Launching Neurodivergent Teens Into Adulthood
Launching Neurodivergent Teens Into Adulthood
Calm Conversations • Healthy Boundaries • Lasting Connection
Do you ever feel like every conversation with your teen turns tense, even when you’re trying to help?
☑️ Wish you could communicate without it feeling like a battle for control?
☑️ Struggle to stay calm when emotions run high or your teen shuts down?
☑️ Wonder how to let go without losing connection?
Take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you’re not doing it wrong.
I’m Crystal Wagner, a Life and Parenting Coach, autistic and ADHD (AuDHD) mom of two neurodivergent daughters, and a former homeschooler who’s walked this path myself. After years of trying to manage, fix, and protect, I discovered what my teens needed most wasn’t more control. They needed calm communication, healthy boundaries, and a loving relationship.
Each episode offers gentle guidance to help you:
✨ Have calmer conversations that build trust and confidence.
✨ Regulate your emotions so you can help your teen co-regulate.
✨ Set healthy boundaries that support independence and mutual respect.
✨ Navigate the transition from parenting to partnering as your teen steps into adulthood.
You’ll find gentle, faith-grounded encouragement and neurodiversity-informed tools that help both you and your teen feel seen, heard, and safe.
If you’re ready to move from control to connection and help your neurodivergent teen with calm, compassion, and confidence, this podcast is for you.
Grab your favorite weighted blanket, take a deep breath, and let’s walk this launch season together.
Launching Neurodivergent Teens Into Adulthood
5: How to Stay Calm When Your Teen’s Emotions Explode
Have a comment or question for Crystal? Send it in here!
It’s easy to get swept up in our teen’s emotions—especially when they’re intense, unpredictable, or seem to come out of nowhere. As a mom of two neurodivergent daughters, I’ve had to learn (and relearn) how to stay grounded in the middle of emotional storms. The idea of being a thermostat instead of a thermometer changed everything for me.
In this episode, I share what it means to stay calm when conversations with your teen get tense. We’ll explore why mirror neurons make emotional regulation contagious, how empathy can make it harder to stay steady, and simple grounding techniques that help you find your center again.
As you listen, I hope you’re reminded that staying calm doesn’t mean being perfect. It means creating safety, connection, and trust—one moment at a time.
Links and Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
- Letter from Birmingham Jail by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
- The Neuroanatomical Transformation of the Teenage Brain Jill Bolte Taylor
- Tired of your emotions running the show? Take control of them today with the Thermostat Approach.
- Brick by Brick: Finding Your Calm, LEGO® Serious Play® events for moms
Let’s connect:
Here are three ways I can support you on your journey:
1. Join a Workshop
Experience calm, creativity, and connection in a hands-on setting. Each month, I host a live workshop where you can slow down, reflect, and explore your relationship with your teen in a supportive space.
See upcoming events.
2. Pivot Points Group Coaching Program
Join a small-group experience to strengthen your listening skills and connection. In the Pivot Points Group Coaching Program, you’ll learn simple, powerful ways to shift how you communicate with your neurodivergent teen or young adult.
Learn more about Pivot Points Group Coaching.
3. 1:1 Life Transitions Coaching
Get personalized support for your season of transition. In private coaching, we focus on your unique challenges—whether that’s redefining your role, rebuilding connection, or finding your next step as your teen becomes more independent.
Learn more about 1:1 Coaching.