The Virtual Couch
The Virtual Couch
Tony Overbay LMFT
Breaking Social Barriers: Enhancing Confidence with Autism Support - w/Karla Gragg and Sarah Bailey
45 minutes Posted Feb 15, 2025 at 3:32 pm.
Welcome to the Virtual Couch
Diving into Autism Awareness
Carla's Journey into Autism Education
Introducing the Peers Program
Navigating Social Skills for Young Adults
Understanding Autism and Neurodiversity
Navigating Social Interactions with High Functioning Autism
Teaching the Art of Trading Information
The Importance of Evidence-Based Social Skills Programs
Addressing Loneliness and Social Isolation
Course Structure and Content
Role Playing and Practical Applications
Enhancing Authentic Social Interactions
Conclusion and Contact Information
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Show notes
Tony welcomes sisters Sarah Bailey and Karla Cragg, who share a passion for enhancing the social lives of individuals with autism. They introduce their Breaking Social Barriers PEERS program, an evidence-based social skills training course designed specifically for young adults on the autism spectrum. Their program is based on UCLA’s acclaimed PEERS treatment model, the only research-backed method proven to help young adults with autism form and maintain meaningful friendships.
Sarah and Karla provide an inside look at their curriculum, which offers practical strategies for entering, maintaining, and exiting conversations—along with other essential social skills that set individuals up for success. They emphasize the importance of honoring autistic individuals' authenticity while equipping them with the social tools they may need.
The conversation also explores key topics such as the differences between autism and highly sensitive person (HSP) traits, the impact of diagnosis and labeling, and the increasing demand for targeted social skills training.
Tune in to discover how Sarah and Karla’s approach is making a profound difference in the lives of autistic individuals—whether formally diagnosed or self-identified.
Learn more about their evidence-based programs at BreakingSocialBarriers.com.