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AANE October 2026 Newsletter
Autism and Intimacy
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Physical and emotional intimacy have long been underdiscussed topics in the autism community, allowing misconceptions to persist and leaving many real challenges unaddressed. Read important reflections and information from community members and professionals, and don’t miss our upcoming online educational event on October 22, Love, Sex, and Autism: Practical Guidance for Authentic Intimacy.
AANE Events
Want to know about AANE’s upcoming programs, support groups, social activities, and more? To receive weekly event emails and AANE Public Statement Alerts, sign up here!
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Unmasking Intimacy
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The more honest experiences are shared about intimacy, the more we are able to dismantle the idea that there is one right way intimacy and relationships should be. Autistic people may experience connection, attraction, communication, and physical intimacy in ways that don’t always fit conventional expectations.
Autism Sexuality Advocate Amy Gravino shares her journey understanding her past physical and emotional intimacy experiences and shows how she gained greater self-understanding and acceptance.
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LifeNet Information Session
AANE’s LifeNet program provides personalized, team-based support to help Autistic adults in Massachusetts navigate daily life. Picture what life could look like with LifeNet, and join us on November 4 at 6 pm for a free online information session.
Learn more and register here.
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Last Chance to Register! The Reality of Autistic Intimacy – October 22, 2026
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In her #1 bestseller, Love, Sex, and Autism, licensed clinician Candice Christiansen challenges one of the most pervasive myths: the misconception that Autistic adults are not interested in, or capable of, love and intimacy. Her work explores one truth: Autistic individuals are capable and deserving of love, healthy sex, and intimacy where they feel safe to be themselves. As part of this truth, many Autistic adults also face real-life intimacy challenges. Join us as we explore the full picture of intimacy on the spectrum. Watch a video description of the event! 2 MPA CE Credits
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Help Keep AANE Strong – October 25, 2026
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If you are local to New England, join us for the 2026 Flutie 5K for Autism, and support AANE!
Join our team and walk, run, or roll with us on Sunday, October 25, at Natick High School. Together we’ll support our shared mission of helping Autistic individuals build meaningful, connected lives.100% of your contributions and everything you raise from family, friends, and colleagues will directly fund AANE. If you raise $150 or more, your 5K registration fee will be refunded by the Flutie Foundation.
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Don’t miss these upcoming AANE presentations:
For All
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Click the buttons below to view other upcoming events and support groups!
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Check out these helpful AANE resources:
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In advance of her presentation later this month, watch a one-on-one discussion with Candice Christiansen, M.Ed., LCMHC, CSAT-S, covering autism, love, intimacy, sensory needs, communication, and the misconceptions that often shape how Autistic relationships are understood.
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Here are some helpful links for adults in our community:
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When it comes to relationships, parents and caregivers often wonder how to balance their Autistic young adult’s growing autonomy with the support they may need to navigate a realm that can be confusing and, at times, challenging to navigate safely. Executive Brenda Dater shares how she has found balance as her own Autistic daughter explores the world of dating and intimacy.
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Don’t miss these services AANE provides for parents and families:
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With physical intimacy, the subject of consent is both critically important and emotionally stressful, especially when communication is not straightforward. Read a discussion about consent that also provides practical tools for steering through a range of situations.
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Only two spots remain for the October 2026 Intensive Autism Coach Training (IACT) cohort. IACT equips coaches with the skills to provide autism-informed, neurodiversity-affirming support and recognize when a client may need services beyond the scope of coaching. Graduates receive two years of Autism Professional Coaching Association (APCA) membership and remote clinical support, providing continued guidance and professional connection as they support clients with complex needs.
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Learn more about AANE programs, support, and training for professionals:
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LifeMAP
Individualized life coaching program for Autistic older teens & adults
LifeMAP coaches can support clients navigating dating, relationships, boundaries, and intimacy by helping clarify goals, build confidence, practice communication, and develop strategies that feel authentic and manageable. Join us on October 29 to learn more.
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LifeNet
Team-based support to help Massachusetts Autistic adults optimize independence
Autistic adults living in Massachusetts can depend on their trusted LifeNet team to discuss support options for every area of life, including sexual health. Learn more about AANE’s LifeNet program. Don’t miss the LifeNet Info Session on November 4.
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Neurodiverse Couples Institute
Resources for couples and couples therapists/coaches
AANE’s 101 for Couples is a self-paced online class that helps partners better understand how neurodiversity shapes communication, daily needs, and their relationship. Save 50% in October 2026 with promo code 101COUPLES50 at checkout.
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