I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have two children of my own and two step children. Although, I really can’t call them children anymore, they are 19-23 now! I have been inspired to write this blog and share my journey parenting my daughter Jessica. Jessica is now 23 years old and she is the delight of my life. Jessica was diagnosed at the age of 19 with Pervasive Developmental Disorder. Now, under the new diagnostic manual, she is considered to be on the Autistic Spectrum. As a clinician, this makes sense, as I believe all developmental delays are part of the spectrum. However, as Jessica was growing up, her symptoms did not fall into the Autism category. She was high functioning with more predominant social/emotional issues. School began to be a struggle starting in second grade and by the time she got to Middle School, we entered into the world of special education. High School academics went great, but socially and emotionally we were back on the roller coaster! The highlight being a psychiatric hospitalization to start off her Senior year. We have been through therapy, medication, failed peer relationships, IEPs, homework tantrums, multiple diagnoses, high school graduation, 2 1/2 years of community college and independent living. I have a lot to share and I have learned a lot along the way. Join me in this journey and please ask questions, share insights and resources.