Is OPTIONS the Right Fit for Your Young Adult?
Choosing a post-secondary transition program is an important decision for both students and families.
OPTIONS Transitions to Independence is designed for young adults who want to build greater independence while receiving structured support across academics, vocational experiences, and daily living.
Our program works best for students who are capable of post-secondary learning but benefit from guidance as they develop the skills needed for adult life.
For many families, OPTIONS provides the bridge between high school and full adult independence.
Students Who Thrive at OPTIONS
Students who experience the most success at OPTIONS typically share several characteristics.
They often:
-
want to become more independent in daily life
-
are capable of post-secondary learning but benefit from structured support
-
need guidance with executive functioning skills such as planning, organization, and time management
-
want to explore career interests through internships and vocational experiences
-
are motivated to develop life skills that support adult independence
Students in the program participate in academics, vocational training, and independent living experiences designed to strengthen confidence and responsibility over time.
The Transition to Adult Independence
OPTIONS is structured as a post-secondary transition program for young adults with learning disabilities.
Students gradually build independence through experiences such as:
-
academic coursework and executive functioning coaching
-
vocational training and internships
-
apartment-style independent living environments
-
communication and social development
-
real-world community engagement
These experiences help students develop the habits and skills necessary to manage adult responsibilities.
Students We Commonly Serve
Students at OPTIONS often have learning profiles that include:
-
Specific Learning Disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia)
-
ADHD
-
Autism Spectrum (Level 1)
-
Executive Functioning challenges
-
Nonverbal Learning Disability
-
Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder
-
Processing speed challenges
Many students also benefit from services such as speech and language support, executive functioning coaching, or structured academic support.
The Importance of Readiness
The most successful students at OPTIONS are those who are ready to take an active role in developing independence.
This includes being open to:
-
coaching and structured support
-
practicing new life skills
-
learning from challenges and setbacks
-
gradually taking more responsibility for daily routines
Independence develops over time, and the OPTIONS program is designed to guide students through that process step by step.
Scope of Neurodiversity
OPTIONS is committed to empowering neurodiverse young adults to reach their full potential.
To help families determine whether the program aligns with their student’s needs, the following diagnoses are commonly supported.
Primary Diagnoses
-
Specific Learning Disabilities (reading, math, writing)
-
Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia
-
ADHD
-
Autism Spectrum – Level 1
-
Twice Exceptional
-
Executive Functioning Disorders
-
Speech and Language Impairment
-
Social Pragmatic Communication Disorder
-
Memory Disorders
-
Sensory Processing Disorder
-
Processing Speed Deficits
-
Nonverbal Learning Disability
-
Auditory Processing Disorder
Secondary Diagnoses
-
Anxiety Disorders
-
Depression
-
Tourette Syndrome
How to Begin the Admissions Process
Families interested in learning more about OPTIONS are encouraged to begin with a conversation.
The admissions process typically includes:
- Completing a Pre-Admission Questionnaire
- Sharing relevant evaluations and school records
- Scheduling a conversation with the admissions team
- Submitting a formal application
- Visiting campus and completing interviews
These steps help ensure that OPTIONS is the right fit for each student and family.
Admissions Process Steps
Complete the Admissions Inquiry Form
The admissions process begins with filling out our online Admissions Inquiry Form.
Send Necessary Documents
Families submit a recent neuropsychological evaluation (within three years) along with documents such as:
-
Individualized Education Program (IEP)
-
504 Plan
-
school records
Schedule a Conversation
After reviewing the Pre-Admission Questionnaire we will schedule a call with a member of the admissions team.
Complete the Application
Submit the online application and the $75 non-refundable application fee.
Campus Tour and Interview
Applicants will be invited to visit campus, meet staff, and participate in personal interviews.
Visiting Campus
Experiencing OPTIONS in person can be an important step in determining whether the program is the right fit.
During your visit you will:
-
tour academic and residential spaces
-
meet instructors and staff
-
learn how the program supports independence
-
ask questions about the transition process
Travel Checklist
-
schedule travel with enough time to explore the area
-
bring any requested documents
-
prepare questions for the admissions team
-
wear comfortable walking shoes
After struggling with parochial school, I was diagnosed with ADD and OCD. Soon after, I began attending Brehm and OPTIONS, which helped me through community college and then Southern Illinois University. Thanks to the lessons I’ve learned from Brehm and OPTIONS, I’m only the second person in my family to graduate from college.
What the First Months at OPTIONS Look Like
Beginning a transition program can feel like a major step for both students and families.
The early months at OPTIONS are designed to provide structure, guidance, and support as students adjust to a new level of independence.
Students begin by establishing routines and learning how the program works across academics, vocational experiences, and independent living.
During the first months, students typically focus on:
-
building consistent daily routines
-
learning organization and time-management strategies
-
participating in academic coursework and study skills coaching
-
exploring vocational interests and workplace expectations
-
practicing independent living skills in apartment-style housing
-
developing communication and self-advocacy skills
Students gradually take on greater responsibility as they gain confidence and develop stronger habits.
The goal during this early stage is not perfection, but progress toward independence.
Students are supported every step of the way as they transition toward greater independence.
Start the Conversation
Choosing the right transition program is an important step toward adulthood.
If you believe OPTIONS may be the right environment for your young adult, we invite you to begin the conversation with our admissions team.
