Parenting Unique Kids with Compassion | Katie K. May

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!Say YES to Ringing in the New Year in Paris & VersaillesDecember 27th - January 2ndClick here for details!Parenting isn’t one-size-fits-all, and in this heartfelt and deeply insightful episode, Wendy and guest Katie K. May explore the beauty and complexity of raising kids as unique as we are. Wendy shares her journey to motherhood after 24 years of waiting, contrasting it with Katie’s surprise introduction to parenthood at 26. Together, they dive into the art of understanding and adapting to their children's individual needs—from raising introverts and ADHD brains to nurturing “fire feelers” who experience emotions with intense depth. Katie shares practical wisdom on fostering accurate self-esteem, setting meaningful limits over rigid rules, and helping our kids create a life that works for them rather than trying to fit into societal boxes. Along the way, they discuss the emotional journey of parenthood—grieving as our children grow and evolve, letting go of control, and building relationships rooted in mutual respect and understanding. This episode is packed with stories, actionable tips, and gentle reminders that it's never too late to reset your relationship with your child.About Katie:Katie K. May, LPC, owner and executive director of Creative Healing, is a national speaker and trainer specializing in therapy for teens with depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. As one of only eleven Linehan board-certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) clinicians in Pennsylvania, she’s an expert in this gold-standard treatment for life-threatening behaviors. Katie is committed to helping teens feel accepted for who they are while teaching them skills to build a life they love. Connect with Katie:Her book, You're On Fire, It's Fine: Effective Strategies for Parenting Teens with Self-Destructive Behaviors: amazon.com/Youre-Fire-Its-Fine-Self-Destructive/dp/1544545584/?tag=syty-20 YoureOnFireItsFine.comOn Instagram @creative_healing & @katiekmayOn FacebookOn LinkedInOn TikTok @teensupportcenterReferenced in this Episode:The Highly Sensitive Child by Elaine N. Aron: amazon.com/dp/0767908724?tag=syty-20 ________________________________________________________________________________________Connect with Wendy:LinkedinInstagram: @wendy.harropFacebook: Phineas Wright HouseWebsite: Phineas Wright House PWH Farm StaysPWH Curated Experience and TravelInterested in being a guest on the show? Send your pitch to [email protected] Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.