In Other Words is a podcast from the UCLA Tarjan Center where people with intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities interview researchers, policymakers, and experts in the field of developmental disabilities. Each episode takes presentations from the Tarjan Center Annual Forum in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities and turns them into clear, plain-languageconversations so everyone can understand and join the discussion.

This episode features Dr. Blake Warner, Postdoctoral Fellow at the UCLA Tarjan Center and Chief Clinical Fellow at the PEERS® Clinic. Dr. Warner’s work focuses on advocacy, inclusion, and supporting equality for neurodiverse people, including those with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. Host Holly Oliver, Disability Rights Advocate at the UCLATarjan Center, talks with Dr. Warner about the common myths surrounding sexuality on the autism spectrum.

Together, they discuss:

• Why open conversations about dating and sexuality matter for autistic people
• Common myths about autism and relationships —and why they’re not true
• How sex and relationship education can promoteconfidence and safety
• Barriers that can make dating difficult forautistic individuals
• Ways to build healthy, respectful relationships
• Resources and programs that provide helpfulsupport

Listen now to hear Dr. Warner share why everyone deserves to learn about relationships and have the chance to build healthy, happy connections.

Show Notes:
• Learn more about the UCLA Tarjan Center: https://teams.semel.ucla.edu/tarjan
• View recordings and slides from the Annual Forum on Neurodevelopmental Disabilities

• Learn more about the UCLA PEERS clinic: https://teams.semel.ucla.edu/peers