Miami Autism Dad Discusses Mental Health, Faith, and Hidden Trauma

Victor Antunez interviews Tova J. Kreps on the emotional strain carried by many families, especially those raising children with significant needs.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:05pm

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In a powerful conversation, Miami Autism Dad Victor Antunez interviews licensed clinical social worker Tova J. Kreps, President and Co-Founder of Wellspring Counseling, about why so many people carry emotional strain long before they understand what is happening inside them. They explore why people often keep functioning while inwardly worn down, why many delay asking for help until life becomes harder to carry, how trauma can remain hidden in both children and adults, and why healing often begins only after something long unspoken is finally understood.

Why it matters

This discussion sheds light on the hidden emotional burdens faced by many families, especially those caring for children with special needs. It underscores the importance of mental health awareness, the role of faith in healing, and the need for accessible counseling resources to support those struggling with trauma and identity issues.

The details

Antunez and Kreps delve into the complex interplay of mental health, faith, and hidden trauma that can impact individuals and families. They examine why people often delay seeking help, how trauma can manifest in subtle ways, and the transformative power of finally voicing long-held pain. The conversation explores the emotional toll of caregiving, the search for identity, and the path towards healing.

  • The interview was recorded and published on April 1, 2026.

The players

Victor Antunez

A Miami-based father of a child with autism, known as the "Miami Autism Dad" for his advocacy work and community outreach.

Tova J. Kreps

A licensed clinical social worker and the President and Co-Founder of Wellspring Counseling, a mental health organization in Miami.

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What they’re saying

“So many people carry emotional strain long before they understand what is happening inside them.”

— Tova J. Kreps, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, President and Co-Founder of Wellspring Counseling

“Healing often begins only after something long unspoken is finally understood.”

— Tova J. Kreps, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, President and Co-Founder of Wellspring Counseling

What’s next

Wellspring Counseling Center plans to host a series of community workshops and support groups in the coming months to address the mental health challenges faced by families, especially those caring for children with special needs.

The takeaway

This conversation highlights the importance of destigmatizing mental health, fostering open dialogue, and providing accessible resources to support individuals and families navigating the emotional complexities of caregiving, trauma, and identity. It underscores the vital role that faith, community, and professional counseling can play in the healing process.