Launching! to Adulthood: A Group Counseling Initiative for Young Adults With Neurodevelopmental Differences Transitioning to Adulthood and Their Family members.

Abstract

Group therapy may help young adults with neurodevelopmental differences (NDDs; such as autism spectrum disorder [ASD] or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD]) socialize and manage mental health difficulties such as anxiety and depression during the transition to adulthood (18-25 years old). Family members may also benefit from group therapy during this transition period. Despite this need, few group therapy programs in a virtual/telehealth format have been developed to help young adults with NDDs and their families during the transition to adulthood. The present study sought to provide initial feasibility and acceptability data for a parallel young adult and family member group treatment program for young adults with NDDs transitioning to adulthood. Launching! to adulthood is an 8-week program utilizing evidence-based interventions to reduce distress and support the transition to independence for young adults with NDDs and their family members. Measures of well-being were collected pre- and post-intervention. Brief qualitative interviews were conducted post-intervention. From our pilot study, we found that the Launching! program was acceptable and feasible for both family members and young adults, with high ratings of satisfaction. Three themes were shared by young adults and family members, including gaining group connection and support from others in a similar life circumstance, learning the importance of self-care, and gaining new skills. Barriers to attendance included work conflicts and internet difficulties. This pilot trial of the Launching! program is novel in that few existing therapies have addressed challenges of the transition to adulthood for individuals with NDDs. Launching! has the potential to help young adults with NDDs prepare for postsecondary goals and may be utilized by businesses to support employees with NDDs.