Autism and Intellectual Disability

Coping with Your Child’s Special Needs

Caring for a child with autism or intellectual disabilities can be incredibly overwhelming, affecting every aspect of family life. As a parent, you may feel isolated, frustrated, and exhausted as you navigate challenges. You may think:

  • "My child doesn’t fit in at school, and I feel unsupported by family."
  • "I’ve tried diet changes, vitamins, and various treatments, but nothing seems to help."
  • "I’ve consulted pediatricians, neurologists, and specialists, but I’m at my wits’ end. I’m sick of pushing medications and unsure if they’re even working."
  • "I’m exhausted by my child’s aggression, frustration, and impulsivity. I can’t figure out how to help them connect with other kids or manage family dynamics."

As your child ages, these feelings may only intensify. You might wonder:

  • Will they ever live independently?
  • What will happen when high school or college is finished, and we no longer have access to the services we rely on?
  • You need help making the right decisions for their future, but it feels like you’re all on your own.

And then, as your child enters adulthood, the weight of caregiving grows heavier. You may find yourself overwhelmed by their choices or frustrated with how the support you do have is being stretched thin. You may feel anxiety about what will happen when you're no longer there to care for them.

We’re Here to Help.

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Our team has the expertise and experience to support families like yours. With a compassionate, respectful approach, we listen to your needs, help you identify resources, and guide you through the challenges you face. We know how to shift the status quo and empower families to access the right care and services.

The only things kids wear out faster than shoes are their parents.

John J. Plomp

Solutions Offered by Psychiatry & Therapy

We are here to offer more than just diagnosis and treatment—we are experienced partners in your journey. We see children, adolescents, and adults with autism every day, and we specialize in addressing challenges like impulsivity, aggression, and learning difficulties.

We work closely with parents to advocate for necessary services, including writing recommendations for Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). We also provide information on community resources such as the Inland Regional Center, County Vocational Rehabilitation, and Mental Health Services.

Don’t think that there’s a different, better child ‘hiding’ behind the autism. This is your child. Love the child in front of you. Encourage his strengths, celebrate his quirks, and improve his weaknesses, the way you would with any child. You may have to work harder on some of this, but that’s the goal.

Claire Scovell LaZebnik

Partnering to Find a Solution

You don’t have to go it alone. We're here to walk beside you, offering expert guidance, emotional support, and practical solutions. Together, we can find the best path forward for your child and your family.

Call us today to set up an appointment and take the first step toward positive change.

For more information about autism, visit Autism Speaks.
For local family resources, visit NAMI SB.

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