A Letter to the Parent Who Just Got an Autism Diagnosis

Dear Parent,

First, let us begin with this: you are not alone.

If you’ve just received an autism diagnosis for your child, your mind might be spinning with questions, doubts, emotions, and maybe even fear. Whether this news came as a surprise or simply confirmed what you’ve long suspected, one thing is sure: this moment marks the start of a new chapter.

At Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services, we work with families just like yours every day, in Taylorsville, Lehi, Roy, Salt Lake City, St. George, Cedar City, Brigham City, Riverdale, and Richfield. And while each story is different, many parents share similar emotions when they first receive this diagnosis: uncertainty, grief, relief, guilt, love, and overwhelm.

This letter is for you.

You’re Allowed to Feel Everything

It’s completely normal to have mixed emotions. You might feel:

• Relieved that you finally have an explanation.
• Scared about what this means for your child’s future.
• Overwhelmed by the system of therapies, acronyms, and support options.
• Guilty for missing signs or not knowing what to do next.
• Hopeful, because now you have a path forward.
  
  

We’re here to tell you that whatever you’re feeling is okay.

In fact, research from the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders (Zuckerman et al., 2015) shows that parents often go through a grief-like process when learning of a diagnosis. But over time, with the proper support and care, that grief can transform into resilience and empowerment.

What the Diagnosis Means, and Doesn’t

It’s essential to separate what an autism diagnosis does mean from what it doesn’t. This understanding helps build a realistic, hopeful path forward.

What The Diagnosis Means

• Your child processes the world in their own unique way
• Your child may benefit from early intervention.
• The diagnosis opens the door to helpful resources and services
• Your family becomes eligible for additional supports.

What The Diagnosis Does Not Mean

• Your child is broken or less than
• Your child cannot live a whole and joyful life
• Your child must follow someone else’s path
• Parenting will be less meaningful or rewarding

You’re Now Part of a Village, And It’s Bigger Than You Think

When you walk through the doors of Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services, you’re not just meeting clinicians. You’re meeting educators, therapists, nurses, behavior analysts, and, most importantly, listeners.

Here’s how we support families from diagnosis through lifelong care:

ABA Therapy in Utah

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based intervention often recommended for children diagnosed with autism. Our ABA therapy services are available in Taylorsville, Lehi, Brigham City, Roy, Richfield, Cedar City, and St. George, led by highly trained Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs).

We focus on real-life skills, communication, behavior management, and independence, tailored to your child’s specific strengths and challenges.

Integrated Healthcare Under One Roof

We understand that families often juggle multiple appointments for behavioral therapy, mental health, and pediatric care. That’s why we combine primary care, mental health therapy, and behavioral support in one place.

Searches like “mental health therapy near me” or “pediatric behavioral therapy in Salt Lake City” often bring families to us, and we’re honored to serve that need with compassion and clinical excellence.

Mental Health Therapy for the Whole Family

This journey isn’t just about your child, it’s about your family. That’s why we offer mental health therapy for parents, siblings, and young adults. If you’re in Riverdale, Roy, or Lehi, for example, you can connect with licensed therapists for support navigating:

• Anxiety and stress
• Sibling relationships
• Parental burnout
• Processing the diagnosis

What to Do After the Diagnosis: A Gentle Next Steps Guide

It’s okay if you don’t have a plan yet. That’s where we come in.

Here’s a gentle roadmap:

Breathe

Take time to absorb the diagnosis. You don’t need to act immediately. It’s okay to ask for time, space, or a second opinion.

Ask Questions

Write down anything that comes to mind:

• What does this diagnosis mean long-term?
• What therapies are recommended?
• What will insurance cover?

Tip

(Medicaid ABA coverage in Utah is accepted at Bridgeway. Our team will help you understand what’s covered.)

Schedule an Intake Call to Explore Services

Find a local Bridgeway clinic. We have locations across Utah, including:

Autism support services available in St. George

ABA therapy in Lehi

Behavioral Treatment For Children In Cedar City

Schedule an Intake Call

Join Support Communities

You’re not alone. Many families in Taylorsville or Salt Lake City find comfort in parent support groups, local Facebook communities, or even at our own Family Festival events.