Staying Close, Staying Connected: A Family’s Journey Through Autism Treatment
When Justin Bryant received an Autism diagnosis, Lauren Bryant knew that change was destined. However, when she learned that her son needed specialized treatment at Springbrook Behavioral Health in Greenville, the Colorado mother faced a new, difficult reality. The care that Justin needed was going to send him far from home.
Justin, who was diagnosed with Autism at 14, required support that was not available closer to home. After struggling with elopement and overstimulation, receiving treatment became a priority, even if it meant leaving behind familiar surroundings.
Luckily, Lauren found a place to stay at the House with her younger sons, Jackson and Jace, just minutes from Justin’s treatment, allowing her family to stay together throughout his journey. Being able to stay nearby has allowed her to remain involved in his treatment while maintaining their connection and the familiarity of home.
One experience continues to remind Lauren why Justin’s treatment is so important. During the Christmas season, while the family was staying in Florida, Justin eloped and was missing for fourteen hours in an unfamiliar city before he was found safely.
After going through so much, being separated from Justin during treatment would have been incredibly difficult for the family.
“Being able to see him, because being away from him means trusting somebody else to care for your child,” Lauren shared. “Not being there if something happens, that’s a big thing.”
Beyond emotional support, Lauren’s presence provides a crucial role in his treatment, presence only made possible by her ability to stay so close to Justin. One of Justin’s largest triggers is rule enforcement at home, a role which often falls on his mother, Lauren.
“I unfortunately am the one who enforces the rules,” Lauren explained. “I’m one of his biggest triggers, so I decided to come so I could be closer to him, see him more and help reinforce behaviors.”
Lauren’s proximity, thanks to RMHCC, enables her to actively participate in Justin’s treatment and support his progress as doctors help him learn healthier coping strategies.
Though Justin spends most of his time at Springbrook during treatment, he is able to visit his younger brothers and mother at the House during his days off. Instead of having to hope for the best from afar, they are able to witness his growth firsthand, an experience that has been especially meaningful for the family.
“He’s finally letting his mask down and starting to exhibit his behaviors,” Lauren said. “At first, that felt scary, but now they can actually help him in the long run. He’s learning how to cope instead of just being told how to cope.”
Their stay has not only brought comfort for Justin during this difficult time, but also to Lauren who is facing her own challenges. Thankfully, the House has become a source of comfort and stability for Lauren, Jackson and Jace. Caring for two young children is no small feat, especially when far from home, and the House has helped provide practical support and a sense of community.
“We have found comfort in the staff. Everybody’s kind of clung to the little ones,” she said. “I have not had a big support system … but the friends that I found while here, have built that support system.”
Jackson and Jace have also found support in the welcoming environment, helping the whole family feel more at ease during a challenging time.
By staying close to Justin throughout his treatment, the family has found more than just a place to stay. They’ve found a community of support. The ability to remain together has strengthened their family bond, allowed Lauren to stay involved in Justin’s care and supported his continued growth and development.
