Autistic Teens and Adults: Building Skills, Confidence, and Community | Ep. 50

Host Brooke introduces “Finding Hope on the Spectrum” and interviews Steven Roberts, an RDI consultant at Therapeutic Approach to Growth who specializes in supporting neurodivergent teens and adults. They discuss the unmet need for supports beyond early intervention, emphasizing community integration, independence, and quality of life. Steven explains that meaningful, trusting relationships are the foundation for learning and growth, describing how he meets clients through their interests and builds safety before targeting goals. He outlines focusing on agency, self-determination, and individualized priorities, referencing the ARC Self-Determination Scale to promote self-awareness and goal setting. The conversation addresses balancing challenge and support (“edge plus one”), avoiding overcompensation while scaffolding independence, and developing resilience and a growth-seeking mindset. Steven highlights team-based supports and shares plans for a Southern California young adult social club, “SoCal Social.”00:00 Welcome to Finding Hope00:47 Why Teens and Adults02:05 Steven’s Path to TAG03:46 Relationships First07:52 Meeting Them in Their World11:33 Skill Building for Adulthood13:32 Building Agency and Goals19:48 Overcompensation at Home25:09 Suitcase Success Story26:43 Stimming to Engagement27:34 Co Regulation Wins29:00 Confidence and Growth31:00 Starting Small Outdoors32:13 Edge Plus One33:19 Independence Skills Breakdown35:57 Supporting the Whole Team37:49 Widening Support Network39:36 Mindsets Over Skills42:15 Scaffolding for the Future46:02 Hope and Brain Development49:24 How to Connect and SoCal SocialConnect with Finding Hope on the Spectrum:Email: [email protected] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574918739411 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-wagner-4819233a/ Instagram: @findinghopeonthespectrum TikTok: FindinghopeonthespectrumGuest Contact:www.tagforgrowth.comhttps://therapeutic-approach-to-growth.mykajabi.com/so-cal-social?preview_theme_id=2161036316