Young Adult Programs

Young adult programs offer young men and women the opportunity to learn social communication skills for living on your own, navigating college, turning your interests into paid careers, engaging successfully in a workplace, peer relationships and more. Programs focus on the development of self-awareness, social thinking, executive function, and life skills in a supportive and structured setting with peers. For ages 18-26.

Young Adult Intership Program *NEW THIS YEAR

The Aspire Job Preparedeness and Internship Program is designed to help young adults with high functioning autism and related challenges, navigate the various aspects of a work environment while gaining important on-the-job skills. Interns are placed in established companies and organizations throughout the Boston area. A key feature of this program is the Aspire job coach who helps participants transition into their internship placements and learn about the social interactions needed to succeed in the workplace. This is a 17-week program. Applications for Winter/Spring placements are due on January 14, 2013. Click here for details.

Social Skills/Social Thinking™ - Young Adult Groups

Social Skills/Social Thinking™ groups give adolescents and young adults the opportunity to improve self-awareness, and to learn social, communication and perspective taking skills by using their own interests as a means to connect with one another. Stress management and coping strategies are also covered. These therapeutic groups meet weekly for 90 minutes to focus on shared positive social experiences. The format includes interest-based activities, supportive discussions, social coaching, direct instruction and monthly community outings. Groups are held in our Charlestown, Lexington and Wellesley sites. Schedules are determined by the availability of group members. Ages 18-26. Details.

Adult Life (formerly known as Explorations Program)

These programs take place in the community where young adults share in recreational experiences while learning a variety of practical life skills. Areas of focus include: money management, transportation, peer negotiation, dating and time management. Participants are encouraged to balance their needs with those of the group. Activities, community location, and relevant social topics are geared to the ages of participants. Offered on Saturdays as well as weekdays. Adult Life: Ages 18-26.

THEMATIC GROUPS:

Thematic groups are based either on a particular need currently facing our clients or inspired by areas or activities of interest that brings like-minded individuals together. Participants acquire skills in such areas as: executive functioning, wellness, and stress and coping. These groups typically meet for 6-10 weeks. Examples of thematic groups offered are below. Click here for our rates and billing information .

College Success: College Success is for currently enrolled college students who are struggling with the demands of college life. This may include the social aspects, academic challenges or the leisure time. We will provide strategies and support for managing roommates and dorm-life, professors, campus activities, parties, studying, short- and long-term projects, among other topics. This program focuses on helping young adults become more successful and reach their potential. For currently enrolled college students.

Stress Busters: Everyone experiences stress, but the trick is learning how to manage it! In this group, participants will learn to do just that. In a small group setting, participants will learn about the biology of stress, including how exercise, nutrition and sleep all influence stress levels. A variety of stress and anxiety management strategies will be covered such as progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness, yoga, and biofeedback. Participants will additionally explore their own triggers. Within the safe and supportive group environment, participants will be encouraged to try multiple stress management strategies to find ones that work the best for them. For ages 18-22.

Rock Band Groups: Rock Band-based group combines rock music with social skill development. Being in a band is an ideal medium for developing social thinking skills because it naturally combines musicianship with cooperation and social interaction. Ages 14-26.

Relationships 101: Improve your communication skills for starting and maintaining friendships; going on dates or other social events; and interacting with college classmates, roommates, work colleagues and others. Develop relationship strategies that work for your personality through ice-breakers, discussion, improvisational activities, and role-playing all within a structured and supportive setting. Ages 18-26.

YouthCare