TRANSITION TO ADULTHOOD: Clinical Considerations and Resources for those on the Autism Spectrum A presentation for PCCYCS Annual Spring Conference Dawn M. Hoffman, MS, Licensed Psychologist Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities

Introductions

Learning Objectives  Describe the needs of the adolescent with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) as they transition to adulthood  Identify the service needs of young adults with ASD  Review services available in the community for those with ASD

Autism Spectrum Disorders  A short list of demographics

Autism Spectrum Disorders  Criteria  --Qualitative impairment in communication  --Qualitative impairment in social interactions  --Restrictive, repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior, interests and activities

Autism Spectrum Disorders  Childhood Disintegration Disorder  Rhett’s Disorder  Asperger’s Disorder  Autistic Disorder  Pervasive Developmental Disorder: NOS

Behaviors/ conditions frequently associated with ASD  Eating  Sleeping  Anxiety  Sensory sensitivities  Demands for routine, order, predictability

Transition  A definition as it relates to ASD

The challenge of transitioning  Communication  Change  Available services  Structure  Funding

Clinical considerations  Anxiety  Mood Disorders  Attention difficulties  Sleep problems  Behavior difficulties

Service needs of students with ASD  Individualize  Plan  Start early  Adaptive skills  Emotional health  Physical health  Support  Support for families

Characteristics of a transitional plan  Positive behavior supports  Vision of the future  Inclusive experiences  Variety of experiences  Coordination

Identify Goals  Vocational  Residential  Social Identify needs of the student to reach the goal i.e. going to college:

Service needs of young adults  Identify short and long term goals  Scaffolding  Needs assessment  Individualize  Broad range of skills  Identification and expression of emotions  Nonverbal communication

 Problem solving  Anxiety management  Social skills  Opportunities for socialization  Self-monitoring  Behavior plan if needed  Conversation skills

 Managing impulses  Transitional training/managing change  Stress management  Identifying personal interests  Using strengths to support  Family issues  Sexuality and dating

 Addressing sensory challenges  Driving/transportation  Perspective taking

Resources  Occupational therapy/sensory integration  Speech therapy  Social Work  Psychologists  Psychiatrists/physicians  Teacher (school age)  Behavior consultants  Agencies

 Resource Center  Support Groups  Social skills groups  Autism Bureau, Adult Autism Waiver  Recreational facilities

Learning Objectives in review  Learning Objectives  --Describe the needs of the adolescent with ASD as they transition to adulthood  --Identify the service needs of young adults with ASD  --Review services available in the community for those with ASD

 Thank you