Organization name: T-STEP Program (TEACCH)

Purpose/mission: The T-STEP was developed to support the transition to employment and post-secondary education for 16-21-year-olds with Autism Spectrum Disorder who will or have received the Future-Ready Core high school diploma.

Population served: 16-21-year-olds with Autism Spectrum Disorder who will or have received the Future-Ready Core high school diploma

Services/programs/resources offered:

• • Participation includes skill instruction, group practice, video modeling, and role-plays. Additionally, students practice these skills on a weekly basis at a volunteer internship site. Students also receive individual career counseling, higher education counseling, and self-advocacy counseling. This program is available statewide in North Carolina.

  • The T-STEP covers four areas important for transition readiness:

    • • Goal Setting Skills – Choosing and working toward an individual’s goals.

      • Executive Function Skills – Approaching tasks in an organized manner, time management, and flexibility.

      • Emotion Regulation Skills – Coping with stress and accepting corrective feedback.

      • Social Skills – Getting help when needed and professional social skills.

Costs/requirements to participate:

• • FREE

  • Participants in the T-STEP program must have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Be at least 16 and not older than 22 (specific ages vary by college.) Participants must be enrolled in the future ready diploma track in high school or have graduated with a regular diploma. Eligibility status will be determined by NCDVRS counselors.

How families can access more information if interested in pursuing:

• • Contact info: 919-843-9505, TSTEPinfo@med.unc.edu

  • Website: https://teacch.com/CLLC/t-step-teacch-school-transition-to-employment-and-postsecondary-education/