Transitioning into adulthood is a major milestone — filled with both opportunities and challenges — for individuals with intellectual disabilities. When high school ends, families often wonder: What comes next? Thankfully, services do not stop at graduation. In fact, this stage opens the door to new, more individualized supports designed to foster independence, inclusion, and meaningful life experiences.
This guide outlines what families can expect after high school, how to prepare, and how to access the right programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities. With proper planning and the help of organizations like Gateway Counseling Center, this transition can be a smooth and empowering one.
Understanding the Transition Period
Most school-based services under an Individualized Education Program (IEP) end at age 21 or upon graduation — whichever comes first. This makes transition planning a critical part of the final years in school.
During this time, families, educators, and service coordinators should begin mapping out what adulthood will look like for the individual. Key planning tools include:
- IEP transition goals that explore future work, education, and community life;
- School-based internships or work experience;
- Referrals to adult service providers before graduation.
Starting this process early — ideally by age 16 — helps ensure a seamless shift to adult services and avoids unnecessary gaps in care or support.
Available Programs and Services After High School
Once school ends, adult services take center stage. These supports are typically coordinated through OPWDD and delivered by certified provider agencies like Gateway Counseling Center.
Day Programs
Day habilitation programs help adults build functional skills, engage with their community, and develop social connections. These programs offer structured activities tailored to individual needs and interests.
Vocational Training and Supported Employment
Job readiness programs, vocational training, and supported employment services (such as SEMP) help individuals explore work opportunities and develop job skills with the guidance of employment specialists.
Community Habilitation
These one-on-one or small group supports focus on building independence at home or in the community — such as cooking, budgeting, hygiene, or navigating public spaces.
Residential Services
For eligible individuals, residential placements like Individualized Residential Alternatives (IRAs) or supervised apartments provide safe, supportive housing with varying levels of staff involvement.
Adult Education and Life Skills Training
Many individuals continue to learn after high school through adult education programs, life skills classes, or social groups focused on communication, relationships, or community navigation.
Healthcare and Behavioral Supports
Adulthood also means continuing access to essential health and behavioral services. Most supports are funded through Medicaid, and eligibility should be maintained through regular renewals.
Available services include:
- Access to nurses, physical and occupational therapists;
- Behavioral interventions and counseling;
- Crisis intervention planning;
- Transportation assistance for medical appointments and day programs;
- Support for navigating healthcare systems and medication management.
Agencies like Gateway Counseling Center often coordinate these services alongside other daily supports, helping families manage the full scope of care.
How to Apply for Services and Maintain Eligibility
Accessing adult services starts with the OPWDD eligibility process. This typically includes:
- Psychological and developmental evaluations;
- Medical documentation of disability onset before age 22;
- A formal intake process known as the “Front Door”.
Once approved, a Care Manager (through a Care Coordination Organization or CCO) helps develop a person-centered Life Plan and connects individuals to services.
It’s important to stay on top of:
- Annual Medicaid recertifications;
- Life Plan reviews and updates;
- Reporting any changes in health, residence, or income;
- Reassessments when service needs shift.
Early and consistent involvement with a trusted provider agency can make managing this process much easier.
Involving the Individual in the Next Steps
Adulthood is about autonomy — and individuals with intellectual disabilities should be involved in planning their own futures whenever possible.
Encourage the person to share their:
- Interests and strengths;
- Preferences for work, education, or social activities;
- Hopes for living situations or daily routines.
Person-centered planning ensures that services aren’t just about care but about purpose, choice, and a meaningful life.
Families can support this by visiting programs together, trying trial days, or encouraging self-advocacy during Life Plan meetings.
Conclusion
While the end of high school may feel like the closing of one chapter, it’s also the beginning of something new — filled with options for growth, connection, and independence.
With proper planning and the right support in place, adulthood can be a time of thriving. Whether you’re just beginning to explore what’s next or already connected to OPWDD, agencies like Gateway Counseling Center can help you navigate services, maintain eligibility, and create a plan that evolves alongside your loved one’s life goals.