For many teens and young adults, making friends and navigating social situations can be tricky. For those with social communication challenges, like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, or social anxiety, these experiences can feel even more overwhelming.
That’s where the PEERS Social Skills Bethesda program comes in. This structured, research-backed program is designed to help teens and young adults build the social skills they need to connect with others and form lasting relationships.
In this article, we’ll explore what the PEERS program is all about, why social skills are so important, and how the PEERS Social Skills Bethesda program can make a real difference for individuals who struggle in social situations.
What Is the PEERS Program?
PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) is an evidence-based program created by Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson at UCLA. It focuses on teaching practical, step-by-step strategies that teens and young adults can use to improve their social interactions. From starting a conversation to handling conflict or rejection, PEERS covers a wide range of real-life social scenarios.
The PEERS Social Skills Bethesda program takes this approach and tailors it to the local community. It offers a safe and supportive group setting where participants can learn and practice these important skills, gaining the confidence to apply them in everyday life.
Why Social Skills Matter
Good social skills are essential for forming friendships, doing well in school or work, and feeling connected to others. When someone has difficulty with social communication, they may feel left out, anxious, or unsure about how to interact with their peers. This can make school, group activities, or even casual conversations seem overwhelming.
That’s why programs like PEERS Social Skills Bethesda are so helpful. They break down social situations into simple steps, making it easier for participants to understand how to approach different scenarios with confidence. By practicing these skills in a supportive environment, teens and young adults can become more comfortable navigating social situations.
Who Can Benefit from PEERS Social Skills Bethesda?
The PEERS Social Skills Bethesda program is designed for teens and young adults who find social communication difficult. This might include individuals with ASD, ADHD, or social anxiety. If your teen or young adult struggles to make friends, participate in group activities, or deal with rejection, PEERS could be a great fit.
A unique aspect of PEERS is that parents or caregivers are also involved. In their sessions, parents learn the same social skills their teens are practicing. This helps them support their teens at home and reinforce what’s being learned in the program.
What Does the PEERS Social Skills Bethesda Program Cover?
The PEERS Social Skills Bethesda program covers a wide range of topics, all focused on helping teens and young adults navigate everyday social situations. Here are some of the key areas covered:
1. Starting and Keeping Conversations Going
For many teens and young adults, knowing how to start and maintain a conversation can be a big challenge. PEERS teaches specific techniques for starting conversations, staying on topic, and keeping things flowing smoothly. Participants learn how to introduce themselves, ask follow-up questions, and show interest in what others are saying—skills that help them engage more easily in social situations.
2. Making and Maintaining Friendships
Making friends isn’t always easy, especially for those with social communication difficulties. The PEERS program offers clear guidance on how to identify potential friends, join in group activities, and build meaningful, lasting friendships. It helps participants understand the give-and-take nature of friendships and how to sustain relationships over time.
3. Handling Bullying and Peer Rejection
Unfortunately, teens and young adults with social challenges are more likely to experience bullying or peer rejection. PEERS gives participants tools to deal with these difficult situations in a healthy, constructive way. Learning how to handle rejection and bullying helps teens maintain their self-esteem and build resilience.
4. Resolving Conflicts
Conflict is a natural part of any relationship, but it can be particularly tough for individuals with social communication difficulties. PEERS teaches participants how to resolve conflicts by understanding different perspectives and working toward solutions that strengthen, rather than hurt, their relationships.
How Parents Play a Role in PEERS Social Skills Bethesda
One of the things that sets the PEERS Social Skills Bethesda program apart is the involvement of parents or caregivers. In their sessions, parents learn about the same social strategies their teens or young adults are practicing. This allows them to offer support and guidance at home, making it easier for their child to apply the skills they’ve learned in the real world.
By being a part of the process, parents become a crucial support system for their teens, helping them practice and navigate social situations as they gain confidence.
Why Choose PEERS Social Skills Bethesda?
The PEERS Social Skills Bethesda program is based on proven methods that have helped many individuals improve their social interactions. What makes the program so impactful is its focus on real-world practice. Participants don’t just learn social skills in theory—they get to try them out in a safe, supportive environment where they can build confidence before using them in everyday situations.
Bethesda also offers a range of resources for families and individuals with special needs, and the PEERS program is a standout option for those seeking social skills training. The local community is full of professionals who are dedicated to helping teens and young adults succeed, making Bethesda a great place to find support.
How to Get Started with PEERS Social Skills Bethesda
If you’re ready to help your teen or young adult improve their social skills, getting started with the PEERS Social Skills Bethesda program is simple. Reach out to a local provider to learn more about the program, its schedule, and how it can benefit your family. Many providers offer consultations where you can discuss your teen’s specific needs and determine if PEERS is the right fit.
Enrolling in the PEERS Social Skills Bethesda program is a big step toward helping your teen or young adult build the skills they need to connect with others and thrive socially. With practice and support, they can gain the confidence to engage with their peers, form friendships, and feel more at ease in social situations.
Ready to help your teen or young adult develop stronger social skills?
Contact the Counseling Center of Maryland today to learn more about the PEERS Social Skills Bethesda program and how it can make a positive impact on their social confidence and relationships.
Social skills are the foundation of strong relationships, and for teens and young adults who struggle in this area, programs like PEERS Social Skills Bethesda can be life-changing. By breaking social communication down into simple steps and offering real-world practice, the PEERS program gives participants the tools they need to navigate social situations with confidence and build lasting friendships.
If you’re looking for a way to help your teen or young adult develop these crucial skills, the PEERS Social Skills Bethesda program is here to support you. Reach out today to the Counseling Center of Maryland to find out how this evidence-based program can make a difference in your family’s life.
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