The Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) 

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The PEERS® Program is an evidence-based social skills intervention tailored for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other neurodiverse traits who want to make and maintain friendships. 

This program, created by Elizabeth Laugeson, successfully utilized across 150+ countries, aims to enhance social communication abilities to navigate social interactions. The PEERS® program, originating from UCLA, is a distinguished program designed to assist individuals in developing and maintaining friendships. Through interactive role-playing and group activities, individuals will learn essential social rules and practice these skills within a supportive environment.

Led by PEI Certified Teachers specialized in Special Education and ABA who have been specifically trained in PEERS by creator, Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson.  In addition to enhancing social interactions, PEERS also promotes independence, prepares participants for employment opportunities, and facilitates a seamless transition into adulthood.

Thriving Tree Teaching is thrilled to offer sessions for teens/adolescents grades 7 - 11.  PEERS® is designed for middle and high school aged students, with Autism, who are able to communicate in English and display appropriate behavior in group settings and want to make friends and socialize.  

When:

June 18, 2025 - 10 weeks

Where:

Charlottetown Royalty Center Wednesday Nights (Time TBD - evening)

How Much:

The PEERS® Program for teens is priced at $1600 (plus GST).  We collaborate with AccessAbility Supports including direct billing for eligible AccessAbility clients.  Happy to collaborate with other funding partners as requested!

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What to Expect from PEERS®:

- Equips individuals with skills to manage peer conflict and rejection effectively.

- Teach social skills that are validated by their use among socially successful adults.

- Offer support through social coaching, helping individuals build independence in their social relationships.

- Help identify sources of friendship and guidance from social coaches (Young Adult).

- Assist in learning how to develop and sustain friendships and romantic relationships (Young Adult).

What NOT to Expect from PEERS®:

- PEERS® is not a support group or a forum for discussing psychological disorders or developmental issues.

- PEERS® cannot resolve individual problems or challenges.

- PEERS® is not a "friendship-matching group."  If friendships form, wonderful, however; this is not a friendship group.

- PEERS® focuses on helping individuals develop social relationships outside of the treatment group through practice with group members.

Best Results are achieved when individuals:

  - Attend the sessions regularly and on time.

  - Complete each Homework Assignment.

  - Apply the skills learned outside of PEERS®.

  - Find a peer group that aligns with the skills taught.