Autism Parenting: A Hard Decision About Placement

In this episode we talk with Phil and Shawnie Deutsch about their journey parenting a son with severe autism and the difficult decision to pursue residential placement in a therapeutic boarding school at age 17. This conversation explores the emotional reality of making high-stakes decisions for a child with autism, navigating uncertainty, and trusting yourself as a parent when there are no clear answers. If you’re an autism parent facing tough choices around care, safety, or long-term planning, this episode offers insight, validation, and hope. Be sure to follow Phil and Shawnie Deutsch on Facebook to continue being inspired by their journey.