Autism parenting to clinical psychologist at 40

Parenting With Heart: Raising an Autistic Teen and Returning to School at 40

She raised three kids, went back to school at 40, and became a psychologist—while parenting an autistic son.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Tamara Dronenburg to talk about what parenting looks like beyond labels. We explore how she learned to connect with her son on his terms, why community college became a smart first step, and how she balances support with independence as he turns 18.

You'll discover the moments that shifted her view of “normal,” the supports that actually helped at school, and the mindset that made advocacy possible without burning out. I also ask about dating, work, driving, and what adulthood looks like right now—plus the one message she gives families just starting out.

I reveal the questions I wish more parents would ask, and you'll hear the surprising way ADHD showed up in her family—and what that changed.

Key Timestamps

0:00 – Why this story matters: heart, grit, and purpose
1:01 – Dr. Dronenburg’s path and family
1:24 – Seeing her son beyond any label
5:14 – Early signs and what shifted after age one
7:35 – The diagnosis moment and mixed emotions
9:02 – Communicating in ways that actually connect
10:20 – ADHD insights across the family
14:39 – Parenting a teen on the spectrum: surprises
21:05 – School supports that helped him grow
22:43 – Advocacy that gets results
23:38 – College and self-advocacy without the stigma
27:07 – Work, independence, and setting his own pace
29:50 – Hopes, relationships, and the road ahead
31:45 – Advice to her younger self
34:14 – A message to families just starting

About the Guest

Dr. Tamara Dronenburg is a clinical psychologist and former occupational therapist. She returned to school in her 40s while raising three children, including an autistic son, and now provides autism assessments and private practice care.

If this conversation helps you, share it with a parent, educator, or caregiver who needs it. Subscribe for more real, practical talks on autism, ADHD, and inclusive support.

Keywords: autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, parenting, teens, advocacy, college supports, clinical psychologist, inclusion, community

#Neurodiversity #AutismAcceptance #ADHD #Parenting #InclusiveEducation