The term “Autism Spectrum” has shaped how we understand autism—but is it holding us back? While it highlights diversity, the spectrum model can oversimplify individuals, pigeonhole abilities, and limit support planning. At The Supported Living Group, our work with Connecticut’s ASD Waiver shows that real progress comes when supports focus on the person, not a label.

Imagine a world where services adapt to each individual’s strengths, challenges, and goals—where autism is seen not as a line, but as a constellation. Shifting to person-centered care could transform how our communities support those on the spectrum.

Discover why moving beyond the spectrum metaphor is key for truly meaningful supports in CT.

In Connecticut’s ASD Waiver Program, a growing divide is emerging between clinicians and service providers, creating frustration among parents and service agencies alike. Families and providers report that their input is often undervalued or dismissed when behavioral strategies are developed, leading to support plans that fail to account for the realities of day-to-day care. As a result, children, teens, and young adults with ASD are being set up for failure by overly reductionist and impractical approaches that do not align with their needs or the capacity of those responsible for implementing them.