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
7: Holding Space Instead of Fixing: How Pausing Supports Your Neurodivergent Teen’s Independence
Have a comment or question for Crystal? Send it in here!
Sometimes the smallest moments reveal the biggest truths. I recently had one of those moments with my daughter when she asked for help when I didn’t have the capacity to give it. I slipped into problem-solving mode, she grew frustrated, and I walked away wishing I had slowed down long enough to ask what she actually needed. That experience reminded me how powerful a simple pause can be, especially when emotions or expectations are running high.
In this episode, I talk about the power of pausing in our communication with neurodivergent teens and why silence, though uncomfortable, can create space for deeper thinking, emotional regulation, and genuine connection. I share what I’ve learned about giving our teens room to process, recognizing when they need support versus time to think, and becoming comfortable with the silence
Links and Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
🧘🏻♀️ How to Stay Calm When Your Teen’s Emotions Explode
⏸️ Slow down, breathe, and learn to embrace silence. Download the free Pause + Listen audio guide and reflection prompts.
🧱 Join our Brick by Brick Session
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.