In this episode, I have a conversation with Dr. Jared Schultz, Professor, and Chair of the Department of Rehabilitation Counseling at the Virginia Commonwealth University. We explore the importance of informed choice when helping an adolescent on the autism or disability spectrum transition to adulthood, when professionals can unintentionally derail person-centered planning, and the power of experience in self-driven motivation and empowerment. Jared is a wealth of information and his ability to share his expertise in a kind, clear, and relatable way is a true gift.

Find out more about Jared here. 

Live. Work. Thrive.

Oh, let's also add empowered and confident. These words were heard, on repeat, during my interview with Alex Johnson, Admissions and Business Development Director of Scenicview Academy (SVA). 

SVA is a non-profit school for young adults (18-30yo) with Autism Spectrum and learning disorders. School at SVA doesn't look like your typical or traditional school. Classes are thoughtfully designed and crafted to meet the needs of each student and are conducted IRL in the community. SVA's learning philosophy is that experience is the best teacher, so students hit the ground running immediately with immersion and practice. 

Students don't have to be intimidated by the real-life pace or demands of the SVA program because of high staff ratios (fun fact: staff outnumbers students) and a dedicated Service Coordinator and Therapist, who are assigned to every student as part of their treatment team. Support staff are considered mentors and coaches to the...