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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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