OPTIONS | Transitions to Independence
Cognitive Development
Arrowsmith Cognitive Training for Young Adults
The Arrowsmith Program at OPTIONS is an intensive cognitive training option for qualifying young adults whose learning challenges may be connected to underlying cognitive processing weaknesses.
A confidential first conversation about readiness, support needs, and program fit.
What Makes Arrowsmith Different
For qualifying students, Arrowsmith provides intensive cognitive exercises designed to target specific cognitive functions involved in learning. It is not tutoring or conventional academic remediation. Participation requires sustained, repetitive practice and is considered in relation to the student’s broader transition goals and daily schedule.
Cognitive Development Within a Broader Transition Program
Because Arrowsmith is intensive, participation can affect the balance of college coursework, vocational experiences, and other OPTIONS services. The team evaluates fit carefully so cognitive training is integrated into a realistic overall program rather than added on top of an already unmanageable schedule.
Fit Matters More Than Diagnosis Alone
Arrowsmith may be appropriate for students who can sustain intensive cognitive practice and whose learning profile and transition goals align with the program. Families should expect careful evaluation of readiness, schedule demands, and the role cognitive training will play within the broader OPTIONS experience.
A Specialized Cognitive Option
Arrowsmith Within an Individualized Transition Schedule
Some OPTIONS students participate in the Arrowsmith Program, which uses intensive cognitive exercises. Participation generally requires a significant weekly time commitment, so schedules are adjusted and students may participate in either a community college class or a vocational experience rather than both. Fit should be considered in the context of the student’s broader transition goals.
- Intensive cognitive exercises delivered by trained instructors
- A substantial weekly schedule and homework commitment
- Coordination with other OPTIONS supports and responsibilities
- Individualized planning around college or vocational participation
What Makes Arrowsmith Different
- Cognitive training rather than tutoring
- Focused on underlying cognitive processes
- Structured and repetitive exercises
- Integrated with the broader OPTIONS program
- Participation based on readiness and fit
- Requires sustained engagement and commitment
Cognitive Development Within a Broader Transition Program
Start a Conversation
Explore Whether Arrowsmith May Be Appropriate
OPTIONS does not expect independence all at once. An admissions conversation is a practical first step to understand readiness, support needs, and whether the program aligns with your student.
Admissions Conversation
Begin with a confidential conversation focused on fit, not pressure.
Start a ConversationQuestions about readiness, timing, academics, living, or vocational pathways are welcome.
admissionsinfo@brehm.orgConnected Support
How This Connects Across OPTIONS
Arrowsmith is one specialized option within the broader academic support program at OPTIONS.
Its intensity must fit within the student’s individualized three-phase transition plan.
For some students, scheduling decisions also consider participation in the college transition pathway.
For others, programming may be balanced with the vocational training pathway.
Families can discuss cognitive-training fit through the OPTIONS admissions process.
Start a Conversation
A Clearer Path Forward Starts With Understanding Fit
OPTIONS does not expect independence all at once. An admissions conversation is a practical first step to understand readiness, support needs, and whether the program aligns with your student.
Admissions Conversation
Begin with a confidential conversation focused on fit, not pressure.
Start a ConversationQuestions about readiness, timing, academics, living, or vocational pathways are welcome.
admissionsinfo@brehm.org