S.U.N. Groups
S.U.N. Social Understanding for Neurodiversity
Our groups differs from other programs because they are:
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evidence-based
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includes parents throughout treatment
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focus promotes autonomy as well as the ability to make an intentional choice when socializing rather than complying with social rules &/or masking
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structured like a class, not a therapy group
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breaks down social understanding into understandable steps
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teaches ecologically valid social skills based on behavior of socially successful individuals
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generalizes social understanding to “real life” settings and includes skills that transfer to the workplace
SUN - Social Understanding for Neurodiversity is committed to providing a safe and inclusive space for children, teens and young adults with neurodiversity to develop their social understanding and emotional resilience. Through our tailored approach and compassionate guidance, we aim to empower them to navigate social interactions with confidence and self-assurance. Our focus on promoting autonomy and intentional choice sets us apart as trusted partners for families seeking support.
About S.U.N.
Our Social Understanding Groups are influenced by the UCLA evidenced-based program PEERS®. The primary focus of our program is increasing each teen’s self-confidence as well as their understanding of social interactions rather than learning prescribed social skills. This focus promotes autonomy as well as the ability to make an intentional choice when socializing rather than complying with social rules and/or masking. Each group incorporates the themes of self-advocacy, self-regulation, perspective-taking, boundaries, and problem-solving skills into the lesson. This group may be appropriate for teens with Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, & Depression.
Our Team...
Has Education/Certifications
Has Experience
Our team members hold advanced degrees in psychology, medicine and social work, specializing in child and adolescent development and social skills training. Including additional certifications in Neurodiverse Affirming Care, Executive function skills, and social understanding.
With years of experience in facilitating group therapy, our team has worked with diverse cases and age groups, honing expertise in addressing a wide range of social and emotional issues in children, adolescents and young adults .
Encourages Personal Autonomy
increasing each individual’s self-confidence as well as their understanding of social interactions rather than learning prescribed social skills. This focus promotes autonomy as well as the ability to make an intentional choice when socializing rather than complying with social rules &/or masking.
Is Neurodiverse Affirming
Our team members are trained in neurodiverse affirming care.In essence, neurodiversity affirming is a shift in perspective from viewing neurodivergence as a problem to be fixed to seeing it as a natural part of human diversity that should be celebrated and supported
Benefits of Group Therapy
Empowering Social and Personal Growth
Enhanced Confidence
Our social skills group therapy aims to empower children, teens, and young adults in building confidence and developing intentional choice in their social interactions, leading to enhanced social growth and autonomy.
Improved Executive Function Skills
With a solid foundation of executive functioning skills, we hope to increase the ease with which client's meet their full potential. The skills, taught through interactive, dyadic exercises will prepare clients for increased success in all aspects of their lives.
Meaningful Connections
Our group therapy sessions facilitate the development of meaningful connections and supportive relationships, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusion.
Confident Social Engagement
Participating in our group therapy sessions supports teens in engaging confidently in social interactions and developing a sense of belonging within their social circles. Creates emotional resilience, leading to more positive and fulfilling social interactions.