Career Consultation

Very bright and capable people with social deficits often struggle at work or cannot find fulfilling work that uses their talents and skills. This is especially true for the young adults we work with living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, anxiety, or learning disorders. Communication challenges and heightened anxiety in social situations are all too common for many individuals facing these challenges.

At SociAbility Chicago, we recognize the unique struggles individuals with social deficits face when finding a fulfilling career. That's why we offer career consultation services to help these individuals leverage their strengths and find success in the workplace.

Problems People On The Spectrum Experience With Employment

Individuals on the autism spectrum possess unique skills and abilities that can add tremendous value to the workplace. However, due to their unique challenges and circumstances, many face significant barriers when securing or maintaining employment. Understanding these challenges is critical to creating inclusive and supportive workplaces where individuals of diverse backgrounds and abilities can thrive. In this section, we will explore some of the most common problems faced by individuals on the spectrum in the workforce.

Difficulty with Social Interaction

One of the biggest challenges for individuals with ASD is navigating the social aspects of the workplace. This can include interpreting nonverbal cues, understanding complex social dynamics, and communicating effectively with coworkers. The structure and interactions in the workplace can be overwhelming for those on the spectrum, leading to anxiety and frustration.

Sensory Overload

Many individuals on the spectrum are susceptible to sensory stimuli. This can manifest as difficulty tolerating noise, certain smells, or bright or flickering lights in a work environment. These stimuli can cause discomfort, distraction, and anxiety, making it challenging to focus and be productive on the job. The types of environments that are best suited for individuals with ASD are often not the same as those preferred by most employers, so finding a job that is compatible with sensory sensitivities can be a challenge.

Executive Functioning

Individuals on the spectrum may struggle with executive functioning, which involves planning, time management, and organization skills. This can make meeting deadlines, prioritizing tasks, or keeping track of their workload difficult. With proper support and accommodations, however, individuals on the spectrum can learn to manage their executive functioning challenges and be successful in the workplace.

Narrow Interests

Individuals on the spectrum may have a narrow focus on specific topics or activities, making it challenging to find a job that aligns with their interests and skills. The lack of variety in the workplace can lead to difficulty staying motivated and engaged, making it difficult for individuals on the spectrum to thrive in a work setting. The trick is to find a job that allows individuals to use their strengths and interests productively.

Misunderstood Behaviors

People on the spectrum may engage in behavior that others find peculiar or off-putting, such as repetitive movements or difficulty making eye contact. These behaviors can be misunderstood by employers and coworkers, leading to social ostracism or disciplinary action. The best way to address this is to provide education and training on individuals' unique challenges with ASD so that employers, coworkers, and customers can better understand and support them.

Stereotyping and Discrimination

Individuals with ASD may face negative stereotypes or discrimination in the workplace, which can lead to stigmatization and exclusion. This can make finding and maintaining employment difficult and negatively impact mental health and overall well-being. We can't eliminate bias and discrimination, but we can help clients become aware of their rights and how to advocate for themselves in the workplace.

By working closely with a career consultant, individuals on the spectrum can develop strategies to overcome these challenges and find fulfilling, rewarding careers. SociAbility Chicago's career consultation services are designed to provide tailored support and guidance to help individuals with social deficits achieve their career goals.

Underemployment and Autism

Underemployment is a significant challenge faced by many young adults on the autism spectrum. This is often the result of poor social skills that make it difficult to interview well or get along with others in the workplace. Individuals with ASD may struggle with basic social skills, such as starting and ending conversations, showing interest in others, and greeting people politely. These challenges can leave employers with a negative impression and limit job opportunities.

Other factors that contribute to underemployment in this population include difficulty regulating emotions and coping with the dynamic environment of the workplace. Many individuals on the spectrum also struggle with executive functioning, which can impact their ability to initiate tasks, problem-solve, organize, shift attention, and plan effectively. These challenges can negatively impact job performance and limit opportunities for career advancement.

SociAbility Chicago's career consultation services provide tailored support to help individuals with social deficits find rewarding careers. We help develop social and executive functioning skills, manage emotions in the workplace, and identify career strategies. We are committed to helping our clients achieve their career aspirations and reach their full potential.

Contact our Northbrook Office to schedule an appointment today!

What To Expect With Our Career Consultation Services in Chicago?

At SociAbility Chicago, we offer comprehensive career consultation services designed to provide tailored support and guidance to individuals with social deficits. Our program helps young people on the autism spectrum and those with ADHD and social anxiety overcome unique challenges and build rewarding, successful careers.

Step-by-Step Approach

Finding suitable employment can be overwhelming, so we take a step-by-step approach. Our program begins by working closely with clients to identify their strengths, interests, and challenges. We help them develop social skills, improve executive functioning skills, and clarify their career goals into realistic and achievable plans.

Personalized Support

Our team works closely with each client to develop a plan tailored to their needs. We consider their interests, strengths, and challenges to help them identify the employment where they will most likely find personal satisfaction and professional success.

Hands-On Guidance

Once a plan is in place, we work closely with our clients to implement it. We provide regular follow-up support and guidance, helping clients fine-tune their goals, identify roadblocks, recognize accomplishments, and problem-solve when unmet. Our hands-on approach ensures that individuals with social deficits receive the resources and support they need to achieve their career aspirations and reach their full potential.

At SociAbility Chicago, our career consultation services provide a supportive and inclusive environment that ensures all individuals have the opportunity to succeed. Join us today and take the first step to building a successful and rewarding career!

We are conveniently located in Northbrook, IL, and serve Chicagoland and the North Shore. Individual therapy services, like career consultation, may be covered by your health insurance provider.

For scheduling and general questions regarding career counseling, please contact staff@sociabilitychicago.org or call (847) 559-3240.