Autism in girls can present differently than it does in boys, and many girls are very good at masking. As a result, autism in girls is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or missed until later in life, leaving parents of autistic girls searching for clear answers and support.

In this episode of the Exceptional Girls Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Theresa Lyons to have a science-grounded, practical conversation about parenting autistic girls. Dr. Lyons, founder and CEO of Navigating AWEtism, Ivy League scientist, and autism parent, translates autism research into clear, actionable guidance for families and brings both scientific expertise and lived experience to her work.

🎧 Listen in as Dr. Lyons shares:

• Why autism in girls is often overlooked or misdiagnosed
• How masking in autistic girls can impact mental health
• The difference between autistic meltdowns and typical behavior
• Health and medical challenges that can accompany autism spectrum disorder
• What autism advocacy really looks like for parents
• The emotional strain families raising autistic daughters often carry in secret

If you’re parenting a girl with autism or navigating an autism diagnosis, this episode will leave you feeling informed and more confident in your next steps—as well as empowered to take care of yourself along the way.

About Dr. Theresa Lyons:

Dr. Theresa Lyons is an international autism educator, Ivy League scientist, and autism parent. She’s the founder and CEO of Navigating AWEtism, a groundbreaking platform that transforms the overwhelming complexity of autism science into clear, actionable steps for families. With a Ph.D. from Yale and a deeply personal mission, Dr. Lyons has worked with parents in over 21 countries, bringing evidence-based strategies that change lives. Through a unique blend of rigorous science and real-world experience, she gives parents of autistic children what they’ve never had before: clarity, confidence, and a roadmap for progress. Learn more about Dr. Lyons and her work at www.awetism.net/.

About the Exceptional Girls Podcast:

If you know and care deeply about a girl who learns, thinks, and experiences the world differently, I invite you to journey with me as we learn how we as parents, adults, and role models can help her understand, self-advocate, accept, and love herself — just as she is. To learn more, visit www.exceptionalgirlspodcast.com.