I was inspired to write Beyond the Spectrum because of the families, caregivers, and professionals I’ve walked alongside throughout my career. As a nurse, healthcare executive, and autism advocate, I’ve seen firsthand how the system often fails individuals on the spectrum once they reach adulthood. Time and time again, families shared their fears: “What happens after 18?” “Where do we go from here?” I didn’t see a practical, empowering guide that spoke to those real concerns—so I created one. This book is rooted in both compassion and strategy, and it’s the resource I would want if I were standing in their shoes.

Most autism resources are focused on early intervention and childhood development—which are important—but they leave a massive gap when it comes to adulthood. Beyond the Spectrum is one of the few books that guides families through what comes after 18. It combines clinical knowledge, real-life stories, and faith-informed insight to tackle healthcare transitions, guardianship, financial planning, education, employment, and emotional wellness. It’s also written with cultural sensitivity and compassion for families who’ve often felt unseen in these conversations.

I wrote this book primarily for families—parents, caregivers, and guardians of teens and young adults on the spectrum—but it’s just as valuable for professionals who serve them. Educators, social workers, case managers, pastors, nurses, and clinicians will find tools and insights that help them better support neurodiverse adults. Whether you’re preparing for transition years or trying to support others through it, this book gives you both heart and strategy.

The biggest challenge is the “services cliff.” Many supports—like IEPs, school-based therapies, and pediatric care—stop at 18 or 21. Suddenly, families are expected to take the lead on healthcare, legal decisions, vocational planning, and adult services—often without any preparation. It’s overwhelming. Families need a roadmap, but most are handed a pile of paperwork and left to figure it out on their own. Beyond the Spectrum helps turn fear into a forward plan.

Because navigating adulthood on the spectrum isn’t just about logistics—it’s emotional, spiritual, and deeply personal. Families experience fear, burnout, isolation, and even grief during this transition. I believe faith and wellness practices are essential components of long-term strength. In my work, I integrate these elements not as extras, but as core parts of building a sustainable life—for both the individual with autism and their family.

My clinical and executive background allows me to understand both sides: the family’s lived experience and the structure of healthcare systems. I’ve worked in hospitals, led community health initiatives, and advised on public health strategy. I bring that knowledge into every conversation—helping families learn how to advocate effectively, ask the right questions, and navigate systems that can be cold or confusing. My role is to translate complexity into clarity.

AtDrGreeneRN.com, I offer much more than just the book. There are interactive toolkits, workshops, speaking engagements, 1:1 strategy sessions, and digital resources that guide families step-by-step. I also work with schools, faith-based groups, and healthcare organizations to train staff and develop neurodiversity-informed programs. Everything I offer is designed to move people from awareness to action.

That you’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure this out by yourself. Autism doesn’t end at 18—and our support systems shouldn’t either. With the right tools, planning, and community, families can move forward with hope instead of fear. My mission is to walk that road with you—to help you feel seen, equipped, and empowered.