full

220 | when therapy works in session but not at home

about this episode (+ scroll for resources) 👇

your child is in therapy.

you trust the therapist. you're showing up consistently. you're investing time, energy, and money.

so why does it feel like nothing is changing at home?

in this episode, dr. tay discusses one of the most common frustrations families experience: seeing progress in the therapy room but struggling to see those same skills transfer into everyday life.

you'll learn why this happens, the role of generalization, how family dynamics and nervous systems impact change, and the one thing that can help therapists better support your family when things feel stuck.

if you've ever found yourself wondering, "why isn't therapy working?" this episode is for you.

in this episode, you'll hear:

  • why therapy progress doesn't always transfer into daily life
  • the difference between learning a skill and generalizing a skill
  • how the home environment differs from the therapy room
  • the role of parent regulation and the family ecosystem
  • common reasons families get stuck despite having a great therapist
  • practical ways to collaborate more effectively with your child's therapist
  • a behind-the-scenes look at a new intensive support model dr. tay is exploring

timestamps

00:00 why therapy can feel stuck, even with a great therapist

04:41 the hidden challenge: skills aren't transferring home

08:40 nervous systems, co-regulation, and the realities of parenting

12:33 why changing behavior is harder than most people realize

13:39 identifying what's different between therapy and home

14:50 the family ecosystem and why supporting parents matters

18:34 radical honesty: the secret sauce for getting unstuck

25:48 a new vision for in-home intensive support

28:40 how clinical work creates more accessible resources for families

33:32 who intensive support may be right for

resources

⚡️ want to learn more about this in-home intensive model? email me at taylor@drtaylorday.com with the word "Intensive" in the subject line

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay's other clinical services offered as well as her educational membership EVOLVE at drtaylorday.com

⚡️ miscellaneous resources referenced in this episode >>

-episodes 189 and 215

-couples masterclass (or included for free as part of the EVOLVE membership)

-autism traits guide

About the Podcast

Show artwork for EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids
EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids
autism education

Listen for free

About your host

Profile picture for Dr. Taylor Day

Dr. Taylor Day