What's Next?

Image Description:A book cover with a monarch butterfly on a pink flower and the title “What’s Next?A Self -Advocates Guided Tour through Transition for Parents and Other Supporters,” above.

A Self-Advocate’s Guide to Growing Up

  • How can I help my disabled young-adult learn how to solve problems?
  • What kind of living options are available/optimal?
  • What about healthcare beyond pediatrics?

These are just a few of the questions that are answered in WHAT’S NEXT? A Self -Advocates Guided Tour through Transition for Parents and Other Supporters. It was written by Melissa Crisp-Cooper in collaboration with the Office of Developmental Primary Care at UCSF.

Melissa, who is Chair of WITH’s Self-Advocate Advisory Committee,  is actively involved with the Office of Developmental Primary Care at UCSF, a WITH Foundation Grantee.

As the parent of a young man with autism, I am gripped by the topics in this guide, told from the perspective of Melissa and the stories of her adolescence. I wish I’d had the resource when my son was growing up.

“For those of us with disabilities, and the people that love us, the transitional years between adolescence and adulthood can present a unique set of challenges,” says Melissa. “With a bit of creative planning and extra preparation, your teen will be more empowered to begin their journey as a self-directed adult.”

Topics include:

  • Helping young adults understand and exercise their rights
  • Transition planning, with in depth tips and information about:
    • Communication
    • Nurturing Self-Advocacy and Decision-Making Skills
    • Learning how to solve problems
    • Self -advocate groups
    • Real world experience
    • Sexuality Education
    • Health and Healthcare transition and much more.

WHAT’S NEXT also has comprehensive guide to life after high school, including:

  • Person Centered Planning
  • College
  • Work
  • Adult Day Programs
  • Living Options.

This invaluable guide concludes with encouraging final thoughts from Melissa, and with a comprehensive resource section.

And it is absolutely free. You can read the guide here.

Thank you so much, Melissa Crisp-Cooper and the Office of Developmental Primary Care at UCSF for collaborating on this terrific project.

Learn more about WITH Foundation’s Self-Advocacy Advisory Committee here.