Person-Centered Planning for Transition-Aged Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders

UMaine Alert

Posted: April 19, 2024 - 1:32 PM

At approximately 9:24 a.m. on Friday, April 19, a University of Maine graduate student was struck by a university vehicle on Long Road at the University of Maine campus in Orono. The student reports that they are at a local hospital with minor injuries.

Emergency services, including the Orono Fire Department, University Volunteer Ambulance Corps, University of Maine Police Department, Orono Police Department and Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.

The university vehicle involved in the incident was a Chevrolet Express van. It was being operated by a university employee.

Counseling services and support are available for students, faculty or staff who may have been affected. The Counseling Center can be reached at 207-581-1392 and the Dean of Students Office can be reached at 207-581-1406.

The scene has been cleared and Long Road is now accessible. An investigation is being conducted by the University of Maine Police Department with assistance from the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit. Any witnesses to the incident are encouraged to contact Lt. Noel Santiago at noel.santiago@maine.edu.

Published: 2014-02-10

Abstract:

Person-centered planning is a process that can allow individuals with disabilities to participate more actively in their transition planning, and more active participation in planning is associated with more positive vocational rehabilitation outcomes. However, youth with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) often face obstacles to participation in person-centered planning, including high levels of anxiety, difficulties with social interaction and communication. This study explores strategies and supports used to help transition-aged youth with ASD participate in person-centered transition planning meetings. Strategies facilitating participation included: (1) individualized preparation for meetings, (2) informal activities to build rapport between the planning facilitator and the youth, (3) flexible meeting designs, (4) distance attendance, and (5) support for alternative means of communication. The findings suggest that person-centered planning can be implemented for transition-aged youth across the autism spectrum as a tool for enhancing participation in transition planning. Implications for the use of this planning process by rehabilitation counselors involved in transition are discussed.

Citation:

Hagner, D., Kurtz, A., Cloutier, H., & May, J. (2014). Person-centered planning for transition-aged youth with autism spectrum disorders. Journal of Rehabilitation 80(1) 4-10.