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
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