Getting the news from a medical professional that your child has a disability is never easy. All parents have high hopes and dreams for their babies, and any disability creates challenges. Often, parents need time to adjust their expectations.
Research shows that this adjustment period is particularly difficult for families of autistic children. In fact, many parents show symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) when they first learn from a doctor that their child has autism.
Other research shows that even after the adjustment period, parents with autistic children — especially those with severe behavioral issues — continue to have intense stress. Research shows that 1 in 5 parents with autistic children show clinical signs of PTSD.
At the Cope Center for Autism, we’re a big fan of the old saying: “knowledge is power.” We know that families can feel less overwhelmed, isolated, and afraid when they have information about resources and hope for the future. We help families manage those intense feelings that surround autism, beginning with their first visit with us.
If children meet the criteria for autism during an evaluation, their parents can meet with a parent consultant right after the exam. The consultant will explain key terms and provide a vetted list of private ABA companies. Parents leave the office with a blue folder of handouts, guidance about next steps, and a plan for how they can help support their children.
We know that children with autism often need extended support, and we’re here for the families with ongoing medical care, informational webinars and clinics, and after-school activities. Everyone in our office — from Dr. Jennifer Cope to Leslie, our receptionist — cares about autism families, so we’ve created an atmosphere of acceptance and appreciation.
We believe that information and care can help alleviate, and even prevent, the trauma that too many autism families experience.
From our Jan. 26, 2026 newsletter. Please subscribe here.