Social Skills Groups (Telehealth)

Our Telehealth Social Skills Groups (SSG) provide children with a supportive and structured online environment to practice the kinds of social interactions they cannot learn in one-to-one therapy alone. These groups are facilitated live by trained ABA practitioners under BCBA supervision and are designed to help children strengthen communication, play, and peer interaction skills while connecting virtually with same-age peers.

What Social Skills Groups look like through telehealth

Small groups of 3–6 peers meet online in real time with a behavior therapist guiding the session.
Sessions are interactive and engaging, using video conferencing platforms and shared activities such as online games, role-playing, storytelling, and group problem-solving tasks.
Each session focuses on specific social goals, such as initiating greetings, asking questions, waiting for turns, or handling disagreements respectfully.
Therapists provide real-time coaching, modeling, and positive reinforcement so children understand expectations and feel supported as they practice.

What parents can expect

Parents are given an overview of each session’s theme and goals so they can encourage practice between meetings.
Families are supported in setting up a quiet space at home with the necessary technology (computer or tablet with camera and microphone).
Parents may be asked to help briefly with transitions or technology but are not required to participate actively during the group, as the focus is on peer-to-peer interaction.
Progress updates are provided so families know which skills their child is building and how to support them at home and in the community.

Why Telehealth Social Skills Groups are important

Many children with autism and developmental delays struggle with peer interaction, conversation, or joining group activities. These are skills that can only be practiced with other children, not just adults.
Telehealth makes it possible for children to interact with peers beyond their immediate community while still having the safety and structure of home.
Practicing in a virtual group builds communication, patience, and flexibility — skills that generalize to school, playground, and everyday life.

The takeaway for families

Social Skills Groups via telehealth bridge the gap between one-to-one therapy and real-world interactions. They allow children to practice critical social behaviors with peers in a safe, accessible, and structured setting, helping them gain confidence, friendships, and independence.