Understanding the Journey from Adolescence to Adulthood
For families of teens and young adults with autism, the transition to adulthood can feel overwhelming. Questions about government benefits, adult services, employment, education, healthcare, guardianship, housing, and long-term planning often arise all at once.
The reality is that there is no single roadmap.
Every individual has unique strengths, challenges, goals, and support needs. Some young adults pursue college, vocational training, or employment. Others require ongoing adult services and lifelong supports. Most families find themselves navigating a complicated system of agencies, deadlines, eligibility requirements, and important decisions.
At McKenna Autism Consulting, we help families understand the transition process and create a practical plan for moving forward.
When Does Transition Planning Begin?
Transition planning should begin long before graduation.
Ideally, families start discussing adult goals during the high school years and begin preparing for the major milestones that occur between ages 18 and 21.
These may include:
- Applying for SSI and Medicaid
- Exploring guardianship and alternatives
- Preparing for DDD eligibility
- Understanding DVRS and employment services
- Evaluating college, vocational, and adult program options
- Planning for healthcare transition
- Developing independent living skills
- Creating long-term support plans
The earlier families begin planning, the more opportunities they have to make informed decisions and avoid last-minute crises.
Common Questions Families Ask
Many parents come to us with questions such as:
- Will my child qualify for SSI?
- What happens when my child turns 18?
- Do we need guardianship?
- How do we prepare for DDD eligibility?
- What adult programs are available?
- Is college realistic for my child?
- What if my child is not ready to live independently?
- How do we coordinate services after high school?
- What should we be doing now to prepare for adulthood?
These are important questions, and every family deserves clear, individualized guidance.
Building a Personalized Transition Plan
Successful transition planning is not simply about completing paperwork. It is about creating a vision for adulthood and identifying the steps needed to achieve it.
Our transition planning process helps families:
- Understand available services and supports
- Identify realistic post-secondary goals
- Develop a timeline for important applications and deadlines
- Coordinate educational, vocational, and community resources
- Prepare for government benefit programs
- Explore housing and independent living options
- Create a long-term roadmap for adulthood
We help families move from uncertainty to action with practical recommendations and ongoing support.
Transition Planning Services
McKenna Autism Consulting offers structured transition planning packages designed to help families navigate the path from adolescence to adulthood with confidence.
Whether you are just beginning to think about the future or actively preparing for SSI, DDD, college, employment, or adult services, we can help you create a clear plan and understand your options.
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
The transition years are filled with important decisions that can impact a young adult’s future for years to come.
Our goal is to help families understand the process, reduce stress, and make informed choices with confidence.
Whether your child is preparing for college, employment, adult services, or a combination of pathways, we can help you build a roadmap for the next stage of life.
McKenna Autism Consulting 