13. From Diagnosis to Adolescence: A Mom’s Journey Raising a Teen With Special Needs

This episode first aired under the original name, The Parenting Reset Show. Now we are the Single Parenting Reset podcast–supporting single parents of tweens and teens with real talk on screen time, communication and managing behavior.

What does it really take to raise a happy, confident teen when your child has a rare genetic condition like Treacher Collins Syndrome?

In this heartfelt episode, Tess Connolly speaks with Deena Dyson, LCSW, about the unique challenges and beautiful rewards of parenting a teen with TCS. From managing medical complexities and behavior problems to fostering communication and teaching independent living skills, Deena shares the mindset shifts and practical strategies that have shaped her family’s journey. Whether you’re a single parent or raising tweens and teens with special needs, her story offers hope, humor, and real-life wisdom.

• Learn how to prioritize a joyful home life while managing complex care needs
• Hear the real-life “traps” special needs parents face—and how to avoid them
• Discover how community organizations like CCA can provide essential support

Press play now to hear Deena’s inspiring approach to raising a teen with Treacher Collins Syndrome while building a strong, connected family life.

Deena Dyson, LCSW is a Clinical Social Worker, Mother to a teen girl with TCS. You can reach out to Deena on Facebook. 

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here👇: [email protected]  Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

🆘 Need 1:1 Support? Book right here to connect with Tess for a 45-minute FREE “Parent Reset” session: Parent Reset Call

⭐Got screen time problems at home? Get the Tech Reset Agreement here 👉Mindful Kids and Families

⭐️Join the Family and get your weekly Mindful Kids and Family Journal here:  https://www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com/join-the-family (Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents, and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

The Single Parenting Reset Show supports single moms, working moms, and all parents with practical parenting tips on screen time, emotional regulation, co-parenting, stress relief, setting boundaries, building trust, and raising confident tweens and teens, while tackling tech addiction, behavior problems, and parent burnout with conscious parenting strategies for stronger family connection.

#singleparents #parentingtweensandteens #ScreenTime #behaviorproblems #Communication