When your parenting experience feels different from your friends and families, it can be hard to talk about what life is really like. Conversations can feel isolating—especially when people don’t understand, minimise your experience, or judge your parenting choices. Even within your closest relationships, including with your partner, people may cope or process things differently.

This session is about navigating those relationships and protecting what matters most: your child, your family, and your peace.

We’ll cover:

How to talk about your child’s diagnosis and your experience in a way that honours your child and your family

Navigating different perspectives—including how you and your partner may be processing things differently

Dealing with difficult family or friends who struggle to accept your situation, or who may say unhelpful things

Setting boundaries with people who aren’t able or ready to meet you where you are

About the Speakers

Mitchell Woods is a Registered Psychologist with experience supporting both individuals and families. He works with people with neurodevelopmental differences such as Autism and ADHD, as well as those experiencing mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. Mitchell takes a flexible and supportive approach to therapy, helping people feel safe, understood, and empowered.

Kelly Reid is a mum of three. After her youngest son Lachie was born with a disability, she experienced firsthand the gaps in the system for parents. Driven to support others on a similar path, she began studying counselling and is now completing a Master of Social Work. Kelly is the Parent Education Program Manager at Belongside Families, where she creates safe, inclusive spaces that support and empower families.

These webinars will be recorded. If you can’t attend live, register to receive the replay via email.

About Beyond the Diagnosis Webinar Series

When your child receives a diagnosis, there’s a list of things you’re told to do: book the therapies, apply for funding, learn the systems. But what no one prepares you for is the emotional weight that comes with it. The grief of hearing your child described in terms of deficits and delays. The exhaustion from advocating for supports. The guilt that you’re not doing enough.

This is the part of parenting we don’t talk about—the part we often carry alone.

Beyond the Diagnosis is a four-part Conversation Series created for parents navigating the emotional and practical realities of raising a child with disability. Through real, honest conversations, you’ll hear from parents and professionals about the things we often don’t talk about—but that can make all the difference.

Who is this event for?

Families of children with disability, developmental delay or autism across New South Wales. While this event is primarily designed for these families, we value inclusivity and welcome all families who would like to participate, including from other states across Australia.

More information

This event is held online using Zoom.
If you have accessibility needs, please advise during registration.
A link to the video recording will be emailed approximately one week after the session has taken place.
Further questions? Contact us at: events@belongsidefamilies.org.au

Disclaimer: Belongside Families provides an opportunity for families raising children with disability to learn from each other and share their experiences and resources. Belongside Families does not provide personalised advice or services.

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. Visit https://www.dss.gov.au/ for more information.