What can we start doing now, at home to prepare our adolescent or young adult for independence? This is a question I am frequently asked by parents and supportive parties who have a neurodiverse adolescent or adult living at home.
I am one step closer to my own independence, which is what the Adult programs at CA helped me to do. However, changing from something familiar to something new and different is a challenge.
One of my favorite ethical principles included in the Code of Ethics is the importance of acknowledging and fostering the dignity and worth of everyone.
Communication is a key skill needed to be independent. Sit in on an evening shift with a CA Adult Programs counselor as she integrates communication skill building into day-to-day with our residents in the Adult Programs house located in Richmond, VA.
Similar to resolution setting, CA Adult Programs’ counselors and clients work together to set goals (“resolutions” if you will) on a consistent basis while working towards increasing adulthood autonomy. We are pros at supporting of our clients in progressing towards their long-term goals.