Social Skills Instruction

Our Approach

Spectrum’s social skills groups provide opportunities for participants to practice communication, relationships, self-advocacy, and other skills related to their individual goals.

We recognize that people communicate, interact, and process social information in different ways. Our goal is not to change who participants are, but to help them develop strategies that are useful in the situations that matter to them.

Social Learning and Practice

Groups combine structured instruction with activities, discussion, and opportunities to practice skills with other participants.

Sessions may address communication, relationships, collaboration, self-advocacy, problem-solving, emotional regulation, organization, and other areas based on the needs and goals of the group.

Our team may incorporate educational, behavioral, counseling, recreational, and communication strategies depending on the participants and program.

Group and Individual Offerings

School-Age Groups: Grades 1–12

• One-hour weekly sessions focused on communication, relationships, and social experiences
• Small groups formed with consideration for age, interests, communication styles, support needs, and goals
• Activities, discussion, and opportunities to practice skills with peers

Adult Groups: Ages 18 and Older

• Support for communication and relationships in employment, education, community, and daily life
• A combination of facilitated instruction, shared activities, discussion, and community-based experiences
• One- or two-hour group formats depending on the program

Transition to Adulthood: Ages 18–22

• Support during the transition from high school to college, employment, and greater independence
• Instruction and practice in communication, organization, self-advocacy, and daily living skills
• Support with identifying personal goals and developing strategies for adult responsibilities

Personalized Coaching

• Individual support for participants who may benefit from an alternative to a traditional group
• Available through one-to-one coaching or small-group formats such as dyads and triads
• Goals and strategies are based on the participant’s needs, preferences, and priorities

What to Expect

• Groups are formed based on factors such as age, interests, communication styles, support needs, and goals
• Each group uses a flexible curriculum based on its participants
• Skills are practiced through activities, discussion, collaboration, and community experiences when appropriate
• Groups average approximately six participants and are typically supported by at least two facilitators
• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and placement depends on the availability of an appropriate group

Getting Started

Spectrum welcomes children, adolescents, and adults with a range of communication styles, abilities, and support needs.

If you are interested in a social skills group or personalized coaching, complete an application or contact Spectrum for more information about current programs and availability.