Mike Lepis | Parent coach to dads raising neurodiverse kids

Why a Parent Coach?

Written by Mike Lepis | Jan 6, 2025 5:53:47 PM

Parenting isn’t a race to a finish line—it’s a never-ending obstacle course, complete with surprise hurdles and questionable advice from strangers.

For parents of neurodiverse kids, the course gets even trickier. It’s like someone handed you a map but forgot to include the key. And while everyone seems to have opinions (“Just be consistent!” or “Have you tried essential oils?”), few truly understand what it’s like to walk in your shoes.

That’s where a parent coach comes in—not to tell you what to do, but to help you navigate this wild, beautiful, and sometimes exhausting journey with a little more clarity and connection. I have had plenty of WTF moments and was so thankful to know others who had been in my shoes. 

Dads Raising Neurodiverse Kids
Let’s be real—parenting is hard for everyone. But when your child has ADHD, autism, or sensory processing differences, the manual that “normal” parents rely on doesn’t apply.

  • Understanding Your Child’s Needs:
    Sure, your neighbor’s kid thrives on sticker charts and time-outs, but your child? They’ve turned positive reinforcement into a Jedi mind game. Understanding your kid’s unique neurodiversity isn’t a one-and-done task—it’s an ongoing education that can feel overwhelming.
  • Navigating Systems and Advocacy:
    School meetings, therapy appointments, and doctor visits–UBER has nothing on you. Advocating for your child can feel like a full-time job, except there’s no pay, no vacation, and everyone has an opinion.
  • Managing Family Life:
    Keeping the peace when one kid can’t stop talking and the other can’t stand the noise? That’s not in the parenting handbooks. Add your own stress, and it’s a recipe for burnout. I know.

Why a Parent Coach Can Help
Think of a parent coach as your co-driver in a rally car race. You’re still in the driver’s seat, but I’ll help you read the map—and maybe avoid some potholes.

  • Set Clear Objectives:
    Want to yell less? Create smoother mornings? Have a family dinner that doesn’t end in tears (yours or theirs)? Let’s figure out what’s most important to you.
  • Create a Step-by-Step Plan:
    No vague “just be patient” advice here. We’ll break big goals into bite-sized steps that you can actually do, even if you’re running on coffee and three hours of sleep.
  • Accountability Partner:
    Need someone to remind you why you’re doing this when you’re ready to throw in the towel? I’ll be here to cheer you on, celebrate your wins, and help you reset after the tough days (because there will be tough days).

Motivation, Support, and Connection
Here’s the thing: parenting isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up. Coaching is less about fixing things and more about building connection and confidence.

  • Break Through Challenges:
    Stuck in a cycle of meltdowns and miscommunication? Let’s troubleshoot and try something new. Spoiler: It won’t involve magical cures or unsolicited advice from your well-meaning aunt.
  • Stay Motivated:
    When you’re feeling over it (and you will), I’ll help you refocus on what matters most—like raising happy, resilient kids who know they’re loved, even when they spill milk for the third time today.
  • Feel Supported:
    Not everyone will understand what you’re going through. Some might even think needing a parent coach is weak. (Insert eye roll here.) But guess what? Parenting neurodiverse kids isn’t about keeping up appearances; it’s about finding what works for your family.


Parenting is tough. Parenting a neurodiverse child? That can be next-level. But you don’t have to figure it all out alone. A parent coach can be your guide, your cheerleader, and maybe even the one person who won’t suggest you “just try harder.” Because at the end of the day, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about finding your way, together.

Here are a few ways to stay connected:

  • Schedule a free 30-minute call to explore your goals and see how I can support you. Together, we can build the tools you need to create a more peaceful, connected, and fulfilling family life.
  • Join Our Facebook Group"I was a much better parent before I had kids". It's open to all parents. If Facebook isn't your thing, we have a newsletter.
  • Sign up for my actionable, no-BS parenting newsletter. Delivered fresh to your inbox, it’s packed with insights, tips, and encouragement to help you navigate the challenges of raising a neurodiverse child.