Social Skills Services in Indiana

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Social Skills Services in Indiana

At the Applied Behavior Center for Autism, our Social Skills services in Indiana help children with autism build meaningful social connections, strengthen communication skills, and gain confidence interacting with others in everyday situations.

Many children with autism spectrum disorder benefit from extra support learning how to navigate conversations, friendships, group activities, emotional regulation, and social expectations. Our structured Social Skills program creates opportunities for children to practice these skills in a supportive and encouraging environment.

With guidance from experienced professionals, children participate in individualized and group-based activities designed to help them become more comfortable and successful in social settings.

Why Families Choose Social Skills Services at ABC

  • Structured social learning in a supportive environment
  • Opportunities for guided peer interaction
  • Individualized support based on each child’s needs
  • Experienced clinical professionals, including Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), and Occupational Therapists (OTs)
  • Collaborative care that may include ABA therapy, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy
  • Flexible scheduling options for families
  • Multiple Indiana locations for convenient access to services

What Are Social Skills Services?

Social Skills services help children learn how to communicate, interact, and build relationships with others more effectively. Some children with autism may struggle with understanding social cues, starting conversations, sharing attention, managing emotions during interactions, or participating in group activities. Our program helps children practice these skills through structured activities, guided play, role-playing, conversation practice, and real-world social scenarios. Children work on skills at their own pace while receiving support and encouragement from trained professionals.

Skills Developed Through Social Skills Services

Each child’s goals are individualized, but common areas of focus may include:

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    Communication Skills

    Helping children improve conversational abilities, listening skills, asking questions, and expressing thoughts appropriately.

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    Friendship Building

    Teaching children how to interact with peers, build connections, and participate in cooperative activities.

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    Confidence and Independence

    Encouraging children to become more comfortable in social settings and everyday interactions.

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    Emotional Regulation

    Helping children recognize emotions, manage frustration, and respond appropriately during social situations.

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    Social Play Skills

    Supporting turn-taking, sharing, imaginative play, and participation in group activities.

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    Real-World Social Problem Solving

    Practicing social situations children may encounter at school, home, or in the community.

A Collaborative Approach to Social Development

At ABC, Social Skills services often work alongside other therapy services to provide comprehensive support for each child.

  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

    Our Center-Based ABA Therapy helps children develop communication, emotional regulation, attention, and behavioral skills that support social success. Trained Behavior Technicians and clinical supervisors help guide interactions and reinforce positive social behaviors.

  • Speech Therapy

    Our Speech Therapy Services help children improve communication skills, language development, and conversational abilities that are important for social interaction.

  • Occupational Therapy

    Our Occupational Therapy Services help children manage sensory challenges, emotional regulation, and daily living skills that may affect social participation. By combining services when appropriate, children can receive more consistent support across different areas of development.

Flexible Scheduling for Families

We understand that every child and family has unique scheduling needs. Our Social Skills services offer flexible scheduling options based on your child’s goals, availability, and level of support needed. Some children benefit from shorter, focused sessions, while others may benefit from more immersive social experiences throughout the week.

Who Can Benefit From Social Skills Services?

Our program is designed for children with autism who may benefit from guided social interaction and structured peer engagement. Children who may benefit include those who:

  • Have difficulty making or maintaining friendships
  • Struggle with conversations or group participation
  • Experience challenges with emotional regulation
  • Need support understanding social expectations
  • Feel anxious or overwhelmed in social situations
  • Need help building confidence around peers

We meet each child at their current developmental level and create goals that support gradual, meaningful progress.

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Learning Through Play and Guided Activities

Children learn social skills best when they can practice them in real interactions and engaging activities. Our program may include:


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Insurance and Enrollment Information

We are in-network with most major insurance providers and most Medicaid networks. Our team can help verify your benefits, explain coverage options, and guide you through the enrollment process.

If your child does not yet have a formal autism diagnosis, we may recommend beginning with Diagnostic Testing before starting therapy services.

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Social Skills Services

Get Started With Social Skills Services

f your child struggles with peer interaction, communication, emotional regulation, or social confidence, our Social Skills services may help. Our team can help determine whether social skills support is the right fit for your child and explain how services may work alongside ABA therapy, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy.

Learn more about Our Process and Funding Options, or get started today to begin enrollment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are social skills services for autism?

Social Skills services help children with autism improve communication, peer interaction, emotional regulation, and confidence during social situations.

Are social skills sessions individual or group-based?

Depending on your child's needs, services may include individual support, group activities, or a combination of both.

What age groups can participate?

Programs are individualized based on developmental level and needs. Our team can help determine the best fit for your child.

How often are social skills sessions scheduled?

Scheduling is flexible and based on your child's goals and recommended level of support. Our team will recommend a cadence during enrollment.

Can social skills services be combined with ABA therapy?

Yes. Many children benefit from receiving Social Skills services alongside ABA therapy, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy.

Does insurance cover social skills services?

Coverage varies by insurance provider and plan. Our team can help verify your benefits and explain available options.

What if my child does not yet have an autism diagnosis?

If your child has not received a formal diagnosis, we may recommend starting with Diagnostic Testing before beginning services.