Supporting Neurodiversity

The mission of Barrier-Free's Studio is to support the development of life skills and social skills through an integrated-arts model with a focus on interpersonal interaction, community integration, and group collaboration.

"Barrier-Free has helped me be a kinder, more understanding person and make more friends along the way in doing so."

- Sam Silverman, Barrier-Free actor, social clubber, and Studio Ambassador

Who We Serve

The Life Skills & Social Studio serves neurodivergent adults 18+, including those with intellectual/developmental disabilities and autism.

Barrier-Free's Studio is optimally designed for individuals ages 18 - 40 who are seeking to navigate society with greater independence and confidence.  We specialize in supporting transition ages (18 -26) adults in their continued development and learning when exiting the school system.

Where to Find Us

Located in vibrant Historic Downtown Sykesville, The Studio is approximately 20-45 minutes from Westminster, Frederick, Columbia, Baltimore, Gaithersburg, and more.

Barrier-Free Life Skills & Social Studio
7520 Main Street #103
Sykesville, MD 21784

Our Model

Participants register to attend The Life Skills & Social Studio for a three hour session. 
Breaks and snack opportunities included.

Each three-hour session at The Studio is broken into segments:
1. Social practice/integration component
2. Expressive arts opportunity
3. Life skills practice

"Community Connections" is time set aside to venture out and engage with the Downtown Sykesville community including - parks, shops & eateries, volunteer opportunities, and more.
​We are always adding new offerings, therefore some workshop titles may not be on the description list just yet!
Current Hours of Operation:
Monday: 3 - 6pm
Tuesday: 12 - 6pm*
Wednesday: 3 - 6pm
Thursday: 12 - 6pm*
Friday: 3 - 6pm
*option to attend 12 - 3pm, 3 -6 pm, or 12 -6pm

Seeking different hours?  We want your feedback! 
Click here to fill out our input survey and let us know what hours you would like to see offered.

"We provide neurodiverse individuals the opportunity to engage with social skill development the way most folks do - in the community, from their peers, instead of a clinical setting."

- Lauren Burr, Executive Director & Studio Team Lead

Becoming a Member

The Barrier-Free Studio offers participants and families flexibility in registering and attending studio sessions.  

Registration occurs on a weekly basis and payments can be paid online via credit/debit card or by check.
Families are not locked into the same days and times each week.  

Current Studio Rates:
3 hour session: $42
6 hour session: $74

First-time Barrier-Free families must complete a new member intake. 
​After intake, families complete a brief registration each week to schedule their Studio sessions.

We offer a FREE two-session trial to all new participants.  Visit our Intake Process page to learn more.

Funding Opportunities

Barrier-Free remains committed to being affordable and accessible for all families.

Let us work with you to determine a Studio schedule and plan that works.
Contact [email protected] or 301-799-8669.

Barrier-Free services are eligible for a variety of funding types including Autism Waiver, LISS, DDA Self-Direct Plans, transition scholarships, and potential others.
​
Please contact us directly to coordinate funding opportunities, request invoices, or other funding matters.

"My daughter has been involved with Barrier Free for over five years.  She loves hanging out with people her age who are 'just like her.'  The atmosphere is one that is structured, but with a laid-back vibe to it."

- Lori Wachter, mother of Emily Wachter, Barrier-Free actor, social clubber, and Studio Ambassador

Let's get started!

Visit our Studio Intake page for next steps.

Still have questions?

Check out our Studio FAQ and our Studio Handbook.

See what else Barrier-Free offers.

In addition to The Life Skills & Social Studio, Barrier-Free also offers inclusive theater companies, classes, and social clubs.