A driving rehabilitation program at Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital is providing teens and young adults on the autism spectrum with specialized training to develop safe driving skills and gain independence, according to a May 27 announcement. The program addresses unique learning styles, sensory needs, and communication preferences associated with autism spectrum disorders through comprehensive evaluation and individualized one-on-one instruction.
Monica Scalise, occupational therapist and certified driver rehabilitation specialist at Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital, said, “There is no single pathway to becoming a driver, and meeting each learner where they are can make a tremendous difference.” Scalise added that the program considers processing differences, sensory needs, and heightened anxiety to create plans that build confidence and practical skills. The approach begins with in-depth assessments before matching participants to tiered support levels based on their goals.
Training components include classroom instruction, visual scanning exercises, rules-of-the-road education, structured passenger activities, and behind-the-wheel lessons. Initial sessions often take place in controlled environments such as parking lots or campus roadways before progressing to community roads as appropriate. Parents and caregivers are involved throughout the process by receiving guidance for supervised practice outside of formal sessions. “Consistency across environments is critical,” Scalise said. “Using familiar routines, language and vehicles helps reduce anxiety and supports carryover.”
Participants follow the standard Illinois permit and licensing process but receive additional preparation focused on predictability for road testing. When needed, accommodations allowed by the Illinois Secretary of State—such as use of a familiar vehicle—are coordinated by the team. Christian Callaway of St. Charles recently completed 18 sessions in the program before passing his Illinois road test; his father Peter Callaway said, “The structure of the program helped break the process into manageable steps. We always knew what the focus was and how to practice between sessions.” Christian Callaway said about his interest in cars: “I just love it.”
Scalise led Christian through hybrid training addressing basic skills through route planning with family involvement throughout each session until he felt ready for testing day: “I was ready for it,” he said.
For many individuals on the autism spectrum—and their families—driving represents greater independence within their communities without pressure around timelines or expectations. Scalise said, “Many families don’t realize specialized driver rehabilitation programs exist… We want people to know there are options and that driving preparation can happen in a thoughtful supportive way.” Northwestern Medicine functions under its parent organization Northwestern Memorial HealthCare; it aims to provide world-class care through patient-focused missions including care delivery as well as education initiatives, according to Northwestern Medicine’s official website.
