As professionals, we know that young adults with special needs are particularly vulnerable during transitional time periods. Recent research indicates that a planned and positive transition creates a solid foundation for fulfilling adult life course, and a negative transition can lead to developmental, health and social difficulties. Based on recent research, It has become evident that many students who were receiving significant support services in elementary and high school, no longer access services post high school *. Given the estimates of service use during and post high school, it is clear that as service providers we need to be well-prepared to help teens and young adults navigate the transition from adolescence to adulthood.

This is an important and exciting time in the field as it provides us an opportunity for professional growth and learning.

Advance LA offers conferences and workshops for professionals on a variety of topics to meet the growing need to support teens and young adults during their transition to independence. We are committed to offering evidence-based, practical solutions, you can really use in your work with these youth and their families.

Stay Tuned for Information regarding our Second Annual Advance LA Conference, Innovate: Supporting Teens and Young Adults in their Transition to Independence, on April 26th 2013 (for parents and professionals) and April 27th 2013 (for teens and young adults).

For a Recap of our 2012 Advance LA Conference Click Here

Check out our calendar for up-to-date information on what we are offering.

   *Shattuck PT, et al (2011). Post-high school service use among young adults with an autism spectrum disorder. Archives Pediatric Adolescent Medicine 165(2), 141-146.