Welcome to the Autism in Black Podcast, hosted by Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC.

In this heartfelt episode, we're joined by Tia Howard, a Family Team Meeting Facilitator at the Child and Family Services Agency in Washington, DC. With over 23 years of experience supporting children and families, Tia has dedicated her life to creating collaborative spaces where families feel heard, supported, and empowered.

After her child was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in 2024, Tia's personal and professional worlds came together in powerful ways. Her journey deepened her commitment to advocacy, community connection, and finding balance as both a professional and a parent navigating autism.

She opens up about the importance of building a strong support system, prioritizing self-care as a parent, and how music can foster joy, healing, and connection between caregivers and their children.

Listeners will explore:

• How to build and sustain a supportive community as a parent or caregiver
• The importance of self-care and emotional wellness for parents
• How music can strengthen connection and communication between caregivers and children

About Tia Howard:

Tia Howard is a dedicated Family Team Meeting Facilitator with over 23 years of experience helping children and families thrive. A passionate advocate, wife, and mother of two, she combines her professional expertise with her personal journey as a parent of a child on the autism spectrum. Through her work and advocacy, Tia helps families find resources, build networks of support, and create spaces of joy and understanding within the autism community.

Connect with Tia Howard:

• Facebook: Tia Howard
• TikTok: @numba1mjfan

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