, neurodivergent, and kink/non-monogamous communities. With a background in clinical mental health counseling and art therapy, Dr. Misty brings a creative, somatic, and inclusive lens to her teaching. She also hosts the podcast Untamed Ember, where she explores shame-free conversations about sexuality, relationships, and embodiment.

Class originally recorded: 10/14/2025

Social workers completing this course receive 2 clinical continuing education credits.