Testimonials
For more than 16 years, Aspen Network has been privileged to share in the lives of young adults and their families. Here are some of their experiences, in their own words.
Families Share Their Experiences
“When we first met Meg and Mike, we were desperate. We knew our neurodiverse daughter was capable of an independent life, but we had no idea how to help her get there. Meg promised we would never feel more supported than we would at Aspen. I remember thinking, ‘Yeah, right.’ I was wrong.
Aspen is a true home, unique in its warmth and deeply personal, creative approach. They have opened our eyes to possibilities and solutions we never would have imagined on our own. Meg, Mike, and their team have gone above and beyond in caring for our daughter, guiding us, and helping us find the resources she needs. Most importantly, they have made us feel that we are no longer navigating this seemingly impossible journey alone.”
A and D / Texas, 2026
“Things were very strained with our young adult at home; we could not hear one another in our communications. Our young adult wanted independence; however, did not want to be coached or guided by us anymore. After having gained independence by working with the mentors at Aspen Network, our relationship has improved. Our young adult now values our opinions and we better understand each other’s desires and concerns.
Our young adult participated in the Aspen Network program for several years. Our objective was to find a program that facilitates independence and self-advocacy. Through the time spent at Aspen Network, our young adult learned how to drive a car, obtained employment in their chosen field of interest, socialized with peers and mentors within the program, as well as work associates, and has now decided to earn a university degree in education.”
B and T / 2026
“Just as our family was running out of hope and options, we found Aspen Network. They have provided a safe and supportive home for our son. He lives with a group of wonderful young adults, and is supported by a caring and skilled staff. They have also provided resources that have led to us getting crucial services for our son. Meg and Mike work tirelessly to build a unique and supportive environment for neurodiverse young adults.”
T and K / 2026
“Aspen Network saved us when we were desperate to find help for our neurodiverse adult son. He was isolating in his room—depressed, angry, addicted to his phone, and unable to move forward despite being very bright and a college graduate. Meg and Mike have this incredible warm, intuitive, non-judgmental aura about them that made our son feel immediately welcome and valued. During his time in their nurturing but not regimented residential environment, our son is clearly on a path of healing. His social skills and executive functions have improved markedly, he is more confident about being and working in the community, and he feels positive about his future again. Research in the field of neurodiversity is showing how powerful a supportive, accepting, incrementally challenging environment can be on the blossoming of young individuals who have been struggling with overwhelm, and we join others who consider Meg and Mike Fields as leaders in this type of program development. We are indeed blessed and grateful to have found Aspen Network.”
Parents (University lecturer and physician associate; Research biologist)
Additional Voices from the Aspen Network Community
“Dr. Fields is warm, lively, funny, and very wise about ASD. Her gift is that she really knows how to bring out the best in every ASD youth that she encounters. It’s magic. I’ve witnessed more miracles of change and growth in her campers than I could possibly list.”
Valerie Keim, M.Ed.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
“Caring, wise, and resourceful—that’s how I’d describe the Aspen Team staff. My 18 and 20 year olds are terrific, and they still have some growing up to do. Living at home or living in a college dorm are not great options for them at this time. Meg, Mike, and their team provide an engaging, accountable home where my children are learning to thrive.”
DSJ / Friant, California
“Meg Fields is a thought leader at the forefront of the emerging field of creating life-long support services for high functioning ASD. Watch her career. She is a trailblazer for the ASD community.”
KJ / Walnut Creek, California
“I have been so relieved to have found Meg and Mike and the Aspen Network team. The group house is a wonderful and unique setting for my daughter to master the skills to become an independent young adult and to work as a member of a team.”
HS / Castro Valley, California