Adolescents & Autism
Adolescence presents many exciting (and sometimes scary!) milestones and challenges for individuals with autism. In the process of developing skills needed for independence and joining the workforce, an adolescent’s need for more specialized social skills becomes more acute, and the focus on sexuality and relationship awareness shifts dramatically. And, during this time of transition, safety concerns change significantly. This period is a crossroads for every individual, and often a time of uncertainty about what comes next. AuSM has programs and resources that have been developed by experts and parents who have successfully navigated this time of transition. We are here to help: You are AuSM and you are not alone.
Information and Referral
Parents of adolescents who are recently diagnosed or who are looking for new information can request packets that explain ASD, offer helpful tips, and provide other current information on topics of interest. Telephone service also includes parent-to-parent networking.
Discovery Series
The AuSM Discovery Series is designed for parents, family members, relatives, and caregivers of individuals who are newly diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Topics are tailored to meet specific needs on the spectrum, and participants come away with practical strategies and suggestions to help guide their journey through the age-specific stages of life.
AuSM Skillshops
AuSM Skillshops are designed for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their parents, family members and caregivers. Skillshops also are a valuable resource for educators who work with individuals affected by ASD. Intended for small groups, AuSM Skillshops allow you the opportunity to participate by discussing and solving problems on topics that concern you the most. Click here for more information.
Mental Health Services
The AuSM Mental Health Services team works in partnership with you to develop a plan based on your needs. For many, working with mental heath service providers is a new experience; we want you to feel comfortable and knowledgeable as we undertake this journey as a team striving for positive, individual-focused goals. Our services include diagnostic, functional and behavioral assessments; individual, couple and group therapies, home visits, training and more. Click here for more information
AuSM Social Skills
(Formerly Eagle's Nest)
We live in a social world. From tweets to texts, the world is immersed in a non-stop stream of interaction. Now, more than ever, it is vital for those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to acquire the tools to help them successfully navigate social encounters. The AuSM Social Skills Program, led by an ASD expert, focuses on fostering self-awareness and self-esteem by exploring the complexities of making friends, engaging in conversations, and understanding the unwritten rules as individuals journey from the schoolyard to the workplace.
Groups are divided by age and topics and activities are tailored to the age and developmental abilities of each group.
AuSM Camp
AuSM summer camps are planned by experienced staff who understand the need for structure, visual schedules, environmental supports, social stories and individualized communication systems. Parents/caregivers are required to provide extensive information about each camper before camp so that communication, sensory and behavioral needs can be met. You must be a member of AuSM in order to register for AuSM camp. Click here for more information.
Employment
AuSM partners with local business diversity committees, human resource departments, hiring managers and leadership to educate employers on how to attract and retain individuals on the spectrum. Through this partnership, AuSM also gains knowledge that we convert to tools to help you identify jobs that fit your gifts and talents in order support your goal of becoming successfully employed.
Emergency Preparedness
There is a significant need to be better informed and better equipped to ensure positive outcomes in emergency situations. Whether it's because of the unique attributes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or vulnerability, the risk of an individual with ASD having an emergency encounter or becoming a victim of a crime is higher than for those without ASD. AuSM has created The Emergency Preparedness Essentials program for families, an autism emergency app, and a children’s story to better prepare for and respond to emergencies that involve individuals with ASD.
AuSM Bookstore/Lending Library
The AuSM Bookstore travels to many events throughout Minnesota including AuSM Workshops, the annual education symposium, AuSM's annual autism conference, Steps of Hope, and more. Please visit the Recommended Books section of this site to learn more about what AuSM has to offer. Shop Amazon through AuSM to support AuSM's mission of enhancing the lives of those affected by autism.
An AuSM Membership benefit, AuSM Lending Library materials are available for loan to all current AuSM members. You may check out up to 6 items for 3 weeks at a time. By checking out library materials, you assume responsiblity for them; you may be asked to replace lost or damaged items. Visit the AuSM office to search and borrow from AuSM's extensive Lending Library.
Resource Directory
AuSM publishes a list of professional services and providers in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin who work with individuals and families with ASD. All entries are services and/or providers that have been deemed helpful by our members.
Get Involved
AuSM offers many opportunities for individuals and families to get involved including volunteering, advocacy, presenting, fundraising and more. Your giving of time, talents and treasure not only forwards AuSM’s mission, but it also connects you to this great community.
Become a Member
Your AuSM membership gives you access to those resources you need to be educated about the latest information and prepared for what life has in store. Your membership also helps you be involved with the autism community, helping you determine the best, most comfortable way for you to participate and grow.
