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Helping Teens Build Confidence, Connection, and Lasting Friendships
The PEERS® Program (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) is a 12-week, evidence-based social skills training program designed for middle and high school students. Developed by Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), PEERS® has achieved global recognition, with successful implementation in over 35 countries.
Why PEERS® Works
Extensive research has demonstrated that teens with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other social-emotional challenges make significant improvements in their social interactions and emotional well-being through the PEERS® Program.
By combining structured lessons, role-play demonstrations, real-life practice, and parent involvement, PEERS® provides a supportive environment where teens can develop the skills and confidence needed to form and maintain meaningful friendships.
Program Overview
Over the course of 12 weeks, participants attend 90-minute sessions, in person at our South Surrey location. Each session offers interactive learning and practical training focused on real-world social situations.
Teens learn how to:
• Initiate and maintain conversations
• Choose appropriate friends
• Handle teasing, bullying, and rejection
• Use humour effectively
• Plan and host social gatherings
• Resolve conflicts and disagreements
• Parent Participation
A vital part of the PEERS® for Teens model is parent involvement. Parents join the final 20 minutes of each session to review their teen’s progress, go over weekly homework, and learn practical strategies to support their teen’s social growth at home.
Parents play an active role by helping their teen practice new skills between sessions—whether that means rehearsing phone calls, planning get-togethers, or navigating common social challenges together.
Empowering Families
Under the guidance of a certified PEERS® facilitator, the program equips both teens and parents with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to foster meaningful social connections and improve overall confidence in everyday interactions.
