LPH01: Our Family’s Story of Autism, Mental Health, and Crisis Support

In this first episode of Let’s Plant Houses, my husband Bill and I talk about autism, autism parenting, and the mental health crises our daughter Nicola faced. These challenges with meltdowns, crisis care, IDD support, and special needs housing pushed us deep into the healthcare system and the mental health system. We share how we tried to help Nicola while feeling like we were drowning in the stress and confusion of complex care. We also talk about the hardest crisis we have ever faced with Nicola, who has profound autism and bipolar disorder. Our hope is that our story brings comfort, guidance, and support to anyone caring for a child with complex needs. You are not alone, and there is always a path forward.