Social Skills Group for College Students | Bay Area

Hi there! I'm searching for a neurodiverse-affirming group for college students. I'm really looking forward to making new friends, building my confidence, and finding healthier ways to manage stress.

It would be amazing if the group could offer support and understanding for people with diverse neurological profiles.

Are You a College Student Who:

Is seeking genuine connections with others who understand your unique experiences? Look no further! Join our inclusive community of students who:

Embrace neurodiversity, celebrating the strengths and challenges that come with it.
Provide a supportive environment for individuals with autism traits.
Share common challenges, such as social cues and stress management.
Offer a space to learn and grow, fostering independence and self-advocacy skills.
Value friendship and connection, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.

About the College Group

The COLLEGE GROUP is a supportive community that meets weekly. It helps to provide strategies to help you build friendships, enhance social interactions, and reduce stress. You'll have the opportunity to connect with other college students who understand the unique challenges you face. And who will offer you support and encouragement!

Our inclusive group embraces neurodiversity and focuses on developing social confidence and self-advocacy skills. These skills are crucial for a successful college experience. We provide specific strategies to initiate and maintain conversations, actively listen, and take turns speaking. Through our program, you'll learn how to build and sustain meaningful friendships with like-minded individuals who share your interests. We understand the importance of finding trustworthy friends with whom you can have fun and connect on a deeper level.

Self-Advocacy is a Crucial Skill to Develop

This is especially true for neurodiverse students. As a student, communicating with professors and other college staff is critical to your success in college. When you were in high school, you likely had support from your parents, an IEP coordinator, or other professionals when it came to communicating your needs to the school. Now that you're in college, you are expected to have those conversations yourself.

You'll Learn How to Communicate Effectively With Professors.

You'll have the opportunity to learn effective communication techniques with professors in our social support group. We'll help you navigate discussions around assignments and class topics, and request academic accommodations that support your educational success, all while embracing and affirming neurodiversity.

You'll Discover How to Access the Student Disability Center If and When You Need It.

The process for receiving support for a disability in college differs significantly from high school. It may require more self-advocacy, which can feel overwhelming at times. However, there are various options available to high school students transitioning to college. We'll specifically discuss what to expect from the student disability center and the valuable support they offer for autism and other disabilities. Asking for help might not be easy, and that's completely valid. Together, we'll explore when and how the resources provided by these campus services can be beneficial for you.

You'll Learn How to Become More Independent and Manage Stress.

We understand that engaging in social interactions can be overwhelming, especially for neurodiverse individuals. We recognize the additional stress that comes with schoolwork, time management, adult responsibilities, and the desire for independence. That's why we're here to support you in identifying strategies to better manage your stress and navigate social situations. Our goal is to create a positive and affirming environment where you can practice and strengthen your skills, fostering growth and confidence. We are committed to helping you develop the skills and confidence necessary to lead the independent life you desire, embracing your unique strengths and neurodiversity.

Will Social Skills be practiced in the group?

Yes, absolutely! We prioritize practicing social skills in our groups, while also affirming and supporting neurodiverse individuals. It's important to note that our groups are not aimed at teaching masking behaviors. Instead, we focus on fostering social confidence and authenticity. In our college group, you'll have the chance to connect with other college students who are also working towards greater independence and social confidence. Our group members are here to support and encourage you throughout the 20-week program. With the guidance of mental health professionals, you'll have a safe space to build relationships and practice social skills. Join us for a positive and inclusive social experience!

You'll have a chance to practice social skills in every group.

In every group session, you'll have the opportunity to practice your social skills. The first half of each session is dedicated to building skills and boosting your social confidence. We provide specific and valuable content, like discussing coping strategies for test anxiety. Together, we explore how these strategies apply to your own life.

After a break, you'll have a chance to engage in peer consultation. During this time, a group member presents a specific issue they're facing, and the rest of the group offers support and asks questions. This is your chance to put your social confidence into practice while learning from others. It's also a great opportunity to build supportive relationships with peers who share similar experiences.

Does It Matter What College I Attend?

Not at all. Any college-age young adult who identifies as neurodiverse, Aspergers, or on the Autism spectrum can benefit from this group! College students in our group may attend Stanford, Mission-City College of San Francisco, Foothill College, or any other university located in the state of California! In fact, some of the participants in this group may even be recent college graduates.

Will I Be Able to Relate to Other People in the Group?

We strive to create groups where individuals can connect and relate to one another. Our groups are carefully curated to include people who are in similar phases of life and facing similar challenges, so that everyone can benefit from learning coping skills, boosting social confidence, and advocating for themselves.

It's important to note that our college groups embrace diversity. For example, some students may be attending college part-time, while others are full-time students. Some participants may live at home, while others live independently on campus. Each group member brings their unique experiences, but there is enough common ground for everyone to relate to and support each other in discovering new ways of engaging with the world.

New Group Forming for College Students in California

Open Doors Therapy begins new groups regularly. We are now filling our next College group. To see if the group is a good fit for you and to reserve your spot in the group, reach out today!

Details About the College Group

The online group consists of up to 8 neurodiverse college students with similar concerns and life experiences.

Duration:

Typically 20 sessions. Meet once a week for 1.5 hours virtually via Zoom.

Days/Times:

Start Date:

Groups typically start August/September and January/February

Price:

$150/Session

Learn more about fees and payment

Ready to join this college group?

If you're a college student or recent graduate in California and identify as being on the Autism spectrum, this group is specifically for you. We're here to support you on your journey of self-improvement, stress management, and advocating for yourself. Embrace your unique neurodiversity and let's start making positive changes together!

Join the College Group in California:

If you are ready to learn and practice valuable skills in a supportive setting with other college-age students with autism, then this group may be right for you! To begin autism therapy in California, follow these simple steps:

Contact Open Doors Therapy to schedule a free 30 minute phone consultation.
Attend a 1-hour intake meeting with autism therapist Dr. Tasha Oswald
Join our college group & start learning new life skills!

Take the next positive step in your life journey!

Other Services at Open Doors Therapy

Our San Francisco South Bay Area mental health clinic focuses on serving individuals with autistic traits. This includes individuals who identify as having Aspergers profile, autism, undiagnosed autism traits, etc and their families. Our services include individual counseling, parent counseling, and group therapy. In fact, nearly all of our clients participate in one of our groups. We've found that groups can be a powerful tool for helping you grow and learn new skills. Some of our support and educational groups include college students with autistic traits, young adults with autism, neurodiverse adults, working professionals, women who identify as neurodiverse, and neurodiverse youth & caregivers. We offer a mother's group for mothers of autistic children and an online autism parent support group. We also offer online group therapy. Additionally, I have been writing blogs on timely autism topics that are full of useful resources for teens and adults with autism. If you want to learn more about any of these services, please reach out today!

College Group