General Info about the PEERS Program:
The PEERS Program is an evidence-based program. The program is run separately for teens (13–17) and adults (18–36). Both groups meet via Telehealth or in person on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Wednesdays from 4:30–6:00 pm. During each group session, participants are taught key social skills step-by-step and practice them through fun socialization activities. Parents or coaches attend separate sessions to support and coach participants between meetings. Cost: $333/week (includes two 90-minute sessions and materials).
The benefits of the PEERS Program:
PEERS® improves social functioning and empathy, enhancing communication, self-control, and social assertiveness. It helps reduce loneliness and improve social acceptance. Sessions are held twice a week for up to 16 weeks, one for clients and one for parents/coaches.
Teens will learn in the PEERS Program:
Conversational skills, entering/exiting conversations, being a good host, humor, online safety, being a good sport, managing rumors, and handling teasing and bullying.
Young Adults will learn in the PEERS Program:
All teen group skills plus developing the ability to let someone know you like them and going out on dates. Along with online dating and handling dating pressure.
Where the PEERS Program came from
The PEERS® (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) program is a world-renowned, evidence-based social skills intervention developed at UCLA by Dr Elizabeth Laugeson. It is designed to help adolescents and young adults who struggle with making and keeping friends, navigating conversations, and developing meaningful social connections.
PEERS® uses structured, research-backed strategies to teach concrete social skills that support individuals in improving communication, developing empathy, and increasing confidence in social settings. The program incorporates role-playing, group practice, and weekly assignments to reinforce learned skills.
Watch the video to hear directly from Dr Elizabeth Laugeson, Founder and Director of the UCLA PEERS® Clinic, on how the program was created and how it continues to transform lives around the world.
Why Join the PEERS® Program?
Our PEERS Program encourages participants to build confidence, self-awareness, and independence through structured peer support.
The PEERS Program can be applicable to young adults or teens who are facing any of the following challenges like individuals isolating themselves and refusing to attend school, individuals who are struggling to make friends and missing out on social invitations.
Here’s what makes the program successful:
- 1
Structure
This is a structured program specifically designed for neurodiverse people that builds on each previously learnt skill.
- 2
Real Connection
To develop a tool kit of social skills that the individual can use in the real world to foster real and genuine connections.
- 3
Personal Growth
Learn new skills and boost confidence to feel included by utilising and taking advantage of opportunities.
What Participants Say
The PEERS® Program changes lives by bringing people together to grow, share, and support one another.
“Before PEERS, I often felt invisible and anxious in social situations. Now I have friends I trust and feel more confident being myself.”
“Joining this program helped me open up in ways I never expected. I’ve learned to connect with others.”
“PEERS made a huge difference in my life. I finally feel like I have the right to belong. ”
How to register for the PEERS Program or book an appointment
Step 1: Fill in the referral form
Fill out our referral form on the website, or call 0419 810 784 or email [email protected] for assistance.
Step 2: Wait until you are contacted
We will reach out within 48 business hours.
Ready!
All people are welcome regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, and culture.
Feel free to fill out the referral form:
Referral Form
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We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.