Julie Legg speaks with clinical psychologist and ADHD specialist Bryan Gastelle. With both professional expertise and lived experience of ADHD, Bryan unpacks how neurodivergence impacts romantic relationships, communication patterns, emotional regulation, and household dynamics.

This conversation explores what healthy conflict really looks like, how couples can better support one another without falling into burnout or resentment, and why therapy doesn’t have to be a “last resort.” Bryan also shares practical tools, including the 5% Rule, for navigating emotional overwhelm, executive dysfunction, and relationship strain.

Key Points from the Episode:

• Why ADHD is often misunderstood, especially the inattentive type in adults
• How neurodivergence shows up in communication and daily relationship dynamics
• Common patterns when both partners have ADHD (and what to look out for)
• How neurotypical partners can support without slipping into rescuing or parenting roles
• What healthy conflict looks like and why “I” statements and validation matter
• The Four Horsemen of relationship breakdown (from the Gottman Method)
• Tips for suggesting therapy to a partner without triggering defensiveness
• Why a therapist trained in ADHD makes all the difference
• How to use the “5% Rule” to break down overwhelming tasks
• Why couples therapy can be a tune-up, not just a last resort

Links:

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-gastelle-719820a5/

WEBSITE: https://www.empowermytherapy.com/

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/empowerpsychotherapyllc/

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/EmpowerPsychotherapyllc

Send us a text

Thanks for listening.

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe for more tools for beautifully different brains.

🌐 WEBSITE: ADHDifference.nz

📷 INSTAGRAM: ADHDifference_podcast

📖 BOOK: The Missing Piece: A Woman's Guide to Understanding, Diagnosing and Living with ADHD

ℹ️ DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only. The views expressed are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or ADHDifference. Read More