Lisa Candera reflects on her son turning 18 and the fear of whats next. For most families, eighteen means freedom and new beginnings. For autism parents, it often marks a new chapter of paperwork, decisions, and emotional complexity. In this episode, Lisa opens up about filing for involuntary conservatorship, balancing her sons excitement about adulthood with the sobering reality that he will still need lifelong support.
She explores the deeper layer underneath that fearthe anticipatory anxiety that lives in every parent who has seen things go sideways before. Lisa shares how uncertainty triggers the nervous system, how to notice when youre bracing for impact, and what to do instead. She also replays one of her most-requested episodes, Anticipatory Anxiety, with practical tools for staying grounded through transition.
What Youll Learn in This Episode
What it means when your autistic child turns 18and why adulthood looks different for every family
How anticipatory anxiety drains energy and keeps you stuck in what-if loops
The difference between control and preparedness
How to regulate your nervous system before reacting to fear
Why accepting uncertainty can actually bring relief
Key Takeaway
The fear of whats next is part of autism parenting. The work is learning how to meet itsteady, aware, and self-compassionateso you can lead your child through change without losing yourself to worry.
Work with Lisa
If youre ready to move beyond constant anxiety and step into confident emotional leadership, schedule a consultation with Lisa. Schedule your consultation
