Dr. Robin Buckley, a clinical psychologist turned executive coach,  specializes in helping female executives apply business strategies to their personal relationships.

Dr. Buckley addresses how people—especially those who've been divorced or experienced relationship failures—often believe they're "not the relationship type." She explains this self-defeating thinking comes from the amygdala (fear center) and recommends challenging these thoughts with evidence to engage the prefrontal cortex (logical brain).

A key strategy Dr. Buckley recommends is creating a personal mission statement. She encourages clients to research how companies craft mission statements, then apply that structure to identify their own values, purpose, and unique traits. Her personal example centers on kindness as her highest value—a non-negotiable in all her relationships. The guide to writing a Kick Butt Dating Profile can help with this.

When discussing women with disabilities in dating, Dr. Buckley emphasizes separating disability from identity. She encourages focusing on what challenges have created in one's personality—resilience, humor, perseverance—rather than leading with the disability itself. Authenticity and acknowledging "the elephant in the room" with humor can help move past surface-level judgments.

Dr. Buckley addresses how people with disabilities are often not seen as sexual beings. Her advice: know your own body first through self-exploration, then clearly communicate preferences to partners. A good partner will be willing to learn and be guided.

Put yourself out there despite vulnerability. Exposure is how others learn to understand and connect. While the burden often falls on those with disabilities to educate others, they hold the power to create change.

Contact: drrobinbuckley.com and various social media platforms @drrobinbuckley.