Parents Coming to Terms with the mental health Diagnosis
February 2, 2024

The moment a child receives a mental health diagnosis can be earth-shattering for parents. A whirlwind of emotions – fear, guilt, sadness, and uncertainty – can consume even the strongest of souls. Yet, amidst the chaos, lies an opportunity for growth, healing, and unwavering love. Accepting a child's mental health condition is a journey, one that demands patience, resilience, and an open heart.


In those initial moments after the diagnosis, it's natural to feel overwhelmed, even paralyzed by the weight of it all. Questions race through the mind: "What does this mean for their future?" "How will this impact our family?" "Where do we go from here?" These doubts and worries are valid, reflecting the depth of a parent's love and concern for their child's well-being.


However, it's crucial to remember that a diagnosis is not a life sentence; it's a starting point, a road map that can guide families towards a better understanding and the resources they need to support their child's unique needs. Embracing the diagnosis, though challenging, can open doors to a world of support, empowerment, and hope.


The path forward may seem daunting, but parents need not walk it alone. Organizations like NAMI and Mental Health America offer a wealth of educational materials, support groups, and guidance to help families navigate this new terrain. By connecting with others who have walked a similar path, parents can find solace, wisdom, and a sense of community that can be invaluable in the healing process.


As parents embark on this journey, it's essential to practice self-compassion. Feelings of guilt, anger, and even denial are natural reactions, but they do not define the unwavering love that exists between parent and child. Seeking professional support, whether through therapy or counseling, can provide a safe space to process these emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms.


Ultimately, coming to terms with a child's mental health diagnosis is a testament to the strength of the family bond. It's an opportunity to redefine what it means to be a parent, to embrace vulnerability and growth, and to create an environment where a child can thrive despite their challenges. With time, patience, and the right support systems in place, families can emerge from this journey more resilient, more empowered, and more deeply connected than ever before.

By MINDgarden October 8, 2025
Hi, My name is Amber Donahue, I am a Mental Health Therapist at Mindgarden. I’ve had the opportunity to witness the development of MINDgarden from an abstract idea to help children and families to its fruition of a welcoming, unique, safe, and serene place of help and healing . From the calmness of reading under the Magnolia tree in the library to playful excitement of exploring the life skills room; each space has been perfectly curated to invoke a different emotion and address a specific need or challenge. As a therapist, my first visit to the building was very inspiring and rejuvenating, as I saw each room as a new way to connect with my clients and reach them in ways that are impossible in a regular office setting. As a mother, I see MINDgarden as a place that nurtures children and families. There is a warmth to the building and the staff that puts me at ease knowing that my child would feel comfortable and safe spending time here. I was thrilled when I was asked to join the team at Mindgarden. It is a privilege to work in such a beautiful space for people who value family, community and mental health. It is rare to be in a like-minded workplace where everyone truly loves their job, is committed to their work, and is excited to make a difference. I look forward to being here to see and help the vision for Mindgarden become a reality. Amber's Bio Amber Donahue is a licensed mental health therapist with a Master’s in Social Work from Wayne State University, where she also earned a dual title in Infant Mental Health. Her clinical experience includes supporting mothers with postpartum depression, young children (ages 0–6), adolescents, families, and individuals coping with depression, anxiety, and trauma. Her style is laid-back and supportive, but she’s also not afraid to gently challenge when it helps with growth. She believes the relationship between therapist and client is central to healing, so she strives to create a safe, trusting space where you feel comfortable showing up as yourself. Because she sees mental health as something that extends beyond the individual, she works to support the whole family system. Whether she is helping a new mom postpartum, children build emotional regulation skills, or adolescents navigate complex challenges, her goal is to empower families to strengthen connections, build resilience, and find balance together. Mental Health Focus Areas Postpartum and Perinatal Disorders Infant Mental Health Parenting support Separation Anxiety Anxiety & Depression Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) ADHD Stress Management Self-Esteem Issues Social Anxiety General Behavioral Issues Mood Disorders Life Transitions Relationship & Family Stress School or College Stress Family Conflict Women's Issues Therapeutic Approaches Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Attachment Approach Family Systems Approach Person-Centered Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy Strengths-Based Approach Populations Served: Inclusive therapy for people of all identities, backgrounds, and relationships.
By MINDgarden September 2, 2025
Hello, Marhaba! My name is Christine Glasper. I have been a school counselor for 15 years, a private therapist for 9 years and an administrator for 8 years. I am a wife and a mother of 3 beautiful kids. A counselor deeply impacted my life in middle school and my love for working with school age kiddos and young adults was born. Over time that has developed into a drive to open doors of opportunity for my students, to provide a safe space to explore oneself and make life improvements to my clients, and to support teachers, parents and the community at large in our collective efforts to make the world a better place. I am a huge believer in “teamwork makes the dream work”, “be[ing] the change you wish to see”, the Serenity prayer and the golden rule. I’m blessed and thankful to be working with MINDgarden and the Kalasho Education and Youth Services because there are so many mission aligned people here; and only great things can happen when you put a lot of good people together in one place. I look forward to meeting you, dear reader. Have a good day!