Navigating Divorce with Neurodivergent Kids pt 1 (S8E05)

Divorce is never easy, and when neurodivergent children are involved, the challenges can be even more complex. In this episode, I open up about my own divorce for the first time and discuss how it has affected me as a parent. My kids will also be sharing their experiences in future episodes because they deserve a voice in this conversation. Joining me today is Dr. Mikki Lee, a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist with extensive experience working with neurodivergent children and their families. Together, we explore the unique challenges of co-parenting neurodivergent kids, the importance of routine and consistency, and strategies to help families navigate transitions with less trauma and more stability. This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Next week, we’ll be answering your questions about co-parenting and divorce in neurodivergent families. Key Topics in This Episode • The impact of divorce on neurodivergent kids and why their experience may differ from neurotypical children • Common co-parenting challenges and why different parenting styles become more apparent post-separation • Why consistency is key and how small differences like bedtime routines can create stress • Setting expectations while balancing empathy and structure • Why parents often overcompensate out of guilt and how this can backfire • The importance of self-care for parents and why you need to take care of yourself to be the best parent possible Guest Bio Dr. Mikki Lee is a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist based in New York City. She specializes in working with neurodivergent children and their families, offering psychological testing and therapy to help support children with autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. Learn more about Dr. Mikki Lee at DrMikkiLee.com. Resources & Links • Learn more about Dr. Mikki Lee: DrMikkiLee.com • Visit The Autism Dad website for more resources: TheAutismDad.com • Follow me on Instagram: Instagram.com/TheAutismDad • Like my page on Facebook: Facebook.com/TheAutismDad • Join my private parent support group: TheAutismDad.com/Support Listen & Subscribe • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-autism-dad/id1450723980 • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Kl8mzCI7sYHzLNVhmRWTo?si=-J4WsX96Sx20HKtBxl3fuQ • Official Podcast Website: https://listen.theautismdad.com Next Week: In Part 2, we’ll be answering listener questions about co-parenting, communication struggles, legal considerations, and helping kids through the transition. Stay tuned. This weeks sponsors: If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with anyone who might benefit. Your support helps bring more resources to families like yours. A big thank you to our sponsors for their support: Safe Place Bedding: Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to give your child the gift of better sleep. @safeplacebedding @SafePlaceBedding The Unbreakable Boy: This inspiring film hits theaters on February 21st! Get your tickets now at https://tickets.theunbreakableboy.movie @theunbreakableboymovie @theunbreakableboymovie Mightier: Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more at https://www.mightier.com/. Use code "theautismdad22" to save 10%. @mightierapp @mightierapp