Social Skills Programme for Neurodivergent Teens who are interested in making friends and keeping them
What is PEERS®?
The Programme for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) is a world-renowned evidence-based, 14-weeks social skills intervention programme for adolescents and young adults with autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression and other social challenges.
First developed at UCLA by PEERS® Clinic director, Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson, the programme has expanded to locations across the United States, has been translated into over a dozen languages, and is used in over 150 countries across the globe.
Frequently asked questions
Where all of your questions can be answered!
PEERS® is a 14-week evidence-based programme to help teens learn how to make and keep friends whilst considering some of the common social complexities that come with being an adolescent.
The Programme for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) is a group social intervention programme for socially challenged, Autistic, or ADHD teens age 13-17 who want to learn and practice the social skills connected with developing and maintaining friendships.
After reviewing the information about the programme on our website, you may decide that it could be a good fit for your teen or dependent, as you know them best. Once you register their name, we will contact you for a brief phone conversation to gather more details about your teen and discuss the programme. This helps us assess whether the programme is suitable.
Evidence based research showing increase in social skills and decrease in social anxiety and loneliness in teens after the programme.
https://www.semel.ucla.edu/sites/default/files/users/user-293/s10803-024-06433-z.pdf
Podcast/ interview: Dr Elizabeth Laugeson – founder of PEERS®
Who is this programme for?
The programme is for teens who have:
– Social and behavioral challenges
– Autism spectrum disorder
– ADHD
Parent /caregivers are an integral part of the programme, becoming the social coach of their teen.
Teens in the PEERS® programme will learn to:
Our Groups
14 week programme
90 minute sessions
Groups of approximately 4-6 teens
Cape Town Based
Didactic Lessons
Videos
Roleplay
Practice With Peers
What the course covers
Conversational Skills
Learn how to effectively start, maintain, and end conversations, ensuring smooth interactions in various social settings. You’ll also explore the appropriate use of humor to enhance communication and build stronger connections.
Building and Maintaining Relationships
Discover strategies for forming and sustaining meaningful friendships, including tips for choosing appropriate friends and organising social gatherings. This topic focuses on the essentials of nurturing relationships and creating lasting bonds.
Managing Conflict and Reputation
Gain tools for managing disagreements constructively and preserving relationships. You’ll also learn how to improve and restore your reputation after negative social experiences.
Dealing with Teasing and Bullying
Understand effective strategies to handle teasing, bullying and rumours and gossip with confidence. This section empowers you to protect your emotional well-being and deflect negative behavior.
Communication in the Digital age
Explore the intricacies of electronic communication, including texting, emailing, and social media. Learn how to navigate digital interactions positively and maintain good online etiquette.
Good Sportsmanship
Focus on the importance of being a good sport in both competitive and casual settings. This topic emphasises fair play, respect, and fostering a supportive social environment.
CONTACT US
Making friends and keeping them
Whether you’re a parent or a healthcare provider, let’s work together to empower teens with the social skills they need to thrive.
Whatsapp: 082 332 9188
Email: [email protected]