LEADERS: A Psychoeducational Support Group for College-Bound High School Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Abstract During life transitions, individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face unique challenges. When navigating the transition from high school to higher education, individuals with ASD confront increased vulnerability in social situations, decreased likelihood of program completion, and increased risk of mental health problems. To help these individuals successfully navigate this transition, high school mental health professionals should consider including them in a psychoeducational support group which focuses on the development of executive functioning skills, regulation and coping skills, and social skills and which allows for the practice and role-playing of newly learned skills as well as the discussion of ideas and personal experiences. A proposed curriculum (LEADERS) is discussed, along with the logistical and ethical considerations of running the proposed group.