Both models share a common thread that forms the basis of the Specialty Social Skills program: The skills and strategies are not merely presented as lessons but practiced in a group setting organized around genuine peer interaction.
Who is Eligible for the Specialty Social Skills Program?
Specialty Social Skills serves individuals from 18 months through age 21. Group participation requires few prerequisite skills, opening the door to a wide range of individuals.
Potential applicants who display extremely aggressive behavior or elopement (those known to leave care facilities or treatment sessions without permission) may need a minder to oversee them in group sessions. But this doesn’t necessarily rule anyone out. Our team works with families to understand how a group functions and to find the right group for their child.
How Does the Program Work?
Each participant in Specialty Social Skills works toward individual goals identified by our clinical team. Groups are small, attentively managed, and give all members a genuine opportunity to be seen, heard, and supported by both peers and staff.
Please note: This is a structured therapeutic intervention, not a drop-in social club or recreational activity. Group meetings are designed to address each participant’s goals, with employees guiding interactions, offering in-the-moment support, and adjusting group dynamics as participants develop and grow.
What Skills Can Group Members Develop?
Outcomes ultimately depend on individual goals. That said, group participants may build a range of skills, including:
- Greater social awareness
- Improved problem-solving
- Productive communication, including improving self-expressive and listening skills
- A better aptitude for following routines and instructions
- More easily navigating transitions from one setting or situation to another
- Stronger coping skills to reduce the instances of severe problem behaviors
- Developing a sense of belonging
- Forming meaningful friendship
How We Approach Neurodevelopmental Services
At Pacific Clinics, we value and celebrate differences. And this guiding principle shapes our approach not only to the Specialty Social Skills program, but to every service we offer. With respect to the neurodivergent people we serve, we’re not teaching them to “mask” autistic traits or appear “more neurotypical.” Our goal is to empower toddlers, children, teens, and young adults to develop genuine communication, self-expression, and coping skills as they build meaningful social connections. All in a safe environment that respects each person’s unique identity.
The Specialty Social Skills program helps neurodivergent people build the tools to navigate social situations, form genuine friendships, and gain a true sense of belonging.
