Autism Chrysalis

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Testimonials

What my clients are saying about me.
A pale skinned woman with brown hair and blue eyes, smiling at the camera while sitting on a blue textured sofa.
"I was so nervous about this, I was terrified, but I liked the gentle entry into a space that feels welcoming and understanding. Because before we started the tough topics, you made me feel safe. And now I'm really happy. You know, really, really happy. I'm happy it's with you, Heather. And now I'm hopeful, and glad I took this step."
Felicia M.Self-diagnosis at 36
"Hey Heather, I just wanted to say thanks. I've been deeply enjoying our sessions, and I just had a moment after our call, where I took a second to just feel my feelings, how it physically felt, and it's something fairly new for me. I feel seen. Heard and understood. Although my partner understands me, she's not autistic. She can empathize, but she doesn't have the same shared experiences and trauma. When I share something, and you nod with that nod that says "oh yeah that old chestnut"... well it's wonderful and I'm so thankful for it. (I mean I wish we had less traumas and all that.) Anyways. Thanks again!"
Nick S.Self-diagnosis at 39
"I feel very listened to with you. And I feel that this is a space that is safe. I love how calm you are and how you don't really feel the need to talk a lot. I feel like I have space, which is not that easy for me to feel. So thank you."
Enrique S.Self-diagnosis at 34
"Since I started sessions with you, I have improved things in lots of small, weird to define ways, that are creating less friction and less tension in my life, and I feel a greater sense of warmth within my household. Like we're all kind of caring for each other more and giving each other a lot more of the right kind of support and grace. And we've been spending a lot more time, all three of us together. When before there had been a whole lot of separation in the house.

I don't know that that was exactly the precise thing that I signed up for, but that has been damn good. I really think that we're all benefiting from that."
Adam C.Self-diagnosis of AuDHD at 50
"Thank you for being there for us, for your love, kindness, guidance and support."
Alessa S.Parent
"Ms. Heather has an amazing way with young people. When I'm flabbergasted with my son, I always call Ms. Heather first. She respectfully connects with my little tornado, and helps us all step onto a better path together."
Ashley H.Parent
“You’re a great teacher. I’m not sure I can say what makes you great, but I can say what you don’t do. You don’t make me feel bad.“
Henry D.Age 15
"I couldn’t have imagined back in August when I contacted you (it’s March now) how much better things could be. I was afraid I would feel stupid, and say dumb things, and that you would judge me, cause everyone always has, but you didn’t, and I feel like you understand me, and know where I want to go, and you help me get there. I trust you, and everything is so much different. Everything is starting to fall into place, and when it doesn’t, you know how to help. I just needed to say thank you. And we’re going to keep going, right? I need it."
Julie A.Self-Identified a few years ago, now 47
"I don't like to talk about myself. I talk about topics. And I thought, oh my God, what would I tell her? But this is a safe place to talk about me. I like working with you because I feel that you get it. I mean, you can sense it. Sometimes even without words, you know. And this keeps it simple. You make it simple for me."
Jamie F.Questioning self-identification at 28
"Heather is a patient, compassionate, and nonjudgmental guide who has helped me understand just how stressful seemingly innocuous sensory input can be—not only for my teenage children, but for myself. With thoughtful insights and a gentle sense of humor, she has helped me identify and reduce sensory stressors in my own life. As I become more skilled at regulating my own reactivity, I am better able to help my two creative and neurodiverse kids do the same. Her help is proving invaluable to our family, and I am grateful to have found her!"
Sarah M.Highly Sensitive Parent of Autistic and Neurodivergent Teens
"I've been learning to be myself. Like what I want to wear, even if it might not be in trend. I feel like that's been a big one. And I cut my hair really short the other day. And I didn't used to like cut my hair, because it's change. And now I love changing it. It's just fun. And before I wouldn't have. I'm going to do what actually I like, and I feel so good about myself now.

Even though I'm still struggling, I feel like I'm going up. I can feel it in me, that I'm going up. Because actually, even though I'm scared to do these things, I've never been this calm about it. Like I don't feel literally terrified for my life. Even though I'm scared, I don't feel like I'm going to die. I'm doing it. And that's something that I've worked on. I feel good about myself. And I feel so proud of myself. And I'm excited to tell you this."
Reanna M.Autism diagnosis at 14, exploring it at 26
"You are an amazing teacher and always having the best ideas. Thank you for your wonderfulness."
Mallika S.Age 16
"I'm so glad to have Heather's experience with my son's unique challenges, and I'm glad my son has access to her too. After talking with her, I know that not only am I not going to go crazy after all, but that I'm not alone and everything will indeed keep getting better."
Chris Z.Parent
"Thanks so much for everything. Thanks so much for understanding, and the glasses have helped my eyes so much."
Xander M.Age 14
Heather, as I'm sure you could have guessed, I've made the very difficult (but very right) decision [that we talked about.]  I've had to ask myself some really challenging questions the past few weeks.  But I've been able to do this with a level of honesty, self-trust and strength that I didn't even know I possessed. 

I feel extremely lucky that in an odd string of events our paths have intersected - even if only for a couple of hours every other week - and it has had a profound effect on me.  In many ways I've never felt as deeply seen and heard by anyone until I started working with you.

I think what I'm trying to say is thanks to you and your ability to see and help others be seen, I am shifting closer into alignment with the path I am meant to walk (or maybe even realizing that I've been on that path the entire time but all I needed was someone to hold my hand, even if just for a moment, to remind me).  From the deepest space in my heart, THANK YOU.

Looking forward to continuing working with you. 🥰🩷✨
Cait M.Self-diagnosis, 33
"Working with Heather has transformed my life! I am now embracing my sensitivities and working on ways to learn how to self-regulate so that I stay in my calm center more often. She really helped me to know myself in regards to what I need to keep my body/mind happy in this world. I highly recommend working with Heather."
Katherine M.Self-diagnosis at 53
"I really enjoyed our session last week; it was great to get this kind of feedback and guidance from someone who GETS IT!"
Michelle L.Diagnosis at 55
"Working with Heather was nothing short of life-changing. I was skeptical six sessions of coaching could make a sizable dent in my challenges — I was struggling with so many areas of my life — but I walked away from every session feeling like I gained something precious and helpful. By the end, I was able to say, "I'm autistic and proud."

As someone else in the helping profession, I know one of the greatest gifts you can give a client is helping them to believe in themselves and to see their challenges as surmountable, less overwhelming. I'm happy to say that my work with Heather resulted in both outcomes. I would recommend her coaching services without reservation to anyone else finding out late in the game that they are autistic. The help you've been craving, but denied, your entire life is out there."
Nat H.Diagnosis at 34
"Heather, your work as a teacher is creative, profound and altogether amazing. My kids were lucky to have you."
Jenny M.Parent
"Thank you so much for being so supportive. You are so kind to people and that's really awesome. I'm going to miss you a lot. Again thank you so much for putting up with all my silliness it really means a lot to me." 🙂
Anna I.Age 16
"Thank you for putting up with my laughing, talking, and I promise never to do surgery on you."
Sadie C.Age 12
"My sessions with Heather have helped me to start making some big shifts in my life- from commencing the process of accepting myself for myself without shame, to finally starting to get to the bottom of some really long standing issues. I've been able to make some tangible and practical steps in my life off the back of the progress I've made in our sessions. Heather is warm, kind, she asks great questions, and offers refreshingly fun ways to approach issues!"
Mairéad R.Autistic and ADHD self-identification at 42
“Thank you. Things have been going swimmingly! You have been extremely helpful in opening the door to this new world of resources for us. So grateful. If it weren’t for your understanding and calm presence, we would not be the happy couple we are today. Chat with you again soon!”
MJ & FAA neurodivergent couple
"How big was the chance that I - living all the way in Germany - would find my favorite, my most heart-related and spirited coach all the way in Nebraska? Chances were low, but it happened nevertheless. This is called hope. This is called meant-to-be. This is called professionalism. This is called Heather.
Heather, you helped me get through. Until that day in our coaching session a few weeks ago I did never understand this underlying current of not being well in my life. And now I feel glorious. I KNOW. It is a little work to rethink my life, but it is such a relief. There is nothing wrong with me: I am gifted! Thank you, thank you, thank you."
Birgit K.Diagnosis at 66
"Heather is TRULY amazing. We need a million Heathers in our lives. Sadly, she is one of a kind. Heather's insights are beyond profound. Her connection with my 15yo son, when it works, is INCREDIBLE. (He's ... difficult at times.) He said that she is the FIRST AND ONLY PERSON who ever understood him. Wow. I could share so many WOWs."
Liza D.Mom of an Autistic 15yo
"Thank you for being an excellent and understanding person. I will keep in touch!"
Devin H.Age 17
"I had so much fun learning with you. Even though it was sometimes confusing, I enjoyed every moment, because you made it fun and exciting."
Kimmy V.Age 14
"You're a good teacher because you treat kids like people."
Ava M.Age 8
"Heather was the first autistic professional I’ve worked with as a newly self-diagnosed autistic person and she changed my life. It is so important for autistic people to be seen and affirmed by someone who understands our experience on a deeper level. She was my guiding light through one of my darkest periods and her advice and coaching will reverberate as I move forward. Truly grateful for her steadfast and loving approach; I felt free and safe in our sessions and empowered long after all was said and done."
Simone K.Autistic, 38
"Working with Heather has helped me make some phenomenal changes in my life. She is grounded, clear, patient, curious and kind. She asks powerful questions that are thought provoking and open up new perspectives for me. She has the ability to assess situations quickly and offer plans of action to help me be successful in my growth and change. I would highly recommend working with Heather, it will definitely change your life!"
Karina R.Neurodivergent, 56
“I had to laugh when I told my friend that I have an autism coach. I can see why it sounds funny. But I’m telling you, this is amazing. I walk away every time feeling like I’m so supported and set up for success. Look, I’ve had this thing my whole life, and I know nothing about it. I need an Autie. This is awesome! Thank you.”
Nathan L.Self-identified AuDHD at 36
"I honestly want to email to say you have truly changed my daughter's life. Well actually all our lives. I know there will be lots of ups and downs but she just said the other day mam, it's so nice going to the Metrocentre (shopping mall) and not feeling anxious-I can't believe I used to feel anxious every day. Made me tear up and it was such a nice thing that she thought this herself. She's becoming very self-aware. She also genuinely enjoys your company so just wanted to say thank you."
Melanie M.Mom of an Autistic 17yo
"Jared feels comfortable with you, and that's saying a lot. Thank you for making a safe space for him."
Juli B.School Counselor
"You really did a fantastic job; thanks so much! I appreciated the way you continued to check in with us and provide support. It's not easy to raise a child who's struggling with so much anxiety, and I really loved having some support for her (and for us). We are very grateful.
Emily A.Parent
"This was the best class ever. Thank you for teaching me so much."
Allison P.Age 13
"Heather is a fantastic coach and has helped me through my journey of rediscovery. If you were diagnosed as an adult, I highly recommend Heather. She has helped me with unmasking, burnout, anxiety, depression, and understanding past traumas. She provides tools and modifications to those tools to fit you as an individual. Having the perspective of someone who is Neurodivergent and has lived experiences gives Heather the unique ability to meet you exactly on your level. Heather is extremely patient, thoughtful, kind, and provides a calming presence to work through any challenges."
Jonathan A.Dx Autistic, Self-ID ADHD, 26
"I think I never expected that my life really can be better. That I can feel better. I remember for many years just thinking about things and thinking that it can be different, but I didn't know how, and I was afraid to start with myself. And now I really feel inside myself that my nervous system is really getting to feel different. I mean, it's like I feel I’m more stable and that I can relate more and I feel really thankful. This is incredible. I think now, it's more possible that things can be possible. That things can start now. Thank you!!!"
Jana F.Self-diagnosis at 39
"I want you to know how much you helped me help my son. As his mom and his biggest advocate, I felt such relief having your help. You understand his thinking. That really gave me relief. Relief and feeling confident. I needed to see he was on the right track, you were the voice I needed to hear. Thank you."
Delia T.Mom of an Autistic Young Man
“When I first began sessions with Heather I had made my life as small as I could, but it was still completely unmanageable. I was being crushed by five decades of burnout and trauma. Heather’s gentle, patient guidance opened a space for me to recognize my sensory needs and my energy cues, and she legitimized honoring them in ways that work specifically for me.

Seventeen months on, I’m holding an active role in a community organization—something I didn’t think was possible. I’m feeling more capable and noticing that I’m gassing out and suffering less. This is exactly what I’d hoped for: real, sustainable improvement.“
Adrien C.Autistic, 51

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