Seen, Heard, and Understood: Reflections from Our Autism Moms Chat
On April 12th, a group of 25 women gathered at a heartfelt “Mom Chat” hosted by EmPath and Be U Bear. With a warm meal and respite care provided, the room filled with stories, shared struggles, laughter, and moments of deep connection. For many, it was the first time they felt truly understood—not just as parents, but as women navigating the complexities of raising children with autism.
This space wasn’t about expert panels or perfect plans—it was about honesty, hope, and community. Below are the themes and insights that emerged from this powerful gathering:
Key Takeaways from the Conversation
1. Girls Are Often Misdiagnosed
Many moms expressed frustration that most autism research has been based on young boys, leading to misconceptions about how autism presents in girls—such as being “too empathetic” or making “too much eye contact.”
2. Diagnosis Is Rarely Straightforward
Families described long, winding paths to diagnosis—some taking years and multiple evaluations. One mom went through eight reevaluations before finally receiving clarity.
3. The Emotional Weight Is Real
The journey often includes grief, isolation, and anxiety—but also moments of profound relief. As one mom said, receiving a diagnosis brought “the most relieving cry she ever experienced.”
4. Support Networks Matter
Whether it’s a fellow mom, a therapist, a teacher, or a friend—connection is crucial. Many credited their mental and emotional survival to communities like this one.
5. Moms Are at the Center
Mothers are not only caregivers—they’re therapists, advocates, researchers, and relentless protectors. The daily emotional labor is immense, and often invisible.
6. Celebrations Can Be Complicated
Birthdays and holidays, while joyful, can also trigger meltdowns due to sensory overload. What’s “fun” for others might feel overwhelming to neurodivergent children.
7. Cultural Barriers Add Another Layer
Moms from Hispanic and other communities shared how stigma and misinformation delayed their access to diagnoses and treatment.
8. Inclusion Over Competition
Programs like Top Soccer and Challenger leagues offer safe, supportive environments focused on belonging rather than performance. For many families, these are lifelines.
Powerful Voices from the Room
Each mom’s story was unique—and yet there were threads of common experience:
• A mother grieving the expectations she once held for her nonverbal son.
• A woman describing her daughter as “the most complex case” clinicians had seen.
• A mom sharing how her child was finally speaking after years of silence.
• Another reflecting on how hard it is to feel seen, especially when family members don’t understand.
And then there were the moments of joy: a child thriving on stage, a tiny “mom” spoken for the first time, a support group that brought someone back from a place of deep isolation.
One mother captured it perfectly:
“There’s something powerful about being in a space where moms truly understand each other.”
Programs and Resources Shared
Attendees exchanged resources and tips, including:
• Ohio Autism Scholarship
• Cincinnati Center for Autism
• Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services
• We Rock the Spectrum Gym
• IEP Support in Local School Districts
• Therapy and Inclusion Programs like Top Soccer and Challenger Leagues
Words of Wisdom from One Mom to Another
• “Never introduce anything if you don’t want to do it forever.”
• “Children will get there in their own time.”
• “Don’t ever stop believing in your child.”
• “Our children will make you the best version of YOU.”
You Matter
Your mental health matters. Your story matters. YOU matter.
You are more than a caregiver—you’re a warrior, a leader, and a woman who deserves rest, joy, and care.
We’re already planning our next Autism Moms Chat for August 2nd. Until then, let’s keep lifting each other up—because when one mom is seen and supported, we all rise.