Help your adolescent make and keep friends.
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The PEERS® Program
Stands for Program for the Enrichment and Education of Relational Skills
An evidence-based social skills training program for adolescents, young adults and adults with social challenges. It was developed by Dr Elizabeth Laugeson at the University of California in 2004.
Live, Interactive 14-Week Program
The PEERS® Adolescent Program runs three times per year via Zoom, bringing together small groups of adolescents (ages 13-17) for structured, evidence-based social skills training.
Program Overview
14 Weeks
90-minute sessions for adolescents each week
Parent Sessions
90-minute coaching for parents/support workers
Online via Zoom
AEST/AEDT timezone
Small Groups
Matched by developmental level
- Week 1 | Conversational Skills 1, Trading Information
- Week 2 | Conversational Skills 2, Two-Way Conversations
- Week 3 | Conversational Skills 3, Electronic Communication
- Week 4 | Choosing Appropriate Friends
- Week 5 | Appropriate Use of Humour
- Week 6 | Starting and Joining Conversations
- Week 7 | Exiting a Conversation
- Week 8 | Get-Togethers
- Week 9 | Handling Arguments and Disagreements
- Week 10 | Good Sportsmanship
- Week 11 | Managing Reputations
- Week 12 | Handling Direct Bullying
- Week 13 | Handling Indirect Bullying
- Week 14 | Graduation
90 MINUTE SESSIONS
- A structured lesson on the week's topic (using rules and steps)
- Role-play of dos and don'ts - either live or using videos developed by UCLA
- Practice new skills learnt
- Social coaching and feedback
- Practical exercises to complete at home during the week
- Social coaching feedback at home during the week by the social coach (parent/carer or support worker)
There have been many studies conducted on the PEERS® Program. Below are links to some of the research:
- Efficacy of PEERS® for Adolescents via Telehealth Delivery
- A Randomised Controlled Trial to Examine the Effectiveness of the Dutch Version of PEERS®
- Perceived and Observed Treatment Gains Following PEERS®: A Preliminary Study with Latinx Adolescents with ASD
- Improving Social Anxiety and Social Responsiveness in Autism Spectrum Disorder through PEERS®
- Social Skills training Using the Thai Version of UCLA PEERS® in Thai Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder
- New Approaches to Social Skills Training: Blended Group Interventions for Girls with Social Communication Difficulties
- Improving Social Knowledge and Skills among Adolescents with Autism: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of UCLA PEERS® for Adolescents
- Research Progress on the Effect of PEERS® on Social Skill Improvement among Adolescents with ADHD
- Research on the Effect of Social PEERS® Training for Mothers and Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Shanghai
- Development and Preliminary Testing of the Dutch Version of PEERS®
- An Israeli RCT of PEERS®: Intervention Effectiveness and the Predictive Value of Parental Sensitivity
View the full list of research publications on the UCLA website →
Session Schedule
All sessions run online via Zoom (AEST/AEDT timezone)
Please visit the Young Adults Program (18-35 years) or Over 30’s Self-Paced Program (30++ years) or Self-Paced, Start-Anytime Program for more details of our other programs.
We work very hard to compose the groups with participants who are approximately around the same developmental level, so the program schedule and age groupings are subject to change. It could be that you need to wait longer for a group that is appropriate. As we get close to the start date of each group, we will send you a confirmation letter with exact dates, times and zoom links.
PEERS® is delivered over 14 weeks of 90-minute sessions, covering topics such as:
ADOLESCENT PEERS® program topics
Conversational Skills
Learn how to effectively start, maintain, and end conversations, ensuring smooth interactions in various social settings. You'll also explore the appropriate use of humor to enhance communication and build stronger connections.
Dealing with Teasing & Bullying
Understand effective strategies to handle teasing, bullying and rumours and gossip with confidence. This section empowers you to protect your emotional well-being and deflect negative behavior.
Building & Maintaining Relationships
Discover strategies for forming and sustaining meaningful friendships, including tips for choosing appropriate friends and organising social gatherings. This topic focuses on the essentials of nurturing relationships and creating lasting bonds.
Communication in the Digital Age
Explore the intricacies of electronic communication, including texting, emailing, and social media. Learn how to navigate digital interactions positively and maintain good online etiquette.
Managing Conflict & Reputation
Gain tools for managing disagreements constructively and preserving relationships. You'll also learn how to improve and restore your reputation after negative social experiences.
Good Sportsmanship
Focus on the importance of being a good sport in both competitive and casual settings. This topic emphasises fair play, respect, and fostering a supportive social environment.
A Testimonial from Terry Butler: PEERS® Young Adult Graduate
Hear directly from Terry, a PEERS® graduate, as he shares his experience learning the ins and outs of friendship and dating. From building confidence in conversations to navigating relationships, Terry’s story shows how PEERS® can make a real difference in social and dating success.
The investment
Costs.
The investment is $200* per week per family and includes:
- Intake interviews
- 90 min adolescent skill development session per week
- 90 min parent/support worker coaching session per week
- Weekly handouts/practice at home materials
- PEERS® App
- Incentive prizes each week
- Support throughout the 14-week program
Total Investment:
$2,800*
An interest-free payment plan is available.
Standard pricing $3,300 or pay in full up front to receive a $500 discount
(Afterpay available)
*includes $500 discount
For full details of our payment options visit the Payment Options page of our website.
Here are the key benefits of our PEERS® program DELIVERED VIA ZOOM
Benefits of PEERS® Online Learning
As education shifts online, many families are experiencing the benefits of virtual learning, particularly for social skills programs. With the exception of our Self-Paced Program, PEERS® (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) is delivered live via Zoom and is a proven intervention designed to enhance the social interactions and relationships of youth and adults who experience social challenges. Online learning is particularly beneficial for people with autism, ADHD and social anxiety - for the reasons outlined below.
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While the lessons are delivered online, the application of these skills happens in real-life settings. Participants practice what they've learned with their social coaches, during phone calls with peers, and within their local communities. This dual approach ensures that they are well-prepared to navigate social interactions in any environment.
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Online sessions allow for greater involvement of parents or social coaches, who can observe and support their child's progress more closely. This collaborative approach reinforces the skills being taught and helps integrate them into daily life.
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The online format offers greater flexibility for families. It can accommodate varying schedules and allows for families to watch role play videos in their own time if sessions are missed, ensuring that participants don't miss out on crucial learning opportunities.
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The curriculum of the 14-week PEERS Program allows for active, real-time engagement via Zoom. Participants engage in discussions, watch role-play videos, and practice their conversation skills with each other in real time. The interactive and supportive environment is maintained through Zoom, ensuring everyone feels part of the group.
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Participants can join sessions from their own homes, a familiar and comfortable environment. This often results in lower anxiety levels, allowing them to focus better on learning and practicing new social skills.
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The online format eliminates the need for travel, making it easier to fit sessions into busy family schedules. It also provides access to high-quality social skills training for participants in rural or remote areas who might otherwise miss out.
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Without the barriers of commuting or health-related absences, participants are more likely to attend regularly. This consistent participation is crucial for skill development and retention.
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Participants often feel more at ease and are more willing to engage in discussions, role-plays, and activities when they're in a setting that feels safe and controlled.
testimonials
What participants say.
Social Skills
Research shows improving social skills and having even just 1-2 close friendships can:
- Increase self-esteem, confidence and independence
- Decrease the likelihood of depression and anxiety linked to loneliness
- Minimise the occurrence of bullying.
Autism, anxiety, and social challenges can make life hard for adolescents, and families often need extra support.
Social Skills
about The Coach
Hi, I'm
Christine O'Leary,
and I'm a Social Coach
I’m a fellow parent of adolescents with social challenges myself - and I’m here to help!
I help adolescents, young adults and adults with autism, ADHD, and other social challenges to make and keep friends and learn important social skills through relaxed and fun small group sessions, both online and in person.
Certified
PEERS® Provider
- Completed the UCLA Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills in the Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behaviour at UCLA.
- Certified PEERS® Provider.
Communication & Public Relations Specialist
- Specialised skills and advanced knowledge in the communications, media and creative industries.
- Bachelor of Business Administration, GradDip Communication, PR, Advertising, & Applied Communication.
Parenting Support & Consulting
- Specialising in supporting both individuals and organisations to communicate effectively with others.
- University-trained and post-graduate qualified communications professional passionate about helping people to communicate well.
three-step process
Enrolment in PEERS®
is a simple three-step process.
Step 01
Intake interviews
- Book an informal, confidential 15-minute discovery call to assess your adolescent’s suitability for the program and to answer any questions you may have.
- If you want to enrol, we will meet with your adolescent one-on-one (usually on Zoom) to make sure PEERS® is a good fit and ensure your adolescent feels comfortable with the program.
- This is to ensure the best possible outcome for your adolescent.
Step 02
Enrolment Paperwork and Deposit Payment
- You will then be sent the enrolment paperwork to complete and return, along with a link for payment of the initial deposit.
- A payment plan is available.
- Upon receipt of your completed enrolment paperwork and deposit payment, your adolescent’s spot in the program is confirmed.
- Before the first session, you and your adolescent will receive a welcome email including all the zoom links and materials.
- Then each week, your adolescent will continue to be sent everything they need for each session.
Step 03
Welcome and Commencement
is this for you
Is PEERS® the right program for your adolescent?
PEERS® is right if they:
- Are aged between 13-17 years
- Have social challenges
- Want to participate in the program and learn new skills
- Can commit to attending the sessions consistently
- Have a parent/family member/teacher/support worker who is willing to participate as their social coach.
Places are limited.
Register now to join our email list.
Peers
Where does PEERS come from?
Dr Elizabeth Laugeson, developed PEERS®
An Associate Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioural Sciences at UCLA (University of California) Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behaviour.
More than x30 peer-reviewed studies demonstrate the efficacy of this course - with teens consistently showing improvement on every measure of social skills and social engagement - as well as reduced problem behaviours, related social difficulties and social anxiety.
The gains are maintained well after the course has ended - a finding attributed to the involvement of a social coach, which can be a parent, another family member, a teacher or a support worker.
For more information on PEERS®, check out this video by the Founder and Director of the UCLA PEERS® Clinic and the developer of PEERS®, Dr Elizabeth Laugeson.
Watch Video
PEERS® & NDIS Participants.
We are not NDIS registered and we require payment in full before program commencement (unless you have elected to participate in our interest-free payment plan). We provide a receipt for all payments and you may be able to seek reimbursement from the NDIS if you are self-managed. Please note - we do not contact Plan Managers directly so it is important to check your own individual funding options.
Support
I know what it’s like to have an adolescent who is vulnerable to bullying, depression, and anxiety...
I know that, as a parent, it can be really worrying. And it can be hard to know what to do as there are very few support programs out there for adolescents. I’ve seen for myself the difference this program can make, and my passion is to share everything I’ve learned with other families.
we got answers
Frequently asked questions.
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14-Week Program for Adolescents and Young Adults
Price: $3,300 incl GST ( interest-free payment plan available). Or $2,800 incl GST with $500 discount when paid in full up front).
Overview: This comprehensive program spans 14 weeks and is designed to help adolescents and young adults develop crucial social skills, including conversation techniques, managing social interactions, and building friendships.
Self-Paced Start Anytime PEERS® Course
Price: $695 incl GST (one-time payment)
Overview: A flexible, on-demand course covering the full PEERS® curriculum, including conversation skills, friendship building, bully-proofing, and dating etiquette. Includes lesson videos, workbook, app access, private Facebook forum, and two 1:1 coaching calls.
Self-Paced PEERS® Dating Intensive
Price: $495 incl GST (one-time payment)
Overview: A focused self-paced program designed for individuals aged 16+ who want to strengthen their dating skills. Covers choosing appropriate partners, flirting, asking someone out, handling rejection, and going on successful dates. Includes bonus lessons and personalised coaching.
Self-Paced PEERS® Over 30s Social Skills Workshop
Price: $385 incl GST (one-time payment)
Overview: Tailored for adults aged 30+, this workshop helps participants develop and strengthen social confidence, communication skills, and strategies for building meaningful friendships and connections.
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PEERS® (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) is an evidence-based social skills training program designed to improve social interactions for individuals with autism, ADHD, and other social challenges. It focuses on teaching practical skills for building and maintaining friendships and relationships.
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Our programs are open to adolescents, adults, and parents. We tailor our courses to meet the needs of individuals with social challenges, including those on the autism spectrum, with ADHD, or experiencing other social difficulties.
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Our main program runs for 14 weeks.
And our Self-Paced courses can start anytime but with a limited access of 4 months.
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Yes, parental involvement is highly encouraged, especially in our PEERS® programs.
Parents often serve as social coaches, reinforcing the skills taught during the sessions. For the 14-week programs parents have their own coaching sessions each week.
For the Self-Paced courses, parents receive pre recorded coaching webinars to support their child’s progress.
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Once you enroll in a course, you’ll receive login details to access the materials online or via email. For the Self-Paced PEERS® course, you’ll have access to the videos, PDFs, and other resources.
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Participants are encouraged to ask questions during weekly sessions. You’ll also have access to our members portal where you can ask questions and share experiences with other participants. Additionally, for certain courses like the Self-Paced PEERS® program, you receive two 30-minute 1:1 coaching calls with the instructor to address any specific concerns or questions.
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Yes! If you missed the current round of PEERS®, you can enrol for the next round we do 3 intakes a year or enrol in our Self-Paced Start Anytime PEERS® course, which will is available all year. This allows you to start the program at your convenience.
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We are not NDIS registered and we require payment upfront. However if you are Self Managed you may be able to claim a reimbursement from the NDIS.
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We do not offer refunds for any of our courses. Please ensure you’re committed to the program before enrolling.
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You can schedule your two 30-minute coaching calls through the calendar link inside the members portal within 4 months of purchasing the course. These sessions are conducted via Zoom/Phone Call.
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The online format of our courses, combined with the flexibility of accessing materials at your convenience, helps promote consistent attendance. Participants attend one 90-minute session each week for the 14-week program. We also provide tools and reminders to help you stay on track.
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The online PEERS® course offers the same evidence-based curriculum as our in-person sessions, with the added benefits of reduced anxiety for participants, greater convenience, and more focused learning. The virtual format allows participants to engage deeply with the material in a comfortable setting. If you want more practical and proven benefits of PEERS® online please click here. https://www.socialskillsaustralia.com.au/blog
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We offer introductory videos and sample lessons on our website, so you can get a feel for the course content and structure before making a commitment. We also share with you the breakdown of topics per week. https://www.socialskillsaustralia.com.au/sample-content