PEERS® for Adolescents Training

We are thrilled to announce that our team has completed the Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relationship Skills (PEERS) for Adolescents training led by Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson, Founder and Director of the UCLA PEERS Clinic! 

Throughout the training, we learned evidence-based strategies to tackle social challenges, peer rejection, and social neglect among neurodivergent youth. But here’s the best part—these strategies are not just for neurodivergent individuals; they benefit everyone! 

Why does this matter? Peer rejection and social neglect can have serious effects like poor academic performance, loneliness, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, school refusal, and even suicidal ideation. On the flip side, having just one or two close friends can lead to better adjustment, higher self-esteem, and greater independence. 

We learned ecologically valid social skills, common social missteps, and concrete rules for better social etiquette. Some interesting (and surprising!) insights that we picked up during the training are:

• "Just ignore it" and "walk away" are not effective responses to teasing/verbal bullying.
• Trying to disprove a rumor or gossip often makes things worse.
• Props are your best allies when joining a conversation.

• Don’t only speak in emojis, GIFs, and memes! 

Our PEERS social skills group is launching in Kuching very soon. Stay tuned for updates!