In this episode, Chris welcomes Paula Leslie—an experienced counselor, parent coach, and therapeutic placement specialist with over 30 years in the mental health field and a parent of a child with autism. Paula shares her personal and
professional journey, reflecting on the early signs of autism, the challenges of navigating diagnoses, and how to advocate effectively for meaningful support. Together, they explore what it means to lean into a child’s strengths while addressing their struggles, the importance of setting clear, collaborative goals with professionals, and why embracing the hard moments is essential for growth. With compassion and wisdom, Paula offers insight—and hope—into the evolving landscape of autism support and treatment.