Purpose 🎯
Help clients prepare for changes without treating a preference for predictability as a problem to eliminate.
Let’s Talk About It 🗣️
Choose an upcoming transition and map:
What Is Changing?
- Routine
- Location
- People
- Expectations
- Timing
What Do I Know?
- What will stay the same?
- What information can I get ahead of time?
What Might Be Hard?
- Sensory demands
- Uncertainty
- Task switching
- Social expectations
What Would Help?
- Visual schedule
- Advance notice
- Written instructions
- Transition object or routine
- Break
- Support person
Ask:
- What part of this transition feels most uncertain?
- What information would make it easier to prepare?
- What support would help you move through the transition?
If the Conversation Gets Stuck 💡
- What usually helps when plans change?
- What is one thing that will stay the same?
- What would make the first step easier?
Telehealth / Whiteboard Version ⚖️
Create a four-box transition map and fill it in collaboratively. Use icons or colors for predictable parts, uncertain parts, challenges, and supports.
Why This Works 🌱
Transition planning supports predictability, reduces cognitive load, and helps clients identify practical supports before changes occur.
Clinical Pearl 🧠
The goal is not to eliminate the client’s need for predictability. The goal is to build supports that respect that need while increasing flexibility when possible.
Documentation Language 📝
Therapist utilized a transition planning intervention to help client identify anticipated changes, areas of uncertainty, potential barriers, and supportive strategies.
Clinical Focus: Transition Support, Predictability, Coping Planning