What happens when your child's autism diagnosis triggers your deepest trauma response? For former teacher Tiffini Jacobs, it became the catalyst for the most profound rewrite of her life. After spending 20 years in the education system - first as a student, then as a teacher - Tiffini found herself trapped in patterns of control that were slowly destroying her wellbeing. When her daughter was diagnosed with autism at three and a half, Tiffini's need to "fix" and manage everything spiraled into a two-year period she describes as debilitating. But sometimes our greatest breakdowns become our biggest breakthroughs. Through breathwork, Reiki, and eventually discovering Human Design, Tiffini began to understand that her controlling nature wasn't a character flaw - it was a trauma response learned early in childhood. Now a registered psychotherapist, Human Design expert, and Reiki master, she helps women heal from the exhausting cycle of people-pleasing and self-abandonment. Her story is a powerful reminder that we don't have to wait for permission to become who we're meant to be - and that sometimes the most radical act is choosing to embody your future self right now.

Key Takeaways:

• Control is often a trauma response learned early in life as a survival mechanism
• Teaching can become a "trauma bond" for those who learned to seek approval through being "good"
• Your future self doesn't have to be an unreachable goal - you can start being her today
• Receiving is a muscle that needs to be strengthened, especially for natural givers
• Success isn't just about reaching goals - it's about understanding what you're truly seeking through those goals
• Investing in others' joy (through hiring support) creates an economy you want to live in

Learn More About Tiffini:

Tiffini Jacobs is a registered psychotherapist (qualifying), Human Design and Gene Keys Coach, Reiki Master Teacher and special needs advocate who helps women heal from fawning, people-pleasing, and self-abandonment. She blends nervous system repair, Human Design and trauma-informed care to guide clients back to their bodies, boundaries and power. Her work is rooted in embodiment, emotional truth, and sacred self-leadership.

Connect with Tiffini:

• Instagram: @tiffini.jacobs
• Website: tiffinijacobs.com
• Services: Psychotherapy, Human Design readings, special needs advocacy
• Upcoming: "Unmask Her" networking events in Port Perry, Ontario

👉 Come say hi on Instagram: @vandercreativeco and tell me what you’re rewriting next.
⭐️ If you loved this episode, please rate & review—it helps more than you’d think.
👀 If you didn’t love it… maybe just don’t rate it.