AuDHD Adulting provides workshops and coaching for parents to assist neurodivergent teens and young adults in developing independent living skills, establishing support services, and preparing to leave home.

 

Founded by Professional Organizer Donna Barwald and Certified Professional Coach, Cantor Beth Rosenfeld—both mothers of AuDHD young adults and neurodivergent themselves—our program combines 25 years of personal experience with practical tools, resources, and guidance for anxious parents navigating the transition to adulthood.

 

We are friends who met while teaching long before marriage or motherhood. We are not doctors, therapists, or social workers. We only discovered our own neurodivergence through our children's diagnoses, and getting accurate diagnoses in itself is a part of this challenge.  Both of our children were originally diagnosed with ADHD in elementary school, and eventually, with Autism in middle school.

 

Until the DSM-5, ADHD and Autism were thought to be mutually exclusive, never combining the two into what only recently is being called AuDHD. This lack of understanding left our kids unsupported and bullied, creating even more trauma and stigma for them. However, it also ignited our determination to create awareness and make a difference in their lives and in the lives of others. Having navigated numerous IEP meetings and various support programs, we possess vast and personal experience with diverse challenges such as ASD1, ADHD, OCD, PDA, ARFID, anxiety, depression, dyslexia, and gender dysphoria.

 

Together we have helped each other, and many other ND youth, parents, and families, through challenges such as autistic burnout, residential programs, obtaining a high school equivalency certificate, and enrolling in college with accomodations. We understand that supporting our ND loved ones can feel like a full-time job, especially when dealing with government agencies and paperwork. Leaning on each other throughout this journey has been invaluable, and now, with Donna leading workshops and Beth offering coaching, we are eager to share knowledge, experience, and support with other parents. You are not alone!