Masking in Relationships: How Pretending Impacts Neurodivergent Love and Connection

In this emotionally attuned Therapy Inights Tuesday episode of Love on the Autism Spectrum, therapist and neurodivergent coach Barbara (Blaze) Lazarony, LMFT, explores a tender truth in many neurodiverse relationships: masking may feel like survival, but it often comes at the cost of real connection.

Through the fictional—but deeply familiar—story of Harry and Sally, Blaze unpacks how masking begins with safety and admiration, but slowly leads to disconnection. Sally hides her needs to avoid rocking the boat. Harry misreads her silence, unsure how to meet emotions he doesn’t fully understand.

This episode offers a compassionate reframe:

• Masking is not a flaw—it’s a nervous system adaptation
• Disconnection doesn’t mean failure—it means unmet needs
• Authenticity can begin gently, one safe step at a time

With empathy and clarity, Blaze invites you to reflect on your own relationship patterns and begin unmasking where it feels safe. Love doesn’t require pretending. It asks for truth, offered slowly and sincerely.

Includes a reflective Home Play practice to help you begin sharing more of who you really are, without fear.

#LoveOnTheAutismSpectrum #MaskingInLove #UnmaskingAutism #LoveWithoutPretending #NeurodivergentCouples #AuthenticityInRelationships #NDPartnerships #RealYouRealLove #NeurodiverseHealing

Explore more tools, relationship guidance, and weekly blog posts at:

🌐 www.LoveOnTheAutismSpectrum.com

For behind-the-scenes reflections and bonus content, follow along on Instagram:

📸 @BlazeLazarony

✨ Come for the real talk. Stay for the support. You’re not alone here.

**This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health care. Barbara (Blaze) Lazarony, LMFT, is a licensed therapist in California, but this content does not constitute a therapeutic relationship. For personalized support, consult a qualified professional. If you're in crisis, call 988 or seek local emergency services.**