In 2009, Marillac launched Discovery, an outpatient social skills training program for children and teens with Asperger Syndrome or similar challenges in social interaction (such as Nonverbal Learning Disorder, PDD-NOS, or even Giftedness). The program is designed for high-functioning youths ages 8-17 with normal-to-high IQ and verbal skills, who don’t exhibit aggression or severe hyperactivity, but nonetheless have trouble “fitting in,” making friends, and adjusting their behavior to fit a variety of social situations.

Discovery teachers, who have graduate degrees in Special Education/Autism and Asperger Syndrome, use evidence-based techniques such as video modeling, role playing, positive reinforcement, and direct instruction to teach vital social skills such as:

• Engaging in back-and-forth, age-appropriate conversation
• Taking turns and winning/losing gracefully
• Asking other children to play
• Interpreting facial expressions and body language
• Asking for help when frustrated
• And many more!

Discovery social skills groups meet on Saturdays during the school year, and twice-per-week during the months of June and July.

For more information, or to arrange for a free intake interview, call (913) 951-4466.