Social Skills/Communication Groups
Group Directors: Jill Porter, CAGS • Sherri Shafman, M.ED
Group Supervisor: Janice Goldstein, Ph. D.
- Groups are composed of 4-7 children with similar ages, level of functioning and specific needs
- Groups meet for 70 minutes weekly
- Groups meet year-round in cycles of 6 weeks
- The group leader will update parents by phone between group five and six of a sequence to discuss progress, concerns and important developments within the groups.
- Groups are highly structured using individual goal setting, student check-ins, discussion topics of interest, role-playing, activities/games.and group feedback.
- The group format is aimed at supporting children in their interactional pursuits by giving them a safe environment to connect with peers. Parents will also be offered tools to support their child’s growth.
- Reading social cues
- Making eye contact and maintaining conversation with peers
- Taking turns and sharing with peers
- Identifying feelings and verbalizing them
- Dealing with peer teasing and negative interactions
- Making connections between thoughts and feelings and associated behaviors
- Making and keeping friends
- Decision making
- Problem-solving
- Relaxation strategies to use when stressed
- Self-esteem building
- Assertiveness strategies using “I” statements
Cost: Full payment for each session, is required at the time the group begins. The cost of the 6 week program is $280. Since this group is skill-oriented and didactic in design it is generally not covered under medical insurance plans. We are happy to provide a receipted bill at your request.
Contact Dr. Janice Goldstein
Andover Counseling Center
565 Turnpike Street • Suite 81
North Andover, MA 01845
(978) 682-1579