Parenting for Independence

Overcoming Failure to Launch in Autistic Emerging Adults

A Better Way Is Possible

If your autistic emerging adult is stuck—avoiding demands, disconnected from goals, and refusing your help—you’re not alone. Parent and founder of Thrive Autism Coaching Patty Laushman has helped hundreds of families—and her own son—move from shutdown and burnout to a thriving, self-directed life.

Progress is possible, and Parenting for Independence is designed for parents of autistic emerging adults who appear stuck, unmotivated, or unwilling to launch into adult life, including those with the PDA profile. With practical strategies, neuroscience-informed insights, and a clear roadmap, Laushman equips parents to move from frustration and disempowerment to clarity and confidence.

In this accessible guide, Laushman introduces her evidence-informed, compassion-centered SBN™ parenting framework, a structured approach to activating intrinsic motivation, supporting autonomy, and building momentum toward your individual child’s optimal level of independence and positive interdependence. With it, you’ll acquire a toolbox of skills to help your autistic emerging adult gain momentum, even if they struggle with demand avoidance.

This book isn’t just about parenting techniques—it’s about restoring hope. Strengthening your relationship with your emerging adult, protecting your own energy and well-being, and helping your child live their best life is possible, and that work starts now.

©2025 Patty Laushman (P)2025 Patty Laushman

A Must Read for Anyone with Adult Children on the Spectrum

I couldn’t wait for this book to be available because I had heard so much about this book and how it would provide the tools parents need to help their child(ren) on the spectrum. It didn’t disappoint. Most how to (fill in the blank) books are helpful but are tough to stick with because, frankly, they are boring. This book was not. After reading, I truly believe that if I follow the guidance in the book, only good things will come (eventually-the author was clear it was a magic wand). And the writer’s style mixed in with personal stories and professional examples kept me interested until the end. Parents need to read this book.