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Building Confidence, Connection, and Meaningful Relationships
PEERS® for Young Adults is an evidence-based social skills training program designed for individuals aged 18–30 who want to strengthen their ability to make and keep friends and/or develop romantic relationships.
Originally developed by Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson at the University of California (UCLA), PEERS® has gained international recognition and is now offered in more than 35 countries worldwide.
About the Program
Research shows that young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other social-emotional challenges benefit greatly from participating in PEERS®.
Each week, participants join interactive group sessions where they:
- Learn concrete, evidence-based social skills through structured lessons
- Observe and participate in role-play demonstrations led by trained facilitators
- Practice new skills during group socialization activities designed to reinforce learning
- This supportive, step-by-step approach empowers young adults to build confidence, strengthen social awareness, and navigate friendships and relationships with greater ease.
The Role of Social Coaches
A key feature of the PEERS® model is the involvement of Social Coaches—parents, caregivers, or trusted adults who help participants apply new skills in real-life settings.
Social Coaches:
- Attend the last 30 minutes of the first session to meet the instructor and other coaches
- Receive guidance and ongoing strategies for supporting their young adult throughout the program
- Reinforce weekly lessons by encouraging practice outside of sessions
This collaborative approach helps ensure meaningful, lasting progress beyond the program itself.
Eligibility Requirements
To participate in PEERS® for Young Adults, individuals must:
- Be 18–30 years old and have completed high school
- Be experiencing challenges with friendships or relationships
- Have a genuine interest in improving their social skills
- Commit to attending the full program consistently
- Participate voluntarily
- Have a consistent Social Coach able to attend the designated sessions
