Build Confidence and Connection with Social Skills Groups for Kids in Orlando, Florida
If your child finds it difficult to make friends, avoids group activities, or feels left out at school, you are not alone, and neither are they. Many children with ADHD, high-functioning autism, or social anxiety simply find social situations more challenging. With the right guidance and support, they can learn to connect comfortably and build meaningful friendships.
At Total Life Counseling, we understand how much strength it takes to ask for help. For more than 30 years, we have supported families just like yours by helping children, teens, and young adults form friendships, build confidence, and discover that they truly belong.
At our social skills groups in Orlando, children learn to connect with peers, practice positive interactions, and build lasting confidence in friendships. Guided by licensed therapists, each child takes small steps that lead to meaningful growth in self-esteem and everyday life.
Worried About Your Child’s Social Confidence? Let’s talk. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation
What Are Social Skills Groups for Kids?
Social skills groups are small, therapist-led sessions where children learn how to connect, communicate, and build confidence in everyday situations. Through guided activities, role-play, and positive peer interaction, kids practice essential skills like listening, sharing, taking turns, and reading social cues in a safe and supportive environment.
At Total Life Counseling, these sessions go beyond simple lessons. They give children real opportunities to form friendships, express themselves confidently, and feel included, both at school and in life.
When Your Child Might Need Social Skills Support?
Every parent wants their child to feel accepted and confident with friends. But sometimes, even bright and kind kids struggle to connect or fit in. If you’ve noticed some of the signs below, your child may simply need extra support building the social skills that make relationships feel easier and more natural.
Common Signs to Look For:
- Doesn’t recognize nonverbal cues (may indicate Nonverbal Learning Disorder, or NLD)
- Gets too close to peers or struggles with personal space
- Acts out or annoys others to gain attention
- Shows low self-confidence or avoids group activities
- Makes poor or inconsistent eye contact
- Focuses mainly on their own interests instead of showing interest in peers
- Talks excessively or dominates conversations
- Struggles to be assertive or express needs appropriately
- Acts impulsively or blurts out responses
- Tries too hard to make others laugh, believing humor will win friendships
With compassionate support and structured practice, kids can learn how to connect more comfortably, handle social moments with confidence, and enjoy meaningful friendships that help them thrive.
Jim West is an Author, Communicator, School Consultant, Nationally Certified, Licensed Counselor and specializes in counseling for Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADD/ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder and Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD).
Social Skills Program Overview
Who
Who Benefits Most from Our Social Skills Groups at Total Life Counseling?
When your child wants friends but doesn’t know how to start a conversation or feels invisible in group settings, it can break your heart. Our social skills groups help children find their voice, build confidence, and form real friendships that last.
We welcome children and teens who may be experiencing:
- ADHD or ADD: Often socially and emotionally about 25% behind their peers.
- High-Functioning Autism (formerly Asperger’s): Difficulty reading social cues or connecting naturally.
- Social Anxiety or Phobias: Avoiding social contact or waiting for others to initiate.
- Bullying Experiences: Overreacting to teasing or withdrawing to avoid it.
- Low Self-Esteem: Isolating from peers due to a lack of confidence.
- Superficial Friendships: Believing they have friends but rarely interacting outside school.
- Peer Group Challenges: Preferring to play with younger or older kids instead of same-age peers.
- Depression or Anxiety: Struggling to engage in conversations or group activities.
- Lack of Social Invitations: Rarely receiving calls for playdates, hangouts, or sleepovers.
- Exclusion from Social Events: Not being invited to birthday parties or gatherings.
- General Social Delays: Trouble starting or maintaining conversations or showing interest in others’ activities.
Our social skills groups in Orlando provide a safe, encouraging space where children can practice real connection and build confidence that lasts. If you’re looking for a social skills group for kids with autism in Orlando that is trusted by families, Total Life Counseling offers compassionate guidance and proven results.
What
What Happens During a Social Skills Group Session?
Our social skills group activities in Orlando are not just therapy sessions. They are fun, supportive experiences your child will genuinely look forward to. Every activity helps build confidence, strengthen communication, and create real friendships that last beyond the group.
Here’s what a typical session includes:
- A Warm Start: Each week begins with something familiar, like movie popcorn, to help kids feel comfortable and ready to join in.
- Positive Interactions: Students earn points for encouraging others, remembering names, and practicing kind conversations.
- Guided Conversations: Therapists help quieter children join in and connect over shared interests.
- Making New Friends: Kids naturally practice introductions and build real connections with peers.
- Conversation Practice: Children and teens learn how to start and maintain natural, balanced conversations.
- Handling Teasing: Through role-play and humor, students learn to stay calm and confident during teasing or playful banter.
- Play and Practice: Each session includes group games or outdoor activities that build comfort and confidence.
- Parent Involvement: Parents join the last 15 minutes to celebrate progress and learn how to support growth at home.
- Friendship Beyond the Group: Families are encouraged to plan playdates and meetups to continue social growth.
- Monthly Laser Tag Event: Age-based laser tag sessions help kids practice teamwork, leadership, and communication in a fun way.
Contact us for a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation.
Where
Where Orlando Families Turn for Trusted Social Skills Groups?
At Total Life Counseling Center, we proudly offer a variety of child and adolescent social skills groups in the Orlando area. Each program is designed to help children and teens build confidence, strengthen communication, and learn valuable life skills in a supportive setting.
Our licensed therapists lead engaging groups that focus on:
- Leadership and teamwork skills
- Social interaction and emotional regulation
- Anger management and healthy coping strategies
- Handling teasing and provocation
- Building empathy and mutual respect
- Therapist-led social skills training that promotes confidence and positive interaction
We also offer additional group programs tailored to specific age ranges and needs, ensuring every child receives the right level of guidance and support.
When
When Can Your Child Join Our Weekly Social Skills Groups?
Our social skills groups meet once a week, providing consistent practice and progress in a supportive, small-group setting. Sessions are organized by age to ensure kids connect with peers who share similar social experiences and goals.
Group Schedule by Age:
- Elementary School Students (Grades 1–4): Thursdays from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM ($55 per hour)
- Middle School Students (Grades 5–7): Thursdays from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM ($55 per hour)
- High School Students (Grades 8 and up): Mondays from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM ($55 per hour)
- Young Adults (Ages 18–29): Wednesdays from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM ($60 per hour)
Each group is led by a licensed therapist who fosters teamwork, communication, and social growth in a safe, encouraging environment.
Why
Why Parents Love Our Social Skills Groups?
Parents consistently share how much these groups have helped their children and their families grow in confidence and connection. Here’s why they value the experience:
- Shared Understanding: Meeting other families facing similar challenges helps parents and kids realize they’re not alone.
- Real Empathy: Group members often encourage and support one another, showing compassion and understanding that goes beyond words.
- Lasting Friendships: Children make new friends who truly “get” them, and parents often connect outside of sessions to plan playdates and build ongoing support networks.
Our groups bring families together, creating a sense of belonging that continues long after therapy ends.
“It felt so good to compete in a team and be live in person and not on video games with people I have never met! To know someone had my back and I had there’s felt so good!”
Mike – 18 years old
Adventure-Based Social Skills Camps for Kids and Teens
Our Student Leadership Social Skills Camps offer kids and teens a fun way to build leadership, communication, and life skills while making real connections with their peers. Whether it’s a one-day Saturday camp or a Summer Camp program, every activity is designed to boost social competence, strengthen emotional skills, and improve overall quality of life.
Held in the Orlando area, these day camps combine the best of our social skills groups with outdoor fun at Camp Wewa. Kids climb, zipline, and take on team challenges while learning empathy, teamwork, and emotional control, all in a supportive, therapist-guided setting.
Our overnight programs offer a deeper, immersive experience where campers practice communication, problem-solving, and self-expression. Through games, group activities, and shared adventures, they gain resilience, confidence, and lasting friendships.
What Sets Our Social Skills Groups Apart?
At Total Life Counseling Center, we make social learning fun, motivating, and meaningful. Each session blends structure and creativity to help children build confidence, communication skills, and emotional awareness in real-world settings.
Here’s what makes our program stand out:
- Point System for Motivation: Keeps students engaged while reinforcing positive communication and emotional control.
- Interactive Games: Activities like tag and team challenges teach teamwork, fairness, and how to handle competition.
- Parent Involvement: Parents join the final 15 minutes to celebrate progress and hear what their child learned; no more “I don’t know” answers.
- Experiential Learning: Rope-course–style challenges strengthen teamwork, communication, and confidence.
- Monthly Laser Tag Outings: Exciting, team-based games that help students practice leadership, cooperation, and strategy.
- Trust-Building Skills: Children learn how trust is created through kindness, honesty, and consistent actions.
If you’ve been searching for a kids social skills group near me Orlando families trust, Total Life Counseling Center offers a supportive and engaging environment where children grow in confidence, connection, and emotional strength.
Leadership Article
Have you ever seen a Leader without Followers?
New Leadership Social Skills Groups, Camps & Services in Orlando & Winter Park.
Have you ever seen a Leader without Followers?
Leadership Social Skills Groups, Camps & Services in Orlando.
“I was first!” “You are doing it wrong!” “I want to go next!” “Can I be first!” These are a few statements from students that most likely exhibit leadership skills. They are often told to go to the end of the line or given a consequence for telling someone what to do, but maybe they need someone to tell them “what to do.” Silly to think of someone who calls themselves a leader, but has yet to have any followers. However, there are future leaders around us who need to learn how to find followers to influence, but they just need some direction. We might call them “Bossy,” but they are leaders who need some tweaking. Some might say they are “Caretakers”, but really, they want to help others, but are not sure what the right way is. We might have “Gossipers,” or they are just future Communicators that need to learn how to communicate more positively.
Consider how a student views leadership. They see leaders (parents, teachers, principal, police) as anyone who “tells them what to do (bosses them).” So when they start to assert their leadership skills, they start telling their friends what to do and tell them how to do things, and therefore they are called “Bossy.” Big surprise! So instead of calling these kids “Bossy,” maybe we could give them suggestions on how to lead, affirm, compliment, build others up, brag on others rather than themselves, take an interest in someone’s life or passions, offer help to someone, share an idea, etc.
According to Dr. Russell Barkley, MD, students with ADHD or ADD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or Attention Deficit Disorder), as well as students with aspergers are often 25-30% behind socially and emotionally. Students like these may not have ADHD and need help with boundaries, assertion, impulse control, coping skills, starting conversations, greeting, etc., to help close the gap.
The premise of our Leadership Groups is to teach students leadership. Once they know how to lead and do some of the above-listed items, they will, in turn, make their peers feel good to be around them and gain their influence. Once they have influence, they have “friends” and can call themselves a leader. Students are taught how to roll with teasing with comical statements that do not provoke their peers.
What Makes TLC’s Social Skills Groups Different and Effective?
- Point System for Motivation – We keep students engaged and motivated with a rewarding point system that reinforces positive communication and appropriate responses.
- Interactive Games – From tag to team challenges, we observe how kids handle competition, fairness, losing, and standing out, providing valuable insights into real-world peer interactions.
- Parent Involvement – Parents join the final 15 minutes of each session, giving students the chance to share what they’ve learned and earn extra points, no more “I don’t know” answers!
- Experiential Learning – Rope course–style activities build teamwork, communication, and stronger peer connections.
- Monthly Laser Tag Outings – Simulate real social outings while practicing teamwork and strategy in a fun, active setting.
- Trust-Building Skills – Students learn that every action builds or breaks trust, and are encouraged to rebuild it through kind gestures and peer recognition actively.
Is your Child Struggling with Social Skills?
It’s Time to Stress Less!
Get Started Now with a Home Social Skills Program with flyers and games Jim West uses in his social skills groups and camps.
Testimonials
A Few Kind Words From Satisfied Clients
“I just wanted to shoot you an email to thank you for your help with our daughter. I can’t tell you how perfect these Monday evening sessions are. They address the EXACT problems she is currently having at school. She loves coming to see you and the boys in her group. I am sorry for all the interrupting she does. I am grateful for how kindly and respectfully you handle it–it teaches me how to do the same. I have been spreading the word about the TLC center. Her psychiatrist, Dr. Susanna Chyu was very intrigued.”
Anonymous
Parent
“We were so thankful to Total Life Counseling. Over the past five years, we had seen five other counselors/psychologists with our son, but in the last 1 1/2 years our son gained skills to cope. The ADHD/Social Skills group helped our son realize that he was not alone. The parenting skills group helped us know how to anticipate problems and equipped us to handle them. Thank you Jim and Total Life Counseling – you are an answer to prayer.”
Tim & Janet
Parents
“Jim really speaks to the children where they are. You might expect a child to feel negatively singled out when they attend special group sessions. However, in this case, the singling out is positive. My child looks forward to attending the group and is seriously disappointed when a session has to be missed.”
Anonymous
Parent
“Jim and the wonderful team at Total Life Counseling Centre have changed my son’s life. He started the high school social skills classes this year, and within weeks, he was making new friends at school left and right. His confidence grew and grew, his independence soared, and he’s learned so many valuable social and conversation skills. Jim’s laid-back, natural style is very effective in helping kids with social skills deficits in a way that is fun and inclusive. Each class has a general theme, but generally, it is the only social skill class I have ever been able to find that works with kids in a natural, “as it happens” kind of way. Every other social skills class I have researched was always a set number of sessions with a specific outline. This class is ongoing, pay as you go, come when you can and we love it. The added bonus is that my son is also making friends with all the kids in social skill class. We have gotten together for group outings and now us parents are becoming friends too! We have met some really wonderful people through this group, and it has been so fun and refreshing to get together and discuss with other parents what you’ve been through, what you’ve tried, what’s worked, what hasn’t, and generally just be able to finally realize that we are not alone. All the things we thought we were the only ones that were experiencing? All these different trials and turbulations of having a kid on the spectrum? Well, finds out we’re not alone! In fact, at one event, I nearly spit soda out my nose, I was laughing so hard when we realized that we’ve all been through the same crazy things. My son recently started his first job, and we made sure to let Jim and his team know that we understand that they have played a big role in making this happen for him. I wouldn’t have believed it if someone had told me that my son would be working nearly full-time hours this summer in a job he loves, making friends at work, school, and social skills class, having the confidence and independence to do all these things – on his own. It is truly remarkable, and we owe a lot of it to Jim and the team at Total Life Counseling Center.”
Jennifer H.
Parent
Frequently Asked Questions
How to address social skills for kids with autism?
For children with autism, building social confidence often starts with structured practice, modeling, and guided role-play in supportive settings. If you are looking for social skills groups for autism near me in Orlando, these programs offer personalized activities that strengthen communication, emotional understanding, and peer relationships.
What are social skills groups for kids, and how do they work?
Social skills groups for kids are small, therapist-guided sessions that help children practice communication, cooperation, and problem-solving through role-play and interactive games. These group experiences improve confidence, empathy, and social awareness in a supportive and encouraging environment.
What specific social skills do children typically learn in social skills groups?
Kids learn essential skills like maintaining eye contact, taking turns, understanding body language, managing emotions, and starting conversations. These abilities strengthen friendships, improve classroom participation, and foster emotional growth that supports success in daily social situations.
How are progress and outcomes measured for kids participating in social skills groups?
Therapists track progress through structured observation, regular feedback from parents and teachers, and improvements in specific goals such as cooperation, communication, and emotional regulation, ensuring each child continues to grow confidently in social interactions.
How to find the best social skills groups for kids with ADHD near me?
Finding the right program starts with choosing groups led by licensed therapists who specialize in ADHD and child behavior. Look for small, structured sessions that use games, role-play, and positive reinforcement to improve focus, communication, and emotional regulation in a supportive environment.
How do I find the best social skills groups near me in Orlando, Florida?
Look for small, therapist-led programs that focus on real interaction, emotional growth, and measurable progress. Many Orlando families choose Total Life Counseling for its experienced therapists, supportive environment, and proven approach to helping kids build lasting social confidence.
What is the typical age range for children in social skills groups in Orlando?
Most programs in Orlando welcome children from early elementary through high school. Groups are divided by developmental level to support each child’s social skills, teaching age-appropriate communication, cooperation, and social norms in a comfortable and supportive setting.
Are there social skills groups in Orlando specifically for teens?
Yes. Total Life Counseling offers specialized teen groups that focus on communication, confidence, and conflict resolution through interactive discussions and real-world practice. These sessions also support teens with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, helping them manage emotions and strengthen peer relationships.
What activities are usually included in Orlando social skills groups?
Sessions often include social skills games, role-play, and fun community activities that encourage teamwork and empathy. These hands-on experiences help children apply what they learn in therapy to everyday interactions while building lasting confidence and friendships.
Are there any free or low-cost social skills groups available in Orlando?
Yes. Some community organizations, schools, and counseling centers in Orlando occasionally offer free or low-cost social skills groups. We are a Step Up approved provider for the state of Florida so you can use those funds to pay for group and counseling services. Families can also ask about sliding-scale fees, financial aid, or short-term programs designed to make support more affordable.
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East Orlando Office Location
Our East Orlando office location, conveniently located at 3680 Avalon Park East Blvd, Suite 210 in Orlando, FL offers marriage counseling, child & teen ADHD counseling, adult depression counseling, child & teen anxiety counseling, family counseling, and more.
