A Bridge to Achievement Balance Program

Vocational Skills Program

Individualized Job Skills Training

The Vocational Skills Program helps teenagers with autism identify prospective job opportunities based on their strengths and interests, practice pre-employment skills, and get hands-on experience with on-the-job functions. Learners participate in daily programming with the ultimate goal being to transition out of the program and into the workplace.

Help prepare your teen for their future – support starts here!

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Program Overview

ABA-Based Vocational Skills Training

Age Range: 14+
Target Audience: Autistic teenagers, young adults
Availability: Monday – Friday
Minimum Commitment: 10 hours/week
Therapeutic Approach: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy
Format: 1:1 therapy; small group learning
Cost: Varies by insurance (we accept BCBS, MedCost, Medicaid)
Center Locations: University Center, Winston-Salem

The cost of ABA therapy with insurance can vary widely, but many plans cover a significant portion (if not all) of the expense. The cost depends on the specifics of each individual’s insurance plan and coverage.

Qualifiers for Participation

Candidates for the Vocational Skills Program include those who:

Demonstrate need of skills at the level provided
Can participate in a small group setting
Are insurance-approved

How It Works

Who We Serve

The Vocational Skills Program is designed to help teenagers with autism unlock their highest potential so they may lead fulfilling and self-determined lives. Learners ages 14 to 21+ attend daily programming, participating in highly-individualized, ABA therapy based, one-on-one and small-group programming.

Many teens participate in the program for consecutive years, augmenting the opportunity for cumulative skill development, peer-to-peer learning, and community building.

Learners are primarily English speaking.

Assessment

Learners complete the AFLS (Assessment of Functional Living Skills) Vocational Skills Assessment to evaluate their ability to independently perform everyday tasks and work-related competencies. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst develops highly-individualized programming based on each learner’s strengths and areas for improvement, as well as their interests and best-fit vocational areas.

Pre-Employment Skills

Each day, learners practice a variety of vocational and professional skills in one-on-one and small-group settings. Foundational abilities learners may work on developing include: job application and interview skills, workplace communication skills, task management and productivity, behavior and social skills, organizational skills, and dress code and appearance.

On-the-Job Skills

Learners engage in hands-on practice in a simulated work environment, using real-life materials to increase generalization. Developing these skills helps learners manage workplace tasks, expectations, and interactions, and instills greater independence and confidence in their ability to succeed. Settings include grocery stores, retail stores, hospitality locations, and offices.

Transition to Employment

Once a learner demonstrates mastery of a range of foundational and practical skills, they are ready to transition into the workplace! Mastery doesn’t necessarily mean perfection, but rather a consistent ability to perform these skills with confidence, understanding, and minimal assistance.

Have Questions?

Check out our FAQs or get in touch! Support starts here.