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Send us Fan Mail The online world can offer connection, entertainment, and independence for neurodivergent kids, but it can also expose them to cyberbullying, manipulation, and situations they may not yet know how to handle. In this episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, Brigitte talks with Dr. Myava Clark, a passionate advocate, speaker, educator, and best-selling author with a background in respiratory therapy and higher education.  As a mother of two adult children, Dr. Clark’s work was deeply shaped by her experience navigating the special education system for her son, Chris Clark Jr. That journey eventually led them to co-found CASEN (Collaborative Advancement for Social-Emotional Needs), which helps children, especially neurodivergent children, build online safety awareness and healthy social-emotional skills. Dr. Clark shares the warning signs parents should watch for, why digital safety matters even if your child isn’t technically on social media, and why she believes in “preparation before participation.” She also opens up about the loneliness and exhaustion parents can experience while advocating for their children, and the importance of caring for yourself along the way. In this episode, you’ll hear about: - Quiet warning signs that may point to cyberbullying or online harassment - Why gaming chats and other digital spaces can carry risks even without social media - Why open communication with your child matters before a problem happens - Practical ways moms can care for themselves while carrying the weight of advocacy Dr. Clark is also the founder of the Mothers of Exceptional Kids Parent Support Group, a community created to help parents and caregivers of neurodivergent children find support, reduce burnout, and feel less alone. She is the author of eight books and continues to combine personal experience with professional insight to offer families practical guidance and hope. This conversation is full of useful, grounded advice for parents who want to help their children navigate the digital world with more confidence and safety. 🔗 Resources & Links Learn more about Dr. Myava, her books, and her organizations: https://casenllc.com https://mothersofexceptionalkids.com Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Mother’s Guide Through Autism Podcast, Brigitte sits down with author, coach, advocate, and special needs mom Susanna Peace Lovell for an honest conversation about caring for your child while learning to care for yourself, too. Susanna shares what she wishes she had known during the overwhelming early years of raising her daughter, Arizona, and why self-compassion became such an important part of her journey. She also reflects on the moment she realized her daughter was so much more than a collection of diagnoses—and how that shifted her toward seeing, accepting, and celebrating Arizona for who she truly is. Brigitte and Susanna also talk about reconnecting with joy and identity beyond caregiving, releasing guilt around tending to your own needs, and finding people who truly understand the journey. For the mom who feels overwhelmed today, Susanna offers a simple but powerful reminder: Everything will be okay. In this episode, you’ll hear about: - Practicing self-compassion during the hardest seasons of autism parenting - Seeing your child as a whole person rather than a list of things to “fix” - Reconnecting with your own joy, identity, and dreams as a mom - Letting go of guilt around caring for yourself - Finding community and support from people who truly understand About Susanna Peace Lovell Susanna Peace Lovell is a certified professional life coach, author, speaker, and advocate dedicated to supporting the health and wellness of disability families. Her own journey raising her daughter, Arizona, who has autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, food allergies, and other unique needs, led Susanna to help other caregivers rediscover joy, possibility, and a sense of themselves beyond caregiving. Her book, Your True Self Is Enough, combines memoir with practical insights for caregivers navigating the challenges of raising a child with disabilities. Susanna is also a contributing author to Suddenly Brave Together, an anthology of letters from experienced caregiving moms to mothers facing defining moments in their own journeys. 🔗 Resources & Links Learn more about Susanna, her book, coaching, and speaking: SusannaPeaceLovell.com Instagram: @mamapeace Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This week’s episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism is a little different. Brigitte welcomes back Maureen Brice, an author, intuitive energy coach, certified health coach, autism parent, and advocate with more than 25 years of experience in neurodiversity and holistic wellness. In her coaching work with autism moms, Maureen incorporates intuitive practices, energetic frequency work, and biofeedback alongside more traditional forms of support. Maureen says her intuitive abilities became much stronger following a near-death experience, eventually becoming another way she helps women explore what may be happening beneath the surface emotionally and energetically. For this special episode, Brigitte gives listeners a glimpse into that side of Maureen’s work by receiving an angel card reading herself. Rather than a typical interview, you’ll hear an intimate, unscripted conversation as Maureen interprets the cards, reflects on the messages that come through, and explores themes that many moms may recognize in their own lives. In this episode, we discuss: - Why Maureen began incorporating intuitive work into her coaching - How she describes the changes she experienced after her near-death experience - What an angel card reading actually looks like - Why autism moms may sometimes need support that goes beyond problem-solving and practical strategies Whether this kind of work is already part of your world or you’re simply curious about it, consider this episode an invitation to listen with an open mind and take away whatever resonates with you. 🔗 Resources & Links Maureen's Website: https://hopedreambelieve.com/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail What if laughter could become one of your most powerful tools for getting through the hard moments of autism parenting? In this episode of the Mother’s Guide Through Autism Podcast, Brigitte sits down with author, speaker, and fellow autism mom Andrea Moriarty for an honest, hopeful, and often very funny conversation about raising her son Reid, now 32. Andrea shares what those early years after Reid’s autism diagnosis were really like, from the overwhelm and uncertainty to learning that she didn’t have to figure everything out alone. They talk about the importance of building a support system, leaning into their children’s strengths, and finding creative solutions when the traditional path simply doesn’t fit. They also dive into Andrea’s newest book, Daffy, a tell-all comedy for moms about using laughter as life support. Andrea explains how a getaway with other autism moms helped her realize just how much humor had been keeping them afloat—and inspired what she now calls the “Laughter Alliance.” You’ll also hear some of Andrea’s favorite practical life hacks for making everyday life a little easier, including batch cooking, smoothie pops for selective eaters, “Tasting Tuesday,” and even simplifying your wardrobe to save precious mental energy. Most importantly, Andrea reminds us of something so many autism moms need to hear: You’re not doing it wrong. This is hard. You don’t have to do it alone. In this episode, they talk about: • Andrea’s journey raising her autistic son Reid • Music therapy and discovering Reid’s strengths • How laughter can help us process difficult experiences • Andrea’s “Laughter Alliance” for autism moms • Simple life hacks that reduce stress and mental overload ABOUT ANDREA MORIARTY Andrea Moriarty is an author, speaker, workshop leader, and autism mom. She is the author of One Track Mind, Radical Inclusion, and Daffy. Her work offers a refreshing and hopeful perspective on both the challenges and triumphs of parenting a son with autism, blending honesty, affection, humor, and hope. Andrea also cofounded Banding Together, a music therapy nonprofit, and has served on the boards of Young Life Capernaum, New Village Arts, and Able Arts Work. 🔗 Resources & Links Learn more about Andrea and her books: https://www.andreamoriarty.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreamoriartyauthor/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrea.a.moriarty Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail If you are navigating an autism diagnosis with your child, you already know how heavy and isolating the journey can feel. But there is a side to this story we don't hear often enough: the father’s perspective. In this episode, host Brigitte Shipman sits down with Harry Psaros—an autism father, advocate, board member for the Autism Caring Center, and best-selling author of “From Struggle to Strength: A Father’s Journey with Autism and the Power of Hope and Positivity.”  When a child is diagnosed, mothers and fathers often process their grief in completely different ways. Harry shares his mission to break down that barrier, open up the conversation for dads who are struggling to accept a diagnosis, and give families the tools to stay on the same team instead of growing apart.  If you are feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or looking for a reason to find hope in the middle of a hard day, this down-to-earth conversation will remind you that you are not alone in the wilderness. In This Episode, You Will Learn: - Why fathers often react differently to an autism diagnosis and how to bridge the communication gap. - Practical advice on keeping your marriage and relationship strong through caregiving stress. - How to shift from survival mode to finding genuine hope, positivity, and resilience. - The inspiration behind Harry’s book, From Struggle to Strength, and his advocacy work for families. 🔗 Resources & Links Harry's Website: https://www.harrypsaros.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harrypsaros Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harrypsaros/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of A Mother's Guide Through Autism, host Brigitte Shipman sits down with Maureen Brice and Dr. Nicole Dolan to explore a deeply profound side of caregiving: the parent’s own nervous system, trauma history, and energetic frequency. When your neurodivergent child has a meltdown, does your own anxiety or anger immediately skyrocket? You are not alone. Maureen Brice and Dr. Nicole Dolan dive into why our children act as powerful mirrors, triggering unhealed parts of our own childhood conditioning. They share how shifting out of survival mode and consciously clearing your internal blocks can completely change the emotional climate of your home. If you are a mother feeling burnt out, exhausted, and stuck in a loop of reactive parenting, this conversation offers the roadmap, permission, and actionable energetic tools you need to heal your family from the inside out. In This Episode, You Will Learn: - How our children’s behaviors unconsciously trigger past ancestral and childhood conditioning. - The science and energy of co-regulation—why your child feeds off your nervous system's internal state. - Practical strategies to recognize parental burnout and halt chronic fight-or-flight loops. - The power of releasing judgment to build a sustainable, compassionate home life. 🔗 Resources & Links Sign up for the retreat: https://hopedreambelieve.com/autism-moms-retreat Maureen's Website: https://hopedreambelieve.com/ Dr. Nicole Dolan: https://drnicoledolan.com/ https://www.instagram.com/drnicoledolan/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This episode was originally released on Your Trauma Talks and is being shared here with permission so our audience can hear this meaningful conversation.  In this interview, host Rahul K. Maharaj speaks with Brigitte Shipman and Joseph Shipman about faith, advocacy, acceptance, autism, and neurodiversity from both the mother’s and autistic adult’s perspective.  The conversation explores grief, hope, stigma, self-compassion, and the power of understanding autism more deeply. Episode highlights  Brigitte’s journey through diagnosis, grief, advocacy, and self-compassion Joseph’s perspective on growing up autistic and navigating stigma and missed social cues Advocacy without losing yourself Why being different is powerful What every parent needs to understand about neurodiversityListen to the original episode here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2359531/episodes/18741535 🔗 Resources & Links Purchase the book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail When a child is emotionally dysregulated, it’s easy for parents to feel unsure, exhausted, or like they’re constantly reacting instead of responding. In this episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, host Brigitte Shipman sits down with Sara Lewis Hartley, a healthcare leader with over 20 years of experience and the author of the Purposefully Me children’s book series, to explore what emotional regulation really means—and how parents can support it without burning themselves out. This conversation goes beyond surface-level tips. Sara shares practical, compassionate insights about creating emotional safety at home, why regulation starts with the parent, and how understanding emotions—rather than trying to control them—can change the dynamic between parent and child. 💛 In this episode, you’ll hear about: - Common misconceptions parents have about “big emotions” and behavior - How parents can regulate themselves first—without guilt or perfection - How to create a foundation of trust and safety with your kids - The inspiration behind the Purposefully Me book series This episode is especially for parents who feel overwhelmed by emotions—both their child’s and their own—and are looking for a more grounded, compassionate way forward. 🎧 You’ll walk away with perspective, reassurance, and ideas you can start using right away. 🔗 Resources & Links Learn more about Sara Hartley and get her books: https://saralewishartley.com/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this compilation episode, we explore how nervous system regulation plays a foundational role in children’s focus, emotional balance, and ability to engage—especially for kids with sensory processing differences and autism. Drawing from two past conversations on the podcast, this episode highlights how overactive or underactive sensory systems can impact learning, behavior, and daily life. Rather than focusing solely on symptom management, these clips offer insight into body-based, nervous-system–informed approaches that support regulation and felt safety. You’ll hear perspectives on Craniosacral Therapy (CST) and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), including how these approaches work with the nervous system to reduce anxiety, improve engagement, and support developmental growth.  In this episode, you’ll hear: - Why nervous system regulation matters for children with sensory processing differences - How CST and SSP support regulation and felt safety in different ways - Practical insights and real-world examples from clinicians working with children Episode Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Sensory Systems in Children 02:02 The Role of Craniosacral Therapy 07:17 Real-Life Success Stories 08:34 Introduction to Polyvagal Theory 09:50 Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) 11:54 Transformative Impact of SSP Original Episodes: This Gentle Therapy Will Leave Your Kids Calm & Relaxed with Dr. Sally Fryer Dietz: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/podcast/episode-142 Soothe Your Child’s Nervous System with Safe and Sound Protocol with Kelly Beins: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/podcast/episode-139 🔗 Resources & Links Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, Brigitte welcomes back Carrie Cariello—mother, writer, and one of the co-authors of the bestselling book Autism Out Loud, written alongside Kate Swenson and Adrian Wood. Together, these three mothers share their lived experiences of raising children with very different autism profiles. In this conversation, Carrie opens up about the emotional journey behind the book, the power of writing alongside other autism moms, and the realities of parenting across different seasons—from childhood to adulthood. This episode explores both the practical and deeply human sides of the autism journey, including long-term planning, marriage, siblings, and the everyday moments that often go unseen but matter most. 💛 In this episode, Carrie shares: - The emotional experience of writing alongside two other autism moms - The importance of disability planning and thinking about the future - Why celebrating everyday miracles matters more than milestones - Ways to thoughtfully involve siblings in the autism journey With honesty, warmth, and clarity, Carrie reminds parents that while this journey can be heavy, it is also filled with connection, love, and moments of unexpected beauty. 🎧 If you’re an autism parent who’s ever wondered what comes next—or how to stay grounded in the now—this conversation will meet you right where you are. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:53 Introducing Carrie Cariello 04:06 Carrie's Family and Writing Journey 05:53 Autism Out Loud: The Collaborative Book 07:05 Navigating Adulthood with Autism 17:15 Marriage and Family Dynamics 22:52 The Importance of Community and Comparison 29:28 Encouragement for New Autism Parents 33:05 Closing Remarks and Resources 🔗 Resources & Links Learn more about Carrie Cariello and get her books: https://carriecariello.com/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, Brigitte Shipman sits down with Dr. Theresa Lyons, Yale-trained scientist and founder of Navigating AWEtism, to bring clarity, hope, and grounded science to the conversation. Dr. Lyons explains what new research is revealing about the evolving definition of autism, how some children lose their autism diagnosis over time, and how parents can navigate the flood of information without confusion or fear. Together, Brigitte and Dr. Lyons talk about: ✨ How autism science is changing so rapidly ✨ The importance of parents staying informed with accurate and current scientific information ✨ The emotional side of parenting—grief, hope, confusion, intuition ✨ Practical steps families can take to prioritize what truly matters for their child If you’ve ever felt lost in the noise of autism information, this episode will bring relief, clarity, and direction. You are not alone—there is a path forward. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:03 Guest Introduction 03:47 Dr. Teresa Lyons' Personal Journey 07:15 Understanding Autism and Its Evolving Definition 09:39 Navigating the Overwhelm of Autism Information 16:01 The Navigating Autism Matrix 21:07 Common Mistakes and First Steps for Parents 24:14 Balancing Life and Autism 24:26 Communicating Needs and Reducing Stress 25:08 Emotional Journey of Parenting 28:44 Understanding and Addressing Myths 33:17 The Importance of Rest and Self-Care 39:03 Finding Joy and Connection 41:56 Resources and Final Thoughts 🔗 Resources & Links 📘 Learn more about Dr. Lyons and the Navigating AWEtism Matrix: https://awetism.net/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail What happens when you step away from “fixing” and begin meeting your autistic child exactly where they are? In this heartfelt episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, Brigitte talks with Jennifer Briggs, a mom who created a home-based Son-Rise program—called Sarah-Rise—for her daughter who has a rare genetic anomaly and autism. Jennifer opens up about the stressful early years, the emotional weight of trying so many therapies, and the turning point that led her to a completely different approach—one rooted in presence, joining, and deep connection. She shares how the Son-Rise philosophy (now known as Do Autism Differently) helped Sarah make meaningful developmental gains—and how embracing her child’s world instead of resisting it transformed their relationship. This conversation is filled with gentleness, honesty, and hope for any parent who’s ever felt overwhelmed, doubtful, or unsure of the next step. 💛 In this episode, Jennifer shares: - How she shifted from stress and fear to connection and trust - What “joining” looks like and why it matters - How the Sarah-Rise program helped her daughter engage more deeply - The emotional challenges of guilt, grief, and self-pressure If you’re navigating your own autism journey, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to rush, force, or push. There is another way—one rooted in presence and acceptance. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 03:16 Jennifer's Journey: From Teacher to Mom  04:46 Sarah's Early Years and Diagnosis  08:28 The Turning Point: Discovering the Sunrise Program  11:01 Implementing the Sunrise Program at Home  18:32 Understanding Genetic Anomalies and Autism  31:10 The Power of Community and Asking for Help  33:52 Jennifer's Book: Watching Sarah Rise  38:45 Final Thoughts and Where to Connect  🔗 Resources & Links Jennifer's Website: https://www.watchingsarahrise.com/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail When your child is in full meltdown mode, what do you do? If you’ve ever felt like you’re trying to hold it together while everything around you is falling apart—you’re not alone. In this powerful episode, Brigitte talks with Lisa Candera, solo mom to a teen with severe autism and OCD, full-time attorney, and certified life coach for autism moms. Lisa shares the hard-earned tools that helped her stop reacting out of overwhelm and start responding with calm, clarity, and compassion. She introduces her Meltdown Action Plan—a simple, step-by-step approach to staying regulated when your child isn’t. 🔑 You’ll hear about: - The concept of being the “solid object” in your child’s storm - Why your nervous system—not your child’s behavior—is the place to start - How to prepare before, stay grounded during, and recover after a meltdown - Strategies for managing guilt when you don’t respond perfectly Lisa’s free resource: the Meltdown Action Plan, available at This episode is packed with empathy, insight, and practical guidance for parents navigating intense emotional moments—and learning to show up differently. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 03:00 Lisa Candera's Story and Parenting Challenges 05:21 Navigating Parenting with ADHD 07:58 Shifting from Fixing to Managing Emotions 13:11 Implementing the Solid Object Strategy 19:31 Handling Meltdowns and Parental Guilt 28:59 Self-Compassion and Evaluation 30:01 Mantras and Intellectual Decisions 31:09 Understanding Stress and Parenting Challenges 32:21 The Importance of Support and Community 35:47 Introducing the Meltdown Action Plan 37:32 Implementing the Meltdown Action Plan 44:33 The Power of Pausing 49:52 Regulating Yourself for Your Child 52:57 Conclusion and Resources 🔗 Resources & Links Lisa's Website: https://theautismmomcoach.com/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail If you’ve ever felt like you’re holding it all together on the outside…while your insides are screaming—this episode is for you. Brigitte sits down with Kimberly Guche, a pediatric speech-language pathologist, mindset coach, and mom of four, to talk about something we rarely say out loud: parenting an autistic or highly sensitive child can feel overwhelming. The pressure. The unpredictability. The constant scanning for the next meltdown. It’s a lot. But here’s the hopeful part—your energy matters more than you think. Kimberly introduces her Five Minute Chaos to Calm Method, a gentle yet powerful practice designed to help parents reset their nervous systems, reconnect with their inner calm, and respond to their child with confidence and clarity. No fancy tools. No hour-long routines. Just five minutes that can change the tone of your whole day. ✨ In this episode, you’ll hear about: - The hidden signals your nervous system is constantly sending (and how your child picks up on them) - What it means to be emotionally congruent—and why your kids feel the difference - Grounding, breathwork, and visualization strategies for the real world - Why calming your energy can shift your whole household - Permission to not be perfect—and still be the parent your child needs This conversation is a breath of fresh air for any mom who’s been stuck in survival mode and is ready for a reset. 💛 Tune in for hope, heart, and doable tools you can start using today. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:50 Kimberly's Journey and Professional Background 05:10 Challenges and Discoveries in Parenting and Therapy 07:58 The Power of Meditation and Self-Regulation 11:24 Shifts in Support for Families and Sensory Interventions 13:48 Five Minute Chaos to Calm Method 20:36 Guided Exercise for Calm and Grounding 25:08 Finding Calm and Peace 25:34 The Power of Nature 26:30 Dealing with Overwhelm 27:28 Personal Anchors and Visualization 31:17 Handling Chaotic Situations 33:55 Supporting Moms of Autistic Children 34:54 The Importance of Self-Care 39:12 Final Thoughts and Resources 🔗 Resources & Links Kimberley's Website: https://entrancinginspirations.com/ Chaos to Calm 5 minute Reset Audio: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14sOHXoXJ8vYtzTFaeZ_G4s6F8_iVonzp/view Peaceful Parenting Meditation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y2klA61iQE-hTZBsaC4H7-PXTBmakYfo/view Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this heartfelt episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, host Brigitte Shipman sits down with Kathleen Somers, a mother and author, to explore the complex emotional landscape of raising a child with an invisible disability. Kathleen reflects on her 24-year journey parenting a son with high-functioning autism—from initial denial to acceptance.  With honesty and humility, she shares the moments that shaped her: learning to let go of expectations, finding the courage to trust her instincts, and most of all, allowing herself to become a student of her son’s inner world. The conversation explores: - What it’s like to raise a child with a disability most people can’t see - The emotional terrain of guilt, fear, frustration, and deep love - Teaching self-advocacy in ways that empower children long-term - Embracing who your child truly is Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome  01:22 Kathleen Summers' Journey and Memoir  04:20 Initial Diagnosis and Early Challenges  06:28 Navigating School and Social Dynamics  08:02 Gross Motor Skills and Sports  10:01 Understanding High-Functioning Autism  13:40 The Meaning Behind 'Barely Visible'  17:10 Lessons Learned from Parenting  20:40 Understanding and Accepting Differences  21:34 Advocating for Your Child  22:42 Teaching Self-Advocacy  23:19 Parental Reflections and Lessons  24:32 The Importance of Self-Advocacy  26:21 Advice for Autism Moms  31:06 Letting Go and Building Independence  36:32 Final Thoughts and Resources  🔗 Resources & Links Kathleen's Website: https://www.kathleensomers.com/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show