Failure to Launch: Helping Young Adults Move Forward

I work with parents of adult children who are struggling with the transition to independent adulthood — sometimes referred to as “Failure to Launch.” I recognize that this term can feel stigmatizing, particularly for neurodivergent individuals and their families, and I aim to take a compassionate, contextualized approach that considers both developmental and systemic factors.

I use the term “Failure to Launch” intentionally. More accurate terms like “Complex Transition to Adulthood” or “Delayed Independence” are helpful and respectful — but they don’t always resonate with parents who are just beginning to seek support. Using the more familiar phrase helps people find the help they’re looking for.

This treatment is not family therapy. The adult child does not participate in the sessions. I meet with the parents in service of helping their adult child.

Let me explain…

Some young adults struggle to take the next steps toward independence. They may have difficulty launching into work, school, or independent living often due to anxiety, avoidance, low motivation, or executive functioning challenges. While parents want to help, their support can sometimes unintentionally reinforce dependence, leaving families feeling stuck.

I offer evidence-based treatment, drawing from the Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) program developed by Dr. Eli Lebowitz at Yale University. This approach empowers parents to make key shifts that encourage their kid’s autonomy while reducing behaviors that sustain avoidance and dependence.