Andover Counseling Center

Social Skills/Communication Groups

(978) 682-1579

Group Directors: Sherri Shafman, M.ED • Group Supervisor: Janice Goldstein, Ph. D.

Groups are composed of 4-7 children with similar ages, level of functioning and specific needs

Groups meet for 70 minutes weekly
Groups meet year-round in cycles of 6 weeks
The group leader will update parents by phone between group five and six of a sequence to discuss progress, concerns and important developments within the groups.

Focus of the Group: The groups focus on developing non-verbal and verbal communications that assist children in relating to their peers more successfully.
Such skills include:

    • Reading social cues
    • Making eye contact and maintaining conversation with peers
    • Taking turns and sharing with peers
    • Dealing with peer teasing and negative interactions
    • Identifying feelings and verbalizing them
    • Making connections between thoughts and
       feelings and associated behaviors
    • Making and keeping friends
    • Decision making
    • Problem-solving
    • Relaxation strategies to use when stressed
    • Self-esteem building
    • Assertiveness strategies using “I” statements

Groups are highly structured using individual goal setting, student check-ins, discussion topics of interest, role-playing, activities/games, and group feedback.
The group format is aimed at supporting children in their interactional pursuits by giving them a safe environment to connect with peers. Parents will also be offered tools to support their child’s growth.

Group Format:

Cost: Full payment for each session, is required at the time the group begins. The cost of the 6 week program is $300*. Since this group is skill-oriented and didactic in design it is generally not covered under medical insurance plans. We are happy to provide a receipted bill at your request.

Contact Dr. Janice Goldstein

The Andover Counseling Center
565 Turnpike Street • Suite 81
North Andover, MA 01845
(978) 682-1579

* cost subject to change