A Guide for Parents & Caregivers Supporting a Neurodiverse Teen

The Modern Domestic Woman
Sep 3
2 min read

Parenting a neurodiverse teen is equal parts rewarding and challenging. Between navigating school systems, sorting through acronyms, and trying to meet your child’s emotional needs, it’s easy to feel stretched thin.

That’s why Jackie Weber, LCSW, created a comprehensive, compassionate resource to help you feel more equipped and less alone on this journey.

Jackie is a licensed clinical social worker with more than 14 years of experience walking alongside teens, young adults, and parents in schools, homes, and private practice. Her career as a school social worker gave her a deep understanding of educational systems, including 504 Plans, IEPs, and everything in between.

Today, through her Geneva-based practice, Weber Therapy and Consulting, Jackie combines that expertise with neurodiversity-affirming care to empower families with clarity, tools, and encouragement.

Here’s what you’ll find inside the guide:

Understanding the Diagnosis

Jackie begins by unpacking what a neurodiverse diagnosis really means. Instead of focusing on deficits, this section helps parents embrace differences as strengths and opens space for connection with their teen.

Reflection prompts and checklists make it practical, not overwhelming.

Navigating the IEP & 504 Process

School meetings can feel intimidating, but Jackie breaks them down step by step. You’ll learn how to request evaluations, prepare for meetings, and advocate effectively.

Clear explanations of acronyms, timelines, and roles ensure you know what to expect and how to be heard.

School-Based Supports

From accommodations to specialized services, this section clarifies the difference between IEPs and 504 Plans, what resources schools provide, and how to document communication with your child’s educational team.

Private & Community Resources

Jackie recognizes that support doesn’t end at the school doors. This section introduces outside resources like therapists, occupational therapy, support groups, and inclusive community programs that can help your family thrive.

Practicing Patience Through the Process

Parenting a neurodiverse teen is a marathon, not a sprint.

Jackie offers reminders for self-care, encouragement to celebrate small wins, and journal prompts to help you stay grounded through ups and downs.

Glossary of Terms

Because the alphabet soup of special education can be confusing, the guide wraps up with a glossary of acronyms and commonly used phrases, so you never feel lost in the jargon.

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all manual. Jackie created it to be a thoughtful, compassionate companion that:

Equips you with knowledge so you feel confident in school and medical meetings.
Encourages you with reminders that you’re not alone in this process.
Empowers you with tools like checklists, prompts, and reflections that you can use immediately.

Download Your Copy Today

If you’re parenting or caring for a neurodiverse teen, this guide is for you. Whether you need practical steps for an upcoming IEP meeting or simply reassurance that you’re doing your best, Jackie’s expertise and warmth come through on every page.

Download “A Guide for Parents and Caregivers Supporting a Neurodiverse Teen” below.