Autistic young adults are enrolling in post-secondary school in growing numbers, yet the support systems designed to help them rarely reflect their needs. SkillFlix AYA + SocialWise is dfusion’s answer to that gap — combining a patented, research-backed Microskills® video library with SocialWise, an AI-enhanced conversation agent that guides users to the right skill content, role-plays real-world scenarios with them, and delivers responsive, judgment-free feedback in the moment they need it. Built and trained exclusively on evidence-based, neuro-affirming content developed with and by autistic young adults, SocialWise is a purposeful, closed AI system grounded in the community it serves. Tested through an RCT that demonstrated significant gains in skill use, conflict resolution, and confidence, SkillFlix AYA now adds SocialWise to provide the one thing the videos alone couldn’t provide: a judgment-free safe place to practice their communication skills. This gives autistic young adults tools to advocate for themselves, drive their own learning, and feel successful.
BA Laris
Director
B.A. Laris, MPH, has spent over 30 years bringing excitement and passion to transforming ideas and information into accessible and engaging practices in education and public health. Through research, evaluation, digital technology development, training, capacity building and technical assistance, and direct service prevention she has worked with diverse individuals, groups, and communities to enhance well-being and support equity across a broad range topic areas including STEM and sports, HIV/AIDS prevention, sexual and reproductive health, LGBTQIAA+ inclusivity, neurodivergent youth and families, nutrition, physical activity, substance abuse treatment and prevention, and tobacco use control.