Elaine A Duncan, M.A. - A.S.D. Transitional Counseling

A.S.D. - Transitional/Vocational Counseling

TRANSITIONAL COUNSELING ~ As a young person on the spectrum nears graduation from high school, it is critical to have an individualized plan to make the transition to adulthood as successful as possible. Transition counseling consists of a structured program to co-design a solid plan that takes into account the individual’s strengths, weaknesses, skills and aptitudes, desires, finances, personal goals, special challenges, along with realities of the worlds of work and college. This is achieved through a series of meetings with the individual, meetings with the parents, vocational testing, and reviewing school documents as well as any prior test results. Recommendations will be based on everything learned about the individual’s strengths, aptitudes and abilities, the special challenges of the autism spectrum, his or her dreams and goals, and the realities of the workplace.

Effectiveness of a transition plan can be greatly enhanced by ongoing support to treat the stress and anxiety created by moving into new arenas of life. Individual counseling can provide that support as the young person leaves high school, and begins to face the challenges of the adult world.

VOCATIONAL COUNSELING ~ Regardless of whether you have just graduated high school or are twenty years post-graduation, vocational counseling can make the difference between getting focused on your path, and floundering. Through a structured program which includes individual sessions (with parents, if appropriate) and vocational tests, you will learn about your strengths and weaknesses, skills and aptitudes, special challenges, and how your career dreams and strengths match with the marketplace.