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Spectrum for Life

  2. Spectrum Pathways Research Program

Spectrum Pathways Research Program

                             

Spectrum Pathways for Adults Diagnosed with ASD

Spectrum Pathways is an exciting program focused on helping adults on the autism spectrum identify and attain their goals while developing self-advocacy and other skills.  The five-day immersion week takes place in a variety of locations in the Nashville area, such as the Nashville Zoo, Vanderbilt Recreation and Wellness Center, or Frist Center.  A variety of topics are covered during these five days, including stress reduction, health and nutrition, self-advocacy, and self-determination. During the immersion week, participants also receive instruction on the process for setting and attaining their own goals.   Participants, then, receive three-months of weekly telecoaching.  During coaching calls, participants are able to describe their goal progress or challenges and discuss set-backs, obstacles, and frustrations, while learning problem-solving skills.

“I believe that [Spectrum Pathways] gives people an opportunity, especially those on the spectrum, to express their dreams and goals for life.” –previous participant

Participants for this study program must:

  1. Be between the ages of 18 – 35
  2. Have documentation of a clinical ASD diagnosis or education classification (such as an IEP or school assessment)
  3. Have exited the K – 12 system (with or without a diploma or GED)
  4. Be available for the immersion week (dates below)

If you are interested in enrolling in the Spectrum Pathways Program, please email spectrum.forLIFE@vanderbilt.edu and provide the following information:

  1. Current age of the young adult.
  2. Has he/she completed high school?
    1. If not, expected date of completion
  3. Does the young adult have a previous DX of ASD
    1. If so, please indicate all previous diagnoses (e.g., PDD-NOS, Autism, Asperger’s Disorder, and/or DSM-5 level of support)
  4.  Does the young adult live in the Nashville area?
    1. In not, where does she/he live?
  5. Briefly describe the young adults’ level of independence.

The upcoming dates for the Spectrum Pathways program:

Immersion Week: September 24 – September 28

Coaching Sessions: October 8 – December 30