Autism is a lifelong condition, yet most services and supports end when individuals reach adulthood. Each year, thousands of adolescents with autism transition into adulthood, creating a surge in demand for specialized care. According to the CDC, 1 in 31 children are diagnosed with autism—and those children grow up. Research predicts that the number of adults with autism will double in the next decade, making this an urgent issue.
Across Wisconsin and nationally, autistic adults and their families face a significant shortage of coordinated, evidence‑based services. While many children receive structured supports through early intervention and school systems, these services often disappear at adulthood—creating a “service cliff” precisely when individuals still need access to behavioral therapy, daily living skills training, mental health supports, and guidance in navigating work, relationships, and independent living. An adult model services clinic at the Waisman Center is essential to closing this gap and ensuring that autism services remain lifelong, person‑centered, and interdisciplinary.
The Waisman Center’s University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities at The University of Wisconsin, Madison has developed an Adult Autism Program. The goal of the program is not only to offer group, individual, and family services, but to build state-wide capacity for trainees and providers learning about autism in adulthood and related mental health and quality of life supports.
The program is led by Madeline Barger, MS, LMFT, BCBA, AASECT-CST with the collaboration and guidance from the UCEDD Director, Leann Dawalt, PhD.
The Adult Autism Program at the Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin Madison will provide services informed by and created for the adult autism community in Wisconsin. Unlike many services that are designed for pediatric clients, there will be no age limit to the adult autism services. The new program will offer group and individual services focused on family and individual mental health, life skills, and social connection. The program is informed by research from The Waisman Center including the curricula developed here; Transitioning Together, Working Together, and Advanced Adult Relationships. Additionally, the program will support family navigation so that autistic adults in Wisconsin can call and access resources.
Art Work: Origami Orcas by Matt Ward, an adult with autism. From the Harvey A. Stevens International Collection of Art at the Waisman Center.
LISTENING SESSION: Your input is important! Join us for a listening session about the new Adult Autism Program. If you are interested in participating in a listening session, register at the button below.
CLICK HERE to register for the listening sessions.