Dr. Valdes is a certified provider of the UCLA PEERS® program (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills). This evidence-based and internationally acclaimed program is used in over 35 countries and was originally developed at UCLA by Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson. During each group session, teens are taught important social skills and are given the opportunity to practice these skills in session during socialization activities. The curriculum is based on ecologically valid social behaviors—behaviors that socially successful teens use to interact with peers. Parents attend separate sessions and are taught how to assist their teens in making and keeping friends by helping to expand their teen’s social network and providing feedback through coaching during weekly socialization homework assignments.
PEERS® may be appropriate for teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, or other social and behavioral disorders. Parent participation is required.
