WELCOME!
Unlock Your Full Potential with the Autism Dating Coach!
Learn valuable skills to approach the dating world, including appropriate greetings, conversation starters, approaching second date requests, and navigating the overwhelming world of online dating.
ABOUT ME:
Hi there! I'm Val. I started my career as a matchmaker in a busy NYC dating service. As I developed a deeper interest in the dating habits of New Yorkers, I went on to earn my Masters of Applied Social Research in Queens College, presenting my thesis project, The Dating Behaviors of Young Adults, under the advisement of Dr. Pyong Gap Min. I then went on to consult as a host for dating-based focus groups, and helped launch 8 Minute Dating in Manhattan.
After moving out of the city, my career goals then switched to Higher Education, where I worked in Academia for several universities in the Northeast, specifically working with the Psychology department at a large research University. My academic work has always been 100% student-facing, with a large portion of my work servicing students who identify as neurodivergent. While the focus of my position centered around fulfilling academic needs, I came to notice that many students in this population were feeling "left out" of the college experience in terms of their social needs. They did not know how to navigate confusing social cues, and they were not interested in attending loud , chaotic college parties, or noisy, stuffy bars. Even online apps were much too overwhelming.
Autism Dating Coach was born out of recognizing a fundamental need for one on one coaching of ASD adults hoping to enter the dating world. We provide virtual sessions where we wish to know everything about YOU- why you wish to start dating, if you've ever dated in the past, what qualities you look for in a mate, how to start and maintain a conversation, and how to set up your second date (or not!)
Our Approach:
We believe in a client-centered approach, assuring that the client feels comfortable sharing their goals and concerns with the coach. Many clients prefer to have a parent or trusted friend share in the process, and we encourage this involvement.
All potential clients will first meet virtually for a 15 minute conversation to ensure that expectations are managed and that they feel comfortable proceeding with dating coaching
FAQS
Are you a dating service?
We do not procure dates, nor do we share client information in an effort to create matches. We are simply a service that gives the ASD adult confidence to enter the dating world.
My parent wants me to date, but I'm not sure I'm ready
I don't believe in forcing anyone into dating. Take some time for yourself. If you change your mind in the future, you know where to find me!
Do you work with neurotypical adults?
While many of the principals are the same, at this time I am only working with adults on the ASD spectrum
Do you check up on the success of the date after it's ended?
Yes! We are very eager to hear what worked, what didn't, and if you could see yourself going out with this person a second time!
Can you help me/ my daughter/ my son find someone suitable to date?
While we do not procure dates, we are confident that our coaching, simulations, and date role-playing will assist in finding someone who is perfect for YOU
I'd like to get started. What's the first step?
GREAT! We can't wait to meet you! Please go to our "Become a Client" page to fill out our questionnaire and book your FREE 15 minute assessment
Can you help me with my online profile?
You bet! Whether you're looking to tweak a current profile or start from scratch, we've got you covered.
OUR TESTIMONIALS
Client's Feedbacks
"Ms. Trainor was a miracle for my son. Trey had so much more confidence after working with her and he's actually been on two successful dates!"
- Roberta S. , Wantagh, NY
"Val is super patient and insightful. She helped to make the dating process much more manageable for me"
- Mia B., Pawtucket, RI
"I was so thrilled to find this type of help existed! My son has struggled forever to make connections, and I was blessed to find someone who can actually help him practice conversation scenarios, and she even helped him create a dating profile on Disabled Mate. It's awfully nice to see my son with a spring in his step!"
- Dave W, Framingham, MA
