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TRANSITION PROGRAM

LEVEL 1

Level 1 Transition Plan: From 12-Step Behavior Program to On-Campus Aftercare

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Purpose:

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The purpose of this transition plan is to ensure a smooth, supportive, and well-monitored transition for young adults with autism who have successfully completed the 12-Step Behavior Program. The goal is to promote continued stability, emotional regulation, and personal growth as residents prepare for increased independence in the on-campus aftercare program.

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These structured transitions from our 12-Step Behavioral Completion → Aftercare → Independent Living ensure that each young adult moves forward at a pace aligned with their growth, safety, and readiness.At every stage, the resident is guided by compassionate staff, peer mentors, and individualized support to ensure success, stability, and lasting independence.

 

Eligibility Criteria for Transition:

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Residents must demonstrate:

  1. Completion of all 12 steps in the behavior program.

  2. Consistent behavioral stability for at least 60 consecutive days.

  3. Regular participation in therapeutic, vocational, and group sessions.

  4. Demonstrated use of coping strategies and de-escalation techniques.

  5. Positive feedback from the treatment team and assigned Peer Mentor.

  6. Readiness and willingness to participate in increased self-management responsibilities.

 

Transition Process:

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1. Reevaluation & Review 

  • Comprehensive Progress Review: Conducted by the treatment team (Clinical Director, Behavior Specialist, RBT, and Peer Mentor).

  • Functional

  • Goal Setting: Create a personalized transition plan outlining short-term goals for aftercare participation.

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2. Preparation Phase

  • Orientation to Aftercare Program: Introduce structure, expectations, and new privileges.

  • Gradual Shift in Support: Begin decreasing 1:1 supervision as appropriate, while maintaining close staff monitoring.

  • Mentor Collaboration: The Peer Mentor supports the resident emotionally during this transition, encouraging self-advocacy and social engagement.

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3. Transition Implementation 

  • Move to Aftercare Housing: Resident relocates to a semi-supervised on-campus apartment or residence.

  • Skill-Building Continuation: Daily focus on self-care, vocational engagement, and emotional regulation.

  • Therapeutic Oversight: Weekly therapy sessions continue for support and adjustment monitoring.

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4. Evaluation & Stabilization (Ongoing, 90 Days Minimum)

  • Weekly Case Reviews: Evaluate progress, behavior maintenance, participation, and independence.

  • Family & Guardian Updates: Provide progress reports and involve families in long-term planning.

  • Graduation from Aftercare Prep: After 90 days of stability and consistent participation, the resident may be evaluated for transition to the Independent Living Program.

 

Goals of Aftercare Transition:

  • Maintain behavioral stability and emotional regulation.

  • Strengthen independent living skills.

  • Encourage personal accountability and decision-making.

  • Reinforce coping strategies learned in treatment.

  • Prepare for a greater level of autonomy and self-direction.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

LEVEL 2

Level 2 Transition Plan: From Aftercare to Independent Living

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Purpose:

To provide a structured, goal-oriented process that empowers residents to progress from a semi-supervised aftercare environment into a fully independent on-campus living arrangement while maintaining community connection, safety, and support.

 

Eligibility Criteria for Independent Living:

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Residents must:

  1. Successfully complete at least 6 months in the aftercare program.

  2. Exhibit consistent behavior regulation, and emotional maturity.

  3. Manage daily living tasks with minimal prompts or assistance.

  4. Maintain employment, volunteer work, or active participation in a vocational program.

  5. Demonstrate responsible communication with staff and peers.

  6. Receive positive recommendations from the Aftercare Coordinator and treatment team.

 

Transition Process:

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1. Pre-Transition Assessment 

  • Life Skills Evaluation: Assess self-care, budgeting, meal preparation, hygiene, and household responsibilities.

  • Independent Living Readiness Assessment: Conducted by the Vocational Coach and Residential Coordinator.

  • Goal Setting Meeting: Develop a personalized plan addressing financial management, time management, and conflict resolution skills.

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2. Trial Independence Phase 

  • Independent Living Trial Unit: Resident temporarily moves into an independent living unit with light supervision.

  • Mentorship Continuation: Assigned Peer Mentor checks in daily (in-person or virtual) to provide guidance and encouragement.

  • Therapeutic Check-Ins: Bi-weekly counseling sessions to discuss challenges and successes.

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3. Full Transition to Independent Living 

  • Housing Transfer: Resident relocates to permanent on-campus independent housing.

  • Reduced Supervision: Staff check-ins reduced to weekly, with 24-hour support available as needed.

  • Community Integration: Encourage participation in campus activities, employment, and social opportunities.

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4. Ongoing Monitoring and Support (Ongoing)

  • Monthly Review Meetings: Evaluate resident satisfaction, safety, and adjustment.

  • Annual Independence Review: Residents may progress to full community living if goals are maintained for 12 months.

  • Emergency Support Access: Residents retain access to on-call staff and mental health counseling as needed.

 

Goals of Independent Living Transition:

  • Achieve and maintain full behavioral stability.

  • Develop financial, social, and emotional independence.

  • Foster a sense of pride, self-advocacy, and accountability.

  • Encourage integration into broader community life.

  • Support long-term success and the sustainability of progress achieved in treatment.

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