The Adaptation of a Community-Engaged Intervention for Families of Autistic Young Adults—An Application of the Design-Based Implementation Research Approach

Autistic transition-age young adults (TAY; 18–26) and their families often encounter fragmented adult services following high school exit. Caregivers frequently assume primary advocacy roles yet report high strain and limited guidance. Guided by Design-Based Implementation Research (DBIR), this study adapted and piloted Transitioning Together (TT), an evidence-based family psychoeducation program, for local implementation. Phase 1 involved stakeholder-informed service gaps and adaptation of TT to create Spartan Transitioning Together (STT), expanding eligibility to age 26 and incorporating housing, community engagement, lifelong learning, self-care, and localized resources. Phase 2 piloted STT with nine caregivers across two cohorts. Implementation outcomes, caregiver clinical outcomes, and parent-reported transition engagement were assessed using pre–post measures and effect sizes. Attendance and retention were 100%, satisfaction was high (M = 4.57–4.82/5), and fidelity exceeded 90%. All caregiver clinical outcomes improved with large effect sizes (d = 0.80–3.27). Significant improvements were observed in employment, independent living, leisure, and communication activities, with smaller gains in college preparation and service engagement.