ADHD Social Skills Training
Many young people with ADHD find social situations confusing, exhausting or overwhelming. They may struggle to read social cues, find it hard to take turns in conversation, or feel like they are always saying the wrong thing. These experiences can chip away at confidence over time and leave young people feeling isolated or anxious about spending time with peers.
At CY&A Psychology, we understand these challenges well. Our clinicians have years of experience working with neurodiverse young people and their families, and we know that social difficulties linked to ADHD are not about a lack of wanting to connect. Often, it is quite the opposite. Young people with ADHD want friendships deeply but may need support in learning the unwritten rules that others seem to pick up naturally. 
What Does ADHD Social Skills Training Involve?
Our approach to social skills training is grounded in evidence-based practice and adapted to the developmental stage and individual needs of each young person. We draw on structured programmes including the PEERS® programme, a well-researched social skills intervention developed at UCLA that has been shown to improve social functioning in young people with ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
Alongside PEERS®, we offer creative and engaging therapeutic approaches such as our Therapeutic Dungeons and Dragons groups. These sessions use collaborative role play to practise skills like perspective-taking, negotiation, teamwork and managing frustration in a fun and low-pressure setting. For many young people, this kind of immersive, playful approach feels far more natural than a traditional classroom-style group.
We also work individually with young people using adapted Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to address the anxiety and low self-esteem that often sit alongside social difficulties. Our clinicians take time to understand each young person’s strengths and interests, using these as a foundation for building confidence.
ContactSupporting the Whole Family
We know that social difficulties can affect the whole family. Parents often feel unsure about how best to support their child, particularly when friendships become a source of distress. Our clinicians work closely with parents, offering guidance and practical strategies so that progress made in sessions can be supported at home and in everyday life.
For families who would benefit from additional hands-on support, our coaching service can help integrate strategies into real-life situations outside the therapy room.
Evidence-Based Social Skills Programme
PEERS® is internationally recognised & has over 30 ‘gold standard’ research trials evidencing its effectiveness.
Parents as Social Coaches
While your child is in their group, you are in a parent group learning ways to help your child build their social skills.
Working in Partnership with Schools
We also work collaboratively with schools to ensure the benefits of PEERS® extend beyond the clinic.
Supporting Meaningful Change
Through specialist facilitation and parent involvement, the PEERS® programme helps young people build skills, confidence and meaningful friendships.
Why CY&A Psychology?
Our team of experienced Clinical Psychologists and psychotherapists share a genuine passion for supporting neurodiverse young people. We value neurodiversity and take a neuro-affirming approach, which means we focus on helping young people develop skills and confidence without asking them to mask who they are.
Sessions are available at our townhouse in Marylebone or online, and we work with young people through childhood, adolescence and into early adulthood, so there is no pressure to rush or to move on before they are ready.
A Team You Can Trust
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Don’t forget to check our frequently asked questions.