Divorce is never easy, and when a child has autism, disabilities, or other support needs, the process can feel even more overwhelming. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with certified divorce coach, mediator, and special needs parent Mary Ann Hughes about how families can navigate separation while keeping their child's well-being at the center.

Mary Ann shares her personal experience parenting two children on opposite ends of the autism spectrum while going through divorce, and explains why special needs divorce planning often requires a different level of care, foresight, and support. She offers practical guidance on talking with children about divorce, avoiding rushed decisions, protecting government benefits, planning for therapies and future services, and creating a more child-centered approach to co-parenting.

This episode is especially helpful for parents who are currently going through separation, considering divorce, or simply want to understand what to think about if life takes an unexpected turn. It is honest, grounded, and full of helpful perspective for families facing a difficult season.

Topics Covered

• Why divorce planning looks different when a child has special needs

• How to talk with children about divorce in a supportive way

• Using social stories to help children understand change

• Why it is important not to rush major legal and financial decisions

• How to keep the child's needs at the center of the divorce process

• Why future planning matters for therapies, programs, and adult services

• Protecting government benefits and financial eligibility

• How divorce coaching, mediation, and parenting coordination can help families

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:12 Mary Ann's story and why she does this work 04:28 Talking with children about divorce and using social stories 07:29 Planning ahead for therapies, services, and the future 12:33 Protecting benefits and understanding legal considerations 15:56 How parents can work with Mary Ann and get support

Memorable Quote

"This is not the end. It's the start of something new and something different."

About the Guest

Mary Ann Hughes is a certified divorce coach, mediator, and parenting coordinator who specializes in supporting families with children with special needs. She is also a mother of two autistic young adults and brings both personal and professional insight to helping families navigate divorce in a more thoughtful, child-centered way.

Resources Mentioned

• Special Family Transitions

• Social stories for divorce conversations

• Special needs trusts

• Parenting coordination

• Mediation for families with children with disabilities

About the Host

Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice that supports children and families through compassionate, practical care.

Subscribe & Connect

If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation.

Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956

Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com