The Neurodivergent Transition to Adulthood

About the Session: By the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Explain how ADHD and autism can contribute to delayed developmental trajectories through executive functioning challenges, emotional dysregulation, cumulative experiences of failure, chronic stress, and demand avoidance, resulting in difficulties with launching into adulthood.
• Recognize common patterns of maladaptive coping—including avoidance behaviors, excessive engagement with gaming or digital media, social withdrawal, and dependency—that often emerge as adaptive responses to repeated overwhelm rather than simple lack of motivation.
• Develop practical, strengths-based approaches for supporting neurodivergent adolescents and young adults by matching expectations to developmental readiness, promoting gradual skill acquisition, partnering effectively with families, and considering a broad range of educational, vocational, and transitional pathways that lead to meaningful adult independence.

About the Speakers: Rick Silver, MD, MPH (he/him) is the Founder and Director of Thrive Emerge and a psychiatrist with decades of experience working with neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism and ADHD, and their families. Known for his clear, practical approach, he helps parents, educators, and mental health professionals better understand and support neurodivergent people.

Mary Jo Puglisi, LCPC (she/her) is a clinician and educator with more than 30 years of experience in counseling and education. Using a practical, growth-oriented approach grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy, she helps clients understand how their thoughts and behaviors influence their lives and how positive change is possible.

Mary Jo has developed and led specialized educational programs in Maryland private schools, provided counseling services to students, and is a sought-after speaker on educational counseling and family growth. She holds a B.S. in Psychology and an M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Loyola College in Maryland.