If you clicked on this episode because you're worried your child might have autism, I want you to know: you are not alone. That fear, that uncertainty, those late-night questions running through your mind—every parent I've met has been there in some form. This episode is for you.

In this episode, I speak with my dear friend and Cortica caregiver, Victoria, and talk about her process getting an early diagnosis for her son Rowan and how it changed his life. We discuss the early signs she noticed that sparked concern, how to go with that gut feeling, how her family found their way to a diagnosis, how to navigate a family member resisting a diagnosis, and much more.

After 25 years of walking this journey with thousands of families, I've learned that the time before diagnosis is often the hardest part—not because of what comes after, but because of the waiting, the not knowing, the endless "what ifs." Once parents have clarity, the fear begins to lift. Because now they have a roadmap.

This episode is for you if: you are afraid of the stigma that can come with a diagnosis, scared your child will be labeled, worried about how a diagnosis will impact your child's schooling, and struggle with a partner or family member who is resistant to a diagnosis.