After the diagnosis
An autism diagnosis is a pivotal moment in a parent's life — and for many, it comes as a shock at first.
Some parents feel relief once they finally have an explanation for their child's behavior, while others may find themselves struggling with fear or grief about the diagnosis.
Once the new circumstances have been processed and accepted, new questions and worries often start to pile up: about the future, care, therapy options, education and social inclusion. On top of that, some parents also encounter prejudice, a lack of understanding, or even discrimination in society.
For these and other reasons, supporting a child on the autism spectrum can be mentally and emotionally demanding.
From my own experience
I have lived through this myself as a mother. That's why I can truly understand other parents and their worries — and why you, as parents, can draw on the experience I've gathered along the way.
A broad spectrum — support tailored to your child
Autism is a broad spectrum that encompasses many different traits and needs, which is exactly why support has to be tailored to each individual.
My role is to offer people on the autism spectrum and their families guidance, support and resources — helping them navigate the challenges that can come with autism, and improving quality of life for everyone involved.
First steps after the diagnosis
There is no fixed roadmap — and no one has to manage everything at once. The points below can offer a first sense of direction. Take all the time you need.
Arrive & take a breath
A diagnosis deserves time to sink in. Feelings like relief, worry or grief all have their place — there is no "right" way to feel.
Inform yourself calmly
Reliable information helps the first fog to lift. Bundesverband Autismus Deutschland e. V. (the national autism association) and regional counseling centers are good places to start. Well-grounded background is also available in my knowledge base, with over 250 scientific studies (2015–2025), each independently double-checked.
Find points of contact
Autism therapy centers (Autismus-Therapie-Zentren, ATZ), early-intervention centers (Frühförderstellen) and social-pediatric centers (Sozialpädiatrische Zentren, SPZ) can help and point out possible next steps.
Understand your support options
For your information: in certain cases in Germany, support through integration assistance (Eingliederungshilfe, § 35a SGB VIII — integration assistance for children and adolescents under German social law) via the responsible Jugendamt (youth welfare office) may be an option. Whether this applies to your situation is decided by the Jugendamt on a case-by-case basis.
Ease everyday life
Dependable structures, routines and small adjustments in daily life take the pressure off — for your child and for the whole family.
Reach out for support
You don't have to walk this path alone. A conversation with someone who listens and understands the situation can bring relief and a sense of direction.
What you can do now
If you'd like a next step, I'd be glad to walk it with you:
- Autism counseling: finding direction together, easing everyday life and developing strategies you can rely on — rooted in professional expertise and lived experience.
- Tellington TTouch for you®: a gentle, complementary method for relaxation and well-being that can support calm and trust.
Note: Tellington TTouch for you® is a complementary method for relaxation and well-being, not a substitute for medical or therapeutic treatment. This counseling does not constitute a medical diagnosis or treatment.
Common questions after the diagnosis
What does the diagnosis mean?
The diagnosis describes a different way of perceiving and processing information — not a deficit and not anyone's fault. Autism is a broad spectrum: every person brings their own strengths and their own needs. So the diagnosis is above all an explanation, one that can make it easier to see your child and to find the right support. My guiding idea: behavior is communication.
What happens next?
There is no fixed roadmap. It often helps to take your time, gather information calmly, ease the pressure of everyday life and build structures you can rely on. Points of contact such as autism therapy centers (Autismus-Therapie-Zentren), early-intervention centers (Frühförderstellen) or social-pediatric centers (Sozialpädiatrische Zentren) can help. For orientation: in certain cases, support through integration assistance (Eingliederungshilfe, § 35a SGB VIII) via the responsible Jugendamt (youth welfare office) may be an option — whether that applies is decided by the Jugendamt on a case-by-case basis.
Who can help?
Good first points of contact are Bundesverband Autismus Deutschland e. V. (the national autism association), regional autism therapy centers (Autismus-Therapie-Zentren, ATZ), early-intervention centers (Frühförderstellen) and social-pediatric centers (Sozialpädiatrische Zentren, SPZ), as well as the responsible Jugendamt (youth welfare office). In addition, I can support you with autism counseling and — as a complementary well-being method — with Tellington TTouch for you®. A free initial consultation is available with no obligation.
Are you at the very beginning of this journey?
If you have questions, are looking for advice, or simply need someone who truly understands what you're going through: I'm here for you. A free initial consultation is available with no obligation.