STEER is an evidence-based, cognitive-behavioral intervention for neurodiverse teens and adults to reduce driving-related apprehension or anxiety. It teaches executive functioning and emotional regulation skills specific to driving. It is a curriculum program that provides psychoeducation, experiential learning activities and applicable discussion for knowledge and skill development.
Curriculum Focus:
- Situational Awareness
- Sustaining Attention
- Attention Shifting
- Multiple Processing
- Sensory Input Control
- Self-Awareness
- Cognitive Restructuring
- Emotion Management
- Self-Talk
- Goal Setting and Exposure Practices
How STEER Works:
Group Hands-On Learning
Weekly group meetings/sessions with peers
Multi-Modal Experiential Learning
Lessons and materials are delivered using diverse learning methods (visual, auditory, tactile components) with logic models and hands on activities.
Neuro-Affirming Concepts
Follows self-determination principles and involves making ones own choices, applying ones own decision making, and designing ones own driving journey.
Coordinated with Home and Simulator Practice
Information has immediate and direct application for use in at-home assignments, required individual practice, and 45 minute simulator sessions with a trained driving coach.
Table of Contents:
Chapter 1: Pre Assessment, Introduction, Expectations & Curriculum Overview: Set Driving Related Goals & Define Driving Challenges
Chapter 2: Situational Awareness: Identifying External and Internal Context Clues
Chapter 3: Sustaining and Shifting Attention: Attending, Shifting and Scanning
Chapter 4: Flexibility and Problem Solving: Thinking and Doing Things Differently
Chapter 5: Emotional Training & Thought Changing: Negative to Positive Thoughts
Chapter 6: Emotion Awareness and Regulation: Identify and Change Emotion Levels
Chapter 7: Goals, Plans, and Preparations: Step by Step Plans and Graded Exposures
Chapter 8: Preparations for Driving Challenges: Rare and Common Driving Scenarios
Chapter 9: Review, Do and Self-Advocate: Understand Communication Options
Chapter 10: Driving Test Preparations: Written Permit and Driving Tests