A Bridge to Adulthood for Young Adults Who Learn Differently
OPTIONS Transitions to Independence is a structured post-secondary transition program located in Carbondale, Illinois.
We work with young adults who have finished high school and are ready for what comes next — but recognize that independence doesn’t happen overnight. Many of our students are capable and motivated. What they need is structured time, guided practice, and space to grow into adult responsibility with confidence.
OPTIONS exists to bridge that gap between high school and full independence — strengthening academic, vocational, communication, and daily living skills in ways that transfer into real adult settings.
When Traditional Paths Aren’t Enough
Many students leave high school understanding their learning differences.
What they don’t always know yet is how to manage them on their own.
We see this pattern often:
- Accommodations can support success — but they don’t automatically teach self-management.
- Intelligence doesn’t guarantee organization, planning, or follow-through.
- After high school, expectations shift. Skills must be applied without constant structure.
Independence requires more than instruction. It requires guided repetition, accountability, and real-world practice.
That’s where OPTIONS fits.
Who We Serve
OPTIONS serves post-graduate young adults who may:
- Have learning disabilities or learning differences
- Experience executive functioning challenges
- Benefit from speech & language support
- Need coaching in self-advocacy and independent decision-making
- Be navigating anxiety, confidence, or transition readiness
Our students are often:
- Capable — but inconsistent
- Motivated — but overwhelmed
- Ready for adulthood — but not fully practiced in it
Many succeeded in structured school environments. The challenge begins when structure fades and responsibility increases.
OPTIONS is not remediation.
It is preparation.
An Integrated, Individualized Model
Independence doesn’t grow from one class or one strategy. It develops when skills are practiced consistently across environments.
At OPTIONS, support is integrated across:
- Academics (College Transition & Vocational Tracks)
- Speech & Language services
- Cognitive development (Arrowsmith, when appropriate)
- Independent Living instruction
- Executive functioning and self-advocacy coaching
- Real-world application in community and employment settings
Students don’t just learn concepts — they practice them daily. Planning. Communicating. Managing time. Following through.
As competence increases, support gradually steps back.
Independence isn’t rushed. It’s built.
A Supportive Setting for Growth
Located in Carbondale, Illinois, OPTIONS offers students access to:
- Southern Illinois University and John A. Logan College
- A walkable college-town environment
- Community-based employment opportunities
- A setting where expectations reflect adult life
- Southern Illinois’ natural landscape and recreational opportunities
Students live and learn in a community that feels real — not insulated — while still providing structured support when it’s needed.
CORE VALUES
Individualized Pathways
No two students follow the same timeline. Progress is based on demonstrated readiness — not arbitrary milestones.
Adult Dignity
Independence looks different for every person. Success is defined by meaningful engagement and contribution.
Sustainable Growth
Real change develops through repetition, accountability, reflection, and time.
Built on a Legacy of Understanding Learners
OPTIONS was founded in 1994 as an extension of Brehm Preparatory School, carrying forward decades of experience supporting students with learning differences.
While Brehm serves students in grades 6–12+, OPTIONS addresses a different stage of development — the demands of post-secondary life and adult responsibility.
Though connected in history, OPTIONS operates as its own program with its own expectations and structure, designed specifically for the transition into adulthood.
Families as Partners
Transition to adulthood affects the whole family.
Throughout the program, families receive:
- Regular communication and progress updates
- Parent and Family Conferences
- Collaborative planning around goals and growth
As students gain independence, communication shifts appropriately — but transparency remains consistent.
Is OPTIONS the Right Next Step?
Explore whether this structured path toward independence aligns with your student’s goals.Every transition journey is different.
Admissions is not about pressure or persuasion. It is about determining whether OPTIONS is the right environment for growth at this stage.