PEERS® Social Skills Program for Adults (Virtual)

Ashwood Support Services offers a structured social learning program based on the PEERS® model (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills), originally developed at UCLA. This evidence-based program is designed to help individuals with autism and other social communication differences learn practical strategies for building and maintaining friendships.

Participants learn specific social skills in a supportive group environment and practice applying those skills in real-life situations.

This program is delivered virtually, allowing participants to join from the comfort of their own home while still engaging with peers and facilitators in a structured group setting.

 This program may be a good fit for individuals who:

• are 18 years of age or older
• are individuals with autism or other neurodivergent profiles
• are interested in building friendships and strengthening social connections
• are able to participate appropriately in a virtual group setting

The program is most effective for individuals who are motivated to improve their social confidence and relationships.

 The program typically runs for 16 weekly sessions, allowing participants time to gradually build and practice new skills.

Each virtual session includes:

• clear instruction on social strategies
• demonstrations and role-play examples
• opportunities to practice skills with peers
• feedback and discussion with facilitators

Participants are encouraged to apply these skills outside of sessions and reflect on their experiences in future meetings.

 Participants will develop practical strategies for navigating social situations, including how to:

• start and maintain conversations
• identify shared interests with others
• appropriately use humour in social interactions
• join and leave conversations smoothly
• organize or attend social get-togethers
• communicate with friends outside of group settings
• manage teasing, rejection, or misunderstandings
• respond to rumours or gossip
• handle disagreements respectfully
• build and maintain a positive reputation among peers

The goal is to help participants feel more confident and comfortable forming meaningful friendships.

 Participants attend the program with a social coach, such as a parent, caregiver, or support worker.

While participants focus on learning and practicing social skills, social coaches receive guidance on how to support the use of these strategies in everyday situations. This helps reinforce learning and increases the likelihood that skills will carry over into real-world relationsh