At Burns Virtual Psychological Solutions (BVPS), we understand how deeply social challenges can impact a teenager’s life. Whether it’s struggling to make friends, feeling left out at school, or not knowing how to handle peer rejection, these challenges are very real—and incredibly common. That’s why we’re proud to offer PEERS® virtual groups near San Antonio, TX, an evidence-based social skills program designed specifically for adolescents.
This blog serves as your go-to guide on PEERS®, how it works, who it helps, and what to expect when enrolling your teen in a group. If you’re searching for “PEERS groups near me” or “social skills programs in San Antonio,” you’re in the right place.
Why Social Skills Matter for Teens
Adolescence is a critical stage for developing social connections. Friendships during these years play a foundational role in emotional development, mental well-being, academic engagement, and future life success.
Why Peer Relationships Matter:
- Provide a sense of belonging and emotional security
- Encourage identity development and independence
- Support mental wellness and reduce feelings of isolation
Strong peer relationships are especially important as teens navigate identity, independence, and increasing academic and social pressures.
When Socializing Doesn’t Come Naturally
For many teens—especially those who are autistic or have ADHD, social anxiety, learning differences, or sensory processing challenges, socializing doesn’t come easily or naturally.
What seems intuitive for some (like joining a conversation or understanding sarcasm) can feel confusing and overwhelming for others. These challenges can result in:
- Chronic loneliness or isolation
- Difficulty initiating or maintaining friendships
- Increased risk of bullying or peer rejection
- Lower self-confidence and avoidance of social settings
Long-Term Impact of Poor Social Skills
When these struggles go unaddressed, the consequences can be serious. Poor social skills can lead to chronic loneliness, school refusal, anxiety, and long-term emotional and behavioral challenges. According to a report from the American Psychological Association, early social competence strongly predicts future well-being, and the ability to form positive peer relationships in childhood and adolescence can lead to better outcomes in adulthood.
When social challenges go unaddressed, the long-term consequences can be profound. Teens who lack the skills to form healthy peer relationships are at greater risk for chronic loneliness, school avoidance, anxiety, and emotional difficulties that may persist into adulthood.
In fact, research shows that poor social competence in childhood can negatively impact a child’s academic performance, mental health, and long-term social development. A recent study published by the University of Oslo emphasized that targeted social skills interventions are crucial for helping autistic children and related challenges navigate peer relationships and avoid long-term isolation.
The Good News: Social Skills Can Be Learned
Fortunately, research continues to confirm that social skills are teachable. With the right structure, support, and evidence-based approach, teens and youth of all ages can gain the tools they need to build meaningful connections and thrive.
The PEERS® program is one of the most effective and well-researched interventions available, offering:
- Real-world strategies for real-life situations
- Evidence-based curriculum developed at UCLA
- Measurable improvements in confidence, communication, and connection
- Proven effectiveness, whether delivered in-person or virtually
What Is the PEERS® Groups Program?
PEERS® (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) is a structured, evidence-based social skills training program developed at UCLA. It’s specifically designed for teens and young adults struggling to initiate and maintain friendships. Unlike traditional therapy, PEERS® focuses on real-world social situations and gives teens concrete, actionable tools they can start using right away.
At BVPS, our PEERS groups are led by licensed professionals trained in the PEERS® model. Though originally created for autistic individuals, PEERS® has proven effective for teens with a range of social difficulties, including those with ADHD, anxiety, and learning differences.
What Teens Learn in a PEERS® Group
Core Social Skills Covered Each Week
The program is broken into weekly sessions that focus on core areas of social interaction. Each week builds on the last, combining direct instruction, role-play demonstrations, and real-life practice. Topics include:
- How to enter and exit conversations
- Using humor appropriately
- Hosting get-togethers
- Handling teasing and bullying
- Disagreeing with others respectfully
- Navigating texting and social media
Common Questions From Parents
- “Will my teen actually talk or participate?” Yes. Sessions are designed to be interactive, not lecture-based. Facilitators use role-playing and small group practice to engage even the most hesitant participants. Teens are never forced to speak but are encouraged in ways that feel safe and manageable.
- “What if my teen has never had a friend before?” That’s exactly who this program helps. Many participants begin the group with little or no experience in making friends. The curriculum starts with the basics and progresses gradually.
- “Will the skills be relevant to my teen’s life?” Absolutely. Every session is built around real-world teen experiences: how to join a lunch table, respond to teasing in class, send a text that starts a conversation, or host a hangout.
- “How will I know my teen is making progress?” Teens receive weekly assignments that allow them to practice at school, at home, or in their community. Parents are coached on how to support these efforts and are updated regularly on progress.
PEERS® groups are interactive and supportive, creating a space where teens feel seen and encouraged. Parents or caregivers attend a simultaneous session where they learn how to be effective “social coaches.”
Is PEERS® Groups Right for My Teen?
If your teen is experiencing any form of social struggle—whether it’s trouble making friends, frequent misunderstandings with peers, or feelings of isolation—they could benefit from the structure and support of a PEERS® group.
- Does my child need a diagnosis to join? No. While PEERS® was originally created for autistic individuals, it’s highly effective for teens with ADHD, social anxiety, learning differences, or those who find social situations difficult.
- What if my teen is resistant or shy? Many participants come into the group feeling hesitant. The sessions are welcoming, relatable, and low-pressure, designed to ease teens in through observation, then participation.
- Is this like traditional therapy? Not exactly. PEERS® is structured like a skills-building workshop rather than talk therapy. It’s practical, strategy-based, and focused on social outcomes.
If you’re unsure whether this is the right program, our intake consultation will help assess fit and readiness, ensuring your teen joins a group that aligns with their goals and needs.
Who Should Join a PEERS® Group?
We recommend PEERS® for teens between the ages of 13 and 17* who:
- Struggle to make or keep friends
- Experience social anxiety
- Have been diagnosed with ASD, ADHD, or another learning difference
- Often feel left out or isolated
- Want to improve their confidence and communication skills
Even teens who are shy or reluctant to participate often find comfort in knowing they’re not alone—and quickly discover they enjoy the group once they begin.
*BVPS staff review all requests to determine if the program is a good fit. We may also consider mature 12-year-olds on a case-by-case basis.
Why Choose BVPS for Virtual PEERS® Groups in San Antonio?
Burns Virtual Psychological Solutions is proud to offer virtual PEERS® groups accessible throughout San Antonio, the surrounding areas, and nationwide. Our program is tailored to meet the specific needs of your teen while providing the convenience of participating from home.
What Sets BVPS PEERS® Groups Apart:
- Expertise in Neurodiversity: Our team has extensive experience with autism, ADHD, and anxiety disorders.
- Licensed, Trained Facilitators: All sessions are led by trained clinicians certified in the PEERS® curriculum.
- Virtual Delivery: Teens can join from the safety and convenience of home, minimizing anxiety and maximizing access.
- Support for Parents: Caregivers are given tools and guidance to support their teens’ progress between sessions.
Real Results: What the Research Shows
The effectiveness of the PEERS® program isn’t just anecdotal—it’s backed by published research. Developed by Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson at the UCLA Semel Institute, PEERS® has been tested in clinical studies that show real, lasting benefits for teens struggling with social interaction.
In one study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, researchers found that teens who participated in the PEERS® program made significant gains in social responsiveness and peer engagement. These improvements were still present more than three months after the program ended (Laugeson et al., 2012).
Another study, published in Psychology in the Schools, followed teens after they completed the PEERS® program and found that many continued to apply what they had learned. Their social skills didn’t just improve temporarily—they remained strong over time (Mandelberg et al., 2014).
This growing body of research confirms what we see at BVPS every day: when teens are given the right tools and support, they’re fully capable of building meaningful, lasting connections. PEERS® provides a framework that helps them do just that.
What to Expect: The Structure of Our PEERS Groups
At BVPS, each PEERS® group runs for approximately 16 weeks and includes:
- Weekly 90-minute group sessions (teens and parents meet separately at the same time) are held virtually, creating a dynamic and supportive environment for participants to develop and refine their social skills, build confidence, and foster meaningful connections with peers
- Homework assignments to practice skills in real-world settings
- Regular check-ins and coaching
- A structured curriculum that builds skills step-by-step
Teens are grouped by age and social goals, and every participant is screened before joining to ensure the group is a good fit.
So, what does a typical session look like?
In a weekly teen group session, the facilitator introduces the day’s topic—for example, how to start and maintain a conversation. The group watches a short video demonstration or live role-play showing both what to do and what not to do. Then, participants break into small groups to practice, often with guidance and live feedback from the facilitator. One teen may role-play introducing themselves at a lunch table, while another practices responding with an appropriate question or comment to keep the conversation going.
Meanwhile, in the parent group happening at the same time, caregivers learn how to reinforce that skill at home. They might be coached on how to offer positive feedback, suggest do-overs gently, or encourage social opportunities that align with the week’s theme. This dual-track method helps teens internalize the skills and apply them outside the group.
By the end of the session, each teen receives a homework assignment—for instance, to start a conversation with a peer and report back the following week. Over time, these small wins build into lasting confidence and improved relationships.
Getting Started with Virtual PEERS® Groups Near San Antonio, TX
Step-by-Step Enrollment Process for PEERS® Groups
Ready to take the next step?
- Complete an Intake Assessment: Our intake assessment helps us understand your teen’s unique needs and goals, so we can place them in the most appropriate group. Click here to complete the assessment.
- Begin the Program: Once accepted and a full cohort has been developed, your teen will begin weekly sessions with our experienced facilitators.
We understand that finding the right support can feel overwhelming. At BVPS, we make the process easy, compassionate, and focused on long-term success. If you have any questions or wonder if PEERS is right for your teen, call 916-234-6323.
To learn more or get started, visit our PEERS page, and be sure to check out the FAQ section at the bottom for answers to common questions.
Let’s Help Your Teen Thrive
Your teen deserves to feel confident, included, and socially connected. If you’ve been searching for Virtual PEERS groups near San Antonio, TX, Burns Virtual Psychological Solutions is here to help.
Our team is ready to support your teen through one of the most important developmental stages of their life. Let’s work together to build the foundation for lasting relationships and lifelong success.
Reach out today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward social confidence.
Burns Virtual Psychological Solutions is committed to evidence-based, compassionate care for teens, young adults, and families throughout Texas and across the US.