Gender Identity, Sexuality and Autism

This is a much needed book. In my 34 years of working with the autism spectrum, there have been several times when I have felt grateful for the information received, but never as much as I do with this book! So many times I have worked with people within the autistic spectrum struggling with gender, identity, and sexuality and related issues. Even as a psychotherapist, I have struggled many times to create awareness of these conditions even to fellow clinicians. So you can imagine the joy I felt reading about the courage and resilience of both, the clients and the clinicians on every page of this book! Gender Identity, Sexuality and Autism is an in-depth analysis of gender and sexual diversity on the autism spectrum and the intersections of these identities. Diverse voices explain why clinical and social practices need a transformation namely: self acceptance and others’ recognition. Thank you very much! – Carolina Campos, PhD, co-founder of the Clinica Mexicana de Autismo CLIMA and Asperger MéxicoOne of the central characteristics of autism is a difficulty understanding the interpersonal world and developing a sense of self, such that aspects of sexuality and gender identity can be particularly challenging. Those who have autism, their families and professionals need to listen to the personal experiences of those with autism who have navigated the world of sexuality to absorb their perspective, wisdom and advice. – Tony Attwood, Minds and Hearts Clinic, BrisbaneWith expertise and deep empathy, Eva Mendes and Meredith Maroney amplify the diverse voices of people on the autism spectrum. In exploring sexual orientation and gender, alongside other aspects of personal identity, the authors demonstrate and model respect for the humanity of autistic adults and teens. An important and timely read! – Hillary Hurst Bush, PhD, Staff Psychologist and Instructor, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical SchoolEva Mendes and Meredith Maroney explore the intersection between autism, gender and sexual identities in this timely, sensitive and engaging work. The inclusion of first-person narratives greatly enriches the reader’s understanding of these spectrums’ considerable diversity. – Daniel Tammet, author of Born On A Blue Day and, most recently, Every Word is A Bird We Teach to Sing.

Eva Mendes is an Asperger/autism specialist. She facilitates workshops and training at various universities, mental health and medical centres. Ms. Mendes also has a private practice where she works with clients from all over the world.

Meredith R. Maroney is a doctoral student pursuing research in the intersection of LGBTQ+/AS. She has worked with children, adolescents and young adults on the AS/ASD spectrum for a number of years through Aspire MGH.