What the field says.

“This book can and should set a new direction for teaching services for people with autism spectrum and related disorders. Gerhardt and Bahry provide long-needed criteria and processes for developing, writing, and implementing skill acquisition strategies that will successfully prepare individuals to enter and experience adulthood. … Anyone involved in teaching individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) should read this book and apply its content. Higher education faculty who teach students to work with people with IDD, and especially faculty in special education and behavior analysis programs, should also ensure Make it Meaningful is required reading for every student.”

Dennis H. Reid, Ph.D., BCBA-DFounder and Director, Carolina Behavior Analysis and Support Center

“As young persons on the spectrum age into adulthood the number of people qualified and interested in addressing their social, occupational, developmental, and psychological needs is unfortunately quite small. Of that tiny group, Peter Gerhardt has stood out for decades. Now he and his co-author, Shanna Bahry, have supplied an extraordinary resource for anyone who wishes to join that group. I say resource because theirs is much more than a book. It is the documentary equivalent of a year long fellowship in adult services. … It is the epitome of a tour de force. But do not take my word for it. See for yourself.”

Patrick C. Friman, Ph.D., ABPPVice President of Behavioral Health, Boys Town · Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, UNMC

“Make It Meaningful is an indispensable resource for practitioners who strive to help learners gain more independence as they transition into early adulthood and beyond. The authors provide copious tools to assist the practitioner through every step of the process, emphasizing a highly individualized, compassionate, and culturally-sensitive approach to behavior change. Families and practitioners will particularly appreciate the authors’ guidance on how to target important social, adaptive, and personal goals in real-world contexts.”

Dorothea C. Lerman, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA-TxProfessor of Behavior Analysis, University of Houston, Clear Lake

“Make it Meaningful is arguably one of the most comprehensive, well-written books on the topic of preparing individuals with autism/special needs for adulthood. Not only do the authors provide clear guidelines for selecting, implementing, and evaluating meaningful programming, they share the information in an engaging and accessible way. For practitioners who truly want to improve the lives of autistic adolescents and adults, this book is an essential read.”

Robert H. LaRue, Ph.D., BCBA-DClinical Professor, Rutgers GSAPP · Director of Behavioral Services, Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center and Rutgers Center for Adult Autism Services

“Gerhardt and Bahry’s book is a testament to the power of experience, compassion, and evidence-based practice. It instills confidence in practitioners and offers a lifeline of hope to adults with ASD, paving the way for a brighter future filled with meaningful opportunities. … This book is an essential addition to the library of anyone committed to enhancing the lives of individuals with ASD.”

Ellie Kazemi, Ph.D., BCBA-DProfessor, California State University Northridge

“Make It Meaningful is a comprehensive, must-read guide for any practitioner working with and supporting autistic individuals. What sets this book apart from so many other behavior analytic textbooks is its uncompromising emphasis on creating and implementing programs that are effective not only in the present but for the future. Not the future where your student or child is less autistic, but where they are autistic adults thriving as the best possible version of themselves, both at home and in the community.”

Amy Gravino, M.A., CASAutism Sexuality Advocate and Relationship Coach, Rutgers Center for Adult Autism Services