The clinicians at McLean Psychotherapy Practices offer
numerous ongoing social skills groups for children of
varying ages and developmental levels. Each group is
specifically tailored to address the challenges faced by the
group members. We use a variety of therapeutic
interventions, including expressive, art and play
techniques. Groups typically run from September to June,
with additional summer groups offered as well. In addition,
we offer a 12-week parenting group.
Preschool Groups – The primary goals for preschool groups
are to assist with school preparation, encourage
collaborative play, help children label and identify
feelings, establish boundaries, develop and maintain
friendships, read social cues, and improve imaginary play
skills. These play oriented groups incorporate a variety of
therapeutic approaches including the Floortime or DIR
method, expressive play therapy techniques, and behavioral
approaches.
School Age Groups – The primary goals for school age groups
are to help your child develop and maintain friendships,
learn to read social cues, identify and process feelings,
build confidence, establish better boundaries, strengthen
outdoor play skills, and explore feelings about social
inclusion and exclusion. These groups also incorporate
a variety of therapeutic approaches including the Floortime
or DIR method, expressive play therapy techniques, and
behavioral approaches.
Adolescent Groups – The primary goals of adolescent groups
are to provide a safe environment for preadolescents and
adolescents to talk about peer pressure, process their
feelings about social interactions, develop and maintain
friendships, increase self esteem, and improve family
relationships. These groups are tailored to address specific
issues raised by group members. Past topics have included
stress reduction, anxiety management, dream analysis, body
image and mood swings.
Parenting Group – The primary goal of the parenting group is
to provide parent support. The group meets for 12 weeks,
with each session beginning with a check-in/networking
support period, followed by an educational component. The
group covers a variety of parent/child topics including:
- Improving structure in your home and setting limits
- Helping your child build social skills
- Strengthening your attachment with your child
- Exploring ways to build a support network
- Exploring ways to cope with stress and burnout
- Understanding your child’s temperament
- Helping your child adjust to a new sibling
- Exploring ways to handle tantrums
- Helping your child cope with nightmares and sleep issues
Sibling Support Group – The primary goals for the sibling support groups are to help your child understand and process the unique aspects of having a sibling diagnosed with a spectrum disorder. Group topics include: communication with your sibling and family, understanding spectrum disorders, navigating peer responses to your sibling, individual self-esteem and identity formation, and healthy expression of emotions related to sibling. These groups also incorporate a variety of therapeutic approaches including expressive/play therapy techniques, art, and behavioral approaches.