Hear it From Real Families
J’s Story - Navigating Autism & PDA
“Before we understood what was really going on for J, every day felt like a struggle. Our support workers were doing their best, but nothing seemed to click. It often felt like we were all trying to push J into doing things, and the more we pushed, the more he shut down.
When Brooke and her team explained Autism & PDA to us, it was like someone finally turned the light on. We realised he wasn’t being difficult, he was doing everything he could to feel safe and in control.
With Brooke’s help, our whole approach changed. His support workers stopped trying to force things and started meeting him where he’s at by giving him time, space, and choices.
Now, J’s so much more relaxed. He actually wants to spend time with his workers because they see him for who he is. He laughs more, joins in on his own terms, and doesn’t feel like he has to mask or meet anyone else’s expectations.
It’s been incredible to watch him grow into himself, just by being accepted”
- J’s Mum
*Story and photo shared with permission. Not for reproduction.
S’s story - Finding his voice
“We started working with Brooke and Marie when S was 3 and a half, and completely non-speaking. At the time, we were just trying to figure out how to help him feel understood. Brooke and Marie came in and met him exactly where he was: gently, patiently, and with so much respect for who he is.
Over the years, they’ve supported us through so many changes. He’s now started school, and had to work through big emotions, tricky transitions, and biggest of all they helped S find his voice.
Now at age 10, he communicates using both speech and his device, and it’s been incredible to watch him grow into a confident, expressive kid who knows how to advocate for himself.
We’re beyond grateful to have had Brooke and Marie in our corner for all these years. They’ve truly changed our lives.”
- S’s Mum
*Story and photos shared with permission. Not for reproduction.