"A Father’s Voice, A Psychologist’s Mission with Dr. Robert Naseef

What happens when the family you envisioned doesn’t unfold the way you dreamed?

 Dr. Robert Naseef knows this journey deeply. As both a clinical psychologist and a father of an autistic son, he has walked the path from grief and uncertainty to acceptance, joy, and advocacy.

In this episode of Unmasking Social, Dr. Naseef shares his personal journey as a father learning to embrace his son Tariq’s needs and strengths. He reflects on how fathers experience and express grief differently, and why making space for that grief is so important. He also speaks about how acceptance doesn’t mean giving up on dreams, but reshaping them in ways that allow for deeper connection. Importantly, Dr. Naseef had to think about Tariq first – what he needed, what would give him the best support, and how to ensure that support was safe and nurturing.

We also talk about the role of love, vulnerability, and openness in parenting, and how these qualities helped transform his relationship with his son. As a clinical psychologist and a collaborator with the Neurodiversity Collective, Dr. Naseef brings both personal insight and professional expertise. Drawing from his TEDx talk, countless experiences, the development of programs and support groups, and books that reflect the ongoing journey, this episode shines a light on a father and family working to deepen their connection and love with an autistic child – now a young adult – who needs high supports.

He reminds us that life may not always turn out the way we imagined, but it can still be full of meaning, purpose, and joy.

Follow Dr. Naseef:
https://drrobertnaseef.com/

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