Mother's Guide Through Autism
This podcast is to inspire, support, and build community for mothers raising children with autism. Brigitte Shipman is the host and creator of this podcast and it has been inspired by her son Joseph who has been living with autism for the last 32 years. Together, Brigitte and Joseph hope to offer mothers of autistic children hope for the future. They will be sharing what they have learned in their journey as well as have expert guests on the show to give you knowledge, resources, insights, and inspiration.
Mother's Guide Through Autism
Invisible Challenges: Understanding High-Functioning Autism with Kathleen Somers
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