You don’t need to figure it all out.
You just need a plan that works.
Parenting the Spectrum helps you take the guesswork out of your child’s diagnosis with practical, real-life support.
When your child is diagnosed, everything changes.
Suddenly, you’re thrown into a world of new terms, therapy schedules, diet ideas, and opinions — and it’s hard to know what’s actually best for your family.
You want to help your child thrive, but you also want your home to feel peaceful again.
You’re not alone in that. We’ve been there too.
Tutoring
Individualized academic support designed for neurodiverse learners, led by experienced tutors who understand the “how” behind learning differences.
Parent Coaching
1 on 1 sessions that help you understand your child’s unique needs, create routines that work, and build a home that supports growth, not stress.
classes
(launching soon)
Group-based learning for parents — from the Foundations Cohort for new diagnoses to the Thriving at Home Cohort for seasoned parents ready to go deeper.
Community
(launching soon)
A safe space for parents to connect, learn, and share the journey together. Get encouragement, expert insight, and real-life support from families who understand.
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Hi, I'm Merrie - I am so glad you are here!
For the past eight years, I’ve dedicated my career to working with incredible children in special education, and my journey has been nothing short of life-changing. I earned both my bachelor’s degree in Education (with a minor in Autism Spectrum Disorder) and my master’s degree in Exceptional Student Education – Alternative Assessment from the University of West Florida. But beyond the degrees and certifications, my greatest lessons have come from love — and from life itself.
In 2020, while teaching in a self-contained classroom, a little boy entered my room and forever changed my world. My husband and I instantly felt a connection with him, and through that connection, we began our adoption journey. Overnight, I went from being a teacher of children on the spectrum to also being a mom of a child on the spectrum. That experience shifted everything. Suddenly, I saw both sides — the parent’s heart and the educator’s perspective — and realized how much families truly need someone who understands both worlds.
That’s why I created Parenting the Spectrum — a space built to bridge the gap between home and school, between parents and professionals, between love and learning. I believe our local communities often lack the guidance and resources families need, so I set out to fill that gap with compassion, experience, and practical tools.
Because here’s the truth: no one signs up for this journey. No parent plans for a diagnosis or expects the challenges that come with special needs parenting. But with understanding, community, and the right support, families can move from surviving to thriving — and that’s what this space is all about.
Our motto says it best:
Thriving is a two-sided journey.
And I’m here to walk that journey with you — supporting both your child and your family every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Parenting the Spectrum?
Parenting the Spectrum exists to help take the guesswork out of the diagnosis. We help families navigate autism with clarity, confidence, and support that fits real life. We offer coaching, tutoring, and small-group learning designed to equip parents, caregivers, and educators with tools that actually work at home and in the classroom.
Who are these programs designed for?
Our programs are created for parents, grandparents, and educators who are walking alongside a child on the autism spectrum—whether you’re just beginning the journey or looking for fresh strategies to help your family thrive.
How do I know which service is right for me — coaching, tutoring, or a group class?
If you’re seeking personal guidance and a clear plan, start with one-on-one coaching.
If your child needs academic or executive-function support, tutoring may be the best fit.
If you want to connect and learn with others on a similar journey, our 4-week Spectrum Groups are a great place to begin.
How do I get started or book a discovery call?
Simply click here to schedule a free call with our team! Once we receive it, our team will reach out to schedule a discovery call to talk through your goals and match you with the right program.
What is the difference between coaching and tutoring?
Coaching focuses on the parent—we help you create structure, routines, and strategies that bring peace and progress at home.
Tutoring focuses on the child—providing personalized academic and social-emotional support that meets them where they are.
What are “Spectrum Groups”?
Spectrum Groups are 4-week, small-group sessions designed for parents who want community and practical tools. Each week we focus on one area—understanding your child’s needs, creating routines, improving communication, and building confidence for what’s next.
Do you offer one-on-one sessions or only group options?
Yes, we offer both. Some families begin with a 4-week group, while others prefer one-on-one coaching or tutoring right away. You can choose what feels best for your family.
What ages do you work with?
We currently support families with children from preschool through high school.
Are scholarships or payment plans available?
We are Step Up Scholarship service providers and all of our services are included in that. At this time, we do not accept payment plans.
How much do sessions cost?
Tutoring sessions start at $100, and group programs vary depending on format. Coaching packages and group rates are shared during your discovery call so we can recommend what’s most helpful for your needs and budget.
Are sessions virtual or in person?
Most sessions are held virtually to serve families anywhere, but select in-person options are available in the Milton, FL area.
What makes Parenting the Spectrum different?
We take the guesswork out of navigating your child’s diagnosis. Our approach blends faith, real-life experience, and practical tools that help families move from overwhelmed to confident—one step at a time.
