AANE LifeMAP Programs

COVID-19 Update:

During this challenging time support is more important than ever! AANE's one-to-one LifeMAP online coaching program can be a great way to stay connected and supported while working on personal goals with our wonderful and caring staff. All current LifeMAP clients have the option of meeting online and we are continuing to welcome new clients.

 

The Association for Autism and Neurodiversity's Life Management Assistance Program (LifeMAP) provides practical assistance to Autistic individuals and those with related conditions. LifeMAP provides intensive, highly individualized coaching by professionals with expertise in both autism and specific content areas. Coaches focus on identifying and overcoming the specific barriers each client faces so that the clients can increase their levels of independence towards reaching their full potential.

Coaches help their clients in diverse areas of life skills, employment skills and relationship skills. For example, they may work with clients to perform executive functioning (organizational/planning) tasks, access social opportunities, or acquire the necessary skills for employment. Every individual has a unique profile, so one-to-one coaching is an effective way to meet their distinct needs. Our research has demonstrated that LifeMAP guidance through the most confounding aspects of daily life can ultimately decrease anxiety and increase independence and self-esteem.

Learn more about and register for a LifeMAP program:

Here are some of the many areas in which clients have engaged LifeMAP with measurable results:

Independent Living Skills

  • Creating systems to manage finances
  • Organizing appointments and calendar
  • Applying for benefits and health services

Community Skills

  • Communication
  • Making / meeting friends

College Support

  • Managing workload and assignments
  • Communicating with college personnel
  • Identifying campus supports
  • Maximizing social opportunities

Personal Growth

  • Identifying and building on personal strengths
  • Developing strategies to minimize challenges

Pre-Employment and Employment Skills

  • Identifying skills, interests and qualifications
  • Assisting with job search
  • Maintaining employment

How LifeMAP works

LifeMAP participants receive personalized coaching of a minimum of one hour per week.  During the coaching sessions, clients and coaches set concrete, obtainable goals to work on. Specific goals are narrowly defined with clear metrics for success. For example, a client may focus on organizing personal papers, cleaning his own apartment, connecting to new social groups, making phone calls / paying bills, etc. Coaching will take place wherever the goals dictate, at the AANE offices, the client's home or in the community.

LifeMAP is a fee-for-service program. The standard fees are $325 for the entry meeting and $130/hour for coaching. In certain situations, scholarships or reduced fee services maybe available to those who qualify. Third-party payments by school systems, employers or adult agencies have been arranged. Duration of the program depends on the mutually agreed goals set by the client and the LifeMAP team. This program is not covered by insurance.