The Path to Independence Often Isn’t Linear

Back in April, hopes were high that my son would be well on the way toward being more independent. With the help of a job coach, it wasn’t long before he got a job. The first day he got up two hours before he needed to leave for work. He was excited about starting a new chapter. He came home enthused about the job. According to him, he was doing well and liked what he was doing.  When he got his first paycheck, he was even more excited! 

His job coach wasn’t allowed on site, so he didn’t get the direction he needed to do well. He was slow. He took breaks whenever he wanted and left work early twice in two weeks telling his boss that he was ill. Since he wasn’t dependable, his boss chose to give him fewer hours. He was dropped down to weekend work and finally, he was let go.

He's figuring out that getting a job is not necessarily easy. In three months he’s gone without work, he has left resumés with several businesses. He has also attended job fairs and applied for positions online when he hears about job openings. Even after applying for around 10-12 jobs a week, he hasn’t had any luck. Hopefully, the next job he gets will allow his job coach onsite. This will allow him to get the direction he needs to learn how to be a good employee. 

His assistant behavior analysis therapist wasn’t a good fit for him either. He continues to struggle with PTSD, depression and anxiety. He is on medication but still needs a therapist who will help him find strategies to be more successful at work and with people.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. While his struggles are real, he recently scored a huge win. After weeks of driver’s training with a coach and hours of driving with family members, he took his driving test and passed! 

He now borrows the keys to visit friends, run errands for the family and search for jobs. He loves the independence that driving gives him and I can tell his confidence is growing as a result.

While all is not smooth sailing, he hasn’t given up. He continues to seek job opportunities. He is looking into classes at the local community college. He’s taking care of his physical and mental health and he’s optimistic about his future. 

Independence is a critical skill for young people. There is more transition information on this website to help.