As a neurodivergent person with three children who have diagnoses ranging from Autism to ADHD, SPD, PDA, Apraxia, and Anxiety, I know firsthand that this journey can be as difficult as it is rewarding. While there may not be any handbook on how to parent a neurodivergent child, there are parents like myself who know the path and can guide you along the way. Whether your child was formally diagnosed or you just have your suspicions, I am here to help!
About Me
My name is Aja Cerone. I have my M.A. in Clinical Psychology, B.A. in Psychology and B.S. in Human Services. Prior to becoming a stay at home mom, I provided therapeutic services to neurodiverse children, teens and adults along with their caregivers for nearly a decade. In that time I worked in schools, the community and at a clinic to help meet the needs of families. Now I homeschool my three neurodivergent children, advocate for more inclusive schools and help other families on their journeys.
I know that parenting a neurodivergent child quickly becomes a full time job. On top of the actual parenting pieces there are countless school meetings and specialist appointments, in addition to the never-ending phone calls, emails and forms. Going through this process three times I have found ways to make the process less stressful and enjoy sharing those tips with other families.
What is Parent Coaching
Parent coaching is a way of getting support from someone who has walked in your shoes. Topics can range from:
- Practical help: filling out paperwork, finding a specialist in your area, understanding state and federal programs
- Parent training: behavioral issues, therapeutic techniques and communication
- Brainstorming: collaborating on difficult problems for your child or family
- Visual supports: making visual supports for you or teaching you how to create them yourself
- School guidance: tips for navigating the public school system with a neurodivergent child
- Homeschool consulting: ideas for curricula, teaching methods and accommodations that best suit your learner
- Emotional support: talking about the difficult days with someone who has been there
- Long-term planning: developing a roadmap for your family
What to Expect
My goal is to help you get the support and resources you need to help your child thrive. That process looks different for every family! I take the time to assess what your family need at home, at school, and in the community while also taking into account your unique strengths, values and interests.
This process starts off with a strengths and needs checklist followed up with a free 30 minute zoom consultation to tell me about yourself and your family. This is also a great opportunity to ask questions about the process and logistics that would best fit your family. Together we will identify your top priorities and I will put together an action plan to keep us on task for future sessions.
I am a stay at home mother so scheduling is flexible! Frequency of sessions depends on what works best for your family. Some prefer to meet every week, others only have the time and energy for a monthly meeting- we will accomplish your goals regardless!
Each 60 minute zoom coaching session costs $100. There is a sliding scale available and no family will be turned away due to their financial situation.
Getting Started
Email me to get started: info@ParentingTheNeurodiverse.com