Navigating the Transition to Adulthood for Autistic Young People

For autistic young people, the transition from high school to adult life — often called simply "the transition" — is one of the most statistically fraught periods of their lives. Research consistently shows that outcomes for autistic adults in employment, independent living, and quality of life drop sharply after the structured support of school ends.

This isn't inevitable. But it requires planning, support, and — crucially — involvement of the young person themselves in designing their own future.

What changes at 21?

In the United States, special education services under IDEA end when a student turns 21 (or graduates, whichever comes first). After that point, many of the supports that were in place simply disappear. There's no equivalent federal mandate for adult services, and what's available varies dramatically by state.

What OT addresses during transition

Employment readiness

• Understanding the "hidden curriculum" of the workplace
• Interview skills and self-disclosure decisions
• Sensory and executive function accommodations on the job
• Managing workplace relationships and communication

Independent living skills

• Meal planning and preparation
• Managing finances and schedules
• Transportation and community navigation
• Health management and self-advocacy with medical providers

Post-secondary education

• Accessing disability services at college
• Managing the executive demands of college without parental scaffolding
• Building self-advocacy skills for an environment that won't seek you out

The self-determination piece

The most effective transition planning puts the young person at the center. What do they want their adult life to look like? What are their interests, values, and non-negotiables? Transition OT starts with this conversation and builds outward from the young person's own vision.

If you're a parent of a teen approaching this transition, or a young autistic adult navigating it yourself, we'd love to help. Virtual sessions are available across Illinois, Wisconsin, Florida, and New York.