How I can help

I specialize in working with parents who are raising children with special needs, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are also trying to plan for their child's adulthood. These parents are overwhelmed by the multi-dimensional enormity of special needs parenting and need someone who understands their unique challenges, helps manage their intense emotions, and assists them in achieving greater clarity of thought, confidence and hope in planning for the future. Anticipating adulthood requires parents to understand SSI/Medicaid/NJ's Adult Services (DDD), so parents of children with disabilities also benefit from my step-by-step guidance in applying for services for their adult children to have necessary supports that maximize their potential.

Children with intellectual/developmental disabilities present significant and unique challenges that compel parents to navigate a complicated child-rearing path. Daily struggles and unrelenting advocacy often lead to feelings of despair, exhaustion and isolation. Mothers and fathers are overwhelmed and strained as they endeavor to care for their families, contend with siblings issues, work, tend to spouses, manage behaviors, advocate for educational needs, educate themselves and try to remain connected to others, all while hoping to squeeze in time for themselves. At times, it can feel brutal.

Undoubtedly, emotional and practical support is critical to address a wide range of issues. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to process the intensity and magnitude of the emotional realm, with all the highs and lows of raising a child with disabilities. Recognition of one's emotional depth provides strength and fortification for the challenges and rigor of being a special needs parent. Equally important, I assist parents in learning about transition -- the process of planning for adulthood. As children with disabilities grow, it is imperative to understand federal and state systems, such as SSI, NJ DDD and Medicaid, to prepare students for life after high school.